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Venice Travel Guide


General planning:


Transportation:


Enjoying Venice:


On the mainland:


San Giorgio Maggiore photo by Matthew Dixon

Aerial Venice
Explore Venice from the air, with explanatory text.


More resources:


From Viator:

Viator

Gondolas and Gondola Rides

Page 2
Continued from page 1

Where to hire a gondola

You'll find gondolas and gondoliers throughout the main tourist areas, from Tronchetto and the Piazzale Roma (where motorists park their cars) to the Rialto Bridge area, the Doge's Palace, and busy pedestrian crossings along the secondary canals. Chances are, you'll encounter men who politely ask "Gondola?" as you walk past the flotillas of parked boats.

Grand Canal photo

ABOVE: Two gondolas pass a vaporetto on the Grand Canal. INSET BELOW: Parked gondolas with oars tucked away, and a gondola flotilla in a side canal.

Tips:

  • gondolas photoDecide what kind of trip you want, then find a gondola stand in the area nearest your destination. For example, if you'd like to experience the hubbub of the Grand Canal, hire a gondola near the Doge's Palace or the Rialto Bridge. If, on the other hand, you'd rather tour the quiet and romantic side canals, book a gondola away from the vaporetti and water taxis. (The latter may be the best idea if boats make you nervous or if you're inclined to seasickness.)

  • gondolas photoIf you'd rather not haggle with gondoliers, or if you prefer music with your ride, consider booking a tour through a travel agency. Viator offers online reservations for the Gondola Serenade Tour and other excursions; you can book ahead and lock in the price by prepaying in your own currency.

  • Are you interested in  quick gondola ride that will cost you less than a candy bar? See page 3.

Next page: Cheaper alternatives and Web links


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Photo by gianlucabartoli

Hotel Advice:

Location can be important in a car-free city with 400+ bridges, especially when you're walking with luggage. Before you book, see:

  • Aerial Venice Hotels
    Read our tips on choosing the right sestiere or district. Then view individual hotels and their surroundings in large satellite photos and aerial close-ups.

MSC cruise ship in Venice

Venice for Cruisers:


Venice canal reflections

A water taxi ride to Venice Airport
A warning about water taxis
Venice Railroad Station: a vaporetto view
Long lines at Venice Airport
Free boat trips to Murano
Need to pee? Prepare to pay
Crime in Venice
The perils of overpacking
Venetian daily life


Maggie in Venice

From Maggie in Venice:

A dog's life in Venice
A Beagle boards a water bus
Maggie in Venice video clips


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