San Giorgio Maggiore

Escape the crowds of central Venice and explore the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, "the pearl of Venice." It is a perfect, quiet area to enjoy the beauty of Venice and to immerse yourself in history. With this 1-hour tour, you will admire the most important places in the monumental complex of Giorgio Cini Foundation or discover the exceptional art heritage of the Vatican Chapels, outside the usual tourist areas. Just a few minutes by bus-boat from Piazza San Marco, you will experience the fascinating atmosphere of the complex as you listen to your video guide (included in the admission cost and available in Italian, English, French, German, and Spanish). Your small tour group (25 people maximum) will be escorted through the areas of the complex by a multi-lingual staff member. If you choose to visit the Giorgio Cini Foundation, you will be able to admire the main places in the complex, including: • Cloister of Palladio, completed after Andrea Palladio’s death in the 17th century • Cloister of the Buora family, an example of early Renaissance architecture designed by Giovanni and Andrea Buora • Palladian cenacle, an ancient Benedictine refectory where Paolo Veronese painted the Wedding in Cana, the original artwork is now on display in the Louvre • Longhena's Grand Staircase, completed in 1671 to provide access to the library and abbots’ apartments the staircase is positioned between two cloisters and furnished with magnificent wooden bookcases by Franz Pauc • Nuova Manica Lunga, the old dormitory of the Benedictine fathers, transformed into a stupendous, light-filled library If you choose the Vatican Chapels tour, your audio guide experience will take you through the "wood" of the island. You will see the 10 Vatican Chapels, which were designed by 10 internationally-renowned architects. Hear an introduction from H. Em. Gianfranco Ravasi and admire the drawings and models of the "chapel in the wood" by Asplund. Learn about the 10 chapels and the architects who designed them.

After departing the St. Mark’s waterfront, you’ll head out into the waters of the Venetian Lagoon on this 6-hour excursion by Boat. Sail past the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, the public gardens, the tip of Sant'Elena, and the Lido, Venice’s famous beach resort. When the boat arrives at Murano, known throughout the world for its glassblowing industry, you’ll have a 60-minute stop to visit one of the factories and see a glassblowing demonstration. The second stop is the picturesque island of Burano, famous not only for its lace but also for the brightly colored fishermen's houses. Enjoy 2 hour and 30 minutes to explore the island. If you choose the "Tree Islands" option, the third stop will be Torcello, one of the first venetian settlements during the barbarian invasion. Explore one of the most ancient churches of the venetian lagoon and seat on Attila's Throne. On the way back, enjoy a panoramic view of the venetian lagoon, Treporti, Punta Sabbioni and the Mose.

Enjoy a romantic adventure in Venice and climb aboard a beautiful Venetian boat to cruise around the city as the sun sets. Depart from central Venice and head for the islands of St. Andrea and Vignole. You will then cruise along the Lido, heading towards the quiet islands of San Lazzaro degli Armeni, San Servolo, San Clemente, Le Grazie, Giudecca, and San Giorgio Maggiore. Between Giudecca and San Giorgio you will be served a glass of sparkling Prosecco to sip as you take in breathtaking views of the Salute Church and St. Mark's Square. Watch as the sun descends in the sky and paints the beautiful architecture and waters of the lagoon shades of red, orange, and amber. Return through St. Elena and the Arsenale as your captain tells the history of Venice and its islands.

Traveling by luxury boat, tour the beautiful Grand Canal as an expert guide points out key sights and shares the fascinating history of the city. You may have already taken a slow and leisurely gondola ride, but to truly travel the Venetian waters as the locals do, you really need to be in a luxury speedboat to get a real sense of the city. With the help of your expert, local guide, you can spot all the most important sights as you pass them—palaces, theaters, casinos, galleries, and bridges. From the comfort of your luxury boat, you'll see St. Mark's Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, the Rialto Fish Market, Doge's Palace and more. The best part is you'll beat the crowds on dry land as you take in the views from the water. Along the way, you'll guide will reveal the history and captivating stories behind each stop. Personal headsets make it easy to hear your guide's informative commentary over the daily hustle and bustle of the canal. In addition to the famous sights, your local guide will give you a crash course on Venice, including its unique traditions and festivals. You'll learn the truth about gondolas and the different boats Venetians use to get around the canals, what it's like celebrating Carnevale, and so much more. By the end of your tour, you'll have navigated the Grand Canal, seen Venice's most famous sights from the water, and heard expert tips from your local guide to help you during the rest of your trip.

