Posted: 10/26/2023 | October 26th, 2023
Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Europe. With its iconic canals and meandering waterways, it’s also considered one of the most unique cities in the world.
And, while the city struggles with large crowds in the summer, it’s definitely still worth visiting as there is a ton to see and do here (plus lots of amazing things to eat).
Given its popularity, it’s not surprising there’s lots of walking / canal tour companies that aim to show you the best the city has to offer. From visiting historical sights to feasting on local eats, these tours can introduce you to the city and ensure you see all the stunning highlights that have put it on the map.
Best Overall Tour
Take Walks
I’ve taken Walks tours all over Europe and it is, by far, my favorite tour company. They always manage to go above and beyond, with tours that are both fun and educational. In Venice, they run a handful of tours. The most popular one for first-time visitors is their Venice in a Day tour.
If you want to do a deeper dive, they also have their exclusive Alone in St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace tour, which provides after-hours access to two of the city’s biggest sights.
Best Free Tour
Venice Free Walking Tour
If you’re on a budget, this is the best free tour company in Venice. They run a daily Venice Through the Centuries tour that lasts 2.5 hours and is a good introduction to the city. They also run a few other tours throughout the week, such as their Legends and Curiosities tour and their Stunning Views tour. Booking in advance is required. And remember to tip your guide at the end!
Here are a few more walking tour options to help you make the most of your time in Venice:
1. Devour
Italy is a foodie’s dream and you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t take a food tour in Venice. Devour is my go-to company when it comes to food tours because they visit locally-owned spots and have expert local guides that are super knowledgeable. On their Tastes & Traditions food tour, you’ll visit seven spots and eat some of the best fresh seafood in the city while learning about the region’s culinary past. They also run a Venice at Sunset food and wine tour that focuses on cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and wine in one of the city’s coolest neighborhoods.
Tours from 89 EUR.
2. Venice Tours
If you’ve seen the main sights and want to get off the beaten path, Venice Tours runs a Hidden Venice tour that explores some of Venice’s lesser-known areas. On this three-hour tour, you’ll navigate labyrinthine streets, see the former house of famed explorer Marco Polo, and criss-cross the canals over famous historic bridges. I’m a big fan of this specific tour because it gets you away from the crowds and into more local areas.
If you don’t want to be on your feet for that long, they also have a traditional gondola tour that comes with an audio guide so you can listen to commentary as you explore and take in the views.
Tours from 27 EUR.
3. Raphael Food Tour
If your appetite hasn’t been sated yet, this Rialto Market Food & Wine tour is the perfect way to explore the local market scene. On a four-hour lunchtime tour, you’ll visit local food producers and artisans as you pop into pastry shops, wine bars, and trattorias to sample the typical local fare. The tour includes six mouth-watering stops, while also including some neat historic sights (such as where Casanova used to hang out).
Tours from 89 EUR.
4. Bucintoro Viaggi
For more off-the-beaten-path and unusual sights, take a ghost tour. On this spooky 90-minute tour, you’ll wander Venice after dark and learn about all the city’s mysterious events. From hauntings to unsolved mysteries, this tour covers centuries of eerie history while leading you through some of the city’s lesser-visited neighborhoods. It’s really cool and an interesting look at the city that you don’t normally find on other bigger tours.
Tours from 27 EUR.
Venice is one of the coolest, most iconic cities in the world. It’s also packed with things to see and do. By booking one of the tours above, you’ll be able to have a deeper, more nuanced visit as you explore alongside a local guide who can share their insider tips and advice. I always take a walking tour when I visit Venice. I encourage you to do the same.
Book Your Trip to Venice: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Need a Guide?
Rome has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks. They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions.
Want More Information on Rome?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Venice for even more planning tips!