venice italy tour guide

THE 10 BEST Venice Private Tours

Private tours in venice.

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Luxury Tour of Murano & Burano Boat

2. Private Doge's Palace and Saint Mark's Basilica Walking Tour

3. Venice Best in a Day: Private Tour with St. Mark's & Doge Palace

4. Private Excursion by Typical Venetian Motorboat to Murano, Burano and Torcello

5. Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Semi Private Day Trip from Venice

6. Private Tour: Venice Grand Canal Evening Boat Tour

7. City of Venice Early Morning Tour

8. A must have City Portrait Session

9. Private Photoshoot on Personal Gondola in Venice

10. Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Venice Private Tour

11. Private Professional Photoshoot Tour in Venice

12. Private tour on Murano Island: discover the art of Artisanal Glassblowing

13. Private boat tour to the islands of Venice

14. Private boat tour to Murano, Burano, Torcello

15. Murano by Private Watertaxi Including Glass Blowing Demo with Hotel Pickup

16. Self Guided City Audio Tour in Venice

17. Private Guided Tour: Venice Gondola Ride Including the Grand Canal

18. Exclusive Private Tour of Saint Mark's Basilica After Hours

19. Enchanting Venice - Private Gondola Experience

20. Private Gondola Ride with Professional Photographer in Venice

21. Venice Skip the Line Saint Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace Private Tour

22. Private Venice Street Food Tour with a Sommelier

23. Private Tour: Venice Gondola Ride with Serenade

24. Venice's Highlights Tours with opt. Gondola

25. Private Tour from Florence: Venice Full Day Tour by Train

26. Venice Private Ghost Tour and Gondola Ride

27. Private Venice City Tour and Gondola Ride

28. The Secrets of Venice

29. The Secrets of the Grand Canal - Boat Tour

30. Venice: Private Tour with a Local Guide

What travelers are saying.

Experience the best of Venice with Withlocals

Find the perfect private tour

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Enjoy Venice like a local

Let our local experts guide you through a handpicked selection of things to do on a private tour. Think hidden gems, insider stories, and all the local vibes. Ready to find your private tour of Venice? Your adventure-packed day is just one click away!

Top 10 tours in Venice

Make your stay in Venice complete with these things to do

1 The 10 Tastings of Venice

2 Off the Beaten Track in Venice: Dorsoduro Tour

3 Prosecco Hills Vespa Tour

4 Highlights & Hidden Gems of Venice

5 City Escape: Murano Day Trip

6 Family Friendly Venice City Tour

7 Withlocals Your Way! - Venice City Tour

8 The History of Venice: San Marco Highlights Tour

9 Treasures of Venice: Renaissance Era Tour

10 Drinks & Bites in Venice Tour

Why you should book a withlocals tour, 100% customizable.

Let your local host tailor the tour completely to your wishes.

Private guided tours

No strangers on your tour. It’s just you and your local host.

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Our tours are designed with people, places & the planet in mind

Private tours with locals in Venice

Our locals will give you the best experiences that Venice has to offer

The 10 Tastings of Venice

Off the beaten track in venice: dorsoduro tour, prosecco hills vespa tour, highlights & hidden gems of venice, city escape: murano day trip, family friendly venice city tour, withlocals your way - venice city tour, the history of venice: san marco highlights tour, explore venice with our incredible locals.

Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Venice with locals

Treasures of Venice: Renaissance Era Tour

Drinks & bites in venice tour, historical venice jewish ghetto tour & vibrant cannaregio with lucia, venice off the beaten path: gardens & hidden gems with an art historian, majestic doge's palace & st. mark's basilica tour, the secret venice: history, characters & gossips, venice with art historian: 2 hours 100% personalized tour, memories of venice: cannaregio photo tour & drinks, find experiences by category.

Discover experiences based on your interest

• City highlights tours 19
• Off the beaten track tours 13
• Food tours 6
• Art & Culture tours 5
• Day trips 4
• Photo tours 1
• Wine & Beer tours 1

Travelers love our locals

What other guests say about our tours and locals

Great guide

"Giada was excellent. From the flexibility in our tour time when some of our travel arrangements got changed, to the completely personalized tour based on what we were looking for, she met and exceeded all expectations. She was very informative, very easy to talk to and made us feel very comfortable. I would highly recommend using her. "

Best tour guide ever!

"We had the best time with Alexandra! It was our first day in Venice and she was the perfect tour guide, very friendly and personable. She took us to several different little places to try local foods - we appreciated the opportunity to try new dishes. She is clearly well known and loved in the neighborhood and we were always warmly welcomed. We are allergic to gluten so she made sure the food was safe for us to eat. Best of all, Alexandra was so thoughtful, providing us with food and wine recommendations and sending us on our way with a local treat. We feel like we made a friend on our first day in Venice and we could not possibly be happier with our experience with Alexandra! We will definitely look her up on our next visit to Venice and we give her our highest recommendation. Grazie mille! "

Highly recommend - a highlight of our trip

"There are so many food tours and choosing the right one is so overwhelming. I highly recommend “Withlocals”. We had Claudia. She is outstanding! She took us to places we never would have gone to on our own and ordered all our food and wine to ensure we tried a variety of authentic Venetian foods with a nice wine pairing. And her knowledge of Venice…endless! She pointed out many historical sights and discussed its history. You could ask her anything. Add her charming personality and warm kind heart? She even went beyond her time with us. We traveled from Venice to Almafi Coast and this tour was without a doubt a highlight. A private tour with Claudia is worth every penny. You won’t be disappointed. I never leave reviews so that alone should tell you something. Claudia thank you for an amazing experience❣️"

Perfect tour with kids

"Romy was so perfect with my daughter. it was our first time in Venice and she helped us see the big and small things in the city without feeling like tourists. The scavenger hunt she did with my daughter was fun and engaging (and she had prizes for her) she got down on her level and made history Fun! thanks Romy - we miss Venice and you already! "

Awesome Venice Tour

"Valentina gave us an awesome tour of Venice on a rainy, crowded day. She took us off the beaten path to give us a sense of Venetian life while ensuring we saw the ‘tourist highlights’. She recommended a place for lunch and kindly called the restaurant to ensure it could accommodate my gluten intolerance!"

Fantastic Food Tour!

"Our first day in Venice was capped off with a food tasting experience with Adair- and it was wonderful! She is a friendly and knowledgeable host, and she literally gave us a great taste of Venice. Highly recommended!!!"

An excellent tour with Marzia

"My daughter and I had a great tour with Marzia. She took us to areas of Venice where there were few other tourists, which we appreciated. She had great stories and a great store of knowledge about Venice. I would highly recommend her!"

Wonderful Tour!

"I was admittedly a little nervous about scheduling our first tour in Venice only three hours after our arrival at the airport, however everything went like clockwork, and it was an absolute pleasure spending our first hours in the city with Valentina. She was very friendly and very informative, and the three hours just flew by. We saw and learned a lot."

