Echoes of the Lagoon: Venice by Boat and Foot
An enchanting half‑day introduction by private motorboat and foot, beginning at Piazzale Roma.
From Piazzale Roma to St. Mark’s—discover Venice by water and by foot.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Piazzale Roma
- Meeting point is outside the front door of Santa Chiara Hotel in Piazzale Rome
Grand Canal & Lagoon Cruise
Cruise along the entire stretch of the Grand Canal, taking in centuries of Venetian elegance and power.
Highlights include:
(1) Ca' Rezzonico – Baroque splendor and noble 18th-century interiors.
(2) Accademia Galleries – Venice’s treasure trove of Venetian Renaissance art.
(3) Punta della Dogana – The sharp wedge where the Grand Canal meets the Giudecca Canal.
(4) Rialto Bridge – Glide beneath Venice’s oldest and most iconic bridge.
(5) The Venetian Arsenal – Heart of the once-mighty naval power of the Republic.
(6) St. Mark’s Basin – Cruise past the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Campanile.
(7) Visit the Bell tower of St George Maggiore and go to the top for panoramic photo of whole Venice view.
Disembark near St. Mark’s Square for the walking portion.
Disembark + Start Walking Tour
(1) Piazza San Marco
Admire the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica, the shimmering mosaics, and the Byzantine domes.
(2) Explore the Doge’s Palace (external commentary): seat of the Venetian Republic’s power.
(3) Learn about the Clock Tower, the Procuratie, and the symbolism behind the square.
(4) Into the Calli (Streets) of Venice
Wander through narrow alleys and peaceful squares where daily life continues behind the grandeur.
(5) Stop at artisan shops or traditional bacari if desired.
(6) Fondaco dei Tedeschi & Rialto Bridge
Fondaco dei Tedeschi
Visit the base of the historic Fondaco dei Tedeschi, with the option to ascend its rooftop terrace for a panoramic view (advance reservation recommended).
Cross the Rialto Bridge, enjoying its views and rich merchant history.
Visit the Traditiona old fish market.
Ending Point
At Rialto Bridge
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Licensed private guide
Private motorboat for 1 hour
2-hour guided walking tour
Local historical and cultural insights
The visit of Bell Tower of St George Maggiore for panoramic photos
Entrance Fee to the St George Bell Tower for photo 8 euro per person
Personal expenses.
Transfer of any kind
Drinks / Food.
Tour Important Information
This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
This tour is not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems.
This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Important message from the supplier
Availability and Customization
I’m available every day, with tours tailored to suit your schedule and interests. All of my tours are fully customizable, so feel free to send me a message with your specific requests or any special places you'd like to explore. I’m here to help create the perfect experience for you!
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Al F.
Al, Authorized Tour Guide in Venice
Hello! I’m Al, an authorized tour guide based in Venice, and I’m passionate about sharing the beauty and rich history of this incredible city. I was born in Pretoria, South Africa, I had the privilege of growing up in a diplomatic family, which allowed me to travel widely and experience different cultures from an early age.
I hold a Master's degree in Administration from the American University, which has given me a strong foundation for both my academic and professional pursuits. However, my true calling lies in guiding people through history, art, and culture.
Having worked as a tour guide in various countries and across Italy for many years, I’ve developed an intimate knowledge of Venice’s art, architecture, and stories. Guiding visitors here is not just my job – it’s my passion. Venice is my home, and I am deeply connected to its history and its glory.
As a historian and author of several guides and articles, I aim to make each tour an enriching experience, blending historical insights with a genuine love for this magnificent city. My mission is to ensure that every visitor leaves with a deeper understanding of Venice’s cultural heritage and a sense of awe at its beauty.
Whether you’re exploring the hidden gems of the city or marveling at its iconic landmarks, I’m here to provide you with an unforgettable experience, one that celebrates Venice’s incredible legacy.
Reviews
Daniel S.
“Unforgettable James Bond Experience in Venice”
We booked the James Bond Moonraker tour in Venice with Al, and it was truly the highlight of our trip. From the very first moment, Al’s enthusiasm, deep knowledge of both Bond films and Venetian history, and his engaging storytelling made the tour unforgettable. He brought the movie scenes to life right in front of us, pointing out filming locations, sharing fascinating behind-the-scenes facts, and weaving them together with anecdotes about the city’s culture and architecture. Al was patient and adapted the pace perfectly for us. His passion for the subject is contagious, and his friendly personality made it feel more like being shown around by an old friend than by a guide. If you’re a Bond fan—or simply want to see Venice from a unique and exciting perspective—this tour with Al is an absolute must. Highly recommended!
