Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Explore Venice’s elegant Querini Stampalia palace and garden on a 1.5-hour guided tour, featuring frescoes, Murano chandeliers, and Venetian aristocratic charm.

The Venice: Querini Stampalia Guided Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Venetian aristocratic life within a beautifully preserved 18th-century palace. Priced with the option to reserve now and pay later, this 1.5-hour experience starts at Campo Santa Maria Formosa, a central and easily accessible location in Venice. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, ensuring a clear and engaging narration throughout.
You’ll explore lavish interior rooms, marvel at Murano glass chandeliers, and admire intricate frescoes that showcase the artistry and opulence of Venice’s noble past. An integral part of the tour is the chance to stroll through the hidden garden designed by the renowned architect Carlo Scarpa — a quiet oasis with water, stone, and greenery that feels worlds away from the busy streets. This tour suits visitors interested in art, architecture, and Venetian history who appreciate an intimate, well-curated experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:
Appreciate having local insight? Here are other guided experiences in Venice we've examined

The tour begins at Campo Santa Maria Formosa, a lively square in Venice. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who will lead you through the historic streets towards the Fondazione Querini Stampalia. This meeting spot is not only central but also easy to find, with precise coordinates provided, ensuring a hassle-free start. The convenience of this meeting point makes it a practical choice for travelers staying nearby.

Once inside the Fondazione Querini Stampalia, the guide guides you through opulent rooms adorned with antique furnishings. The interiors are a showcase of the grandeur typical of Venetian aristocracy, featuring frescoed ceilings and decorated walls that tell stories of Venice’s noble past. The visit lasts about 75 minutes, giving plenty of time to admire the craftsmanship and historical atmosphere.
The Murano chandeliers hanging in these rooms add a shimmering touch, highlighting Venice’s tradition of glassmaking excellence. The guide provides insights into the history of the palace and details about its art and furnishings, making the experience both educational and visually stunning.

A highlight of this tour is the secret garden, a design masterpiece by Carlo Scarpa. This garden offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle, featuring a carefully crafted combination of water features, stone pathways, and lush greenery. It provides a tranquil space to appreciate Venetian landscape design and architecture, making it a perfect spot for reflection and photos.
The garden’s design emphasizes harmony between water and stone, creating a magical setting that elevates the overall experience. Visitors appreciate this quiet corner of Venice as a rare and beautiful aspect of the palace, adding a layer of depth to the visit.
More Great Tours NearbyThroughout the palace, stunning frescoes decorate the walls and ceilings, demonstrating the artistic talent of Venice’s past. These frescoes are a major draw, illustrating scenes and motifs that reveal the artistic sensibilities of the 18th-century Venetian elite.
In addition, the Murano glass chandeliers provide a luminous glow that enhances the palace’s elegance. The combination of antique furnishings, vibrant frescoes, and shimmering chandeliers offers a visual feast that underscores Venice’s rich decorative traditions.

The tour operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your travel plans. You can reserve your spot now without paying upfront, and simply pay later. The live guide will provide narration in English, making the experience accessible to many visitors.
The entire experience is designed to be accessible and manageable within 90 minutes, making it suitable for those with limited time or looking for a concise cultural activity. Since the tour includes skip-the-ticket-line access, guests avoid long waits and can enjoy more time exploring the palace and gardens.

Compared to other Venice tours, the Querini Stampalia guided experience emphasizes the artistic and design aspects of the palace and its garden, rather than just historical narration. The focus on Murano chandeliers and frescoes makes this a visually rich activity, perfect for art lovers.
The garden designed by Carlo Scarpa is a distinctive feature, offering a peaceful outdoor space that many other tours do not include. The central location in Venice further enhances its convenience, ideal for visitors staying in or near Campo Santa Maria Formosa.

This experience appeals most to those interested in architecture, interior design, and Venetian history. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the frescoes and chandeliers, while garden lovers will find the Scarpa-designed space especially enchanting. It suits visitors who prefer a relaxed pace and a more intimate setting over large, crowded tours.
Given its moderate duration and the inclusion of a professional guide, this tour offers a balanced combination of education and leisure. It is also a good choice for those who want to explore a less touristy side of Venice’s historic homes.

The Venice: Querini Stampalia Guided Tour combines art, architecture, and tranquil outdoor space in a compelling package. The well-preserved interiors, frescoes, and Murano chandeliers provide a glimpse into Venetian aristocratic life, while the garden designed by Carlo Scarpa adds a modern architectural touch.
At just 1.5 hours, this tour offers a manageable yet enriching experience. The central meeting point and skip-the-line access make it practical and efficient. Perfect for visitors with a passion for Venetian art and design, this tour delivers a refined look into Venice’s noble heritage.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour’s focus on art, architecture, and gardens makes it suitable for most visitors, though it involves walking and some standing.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for changing plans.
Do I need to pay upfront?
No, you can reserve now and pay later, providing convenience and peace of mind.
What language is the guide in?
The guide speaks English throughout the tour.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including all stops and explanation time.
Where exactly is the meeting point?
The tour departs from Campo Santa Maria Formosa, a well-known Venice square with clear coordinates provided.