Would recommend

"Giada was very responsive & I had confidence that she would be a great guide. Definitely would suggest for anyone deciding on booking a great food tour in Venice with a local. "

Romy is an awesome guide!

"We had an amazing experience with Romy. She is very knowledgeable, professional, and personable. We were able to cover a lot of ground and it relatively short period of time. We saw all the major sites in mass and still had time to sit down for a drink and rest. I would highly recommend Romy as she is an excellent guide!"

Enjoy the Best of the Venice Like a Local

Private & personalized tours in venice with a local.

When you hit the road and land in a new city like Venice, there's an exciting way to dive into its soul: personalized local tours. Forget the typical touristy routes – these tours are like having a local friend show you around all the cool spots.

Imagine having someone who lives and breathes Venice spill its secrets. That's what local guides bring to the table. They know the hidden alleys, the best bites, and stories that never made it to the guidebooks. Whether you're into munching through food tours, wandering the city's streets, or going off the beaten path, a local guide hooks you up with a private tour that's authentically Venice.

The best part? These tours are all about you. No herding in big groups or rushing through places you're not interested in. With private tours, you're the boss. Whether it's snapping pics at iconic landmarks, diving into history, or checking out the art scene, the tour is tuned to your vibes at your tempo.

But it doesn't stop at city limits. Day trips let you escape the urban jungle and explore nearby wonders. And if you're just setting foot in Venice, kickstart tours give you a taste of everything. Think of it as a crash course in Venice awesomeness, guided by a local who knows the city like the back of their hand.

So, next time you're in Venice, ditch the ordinary. Grab a local tour and unlock the city's real magic – the stories, flavors, and places that make it uniquely Venice. Get ready to explore like a local!

Related Venice pages

You might be interested in these

• Guides in Venice
• City Highlight Tours in Venice
• Food Tours in Venice
• Off The Beaten Track Tours in Venice
• Day Trips in Venice
• Art & Culture Tours in Venice
• Sports & Leisure in Venice
• Workshops in Venice
• Home Dinners in Venice
• Photo Tours in Venice
• Wine Beer Tours in Venice
• Walking Tours in Venice
• Boat Tours in Venice
• Bike Tours in Venice
• Motor Tours in Venice
• Short Tours in Venice
• Half day Tours in Venice
• Full day Tours in Venice
• Luxury Tours in Venice
• Things To Do Tomorrow in Venice
• Tours in Venice

Travel Home > Italy > Venice

Venice Private Tours

Officially licensed guides, private tours of italy, flexible rescheduling, your official private guides for venice.

Discover why Venice is regarded as one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world with our officially licensed, English-speaking local guides.

Quite simply there is no finer introduction to Venice than to experience one of our expertly curated private tours, specially designed to capture the richness and totally unique character of the ‘Floating City’ both on foot, and of course by Gondola. 

Browse our selection of tour experiences below or contact our local Venice guides to create a custom and bespoke itinerary just for you .

Private Gondola Tours & Walking Tours of Venice

Glide down the canals in a  starlit Gondola cruise  as you let the stunning beauty of the city wash over you, or take a water taxi with your tour guide to some of the lesser-known highlights like  Murano and Burano  – known as the islands of Glass and Lace.

If you wish to spend a bit more time on solid ground then our walking tour will take you on a magical journey using the sites and stunning locations you encounter, such as the incredible  St Mark’s Basilica , as a catalyst to discuss and explore the rich history of Venice, all the way up to the modern authentic Venetian way of life. 

Those looking for some Venice carnival culture, or perhaps with some secrets to hide may be interested in  our exclusive Venetian mask workshop !

Guided Day Trip From Venice To Murano & Burano

Venice Walking Tour With Gondola Ride

Skip The Line St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Tour

Private Evening Boat Ride & Twilight Aperitivo in Venice

Venetian Mask Workshop

What makes our private tours of venice unique.

The venerated novelist Mary Shelley said of Venice  “ There is something so different in Venice from any other place in the world, that you leave at once all accustomed habits and everyday sights to enter an enchanted garden. ”

We couldn’t agree more and our passion is to share our enthusiasm, knowledge, and love of the city with our guests. That is why when you book a tour with Luxe you will benefit from:

An officially accredited local English speaking guide

Itineraries crafted by local experts in the art, history, and culture of Venice

The attention to your group’s requirements, needs, and interests that can ONLY be provided on a private tour

Skip the line entrance to Venice’s most important attractions

Request Your Private Venice Tour Quote Here

At Luxe our guides ensure that each and every one of our private tours is tailored uniquely to you and your tastes. We are happy to customize any trip to your requirements and will even  help you craft your own unique itinerary  to make sure that your time in Venice is spent doing more of the things you love.

To contact us or get in touch for more information about our private guided tours of Venice simply complete the form below and we will get back to you promptly.

Let us know your questions!

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We are a group of professional venetian guides and tour leaders

We want you to feel as a real Venetian during your stay

Venice Local Guide tries always to make you love what you see and do with us in Venice

First time in Venice Tour

St. Mark to Rialto, first walk in Venice Duration: 3 hours (optional 2 hours) Venues to visit: external walk in St. Mark’s Square, with Basilica and Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge and marketplace

Off the beaten walk

A tour through the authentic Venice an off the beaten path walk far from the tourist crowd Duration: 3 hours (optional 2 hours) Venues: hidden places, genuine Venice views, real venetian life experiences

Historical Interiors Tour

Internal visit of the St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace

Duration: 3 hours

Meeting point: St. Mark

Land and sea Tour

A walking + boat combined tour

First time in Venice or Off the beaten walk tours plus 1 hour boat cruise

Places to visit: Grand Canal and little canals

Murano and Burano Tour

The top excursion to the most famous islands of the lagoon of Venice, glass, lace, cookies and landscapes.

Taverns Wine and Finger Food Tour

We go where venetians go, on a pre dinner walk to get fun and satisfy the will of tasting genuine food and drink in a local way.

Summer Sunrise Tour

Early morning tour of Venice, possibility to see the Sunrise on the lagoon, the people are still sleeping so nobody is walking around, the coolest temperature in summer Duration 2 or 3 hours

Venetian Villas Tour

An excursion by car or van into the Veneto Region to visit the leisure villas of the venetian aristocracy.

Venice Local Guide

We are a group of professional venetian guides and tour leaders with a long and established experience in touring people in venice and the veneto..

Our passion is the key of our work. We’ll take you by the hand to discover together the secrets and beauty of Venice. We want you to feel as a real Venetian during your stay, and Venice Local Guide tries always to make you love what you see and do with us in Venice.

The highlights, of course, but the off the beaten tracks as well. Always with nice and entertaining stories about the people that made this city famous around the world, as Marco Polo, Casanova or Vivaldi. Curiosities, tips and routes that only locals can reveal to you… especially in such a unique city .

Having fun while you get to know the history, art, culture, architecture, cooking and style of life Venice. Our goal is to make you experience different aspects of venetian life.

