Venice in 2 days tour including Gondola Ride and Islands Tour by Private Boat

A Comprehensive Two-Day Venice Tour with Private Guide, Gondola Ride, and Lagoon Islands

This Venice in 2 days tour, offered at $1,256.83 per person, provides an in-depth and well-organized experience of Italy’s iconic city and its surrounding islands. The tour combines guided walking explorations, skip-the-line access to major landmarks, and a private boat trip through the lagoon. It’s ideal for visitors seeking a full, hassle-free immersion into Venice’s highlights, whether first-time visitors or seasoned explorers.

With a duration of approximately two days, the tour balances sightseeing, cultural insights, and moments of relaxation. The inclusion of a gondola ride and visits to Murano, Burano, and Torcello make this experience stand out. While the price is on the higher side, the private guide, admission tickets, and transportation contribute to its value for those craving a rundown of Venice.

Key Points

• Two full days covering Venice’s main sights and lagoon islands
• Skip-the-line tickets to Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica
• Private boat tour through the lagoon, visiting Murano, Burano, and Torcello
• Guided walking tour with a local expert to avoid map-reading
• Gondola ride through Canal Grande for a quintessential Venetian experience
• Pickup and drop-off included from designated meeting points, no hotel transfer included

Starting Point: Piazza San Marco and the Heart of Venice

The tour begins at Piazza San Marco, Venice’s most famous square. This central spot is where the guide gathers the group, setting the tone for the immersive experience ahead. From here, the journey into Venice’s vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and scenic waterways unfolds seamlessly, thanks to the private guide who leads the way.

The guide’s attention to detail and local knowledge ensures that the group navigates the city’s labyrinth of calli and campi efficiently, avoiding the usual hassle of figuring out directions. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation also makes it easy to access from various parts of Venice.

Exploring the Doge’s Palace and San Marco Basilica

One of the tour’s highlights is the skip-the-line tickets to Doge’s Palace and San Marco Basilica. The Doge’s Palace, once the seat of Venetian political power, now functions as a museum showcasing stunning frescoes by Tintoretto and historic rooms. Visitors can walk across the Bridge of Sighs and explore the prison chambers connected to the palace.

The Basilica di San Marco offers a visual feast with its marble interiors and golden mosaics. Its interior, filled with intricate mosaics and luminous decorations, provides a glimpse into Venice’s Byzantine influences. The guided visit lasts about 30 minutes and ensures access to these crowded sites without long waits, making the experience both comfortable and efficient.

Venice’s Historic Squares and Waterways

Beyond the major landmarks, the tour stops at Campo Santa Maria Formosa and San Zanipolo, each offering authentic Venetian ambiance. San Zanipolo features the famous Bartolomeo Colleoni equestrian statue, while Campo Santa Maria Formosa serves as a lively hub where nine calli and eleven bridges converge.

Next, the Fondamenta Nove provides a scenic promenade with sweeping views of the Venetian Lagoon. This spot offers ideal photo opportunities and a peaceful break from the crowded squares. The Ponte di Rialto, known as the most romantic bridge in Italy, marks the end of this walking segment before the gondola ride.

The Romantic Gondola Ride through Canal Grande

No Venice visit feels complete without a gondola ride. This tour includes a relaxing trip through the canals, giving visitors a chance to see the city from a unique perspective. The private gondola glides smoothly across the Canal Grande, offering breathtaking views of historic palaces and bridges while gently lulled by the water’s rhythm.

This experience is ideal for capturing memorable photographs and enjoying Venice’s romantic atmosphere. The guide ensures that the ride is comfortably paced, allowing ample time to take in the scenery and appreciate the charm of the city’s waterways.

Visiting Murano Island: The Glassmaking Capital

On the second day, the tour ventures to Murano, famous worldwide for its blown glass craftsmanship. The island consists of nine small islands connected by bridges, creating a picturesque setting with characteristic houses lining the canals. A visit here includes an admission to a local glass factory or museum, showcasing the art of glassmaking.

The 1 hour and 30-minute stop allows visitors to observe demonstrations of glassblowing and browse shops for exquisite craftsmanship souvenirs. The experience offers insight into Venice’s historic industry and provides a chance to purchase authentic glass pieces directly from artisans.

Burano Island: A Colorful Retreat and Lace Tradition

Next, the tour takes travelers to Burano, celebrated for its vividly colored houses and crooked bell tower. The island’s charming streets are perfect for strolls, photography, and soaking up local life. Burano is globally renowned for its lace production, a craft that dates back centuries.

A 1-hour stop here allows visitors to explore shops, visit the library, and admire the bright scenery, making it an ideal spot for leisure and photos. The vibrant setting enhances the sense of Venice’s artistic and cultural diversity.

Quiet Torcello: The Serene Lagoon Escape

The final stop is Torcello, the most tranquil of the lagoon’s islands. Visitors can admire the Santa Maria Assunta Basilica and the Devil’s Bridge, a stone arch offering panoramic views of the landscape. Torcello’s peaceful ambiance provides a stark contrast to the bustling city, perfect for reflection and quiet appreciation.

The 1-hour visit emphasizes the island’s serenity and historical significance, rounding out the lagoon exploration with a sense of calm and natural beauty.

Logistics, Inclusions, and Practical Details

This private tour includes pickup and drop-off at designated meeting points, transport by private vehicle, and admission tickets to key sites. The local guide offers detailed commentary, enriching the experience with insights into Venice’s history and culture.

The tour features a gondola ride, a private boat for island visits, and skip-the-line access, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable itinerary. Food, drinks, and souvenirs are not included, allowing for personal choices during free time.

The meeting point at Piazza San Marco is easily accessible, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with children requiring adult supervision. Covid-19 vaccination or Green Pass is mandatory for museum and church entries.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This 2-day Venice experience is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided overview with minimal planning. It suits visitors eager to see major landmarks, enjoy a romantic gondola ride, and explore the lagoon’s islands comfortably. The private guide and skip-the-line tickets make this a convenient, time-efficient choice for high-quality sightseeing.

However, the price point might be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers, and the lack of hotel pickup means you should arrange your transportation to the meeting point. Still, the full itinerary and personalized service offer notable value for those looking for a luxurious, well-organized Venice trip.

Venice in 2 Days Tour: Final Thoughts

This private guided experience captures the essence of Venice — from its historic palaces and bustling squares to the peaceful lagoon islands. The skip-the-line access and private boat ride provide comfort and exclusivity, making it ideal for travelers seeking a thorough and relaxed exploration.

While the cost may be high, the combination of guided sightseeing, cultural insight, and scenic boat rides justifies the investment for many. This tour suits visitors who value convenience, expert knowledge, and a complete Venice experience in just two days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers guided walking tours, skip-the-line tickets to Doge’s Palace and San Marco Basilica, a gondola ride, private boat transport to islands, and entrance fees to Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

Are hotel pickups available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Participants meet at Piazza San Marco for the start of the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour duration and activity level are suitable for families.

How long is the gondola ride?
The gondola ride is designed to be relaxing and scenic, passing through Canal Grande. The exact duration is not specified but is included as part of the overall experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for photos, and any personal items needed for a full day of sightseeing are recommended. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Changes less than 24 hours prior are not accepted.

This Venice in 2 days tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience, blending historical sights, culture, and enchanting waterway views — perfect for those wanting to make the most of their short stay.