Venice isn’t just a city of canals and gondolas; it’s a living open-air museum filled with centuries of stories. Its architecture, art, and unique districts make it a prime destination for anyone eager to explore history in a tangible way. We love how some tours, like the Basilica, Doge’s Palace, History Gallery & Bell Tower Option, combine skip-the-line access with expert guides, turning a visit into an immersive experience. Others, such as the Venice Lagoon Tour with Historic Venetian Boat, offer a relaxing escape into the surrounding waters, revealing Venice’s maritime roots. Whatever your style, Venice offers something for every history enthusiast—whether it’s exploring the Jewish Ghetto or climbing the Bell Tower for breathtaking city views.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of guided walking tours, private museum visits, and unique boat excursions. Highlights include visits to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and lesser-known neighborhoods like the Jewish Ghetto. For a more interactive experience, the Venetian Carnival Dress-up provides a chance to step into history, while the Naval Museum showcases Venice’s legendary maritime past. All tours are carefully selected for their authenticity, value, and the insights they provide into Venice’s layered history.
1. Basilica, Doge’s Palace, History Gallery & Bell Tower Option
At number 1, this comprehensive tour covers Venice’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll visit the Doge’s Palace, revealing the seat of Venetian power with rooms decorated by renowned artists and Tintoretto’s “Last Judgment” — a true masterpiece. The guide takes you through the old Venetian prisons and the Bridge of Sighs, tying architecture and history together. Then, you’ll explore St. Mark’s Basilica, famed for its golden mosaics. The tour includes skip-the-line access, which is invaluable in high season when lines can stretch long. Options like visiting the St. Mark’s Cathedral Terrace or including lunch make this flexible for any schedule. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the ability to avoid crowds, making it a top choice for a rich, guided overview of Venice’s royal history.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one experience that’s perfect for first-timers who want to see the highlights with expert commentary and skip-the-line convenience.
2. Venice: City Center Historical Guided Walking Tour
Number 2 offers a more relaxed, 2-hour walk through Venice’s core, including St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and hidden calli (narrow streets). The tour highlights Venice’s lively markets and the famous opera house La Fenice. With a local guide, you’ll learn stories behind Venice’s most celebrated spots and discover hidden corners not on typical tourist maps. For a special touch, adding a gondola ride offers a water-level perspective of the city’s beauty. Reviewers note guides like Francisco, who bring Venice’s stories to life through engaging storytelling and local insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who prefer a leisurely exploration of Venice’s historic streets and landmarks, with optional water experiences.
3. Venice: The History of St. Mark’s Basilica Tour
Number 3 features priority access to the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, a must-see for anyone interested in Venetian art and architecture. This tour pairs skip-the-line tickets with an expert guide and a multilingual audio app, allowing you to appreciate the gold mosaics and Byzantine influences at your own pace. The tour lasts between 1 to 2.5 hours, fitting easily into any schedule. Reviewers emphasize how skipping the long lines saves valuable sightseeing time and how the detailed explanations enrich the experience. The optional audio guide provides in-depth context about the basilica’s history and treasures.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for art and architecture lovers who want to see Venice’s most famous church without the hassle of waiting.
4. Venice: Natural History Museum Entry Ticket
Number 4 makes our list with an entirely different approach—family-friendly and educational. For just $11, you’ll explore Venice’s Natural History Museum, housing around 2 million objects, fossils, and specimens. Highlights include the 7-meter-long Ouranosaurus nigeriensis and the skull of a Sarchosuchus imperator. The museum is housed in an impressive historic building and offers a quiet retreat from the busy streets. Reviewers love its diverse collection and the opportunity for kids to learn about natural sciences in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: A great rainy-day option or for families wanting a mix of science, history, and natural wonders.
5. Venice: Bell Tower and San Marco History Gallery Tickets
Number 5 combines spectacular views with interactive exhibits. Climb the St. Mark’s Bell Tower—the tallest structure in Venice—for panoramic city views. The History Gallery offers insights into Venice’s gondola craftsmanship and features a VR journey through Piazza San Marco’s past. The combined ticket includes skip-the-line access and a guiding code for a smooth experience. Visitors mention the helpful staff and the breathtaking vistas from 98 meters up. The VR experience adds a fun, modern twist to learning about Venice’s history.
Bottom Line: A must-do for those wanting a spectacular vista paired with interactive history and culture.
6. Venice: City Center Walking Tour & Iconic Gondola Ride
Number 6 offers a 3-hour guided walk through Venice, ending with an authentic gondola ride. Starting at the Venice Tours Desk, you’ll explore the Rialto Bridge, Palazzo Grimani, and Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo. Your guide will share stories about Venice’s medieval, noble, and artistic heritage. The highlight—gliding through the canals on a gondola—provides a classic Venetian experience. Guests appreciate the mix of walking and water, plus the chance to capture stunning photos. The tour also includes a Spritz break in a local bar.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, immersive experience blending Venice’s history, art, and romance.
7. Historical Jewish Ghetto & Magnificent Cannaregio Private Tour
Number 7 is a private, 2-hour tour focused solely on Venice’s Jewish heritage. Explore the Jewish Ghetto, the world’s first, with a passionate local guide. You’ll see historic synagogues, learn how the community survived the Holocaust, and discover ancient symbols not in standard guides. The tour includes tasting Jewish pie and a glass of Venetian wine. Reviewers mention guides like Lucia, who enhance the experience with knowledge and humor.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in niche history, cultural stories, and an intimate setting.
