DO NOT USE THIS GONDOLA SERVICE. We were recommended from our hotel to take a gondola from the San Marco square, and we took the first gondola service we could find right next to the basilica. First, the guy asked us to pay in advance. We did not thought any of it at the time, but it for sure was a big mistake because after that it all went down hill. We should have waited to pay after the ride as the person might have had a better incentive to give us a better experience. The ride is suppose to be romantic and enjoyable, but the guy was talking and yelling to every person he met on the way. He barely said two sentences about the places we passed, but he has plenty of time to sit on his phone and have a full blown loud conversation with everyone he knew on the way. He was of course speaking Italian so we did not understand anything, but listening to that man talking LOUDLY and yelling to other gondola drivers for 45 minutes was enough to ruin the whole experience. Because of this bad service he completely ruined the lovely experience we had of Venice. We could not enjoy it even a bit. As it was pretty full in the canal, he also ruined the experience for every other gondola close to us. Worst money spent, such a waste. I do recommend doing the tour but stay far away from this service as possible if you would like a nice, quite and...
Read moreLocated at the entrance to Piazza San Marco, this gondola service is one of the most famous in Venice, often featured in media and travel guides. A ride from here offers stunning views of the iconic Doge’s Palace, making it a picturesque experience. However, gondola rides in Venice come at a premium price, and rates increase after sunset.
Before heading to the dock, it’s wise to research the official fares to avoid surprises. As of recent years, a standard daytime ride typically lasts around 30 minutes and costs approximately €80, while nighttime rides can rise to €100 or more. Keep in mind that these fares are per gondola, not per person, so sharing can help split costs.
For a more peaceful and intimate experience, consider hiring a gondola away from the busiest tourist areas like San Marco and the Rialto Bridge. In quieter canals, you’ll encounter fewer boats and get a more authentic glimpse of Venetian life. Gondolas can be found throughout the city, including in less crowded areas like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro. Exploring these quieter routes can make your gondola ride even more magical while allowing you to...
Read moreWas having a wonderful time in Italy until we went up to ask about the Gondola service. We walked up to a man with red and white striped shirt. We first asked how many people on one Gondole, he said maximum 5. Then we asked about the pricing. He said 80€ and 120€, once I asked what was the difference in cost he yelled "thats the price" and walked away. I walked closer and told him that I just want to know the difference in what I was paying for and you walked away and he told me to lower my voice it because I'm loud. I told him that I want to talk to someone else. Another guy's explained the price difference to me but I was so mad we decide to go to another place to ride the Gondola. While we were waiting at the other place a Latin woman came to us to ask about pricing because the same people where we came from were rude to her. We are black, her family was South American. As I was watching the only people who were treated with good service were White and Indian. There are about 3 services in this area, walk around and see who you're comfortable with. All...
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