Private tours to enjoy completely your time; we are always happy to customize your desires to bring back home a wonderful record of your visit to Venice. Flexibility is a major issue for Venice Local Guide to better encounter your needs.

Venice is a complicated city for the traveller who comes for the first time without knowing how to move around or what to see, opening times of venues, where to eat. All of this can be costly and disappointing if you are not lead to the right places.

Explore, live, experience Venice… locally

WHO ARE WE?

Which Venice will you discover?

INTRODUCTORY TOURS

These tours are intended for first time visitors who wish to become acquainted with Venice’s main sights and landmarks, gaining an overall picture of its history and modern-day life.

IN DEPTH TOURS

Art, in all forms has been a unique ingredient of Venice’s success. Discover the magnificence of the grand Venetian architects and painters. For the ones that live in the now the contemporary art, contemporary architecture and the truly authentic glass studios where masters are at work.

UNUSUAL TOURS

These tours are intended for visitors who wish to experience areas and sites rarely seen by tourists, in both urban locations and beyond. Take this opportunity to discover truly authentic art studios, furnaces and lagoon islands with us.

Venice is a fragile city, therefore we support sustainable tourism

My name is Hélène Salvadori and I have been an authorized and registered tourist guide of Venice and its heritage since the 2000 after been certified by the Veneto Region. Since 2000 I am a member of Venice Association of Registered Tourist Guides. I am an associate of Venezia Arte, Best Venice Guides, Venice Sustainable Tourism and Ca’ Foscari Alumni.

Why a guide in Venice?

A Guide in Venice means a friend in Venice. A guide in Venice means opening yourself up to lear the secrets of this ancient city from locals who live and breathe the laguna. What does the local mean to us? It means we’re in the know. As residents who live and work in the city we carry with us its complex history and rich traditions…

• Stories from Venice
• Is Venice 1600 years old? The history of Venice is somehow difficult to unravel, as in its written form this was drawn up late and in a fragmentary fashion. It is interesting to notice that the archeological excavation findings do not always chronologically correspond to the written reports. In fact, the remains prove that rich hubs were already settled on various areas of the lagoon. 

Sightseeing and enjoying  Venice  with our  walks  and  tours . Come and let Venice to be yours.

Planning a tour to Italy? Then you can’t miss Venice, a major destination for your tours . Today as yesterday Venice still draws visitors from every where, all of them wishing to experience its elusive dream-like ambience: it remains a city without wheels, built on rafts on wooden piles, located in the middle of a vast lagoon and still looking as it did centuries ago. Part eastern, part western, half land, half sea, Venice fits into no convenient category of place. It is bathed in mystery and wonder through the tales of countless visitors and travellers, each one adding some of his own, trying to seize the city’s indefinable nature. The millenary history of Venice then unfolds before you through an unparalleled variety of centuries-old palaces and their great array of architecture and world class fine art collections.

But how to visit and get the best of it? First you have to fit into the particular texture of the city: join in on your own or as part of a small group or party and walk around unhurriedly through the maze of waterways and alleys. Second, let a professional guide show you around the landmarks, tell you the stories of the past and bring you into the living scenes of the present. A gondola gliding on a canal, a grocery market in full swing, a bar where you’ll sip a glass of wine and taste local food, a workshop to see how expert artisans produce their traditional handcrafts and varied works. This is what you can experience with our Venice Tours; a city bustling with the joy of unexpected sights and sounds to be experienced at a walking, human and friendly pace.

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The Best Venice Tours To Take in 2024 and Why

Sean Finelli Last Updated: January 18, 2024

Whether you’re visiting Venice to see the beautiful St. Mark’s Basilica, explore the Doge’s Palace, or just relax and enjoy a gondola ride, there are a ton of fantastic sights, activities, and dishes to try. In fact, there are so many amazing things to do in the Floating City, it may be difficult to choose. In this guide, we share the best Venice tours to help you decide which tour is best for you.

Pro Tip: Planning your trip to Venice? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our comprehensive  guide to Venice  for more planning resources, our  top Venice tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to see Venice in a day .

Should You Take a Tour in Venice?

Yes, without a doubt! Venice has its well-known sights but it also has a lot of hidden gems to discover that only your knowledgeable local guide will know to show you. Your guide will also bring the city to life with interesting stories and historical facts.

A tour of Venice will certainly elevate your experience as you explore new food in the best places, get to know the city on a deeper level, and maybe even meet new friends on the way. Don’t take our word for it. See what our clients have said about taking a Venice tour:

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Venice Guide for more info.

The Best Tours of Venice To Take

The Italian city of Venice is a popular destination steeped in history. There are plenty of unique things to do, great food to try, and top attractions to explore from St. Mark’s Basilica to the Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and the Islands of Murano and Burano. In this article, we share our best Venice tours for an unforgettable experience of the Floating City.

Ultimate Venice in a Day with Murano and Burano

• Venice in a Day with Gondola Ride

St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace Half-Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Venice local evening food tour in cannaregio, murano and burano in a half-day boat tour, small group dining experience at a local home in venice.

Seeing Venice in a day is a worthy goal, but there’s so much to explore beyond the main island. If you want to pack in as much as possible on your trip to Venice, then this 9-hour tour is ideal for you.

Start with a guided tour and skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica, also known as the Church of Gold. You’ll see why the moment you step inside! Next, you’ll head to the infamous Doge’s Palace where you’ll also skip the lines to see what is probably the world’s most expensive staircase, thanks to the gold ceiling. Learn about the courtroom where verdicts were handed down and see the largest room in Italy.

No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride, so we’ve included that on this day tour as well. And after a break for lunch on your own, you’ll then meet up with your small group and guide to take a private water taxi out to the islands of Murano and Burano. This is the most ideal way to see Venice’s other islands as the public water bus is hot, crowded, and slow.

You’ll see a live glassblowing demonstration up close in Murano, done the same way it’s been done for literally hundreds of years. And in Burano, you’ll see an intricate lacemaking demonstration before having time to take pics of all the colorful houses here.

Highlights:

• 9-hour tour
• Skip-the-line guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica
• Skip-the-line guided tour of Doge’s Palace
• Go on a traditional gondola ride
• Private water taxi to Murano and Burano
• Glassblowing and lacemaking demonstrations

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Tours of Murano and Burano are Worth it

Venice in a Day Combo Tour With Gondola Ride

If you want to see the most important attractions in the main city of Venice, this tour is your best bet. You’ll see everything from St. Mark’s Basilica to the Doge’s Palace and areas beyond Rialto Bridge. Grab your favorite walking shoes and clear your schedule for this 6-hour tour, because you’re going to see Venice in a day .

Prepare yourself for breathtaking sights like St. Mark’s Basilica, also known as the “Church of Gold,” and the iconic Rialto Bridge from a few vantage points. Your guide will explain the history of these amazing sights and show you hidden gems in the surrounding neighborhoods.