You will begin by boarding a "topa" boat (motor boat) on which you will experience an authentic Venetian aperitivo. This drink will be enjoyed as you take in the stunning views of Venice from the outer lagoon and its magical islands. As soon as you begin cruising your host will begin serving you drinks and snacks. The experience will last about 1.5 hours, during which you will get to see the city's most iconic views. These city highlights include San Marco, Giudecca, Lido di Venezia, and much more. At the conclusion of your experience, your guide will drop you off back to your tour starting point. This is not a private tour, as you will share the experience with other guests.

Escape the crowds of tourists and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of Venice’s university district, Dorsoduro. Follow your guide as they introduce you to a different side of the city. Encounter vibrant street art that reflects the neighborhood's contemporary culture, uncover hidden architectural gems tucked away in courtyards, and venture into lesser-known churches, each one offering unique insights into the rich history and craftsmanship of Venice. Discover Palazzo Zenobio degli Armeni, a magnificent Baroque palace filled with historical significance and stunning architectural details, and venture to San Giorgio Island for a peaceful retreat from the bustling city with scenic views. As you explore, your guide will show you all the hangout spots favored by locals, from cozy cafes to picturesque squares. Spend some time enjoying these insider tips after your tour, mingling with locals and soaking up the authentic atmosphere.

Experience the artistic beauty of Venice and relax aboard a gondola in Venice. Take in the beautiful views of St Mark's basin, which surrounds Doge's Palace, and the basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore. Book an optional tour of Murano-Burano or Murano-Torcello-Burano islands if you like. Meet the tour guide in front of Cornoldi Palace, which is a 10-minute walk from St Mark's Square. Then, follow them to the gondola stop "Danieli." Board the gondola and start your ride through St Mark's Basin to see the many beautiful islands and famous palaces. Relax as the gondolier leads you around the highlight of Venice. Marvel at the artistic beauty of the buildings. Also, choose to purchase an extra tour of the islands, Murano-Burano or Murano-Torcello-Burano, if you wish to see more. Finally, get off the gondola at the same place you got on.

Dive into Dorsoduro, Venice's alternative side. Step away from the tourist trails and follow your local guide on a private tour full of surprises. Check out local points of interest such as Palazzo Zenobio degli Armeni and San Giorgio Island. Admire local street ar and spot some hidden architectural gems. See and learn about the lesser-known areas of Venice. Let your guide show you hangout spots and historical spots representative of the area.

Piazza San Marco is the principal public square of Venice. On this private tour, you will discover its must-see attractions, fascinating history, and best-kept secrets. Learn about St. Mark, St. Theodore, the Doges, the Mask Carnival, and more. Explore the beating heart of Venice and visit the towering St. Mark’s Campanile! Book a 2-hour tour of St. Mark’s Square and Bell Tower with a Licensed Private Guide. Discover one of the most photographed places in the world with its beautiful Venetian-Gothic architecture and amazing views of the Grand Canal and San Giorgio Maggiore island. Did you know that Napoleon once described St. Mark’s Square as the “drawing room of Europe”? After so many years, this World Heritage Site is still one of the most visited places in all of Italy. Immerse yourself in Venice’s history and legends as you admire the majestic facade of the Doge’s Palace. Take a closer look at the stunning mosaics, statues and Byzantine features of St. Mark’s Basilica (exterior only), and learn about the race to save this Gothic cathedral from flooding during the Acqua Alta (“high water”). See the beautiful Procuratie Vecchie, Museo Correr, the unique Astrological Clock of Torre dell'Orologio, and more. Take a lift to the viewing terrace of St. Mark’s Bell Tower and marvel at the best view over the Old Town and the Venetian Lagoon. Entrance tickets are included. Come and fall in love with Venice! Choose the 4-hour option to see highlights of St. Mark’s Square, admire views from the top of St. Mark’s Bell Tower, and visit the majestic Doge’s Palace with skip-the-line tickets. This is your chance to discover the treasures hidden inside the luxurious apartments of the Doges of Venice, admire the view from the Bridge of Sighs, and find out how easy it was to be arrested and locked in the palace prison. It’s a must-do in Venice!

You will begin by boarding a "topa" boat (motor boat) on which you will experience an authentic Venetian aperitivo. This drink will be enjoyed as you take in the stunning views of Venice from the outer lagoon and its magical islands. As soon as you begin cruising your host will begin serving you drinks and snacks. The experience will last about 1.5 hours, during which you will get to see the city's most iconic views. These city highlights include San Marco, Giudecca, Lido di Venezia, and much more. At the conclusion of your experience, your guide will drop you off back to your tour starting point. This is a private tour for just you and your partner,friends or family.