Tour of Venice between Art, History, Legend and Secrets

Explore Venice’s Hidden Treasures on a 2-Hour Guided Tour

This Venice tour costs $81.82 per person and lasts approximately 2 hours, offering an intimate and detailed look at the city’s lesser-known sites. Led by Venezia e’ Guida con Alessandro, the tour provides the chance to see iconic landmarks like Ponte di Rialto and Piazza San Marco, but what makes it special are the hidden spots and stories most travelers miss. It’s ideal for those who want to go beyond the usual tourist trail and explore Venice’s art, history, and legends.

In contrast to many standard sightseeing options, this private tour emphasizes secrets, legends, and Venice’s emancipation history. The tour’s small group size and detailed storytelling make it a memorable experience, though it’s worth noting that some reviews mention booking difficulties and no-shows. This tour suits visitors eager for a more personal and in-depth exploration of Venice’s hidden corners.

Key Points

• Price: $81.82 per person for a 2-hour private experience.
• Highlights: Visits to Marco Polo’s birthplace, Marian Sanctuary of S. Giovanni Crisostomo, and famous Venetian squares.
• Unique features: Discover secrets, legends, and stories of emancipation, witches, and ghosts.
• Included: All admission tickets for stops like Rialto Bridge, San Giovanni Crisostomo, and Piazza San Marco.
• Tour length and pacing: Designed to be compact yet informative, covering multiple landmarks efficiently.
• Booking tip: The tour is often booked 75 days in advance, so early planning is recommended.

Meeting Point and Duration of the Tour

The tour begins at Campo San Bartolomio and ends at Piazza San Marco. With an approximate duration of 2 hours, it fits well into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. Since the tour is private, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

You’ll be able to explore Venice’s most significant sites, including the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco, but the focus is on discovering hidden gems along the way. The mobile ticket feature allows for easy access, and the tour’s compact length makes it suitable for visitors with limited time.

Visiting the Rialto Bridge and Its Legend

The tour’s first stop is the Ponte di Rialto, one of the most famous bridges in the world. Here, the guide shares the legend that the bridge was built with the help of the Devil himself, adding a mystical layer to this iconic structure. Visitors get 20 minutes to stroll and appreciate its architectural beauty, as well as view Venice’s lively market areas nearby.

The admission ticket for the Rialto is included, allowing for direct access and avoiding long lines. The bridge’s central location makes it a perfect start for uncovering Venice’s stories of magic and legends.

Discovering Marco Polo’s Birthplace and Second Home

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Casa di Marco Polo, the house where the famous explorer was born and lived until around age 12. The guide explains Marco Polo’s early life and journeys before departing for Katai with his father and uncle.

Later, the tour also visits the second home of Marco Polo in Corte del Milione. These visits, each lasting 30 minutes, allow a closer look at Venice’s connection to one of history’s greatest explorers, adding a compelling personal touch to the experience.

The Marian Sanctuary of S. Giovanni Crisostomo and Artistic Treasures

The Chiesa di San Giovanni Crisostomo is the next stop, constructed by architect Codiussi with funding from Marco Polo’s family. Inside, visitors find priceless works by Giovanni Bellini and Tullio Lombardo, which are admission included.

This church offers insight into Venice’s religious art and architecture, with artworks that have survived centuries. The guide shares stories about the artists and their contributions, making it a worthwhile stop for art lovers.

Exploring Venice’s Cultural and Political History at Campo Santa Maria Formosa

The Campo Santa Maria Formosa presents a large, historically significant square that played a key role in Venice’s political and cultural life. It was the site of an important episode that led to the War against Padua.

Spending around 5 minutes at this cultural hub offers a glimpse into Venice’s civic history. The guide highlights the square’s importance in Venetian society, making it a meaningful stop beyond just sightseeing.

The Rich Gold Works and Artistic Masterpieces at San Zulian (Giuliano)

The Chiesa di San Zulian (Giuliano) impresses visitors with its gold works and artistic masters. The interior features works by Veronese, Giovanni Bellini, and Palma il Giovane.

A 15-minute visit, with admission included, allows an appreciation of Venice’s religious art and craftsmanship. The guide discusses the artists and their significance in Venetian art history.

The Final Stop at Piazza San Marco

The tour culminates in Piazza San Marco, Venice’s most famous square. Here, visitors admire the Basilica, Bell Tower, Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs.

Spending about 10 minutes here, the group appreciates the magnificence of Venice’s main square. The guide offers insights into each landmark, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing, with the prison palace also included in the commentary.

The Unique Stories of Venice’s Women and the City’s Libertine Past

An intriguing aspect of this tour is the exploration of Venice’s history of women’s emancipation, where women had voting rights as early as the year 1000 AD. The tour also touches on Venice’s libertine reputation, with stories involving magic, witches, and ghosts.

While not revealing too much, the guide promises to surprise participants with these legends and stories, making the tour both educational and entertaining. This focus emphasizes Venice’s complex cultural identity, offering a richer understanding of the city.

Practical Information and Booking Tips

The tour starts at Campo San Bartolomio and concludes at Piazza San Marco, with admission tickets included for all stops. The tour is most suitable for those who want a detailed, private experience exploring both famous and hidden sites.

Advance booking is recommended, as the tour is typically booked 75 days ahead, and some dates may require paying a $5 access fee for visitors outside Venice. The mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward, and the private group nature ensures a personalized experience.

Final Thoughts on the Venice Secrets and Legends Tour

This 2-hour guided tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Venice’s art, history, and legends, with visits to key landmarks and hidden sites alike. The inclusion of admission tickets ensures a smooth experience, while the small group format allows for personalized storytelling.

The guide’s ability to share legendary stories about Venice’s emancipation and magical past adds a unique flavor not found in standard tours. However, some reviews highlight booking issues and no-shows, so potential participants should plan accordingly.

This tour suits history buffs, art lovers, and anyone curious about Venice’s lesser-known stories. It combines visual beauty, cultural insights, and legendary tales into a compact but rich experience that deepens appreciation for this extraordinary city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $81.82 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Campo San Bartolomio and ends at Piazza San Marco.

Are all entrance tickets included?
Yes, tickets for all stops are included, such as the Rialto Bridge, San Giovanni Crisostomo, and Piazza San Marco.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is a private experience for your group only.

What are some key stops on the tour?
Stops include Ponte di Rialto, Marco Polo’s House, San Giovanni Crisostomo, Campo Santa Maria Formosa, San Zulian Church, and Piazza San Marco.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, and it is recommended, especially since it is often booked 75 days in advance.

What should I know about accessibility?
The tour is suitable for most travelers and is near public transportation. Service animals are allowed.

Are there any additional fees?
Most outside visitors might need to pay a $5 access fee on certain dates; check the linked website for details.

What makes this tour different from others?
It emphasizes hidden places, legends, and Venice’s emancipation history, with stories of magic, witches, and ghosts adding a surprising touch.