You’ll also get to skip the line and go behind the scenes at the Doge’s Palace, where powerful magistrates ruled until the late 18th century. You’ll explore the Bridge of Sighs, as well as some prison cells, not to mention the beautiful art and design in the rest of the palace.

Of course, you’ll also be able to check a Venice gondola ride off your bucket list. Afterward, you can ask your guide for some amazing suggestions on where to grab a bite to eat, or just relax knowing that you’ve had a day full of unrivaled culture and history.

• 6-hour tour
• See the highlights of Venice in a day
• Skip-the-line guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace
• Walking tour of Venice’s quieter areas and hidden gems
• Traditional Gondola ride

Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to see Venice in a day .

For anyone who only has part of a day in Venice or who prefers shorter guided tours, we’ve created the perfect tour for you! This 3.5-hour tour gives you skip-the-line entry to both of Venice’s top attractions at St. Mark’s Square. You’ll start at the impressive basilica where you’ll see the tomb of St. Mark.

Next, head to the Doge’s Palace to explore a little of Venice’s darker history. The doges at this palace ruled Venice until the late 18th century and had a reputation of tyranny that helped make Venice the powerhouse of the region. You’ll head to the dungeons to see the original cells and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

Along the way, you’ll also get to enjoy incredible art and the most famous rooms (and stairs) at this palace. To top it all off, you’ll have a 30-minute gondola ride along the Venetian canals. It’s the perfect way to end your tour of Venice’s highlights.

• 3.5-hour tour
• Traditional gondola ride

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide to the Best Tours to Take of Murano and Burano and Why

If you want to immerse yourself in Italian culture, food is one of the best ways. On this 2.5-hour Venice food tour , your English-speaking foodie guide will take you around the city to try authentic Venetian food and drink.

Enjoy cicchetti (savory snacks) along with a glass of wine at bacari , the local wine bars. The tradition of pairing the two goes back centuries. People would visit the bacari at all hours of the day and eat cicchetti along with their drinks to ensure they don’t get too tipsy.

Cicchetti isn’t the only thing you’ll try, you’ll also enjoy some of the city’s best pasta, along with prosecco, Campari spritz, and gelato. This tour also includes a stop at a bacari which is a traditional Venetian wine bar. All in all, you’ll learn a lot and taste a lot, and hopefully, make some new travel friends!

• 2.5-hour tour
• Short walking tour of Cannaregio
• Sample assorted cicchetti dishes
• Visit a bacari wine bar
• Enjoy a traditional sit-down dinner
• Stop for gelato

There’s more to Venice than just Venice. In fact, there are 118 islands that make up the whole area of Venice. If you’re up for an adventure, then head out to Murano and Burano to see some truly historic crafts.

The cheapest way to the islands is to book a ride on the public water bus, but it’s slow, and often hot and crowded. For a better experience, you’ll appreciate this tour that includes a private water boat to get you to both islands quickly. Best of all, your tour guide will accompany you and tell you all about the islands as you travel.

A stop in Murano will take you to a live glassblowing demonstration. This tradition dates back to the 5th century, but out of concern about fires, these craftsmen were moved from the main island to Murano where they’ve continued traditions for centuries. Watch them up close and feel the heat from the furnaces!

Next you’ll head to Burano. You’ve probably seen amazing Instagram photos of these colorful houses here. And now you’ll get to take selfies of your own! In addition, you’ll get an exclusive stop at a lacemaking demonstration that the public doesn’t have access to. No doubt that a trip to these islands make up one of the best Venice tours.

• 4-hour tour
• Round-trip transportation on a private water boat
• Live glassblowing demonstration in Murano
• Live lacemaking demonstration in Burano

One of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in a culture is through its food. Restaurants, cafes, and markets are great places, but most of the meals we eat throughout our lives are outside these public spaces and instead in the home.

To be invited into a local home, taught their cooking style, family recipes, and personal twists on classics, this is one of the most fabulous treats any traveler can have.

We have teamed up with a group of local cooks who welcome you into their homes for an unforgettable experience. Your host will welcome you in with a glass of wine, then take a deep dive into Italian cuisine during a small group cooking demonstration for you and your fellow foodies. Watch as your host, equipped with years of experience, crafts one of the dishes featured in your 3-course meal. You’ll witness firsthand the perfected combination of stirring, seasoning, and simmering that goes into authentic Italian cooking. Throughout the interactive demo, your host will also unveil their well-guarded culinary secrets and unique tips and tricks that real Italian nonnas have passed down.

It is a unique and immersive experience that foodies and travelers will love, and one of the best Venice tours we have.

• Aperitivo including prosecco and nibbles
• 3-course menu including starter, pasta and desserts
• Drinks including water, wine and coffee
• Cooking demonstration
• Small Group experience with a certified host
• Enjoy warm Italian hospitality
• A Warm Welcome to an Italian Home

Where To Stay in Venice

Despite the size of this little island, there are endless hotel options to choose from. We’ve picked the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in whether you prefer Italian luxury or quiet serenity—or both!

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

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Where to Eat, Stay, Play, and More in Venice, According to an Expert

As one of Europe’s most overtouristed destinations, Venice is tricky — but we’re here to slam the brakes on the Venice-bashing.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

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Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

Venice is tricky. On the one hand, it’s one of Europe’s — and maybe the world’s — most overtouristed destinations. Virtually all year round, it’s crowded, overpriced, confusing to first-timers (just what is the difference between a gondola, a vaporetto and a traghetto?) and, too often, the scene of many an Italian culinary murder. 

But we’re here to slam the brakes on the Venice bashing. 

As we were watching the sunset in a palette of oranges and pinks over the Grand Canal, the soundtrack of puttering motorboats and crooning gondoliers in the foreground, my colleague and fellow Travel + Leisure contributor Erica Firpo said, “Venice refuses to let you hate it.” For all the frustration and disappointment that this city can reap on the unprepared visitor, Venice is always going to be Venice: geographically absurd, transcendently, almost painfully beautiful, and mesmerizing once you cut through all the clutter. 

Here, I’ve drawn on the best parts of my many visits to create a guide to Venice, including not-to-miss attractions, unforgettable hotels, the best places for cicchetti and umbra , and where to eke out a hidden moment or two. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Take the gondola ride: You never know when you’ll revisit Venice, so don’t miss the chance to have this only-in-Venice experience.
• Make a meal of cicchetti: The Venetian equivalent of tapas, these small bites can become a satisfying meal. Cantina Do Spade in the San Polo sestiere is one of my favorites.
• Spring for the balcony suite: There’s nothing quite like flinging open your hotel room window and seeing the Grand Canal before you, and there are few better places to do it than the St. Regis Venice.
• Walk Venice at night: The magical glow of the moonlit canals, the creaking of moored boats, and the relative calm of its narrow lanes — after dark, Venice lives up to its “most serene” moniker.
• Enjoy a spritz with a view: Skip the overpriced bars on Piazza San Marco, but do find an elegant canal-view bar to sip a cocktail and complementary nibbles — Bar Longhi at the Gritti Palace is a storied choice.