8. Venice Lagoon Tour with Historic Venetian Boat
Number 8 offers a 1-hour boat ride into the Venice lagoon, away from the crowds. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit hidden corners and enchanting wetlands that reveal Venice’s maritime origins. This tour provides a relaxing and informative break from city walking. Reviewers often mention how Khalil, the guide, makes the experience fun and engaging, describing it as a great first Venetian excursion.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful water journey exploring Venice’s natural and historical landscape.
9. Venice, Submarine Enrico Dandolo and Naval History Museum
Number 9 dives into Venice’s maritime military history. You’ll tour the Enrico Dandolo, one of Italy’s earliest Cold War submarines, inside the Venice Arsenal. The experience includes entering the control room and torpedo chambers, giving an authentic feel of naval warfare. Reviews highlight the impressive nature of the submarine and the expertise of the guides. This tour appeals to military history fans and naval enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A hands-on, immersive view of Venice’s naval legacy and Cold War history.
10. Two-Hour Walk from Rialto to San Marco Between History, Traditions and Art
Number 10 is a passionate walk led by a local Venetian who knows every corner. It starts at the Rialto Market, crossing the historic bridge, and visits Marco Polo’s house and San Marco’s Library. Along the way, learn about Venetian commerce, art, and local legends. The tour is tailored to showcase less touristy spots and local traditions, with a focus on Venice’s cultural identity. Reviewers love the storyteller’s passion and depth of knowledge.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a personalized, in-depth look at Venice’s everyday life and history.
11. Small Group Tour: Historical and Charming Venice Jewish Ghetto
Number 11 offers an intimate, 2-hour exploration of Venice’s Jewish district. Led by an expert guide, you’ll discover hidden synagogues, gardens, and symbolic sites not typically included in standard tours. The guide shares stories about the community’s resilience, including World War II impact. The tour’s small size ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for those interested in authentic stories and less crowded experiences.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for history lovers who want a deep dive into Venice’s Jewish heritage.
12. Venice: Entrance Ticket to the Naval Historical Museum
Number 12 features self-guided exploration of Venice’s naval history, with an entrance ticket to the Naval Historical Museum. Here, you’ll find a collection of ship models, paintings, and documents detailing Venice’s maritime power. Owned by the Italian Navy, this museum offers a comprehensive look at Venice’s naval legacy. Reviewers mention that while the museum is interesting, it could benefit from a clearer narrative.
Bottom Line: Great for maritime history buffs wanting flexibility and a chance to explore at their own pace.
13. The History of Venice: San Marco Highlights Private Tour
Number 13 provides a customized, private 3-hour tour focusing on San Marco’s secrets. Your guide, a local, will take you through Doge’s Palace, Basilica, and lesser-known alleys, ending with a gondola ride. The personalized approach suits travelers wanting an intimate experience with plenty of stories and insights. Reviewers appreciate guides like Elisabetta for her thoroughness and local knowledge.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a tailored, in-depth look at Venice’s most famous sites.
14. Gallerie dell’Accademia, Private Tour: Art and History
Number 14 explores Venetian painting from the 14th to the 18th century. Led by an expert, this 2-hour private tour reveals masterpieces by Bellini, Carpaccio, Tintoretto, and more. The gallery also includes neo-classical sculptures by Canova. Reviewers value the personalized explanations that deepen their appreciation of Venetian art and history.
Bottom Line: Excellent for art lovers eager to see Venice’s most significant painters in an intimate setting.
15. Historical Journey and Dress Up Experience in Venetian Carnival
Last on our list is the Carnival-themed tour, where you can dress up in traditional costumes and learn about Venice’s iconic festival. The tour includes a visit to a mask maker’s workshop and a guided walk through historic streets. For about $179, you get a hands-on experience that combines history, art, and fun. Reviewers mention the unique opportunity to participate actively and take memorable photos.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting an interactive, festive dive into Venice’s famous carnival traditions.
How to Choose the Right Historical Tour in Venice
When selecting the best tour for your visit, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For a rundown, the Basilica, Doge’s Palace, History Gallery & Bell Tower Option offers an all-in-one experience. If you’re passionate about art, the Gallerie dell’Accademia Tour is perfect. For those interested in unique neighborhoods, the Jewish Ghetto tours provide a deeper cultural experience. Budget-conscious travelers can enjoy the City Center Guided Walking Tour or the Natural History Museum, while history buffs keen on maritime stories may prefer the Naval Museum or Lagoon Boat excursions.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, and always check for availability to match your travel dates. Combining a guided tour with a self-guided exploration can offer a balanced Venice experience tailored to your interests.
Venice is a city that wears its history openly—every stone, canal, and building tells a story. Whether you opt for an all-encompassing guided tour or explore hidden neighborhoods on your own, these options ensure you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of this fascinating city. For history lovers and curious travelers alike, Venice’s diverse tours offer a perfect way to connect with its past. Don’t wait—book early, and prepare for a journey through time in one of Europe’s most captivating cities.