How Much is a Gondola Ride in Venice?

A journey in this historical boat is an essential experience for anyone visiting Venice. So how much does it cost?

If gliding down the Grand Canal or navigating the charming secluded waterways of Venice on a gondola is an experience you’ve always dreamed of, you have a couple of options to live out your fantasy. You can join a group gondola, which will take you to explore the canals and attractions from the water for around 30 minutes. This option will cost you around €29 per person, sharing your gondola with up to five other travellers. It’s a good option if you are traveling alone and want to share the experience with others, or don’t want fork out for the private option.

A private gondola tour will cost around €125 for up to six people for around 30 minutes. You’ll travel along through the canals and admire the beautiful city in your own private gondola, a great option for couples who want to make the most of this romantic experience, or groups of friends who want to share the fun.

What to Expect on Your Gondola Ride

Most gondola rides last for about 30 minutes and will take you winding through narrow secluded waterways and larger, impressive waterways including part of the Grand Canal. Have your camera ready as you enjoy a unique perspective of some of Venice’s well-known attractions including Mozart House, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, La Fenice Theatre and San Marco’s Bell Tower.

While you may have a vision of a gondolier romantically serenading you with an Italian aria as you gently row through the Venice canals, most don’t actually sing. The gondolier uniform consists of black trousers and a striped shirt, with some wearing the iconic straw boater hat. Nowadays, they have caught up with modern technology and your sightseeing narration is provided through an app in many different languages.

Gondolas are usually black with comfortable seats. There is no covering, so if you are traveling in summer, we recommend a hat to protect from the sun, and an umbrella or rain jacket if it is rainy.

Why You Should Take a Gondola When in Venice

It goes without saying that a ride in a Venice gondola is a one-of-a-kind experience that is uniquely Venetian. While you can get around the city more efficiently with the local vaporetti (ferries), enjoying a ride on an authentic gondola through the historical canals is something you can only do in Venice. The journey will offer you a different perspective of the city and a little piece of history.

Recommendation Venice Tours: Venice Gondola Tour
Price: €29
Company: Sightseeing Tours Italy