St. Regis Venice

T+L readers’ favorite hotel in Venice earns its rank — it’s simply impeccable from every angle. Art- and light-filled spaces give this historic hotel a modern feel, but Murano glass fittings and those Grand Canal views ensure you never forget what city you’re in. Be sure to try St. R’s signature, the Bloody Mary.

Hotel Flora

Courtesy of Hotel Flora

In a city brimming with great hotels, Flora will always make my shortlist. What it lacks in five-star bells and whistles, it compensates for with a warm welcome, fair prices, and a lovely garden that’s the heart of the hotel. It’s also a rarity in Venice — a hotel that’s owned and run by a local family.

Venice Venice

The most exciting new entry in Venice’s hotel landscape, Venice Venice calls its approach and design “Postevenetian.” Contemporary art installations and spacious rooms with bespoke modern furnishings have breathed new life into the bones of an ancient palazzo. And the Rialto views aren’t too shabby, either. 

Best Things to Do 

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

Gondola Ride

This is a controversial hill I’m prepared to die on: if you don’t do a gondola ride on at least one of your trips to Venice, you will regret it. The Floating City is even more ethereal at water level. I recommend finding a gondola station in the San Polo sestiere and plying the quiet canals of that area.

Doge’s Palace Secret Itineraries Tour

Once the political and financial motherboard of the mighty Venetian Republic, the Doge’s Palace remains a repository of hidden stories and legends, coded iconography, and monumental art and architecture. This guided tour lets you in on many of these fascinating tidbits and gets you skip-the-line entry to the palace.

With its famously colorful houses, Burano is ripe for your IG reel. But this island of lacemakers and fishermen in the northern reaches of the lagoon is more than just a pretty place — it’s a working-class village where age-old traditions still live. Get there in the early morning or late afternoon to beat the crowds.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Amazing in the quality of its collections and intimate in scale, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a must-see for lovers of 20th-century art. Set in Guggenheim’s former residence, the museum is a vivid reminder of what a huge figure Guggenheim was in championing surrealist and abstract art of the last century.

Alphotographic/Getty Images

Godi Fiorenza

This boutique and atelier of sisters Patrizia and Samanta Fiorenza is now in its 20th year. It’s a favorite of Jill Weinreich Luppi, an arts professional who’s lived in Venice for nearly 30 years. “Godi Fiorenza is really very special,” she says. “The clothing is exquisite, and the jewelry is always stunning and original.”

Francis Model

Skip the Italian chain stores and cheap foreign-made goods and acquire an item that will remind you of your trip to Venice for years: a handmade leather bag from this homespun brand. I still get compliments on the chartreuse suede number I purchased two years ago.

I still haven’t brought home a set of handmade Murano drinking glasses, and I live with that regret. But you don’t have to. This hole-in-the-wall shop near Ponte de le Ostreghe has a reasonably priced assortment of colorful glassware (ask about shipping), plus the usual curiosities. 

Gilberto Penzo

For a one-of-a-kind gift for a hobbyist or a curious kid, nothing says Venice more than a model boat kit from this delightfully cluttered bottega. Penzo handmakes and sells kits for gondolas, vaporettos, water taxis, and more, plus sells finished models and other nautically-themed gifts. 

Karl Hendon/Getty Images

Walk the Riva.

Surprisingly, Venice is not a big city for nightlife and tends to shut down early, even on the weekends. A nighttime walk along the Grand Canal toward the Giardini della Biennale (take a left from Piazza San Marco) is a lovely way to spend an evening. 

Head to Cannaregio.

The vestiges of working-class Venice still cling to life in this sestiere, which is also the home of the Jewish Ghetto. Along Fondamenta de la Misericordia, you’ll find bar after bar and plenty of space to sip your drink (and eat cicchetti) on a canal lined with simple private boats rather than gondola and water taxis.

Check out Arts Bar Venice.

If you can’t splash out on a room at the St. Regis, at least spring for a fancy cocktail at this tres-chic hotel bar, site of changing arts exhibits and events. Each custom concoction — one even comes in a smoke dome — features its own glassware designed by an artist and produced at Berengo Studio . A resident singer/guitarist plays all the songs you know by heart.

Cantina Do Spade

There’s a sit-down restaurant here, but we like the crowded cicchetti bar, where you order your small bites at the counter and then join a shared table or juggle your drink and plate in the narrow alleyway outside. There’s lots of bad cicchetti in Venice, and none is here. 

Weinreich Luppi brought me to this cozy restaurant she calls “dependable and always delicious, a true neighborhood spot run by people who clearly love what they do.” It was worth the trek to Via Garibaldi, in the authentic Castello district, to enjoy homemade pasta and bread, vegetables grown in their garden, and fresh-caught fish, all in an unpretentious, welcoming setting.

Trattoria al Gatto Nero

Courtesy of Trattoria al Gatto Nero

It’s always nice when a famous eatery is worth the hype, as I finally discovered when I had a chance to dine at this Burano landmark. We were guided through a menu of fresh-off-the-boat seafood, including their wonderfully delicate risotto de gò, a signature dish. If you visit in fall or spring, look for moeche , Venice’s softshell crabs. And don’t even think about showing up without a reservation. 

Bar All’Arco

This tiny little bar near the Rialto Bridge is located near the Rialto Bridge is Weinreich Luppi’s “first and forever choice for cicchetti. It’s such a special little place and it’s amazing what comes out of their postage stamp-sized kitchen.” Baccalà mantecato, the classic Venetian cicchetti of creamed cod on polenta or toasted bread (it’s way better than it sounds), is a must-try here.

DanielGorostieta/Travel + Leisure

If you want to see a less crowded version of Venice, you need to risk some inclement weather and visit in November, December before the holiday rush, January, or February (but only before Carnevale events get underway). If you do visit in high season, basically any of the months not mentioned above, plan to get an early start on your day, take a break in the afternoon, and go back out in the evening. 

For several reasons related to the city’s well-being, we urge you to stay in Venice and spend your vacation euros in Venice. Another motive for sleeping in the Lagoon City? A new entry fee that will apply to day-trippers on set days of the year, as well as looming caps on tour group sizes .

There are direct flights to Venice’s Marco Polo International Airport (VCE) from several eastern U.S. cities, including New York and Atlanta. From VCE, you can take a bus to Venice’s waterside train station, Santa Maria Lucia, catch the Alilaguna shuttle boat, or take a private water taxi into the city.

Trains from all over Italy arrive at Santa Maria Lucia, which overlooks the Grand Canal. You can catch a vaporetto (water bus) from the train station to the closest stop to your hotel or take a private, pricey water taxi.

If you have a car in Italy, you must park it landside and take a train to Santa Maria Lucia or a water bus to the city. There are no cars in the city of Venice.