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Al F.
Dear Daniel ( Craig ) the greatest fan of James Bond, Thank you very much for taking the time to write a wonderful review, from my heart I apprecita you comment, your satisfaction give me sense of success in my work, Thank you for the family atmosphere you aqnd your family added to the tour, I enjoyed your company, looking for seeing you more in Venice.,
$640/ per group
More tours by Al F.
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Venice Walking Tour: Ghetto, Rialto & St. Mark’s
Duration: 3 hours Start Time: 9:00 AM Meeting Point: Piazzale Roma (near the bridge or parking area) End Time: 12:00 PM Walking Pace: Moderate, with time for stops, photos, and short explanations
Venice Walking Tour: Ghetto, Rialto & St. Mark’s
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Venice in Half a Day: A Private Journey Through History, Beauty & Daily Life
This half-day walking and gondola experience offers an immersive introduction to Venice’s most iconic landmarks, paired with moments of quiet discovery in its enchanting backstreets. From the grandeur of the Doge’s Palace to the charm of the Rialto Market, the tour weaves together the soul of Venice—its power, its faith, its artistry, and its daily rhythm on the water. Ideal for first-time visitors or travelers short on time who still wish to soak in the essence of La Serenissima.
Venice in Half a Day: A Private Journey Through History, Beauty & Daily Life
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Venice: Jewish Ghetto, Rialto, and Doge's Palace Tour
Begin your morning at 9:00 AM in Venice with a journey that unfolds like a narrative—one that blends deep historical resonance, city discovery, and architectural splendor. Starting in the evocative alleys of the Jewish Ghetto, the world’s first, and ending amidst the opulence of the Doge’s Palace, this four-hour walking tour is an exploration of Venice’s soul. Total duration: approximately four hours. Step off this curated path at the palace, poised for an extended discovery
Venice: Jewish Ghetto, Rialto, and Doge's Palace Tour
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Venice by Water: A Grand Canal Luxury Cruise
Avoid the hustle and bustle on foot and discover Venice’s landmarks from the water. Glide through the Grand Canal aboard a stylish boat, passing iconic bridges, historic palaces, and charming lesser-known waterways where daily Venetian life unfolds. With just eight guests per vessel, this exclusive tour ensures a personal, relaxed experience, with your guide sharing captivating stories throughout the journey.
Venice by Water: A Grand Canal Luxury Cruise
Other Popular Highlights Tours in Venice
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Venice Highlights & Main Attractions
We will start at San Marco Square, then make our way to Rialto Bridge, passing by Scala Contarini Del Bovolo , then to Santa Maria Gloriosa di Frari, and cross the Accademia Bridge, and back to San Marco.
Venice Highlights & Main Attractions
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Venice Land&Water Tour
Would you like to see the best of Venice in just 3 hours? The Land&Water tour is the best option. It will allows you to discover the highlights of the city walking through its narrow streets and sailing around its famous canals. We will start with a 2 hours walking tour of the main sites of the city and some of its hidden corners. After that we will jump on board of a luxury private water taxi to admire the stunning palaces on the Gran Canal and some wonderful sceneries of the Venetian Lagoon
Venice Land&Water Tour
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First visit of Venice
This tour let you to approach Venice as visitors used to do in the past time. We will walk and enjoy the city from Grand Canal and then we will walk through some of the famous or "out of the beaten path" sites of this unique city.
First visit of Venice
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Venice Highlights & Hidden Gems
Cannaregio district & St. Lucy church. Tintoretto's house & the Jewish quarter. San Polo's district' Rialto Bridge to Santa Maria Gloriosa di Frari church & Campo San Barnaba. Dorsadoro district to Punta Della Dogana. Then Santa Maria Della Salute church to Accademia Bridge, making our way to Scala Contarini Del Bovolo. Lastly, San Marco Square , San Marco’s Basilica and Doge's palace from the outside. Then we finally walk to the bridge of Sighs & get to know the story behind its name.
Venice Highlights & Hidden Gems
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