16,000 steps. The number of steps our family was taking on an average day walking through Italy. Time spent meandering, touring and sometimes just getting lost. So when presented with the chance to tour Venice on a boat I took the opportunity to see this mesmerizing city from another perspective. The water!
Our tour called the Venice Boat Tour With Grand Canal and Tour Climb was with Walks Of Italy, and began in the famous St. Marks Square. Here we were met by our enthusiastic tour guide and our small group of just eight. We were quickly ushered to an awaiting luxury water taxi to begin our journey through this magical city. With an opportunity to sit, or stand, the beautiful wooden boat began it’s cruise with an introduction to the history of Venice and a slow cruise down some of the back canals of Venice. It was one of those “pinch me” am I really here doing this, kind of moments.
We were toured past well know places, crowded streets and busy bridges.
Did a sweep past the gondola making factory. Of course those gondolas are still made by hand. Each boat a work of art.
Into the quieter sections of Venice, where the tourist is only spotted if she or he is good and lost. Then back into the Jewish Ghetto, full of character and charm. Eventually our boat cruised it way past the Bridge of Sighs. Not named for a romantic reason, but rather because this bridge used to be the home of a prisoners. Legends tell us that from this bridge one could hear the sighs of the condemned as they were being led away to prison.
Finally our tour took us through the bustling Grand Canal, past the iconic Rialto Bridge, to the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore. Here we were given the opportunity to ascend the tower (via elevator!) and were afforded the most incredible view of Venice yet. The 360 degree view allowed for a moment to reflect on where you are, and of course to capture some incredible pictures.
What I Learned:
-There is something magical about a boat ride through the canals of Venice
-Teens love this tour
-A break for your feet is a good idea
-The photo opportunities on this tour are unparalleled
This two hour boat tour will forever remain one of my favourite guided tours of all time. It was relaxed, enlightening spellbinding and easy on the feet. A joy for the entire family and an incredible way to learn about Venice. Thanks Walks of Italy for a memorable afternoon, hope to see you again soon!
Disclosure: Walks of Italy provided tours for the purpose of review, as always opinions reflected on this blog are my own.
This looks like an amazing place to visit.
This does sound like a wonderful tour. With how much I love boating and the water I am sure I would enjoy this tour and certainly the views. So glad you enjoyed your trip. Hopefully one day I can visit also.
Venice looks so beautiful and romantic. I’m afraid of boats but I think I would make an exception there.
Looks like a great time. We did not one, but two canal tours when we were in Amsterdam. It was worth it – they were totally different experiences!
I always dream to go to Venice to go on a boat tour! So beautiful!
A Venice Boat Tour would be wonderful
Good to know. It all looks so lovely. I hope I can do that someday!
So cool – We’re actually heading to London in the spring and I should look to see if they have one along the Thames!
Looks fun! I always love taking boat tours when they are offered. Great pictures!
I would love to take a boat tour. We did that in Rotterdam and I loved it. No gondolas though.
Wow,such a beautiful place to visit,i do love the photos
I ageee that it would be a great way to give your feet a break while seeing beautiful Venice
What a great idea! I didn’t know such private tours were available. Gorgeous photos too Stephanie.
On my bucket list! But for now, I’ll just enjoy through your photos, lol.
Such a nice way to relax and take in the views. I guess sometimes walking you can miss other things you didn’t see. Such a beautiful place to visit. One day I might get that chance.