You can reach most places in Venice on foot, which is necessary to reach many areas. This often means dragging suitcases over bridges and stairs, so it’s wise to pack light. 

Here are the main transportation options:

Vaporetto : Venice’s water buses rumble along the Grand Canal from 5 a.m. to midnight and serve Murano, Burano, the Venice Lido, and other points in the lagoon.

Traghetto: These standing-room-only gondolas cross the Grand Canal in areas without a nearby bridge.

Water taxi: The most expensive option, private water taxis are convenient when you have a lot of bags and want to pull up right at your hotel's “porta d’acqua,” or water door.

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Venice   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Andreas Koch | EyeEm

Why Go To Venice

Venice is enchanting. Yes, that may be cliché to say, but once you see the city on the water for yourself, you'll surely agree. Step out of the Santa Lucia train station and the breathtaking  Grand Canal  will soon greet you. You'll see water taxis coast along, passing underneath the  Ponte degli Scalzi  (Bridge of the Barefoot) and might hear the faintest hint of a serenading violin, or is that your imagination? It might not be all in your head. Romantic gondolas carrying smitten couples glide through the web of the city's many waterways, and gondola drivers are known to sing when the moment feels right. On land, narrow passageways twist past Old World storefronts and residences, and over bridges. You should note that maps aren't all that helpful here and getting lost is the norm – embrace the disorientation, or enlist the help of a local by signing up for one of the best Venice tours . 

This canal-clad city's main draw is its magical atmosphere, but you'll also find quite a few diversions, too: The tour guides at  St. Mark's Basilica  and the  Doge's Palace  give some great historical insight; the  Gallerie dell'Accademia  hangs works by Titian, Veronese and other famed Venetians; and the  Teatro La Fenice  puts on some world-renowned operas. You can also travel to nearby islands like Lido for the beach, Murano for the well-known glass and Burano for its lace. 

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• # 2 in Best Day Trips from Florence
• # 4 in Best Places to Visit in Italy
• # 5 in Best Winter Vacations in Europe

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Best of Venice

Best hotels in venice.

• # 1 in The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice
• # 2 in JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa
• # 3 in Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice

Best Things to Do in Venice

• # 1 in St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
• # 2 in Grand Canal
• # 3 in Gondola Rides

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Venice Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Venice is from September to November when tourists desert the city. Although the temperatures – which range from the upper 30s to mid-70s – necessitate some layers, the lowered hotel rates and the barren canals make it worth it. Winters are cold with temperatures in the 30s and 40s, while spring brings Venice's most beautiful weather. Summertime is peak season and is characterized by high hotel rates, high temperatures and – you guessed it – plenty of crowds. Although acqua alta  (high water) can occur anytime between late September and April, it's most likely to happen in November and December, so make sure to pack a pair of rain boots if you plan on traveling then. 

Weather in Venice

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Budget for the tourist entry fee  Starting Jan. 16, 2023, travelers visiting Venice for the day will have to pay an entry fee ranging from 3 to 10 euros (about $3 to $10) per person 6 years and older. Tickets can be reserved online via the city's booking platform, and prices will be determined by ticket demand. Visitors staying overnight do not have to pay the fee as city accommodations already include a tourist tax in the nightly rate. Fines for not paying the entry fee range from 50 to 300 euros (about $50 to $300). 

Rise with the sun  At least once during your trip, you should wake up early and walk to Piazza San Marco for one of the world's best sunrises.

Coincide with a festival  Carnival (held in January and early February) and the International Film Festival (in August and early September) breathe extra life into this romantic destination.

How to Save Money in Venice

Stick to walking  You can enjoy the Venetian ambiance by walking rather than taking a boat, and you'll save quite a few euros, too.

Stick to the bus  Take an ATVO bus or one of the Alilaguna water buses from the Venice airport into Venice proper instead of a water taxi. You'll pay between 8 and 15 euros (around $10 to $18) for the bus ride instead of more than 100 euros (around $120) for the water taxi.

Book in advance  Gondola rides are a must in Venice, yet they're quite expensive. If you aren't traveling with a group, or don't want to share with strangers to split the cost, tour companies often offer rides for less. Find out more in our guide to the best Venice tours .

Culture & Customs

Unlike  Rome , Venice's economy is largely dependent on its very strong tourism industry. So, keep in mind that you'll likely be sharing your Venice trip with loads of other vacationers.

To Italians, everything from a person's dress to his or her actions and manners should be beautiful, or  bella figura.  First impressions are especially lasting for Italians, who, while warm and helpful, do hold outward appearances in very high regard. Dressing well will sometimes even be rewarded by better and more prompt service.  

Bella figura  does not stop with physical presentation as it extends into a person's manners and conduct. Avoid being obnoxiously loud or ostentatious, as this is greatly looked down on as  brutta figura . Learning some Italian and attempting to use it will win you points with Italians, who are generally patient and happy to help you learn more. In any kind of store or restaurant, it's appropriate to greet and say goodbye to employees – even if you do not buy anything – with a  ciao and  arrivederci , respectively. Wherever you go, remember your manners and don't forget your pleases,  per favore , and thank yous,  grazie .

Residents generally speak Italian with a Venetian dialect, which can be unrecognizable – even to native Italian speakers.  Ca,  a shortened form of the word "casa," is used to describe many private residences and palaces. A street or  calle   in Venice, (pronounced ka-lay), is different from the " via " or " strada " streets elsewhere in Italy.

Similar to the rest of Italy, many Venetian businesses and tourist attractions take Sundays and at least one other day off, though it fluctuates from place to place. During the week, some also take a midday siesta after lunch hours.

Meals in Italy are expected to last long and it's very common for patrons to linger. So don't be surprised when your server does not bring your bill the minute you finish your meal. In fact, you will not get your bill,  il conto , until you ask for it. When you do receive it, remember there is a service charge, or  servizo , included, and sometimes a coperto , or cover charge. Italians don't tip, so you don't have to either. Also keep in mind that water and bread are usually not free at meals. If you ask for water, your server will ask you to specify whether you prefer tap water,  acqua di rubinetto ; flat water,  acqua naturale ; or sparkling water,  acqua frizzante  or  acqua con gas . Also be aware that Venetians tend to eat dinner by 7:30, and many Venice restaurants close their kitchens by 10 p.m. As is the case throughout Italy, Venice's official currency is the euro. Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.

What to Eat

With such close proximity to the water, it should come as no surprise that fish is the main component of Venetian cuisine. Cuttlefish ( sepia ), clams ( vongole),  and sea bass ( branzino ) are popular ingredients, which can be found in many of the area's most well-known dishes, including  frutti di mare , Venice’s take on a seafood salad.  Tramezzini  is a tasty Venetian street food: These triangular sandwiches, with a range of fillings from cheese to meats, can be found at cafes throughout the city. Wash it all down with  prosecco , a sparkling white wine from the Veneto region. Some of the best Venice tours were designed with foodies in mind. Sign up for a tour if you'd like help navigating the dining scene from a local.

