Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What does a Venice in a day tour include?

Accepted Answer

This tour covers a guided walking tour of Venice's backstreets and landmarks, a 30-minute shared gondola ride, a skip-the-line guided visit to St. Mark's Basilica, and a skip-the-line guided tour of the Doge's Palace including the prisons and the Bridge of Sighs. The 8:30am departure lasts approximately 6 hours with a break for lunch (not included). It's designed to be a complete introduction to Venice in one morning and afternoon.

Question 2

What is the 8:15am express version?

Accepted Answer

The 8:15am departure covers the same highlights in approximately 4 hours without a lunch break. The group size is max 25 guests. It's a good option if you're short on time but still want to see Venice's essential landmarks with a guide.

Question 3

Is a Venice in a day tour worth it?

Accepted Answer

Venice is compact but confusing. Getting tickets to St. Mark's Basilica independently means navigating an Italian-only booking system with a limit of five people per ticket. The Doge's Palace has its own queues and restrictions. A 30-minute gondola ride costs around €90 independently, and up to €120 after 6pm. This tour handles all of it, with a guide who connects the landmarks to the history and gives you the context to understand the rest of the city on your own.

Question 4

Is this a good tour for our first day in Venice?

Accepted Answer

It's one of the best. Cecilia, our Venice tour designer, says it best: take it on day one so you understand the city, then spend the rest of your trip getting lost in it. Your guide shares tips on where to eat, what to see, and how to navigate the city throughout the day. There’s a reason this tour is a Viator Experience Award Winner for three years running since 2023.

Question 5

Do I need to bring ID?

Accepted Answer

Yes. This is critical. All guests must provide their first and last name at the time of booking, matching their ID or passport exactly. Every guest, including children, must bring government-issued photo identification on the day. If you’re unable to show a valid ID if asked by security at St. Mark's Basilica, they may refuse entry without it. Name changes after booking are not permitted. Please take this seriously, as we cannot override the security requirements.

Question 6

Is the Rialto Fish Market open every day?

Accepted Answer

The fish market is closed on Mondays and Sundays. If your tour falls on a Monday, your guide will still take you through the Rialto area and explain the market's significance to Venetian food culture.

Question 7

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

St. Mark's Basilica has a strict dress code. Shoulders and knees must be covered. No sleeveless tops, shorts, or short skirts. Bring a scarf or light layer if you're visiting in warm weather. Wear comfortable shoes: Venice involves bridges, steps, and uneven surfaces throughout.

Question 8

How much walking is involved?

Accepted Answer

The tour covers Venice on foot over 6 hours (or 4 hours for the 8:15am departure), including bridges with steps, cobblestoned streets, and standing time inside the Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Venice is flat but the bridges involve short climbs. Wear shoes you feel comfortable in and bring water.

Question 9

Is this Venice tour suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

Families are welcome to join. The 8:30am tour lasts 6 hours with a snack break, so it suits children who are comfortable walking for extended periods. The gondola ride and the Doge's Palace prisons tend to be highlights for younger visitors.

Question 10

Is this tour accessible for guests with mobility needs?

Accepted Answer

Venice's bridges and historic buildings present significant accessibility challenges. The Doge's Palace has limited accessibility and the gondola requires stepping in and out of the boat. We'd love to help find the right experience for you. Get in touch before booking and we'll advise.

Question 11

Is lunch included?

Accepted Answer

Lunch is not included on the 8:30am tour, but you'll have a break during which your guide shares recommendations to get a snack nearby. The 8:15am tour does not include a break.

Question 12

What happens if there's a private event at St. Mark's or the Doge's Palace?

Accepted Answer

Occasionally, private events or religious celebrations may affect access to St. Mark's Basilica or the Doge's Palace. In these cases, your guide will adjust the itinerary to ensure you still have a complete experience of Venice.

Question 13

Does this tour run rain or shine?

Accepted Answer

Yes, although some modifications may need to be taken to keep you safe. For example, heavy rain, strong winds or high tides are not safe (or enjoyable) for a gondola ride. If the city restricts access due to high tide and there are no walkways available, it's your responsibility to bring appropriate footwear (e.g., boots). We will always do our best to communicate with you before the tour if this is the case.

Question 14

What’s the cancellation policy for this tour?

Accepted Answer

This experience is refundable up to 3 days before your tour.

Venice in a day

Overview

What's included

You will visit

Get a taste of Venice in a day

Select a start time

Select tickets & quantity

Total price

What to expect

The morning walk: Venice before the crowds

The gondola ride: the city from the water

Postcards from Venice

Recent reviews & recommendations