This tour is a wonderful introduction to Venice and complements well an in-depth historical tour by a licensed historic guide. The tour is completely customized for you, starting from your hotel and ending back there or at a fabulous lunch, dinner, or aperitivo spot. Andrea is a master at sharing the secrets of your neighborhood and bringing the culture of Venice to life. He will show you the hidden gems of your sestiere, like the precious local bookstores (even one with a boat inside!), historic bars and cafes with traditional classics or a focus on biodynamic foods and wines, jewel-like gardens, spots with the best views, and historically important locations dotting the labyrinth of calles away from the main touristic spots. Andrea is not a licensed historical guide, so for in depth historical explanations he will arrange for you a different tour with a historical guide. But if you want to dive into Venice like a true local, walk the back streets, and learn more about the people and culture that make Venice so special – including Venice’s fabulous food and wine – this...

Today you will explore the top highlights of Venice, the richest part of a city absolutely full of riches. Start at Piazza San Marco, where the Basilica of San Marco makes a stunning golden architectural reliquary for the body of Saint Mark the Evangelist. Next door is the Doge's Palace, the seat of power of the Venetian Republic for centuries – and also where prisoners like Casanova were kept in dark cells. Next walk the back streets of Marco Polo's neighborhood to the Rialto Bridge area, where Venice was first established in the 7th century. Donatella will include La Fenice, the opera house, so that you can experience this very special building which has risen from the ashes like its namesake, the Phoenix. The last hour will be on a beautiful private water taxi so that you can see the palaces and charming side canals form the water. Venture to the eastern edge of Venice to see the Arsenale, where ships were built during the height of Venice's power.