For the best bang for your buck, try to avoid the San Marco area or any establishment that solicits tourists off the street. Instead, try one of the smaller establishments – such as traveler-recommended Ristorante La Caravella – tucked away on one of the many hidden side streets. Locals frequent establishments like Paradiso Perduto, near the Jewish Ghetto , for its long wooden tables and vibrant atmosphere. The farm-to-table Ostaria Boccadoro is another popular haunt. You could also dine at a  bacaro , a smaller wine bar with lower prices, authentic cuisine and more character. Traveler favorites include Cantina Do Spade, Alla Ciurma and Cantina Do Mori.

Venice is considered a very safe destination. However, as is the case with most popular tourist destinations, the city can be a magnet for pickpocket crimes. Keep a watchful eye on your belongings, especially around crowded areas of the city, such as Piazza San Marco and on any of the waterbuses. Travel experts say that you can walk Venice's dark alleys at midnight and still be safe, but you might get lost considering how often street names change. Still, getting lost is part of the allure of a Venice vacation. Keep in mind that there's no way to walk off of Venice: The compilation of islands is surrounded by a lagoon. You should also note that signs with the word "Per," an arrow and an attraction name are pointing you in the right direction. You shouldn't pay attention to graffiti directions, which may or may not have been written to confuse tourists.

Getting Around Venice

The best way to get around Venice is by foot. Although the city's labyrinth of canals and weaving roads can complicate things, getting lost is the best way to discover the city's famed allure. You can traverse the canals by  vaporetto  or water bus/ferry (relatively affordable), water taxi (pretty pricey) or gondola (very expensive). 

To get from the Marco Polo Airport (VCE) to central Venice, you should take an ATVO bus (the Venice Airport Bus Express) or Alilaguna water bus. If you – like many other travelers – choose to take the train from other Italian or European cities, you'll be dropped off at the Venezia Santa Lucia train station, where you can take a  vaporetto to your accommodations . Driving is not an option here – even the police use boats to get around. However, if you'd like to rent a car, there are several companies located at the airport.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport with at least six months of remaining validity is required for United States citizens traveling outside the mainland by air or sea, as well as for U.S. citizens trying to re-enter the country. U.S. citizens do not need a visa unless they plan on staying longer than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's  website  for the latest information on foreign exit and entry requirements.

The Basilica di San Marco exudes opulence from every corner.

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Reflections of Italy

About this tour.

Embark on a captivating journey that takes you from the piazzas of Rome to the canals of Venice. Discover the rolling hills of the scenic Tuscan and Umbrian countryside. Explore medieval hill towns and visit Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. Spend time at a historic winery in the heart of the Chianti region and enjoy a chef-led cooking class with lunch. Discover the masterpieces of the Renaissance in Florence. See glass transformed into exquisite art on Murano Island. Linger in iconic Venice for 2 nights. Journey to the shores of glamorous Lake Como. Encounter a land rich in history, culture, art and romance.

Your Tour Includes

• 5 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• Vatican Museums
• Sistine Chapel
• St. Peter’s Basilica

Your Tour at a Glance

8 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

$1,099.00 pp

Optional Excursions

Starting at $75.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel reflections of italy.

While just about any month is great to visit Italy, there are a few prime times of the year for the Reflections of Italy tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Throughout Italy, the most popular times to visit are April, May, June, September, and October. Along the coast, July and August are busy with locals and Europeans on summer holiday, while cities are usually less crowded.

Winter: Go in December, January, and February for Venice, where you can take a walk beside the canals on a quiet evening and hear your footsteps echoing off the water.

Spring: Enjoy Italy in the spring season, with fewer tourists and comfortable temperatures. In March, the weather is warm, but not too hot. Just imagine exploring the towns’ cobblestone streets during this quieter time of year.

Fall: After the busy summer season, you’ll encounter more of the locals. Fall is a fantastic season to travel in Tuscany, with fewer crowds, cooler days, and a bit of foliage to enjoy – all pairing well with a glass of red wine!

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Behold medieval Assisi, the hometown of St. Francis.

Enjoy a scenic journey through Tuscany’s graceful low-lying hills.

Set out on a locally guided tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Cultural Experiences:

Enjoy a boat trip to Murano Island for a glass-blowing demonstration.

Explore Cortona, the postcard-worthy village that serves as the setting for Under the Tuscan Sun.

Step to the front of the line to see Michelangelo’s famous statue of David.

Culinary Inclusions:

Visit a historic winery in the heart of the Chianti region.

Enjoy a chef-led cooking class with lunch in a historic castle.

Dine on regional delicacies and fine Italian wines.

• Michelangelo’s David
• Chianti Winery & Cooking Class
• Murano Island

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Begin your trip with a 3-night sojourn in Taormina, a seaside hub of ancient Greek theaters and hilly walkways. Settle into your new home for a 3-night stay in this Sicilian gem perched high above the Mediterranean sea. Uncover Taormina's charms with a local guide and explore nearby Mount Etna - Europe's largest volcano - on off-road vehicles. Your other option is to book a pre night? Hosted You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

• Overnight Flight
• You’re on your way to Sicily – an island paradise nestled amongst the deep blue waves of the Mediterranean.
• Taormina, Sicily - Tour Begins
• Arrive at the Catania airport and transfer to Taormina, a seaside hub of ancient Greek theaters and hilly walkways. Settle into your new home for a 3-night stay in this Sicilian gem perched high above the Mediterranean Sea. This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional delicacies.
• Taormina - Walking Tour - Afternoon at Leisure
• Uncover Taormina’s charms in company of an expert local guide. During your walking tour, you’ll see Corso Umberto, the imposing Corvaja Palace, and the city’s well-preserved Greek theatre. Walk in the footsteps of ancient attendees and take in an unparalleled viewpoint of the adjacent ocean. Spend the afternoon on your own. Perhaps you’ll grab a bite to eat at a sidewalk café, or peruse the local boutiques for handcrafted souvenirs.
• Taormina - Mount Etna - Taormina
• See Sicily’s wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna. Stare up at the iconic peak as your off-road vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe’s largest active volcano. Spend the day exploring this legendary giant, passing by lava formations and basalt rocks. Back in Taormina, enjoy an evening at leisure in this enchanting resort town.
• Taormina - Rome
• Say Arrivederci to Taormina as you transfer to the Catania airport for your flight to Rome.

Hotel-Grand Hotel Palatino

Hotel-Hotel Barchetta Excelsior

Enjoy a pleasant serenade with dinner in Trastevere, a charming, bohemian district where Rome’s locals often frequent. Indulge in a hearty, traditionally Roman menu, complete with wine. As you savor the delicious tastes of Italy, talented performers entertain you with folk songs. This lively, fun-filled evening will be an unforgettable part of your visit to Rome and an engaging immersion into Italian culture.

