Venice, Submarine Enrico Dandolo and Naval History Museum

This experience made our article of The 15 Most Popular Historical Tours In Venice.

Venice, Submarine Enrico Dandolo and Naval History Museum — A Deep Dive into Italy’s Maritime Past

If you’re in Venice and craving something off the beaten tourist path, this tour offers a fascinating look into Italy’s naval history — centered around a real Cold War-era submarine. For just $29 per person, you get to step aboard the Enrico Dandolo, one of Italy’s first post-World War II submarines, and also explore the Naval Historical Museum located within the historic Arsenal.

This experience typically lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect quick yet immersive addition to your Venice itinerary. What we love most? First, the chance to walk through a genuine submarine and see the cramped, efficient space where sailors once worked. Second, the combination of the submarine visit with the extensive museum makes for a well-rounded maritime history lesson. It’s a rare opportunity to see a Cold War vessel up close, which many travelers don’t encounter in Italy.

One potential consideration is that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not suitable for those with claustrophobia or difficulty staying in tight spaces. Also, if you’re planning to visit the museum afterward, note that for the 3 PM tour, you might want to visit the museum beforehand, as time is limited.

This experience suits history buffs, naval enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Venice’s maritime heritage. It’s also great for families with older children (over age 6), who are interested in ships, technology, or military history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Board a Cold War-era submarine, one of Italy’s first post-WWII vessels.
Historical Context: Learn about Venice’s naval importance and Italian Navy advancements.
Comprehensive Access: Includes admission to the Naval Museum for two days.
Small Group: Tours are limited to 10 people for a more intimate experience.
Audio Guide: Multilingual commentary enhances understanding.
Location: Conveniently located near Piazza San Marco and the Arsenal.

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An In-Depth Look at the Venice Submarine and Naval Museum Experience

Getting There and What to Expect

The tour takes place at the historic Venice Arsenal, a UNESCO World Heritage site just a five-minute walk from Piazza San Marco. The location itself offers a fitting backdrop, echoing Venice’s long-standing maritime and naval significance. Once you arrive, you’ll join a small group — limited to 10 participants — guided by an operator who accompanies your exploration.

For just $29 per person, you gain entry to the Enrico Dandolo submarine, which measures 46 meters in length and about 5 meters wide. This vessel is one of the first four built during the Cold War, designed to be silent, quick, and maneuverable. Its advanced technologies, though never used offensively, highlight Italy’s strategic naval innovations during that period.

Walking Through the Submarine

Your ticket includes access to the control room and torpedo launching chamber — the core of any submarine experience. We loved the way the interior feels like a time capsule — narrow corridors, cramped quarters, and the technical control panels all tell stories of sailors operating in confined spaces far from the comforts of surface life.

The audio guide adds context in multiple languages, including Italian, Spanish, French, German, and English. As Michele noted in the reviews, “Visiter le sous-marin Enrico Dandolo est une expérience unique.” The audio provides detailed explanations of the submarine’s architecture and its role during the Cold War, making it more than just a visual tour.

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Immersive Naval History at MUNAV

After exploring the vessel, you have the option to visit the Naval Historical Museum of Venice (MUNAV). This museum is a treasure trove for maritime enthusiasts, with five floors of exhibits spread over 6,000 square meters. It covers Venice’s naval legacy, Italian Navy developments, and displays artifacts from various eras.

The advantage of purchasing an integrated ticket is access for two days, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Visitors often praise the museum for its extensive collection and engaging displays — a perfect complement to the submarine visit.

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Practical Tips for Visitors

Timing is key: The 3 PM tour, for example, leaves little time for museum exploration afterward. It’s wise to visit the museum before your submarine tour if you want to see everything.
Bring your ID or passport: Required for check-in.
Age restrictions: Starting at age 6, children can enjoy the experience, but anyone under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Accessibility: Due to the narrow, enclosed spaces, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with severe mobility issues.
Claustrophobia: Not recommended for those uncomfortable in tight, enclosed spaces.

Value and Overall Impression

At $29, this tour offers remarkable value. It’s a rare chance to step inside a real Cold War submarine, something you won’t find in many European cities. The combination with the Naval Museum turns it into a comprehensive maritime experience, perfect for history lovers and families alike.

Authenticity and Authentic Experience

Visitors frequently comment on the authentic feel of the submarine. Michele described it as “very impressive,” and many appreciated the guides’ expertise and the meaningful audio commentary. The vessel’s historical significance adds depth to the visit, transforming a simple tour into an educational journey.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers with a curiosity for military history, naval technology, or Venice’s maritime past. It’s perfect for those who want an interactive, engaging activity that diverges from the usual gondola or art museum visits. If you’re traveling with older children or teenagers interested in ships and technology, they’ll find this especially compelling.

Final Thoughts

This tour stands out as a unique way to connect with Venice’s maritime history, combining a tangible, hands-on experience with insightful learning. The chance to walk through a Cold War submarine — something many travelers never imagine doing in Italy — makes it truly memorable. The inclusion of the Naval Museum further enriches the visit, providing a broader context.

While it’s not suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or claustrophobia, it offers excellent value for the modest price. Whether you’re a history buff, a naval enthusiast, or simply looking for an unusual adventure, the Venice Submarine Enrico Dandolo and Naval History Museum tour is a rare opportunity to see Venice from a different perspective — beneath the surface.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, starting from age 6, but children under 14 need to be accompanied by an adult. It’s ideal for families with curious older kids who enjoy ships and history.

How long does the tour last?
The experience usually takes about 1.5 hours, including boarding, exploring the submarine, and listening to the audio guide.

Can I visit the navy museum after the submarine tour?
Yes, your ticket allows two-day access to the Naval Museum, so you can explore at your own pace on a different day or after your tour.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Unfortunately, no. The narrow, enclosed spaces of the submarine are not wheelchair accessible, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with severe mobility issues.

What languages is the audio guide available in?
Multiple languages are supported, including Italian, Spanish, French, German, and English.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, and comfortable shoes for walking and standing. Be prepared for enclosed spaces.

Is there any age restriction for the tour?
The tour is suitable for travelers aged 6 and above, but the experience may be intense for very young children or those uncomfortable in tight spaces.

Exploring Venice’s naval history from beneath the waves offers a distinctive twist on the city’s usual charms. This tour combines history, technology, and a touch of adventure — all at a fair price. If you’re eager to learn about Italy’s military past and experience a Cold War submarine firsthand, this is a memorable stop worth adding to your Venice itinerary.