This evening, set off on a scenic drive to nearby Galluzzo, famous for its Carthusian monastery which rests upon one of the beautiful hills surrounding Florence. Prior to dinner, enjoy an after-hours visit to this 14th-century monastery – La Certosa.* Revel in the beauty that lurks inside and experience the monastery’s magnificence as you learn about monastic daily life. Then your evening of fun continues at one of the area’s most popular dining establishments. Experience an authentic and traditional dinner served family-style! Savor local wines and Tuscan food and enjoy the entertainment. It’s a memorable – truly Italian – evening out that you won’t want to miss!

Experience the romance that can only be found in Venice – La Serenìssima – while traveling on its famous waterways. Partake in one of Venice’s most famous pastimes – a gondola cruise. Take a pleasant stroll toward the Grand Canal to board your gondola. As you relax in your elegant watercraft, your gondolier navigates the Grand Canal as well as smaller side canals. Admire the scenery as you listen to the melodic voice serenading you in true Italian style – just like in those romantic Italian movies!

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Grand Hotel Palatino From $170 per night

Grand Hotel Palatino

Sangallo palace hotel, hotel albani firenze, hotel carlton on the grand canal, hotel barchetta excelsior, stay longer.

Post Night: Hotel Barchetta Excelsior From $200 per night

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The Guide to the Ascend Hotel Collection

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Ascend Hotel Collection is part of the Choice Hotels International family and represents a series of boutique and luxury hotels, the top tier of the Choice brand.

Those who collect Choice Privileges points may find that these hotels are often an ideal choice when making a redemption since they have a higher profile than other hotels in the Choice portfolio.

If you are looking for a top hotel in the Ascend Collection, there are several options worth exploring.

What is the Ascend Collection?

Ascend Collection hotels deliver the same brand promise as other Choice hotels properties but offer a one-of-a-kind experience.

This soft brand resembles what other hotel companies have, such as Curio Collection by Hilton or The Luxury Collection (Marriott). The Ascend Collection is the top brand within the Choice Privileges program.

How to book Ascend Hotel Collection properties

Choice Privileges doesn’t allow points redemption more than 100 days in advance, so if you are a procrastinator, this program is for you! Unfortunately, Choice does not make it easy to find Ascend Hotel locations, but if you do an online search for your preferred city, the results include the Ascend Hotel Collection logo in the top left corner.

The cost in points varies by property and day, so you will want to check how many points you need on any given night. They range from as few as 6,000 points for a redemption night all the way up to 35,000 points for a standard hotel or as many as 100,000 for an all-inclusive hotel.

Here are some Ascend Hotel Collection locations worth visiting, whether you are planning to redeem points or earn them to redeem on a future stay.

Popular Ascend Collection hotels

With nearly 250 hotels in the soft brand, these Ascend Collection hotels in cities around the world are especially noteworthy.

If you’re looking for a boutique option that offers something local and unique, look no further than these Ascend properties. They are in various countries, such as Australia, Canada, Norway, Turkey, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Many of them are historic rebuilds.

Hotel Aquarius Venice, Italy

(Photo courtesy of Hotel Aquarius Venice)

The Hotel Aquarius Venice is in the Santa Croce district, which means it is convenient to the train station, about halfway between it and the Rialto Bridge.

Walking through the winding streets of Venice is a favorite pastime of tourists for people-watching and a little exercise. For those who want to arrive at the hotel by boat, it has an entryway to the canal through a small garden door.

Emotions All Inclusive Juan Dolio, Dominican Republic

(Photo courtesy of Choice Hotels)

If you want a Caribbean getaway with all-inclusive meals and drinks, Emotions All Inclusive Juan Dolio has a beachfront location and plenty to enjoy by the water.

There are three outdoor pools, including one in an adults-only area for more peace and quiet. The resort has seven restaurants and a stretch of private beach, providing a vacation getaway that packs in the value.

K Bar S Lodge, Keystone, South Dakota

Within view of Mount Rushmore, the K Bar S Lodge is a short drive from the national memorial. In the gardens, deer and other animals roam past.

Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast each morning. Other amenities include free parking, an outdoor patio, a whirlpool, and furnished balconies in the rooms.

The Pine Lodge on Whitefish River, Montana

In Whitefish, Montana, The Pine Lodge is an ideal spot for those who want to spend time in the great outdoors.

The hotel is close to Whitefish Lake and the Whitefish Mountain Resort and also has a free shuttle to take guests to and from the airport or train station. Complimentary breakfast is also included.

The Giacomo Hotel, Niagara Falls, New York

The Giacomo is a towering hotel within close proximity to Niagara Falls. It provides restored history, with the building listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

From the front door, guests can walk to the Cave of the Winds, the Maid of the Mist boat tour, and nearby dining.

Hotel Blake, Chicago

(Photo courtesy of Hotel Blake)

Close to Grant Park and Millennium Park and in the Morton Building, Hotel Blake is on the National Register of Historic Places. This hotel is a great option for those who want to be close to tourist hot spots like the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier and Lincoln Park Zoo.

With so many hotels in Chicago, it’s nice to redeem points for a hotel with local history and character.

Blue Angel Hotel NYC, New York

In the heart of Manhattan, Blue Angel Hotel NYC has a lovely al fresco terrace overlooking the city from the seventh floor.

Guests at this boutique hotel also receive a selection of drinks and snacks and a free pass to a nearby health club to use during their stay.

Earn Choice Hotels points quickly

Choice Privileges points can generally be redeemed for a night at a Choice hotel for between 6,000 and 35,000 points, but before you start using your Choice Privileges points, you have to earn them. Beyond qualifying hotel stays, another way to amass a large number of points is to earn a sign-up bonus from a Choice Hotels credit card.

Here's how the company's two co-branded cards compare.

on Wells Fargo's website

Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $3,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - enough to redeem for up to 7 rewards nights at select Choice Hotels® properties. .

Earn 40,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - enough to redeem for up to 5 rewards nights at select Choice Hotels® properties. .

If you seek more flexibility in redeeming miles for hotel stays, consider applying for a more general travel credit card instead. A more general travel credit card differs from a hotel card in that you can book lodging at multiple hotel chains, rather than reaping the benefits of staying loyal to a single brand.

The more high-end the travel credit card, the more benefits you can enjoy, including airport lounge access or automatic elite status in certain programs. That said, a brand-specific hotel card can net benefits like late check-out or free breakfast, which can have meaningful dollar value.

» Learn more: The best hotel credit cards right now

Choice Privileges’ soft brand, Ascend Hotel Collection

These one-of-a-kind boutique hotels allow Choice Privileges members to earn and redeem points at independent hotels that prove unique to their area. Each hotel has its own character and amenities, but for those looking for a hotel with its own style and substance, Ascend Hotels are a perfect fit.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-26x Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

140,000 Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

1x-9x Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt – 4 Bonus Points per $1 when you use your card at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 you can earn as a World of Hyatt member. Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airlines tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships.

30,000 Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.

2x-17x Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card. 2X points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

150,000 Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card!