Gondola Rides in Venice: Everything You Need to Know
Everyone recognizes a gondola, primarily due to its elegant, elongated shape and captivating allure... but how much do you really know about experiencing a gondola ride in Venice?
Many people believe that gondola rides are too expensive and only for tourists, but this isn’t entirely true.
We want to provide you with some helpful information about gondola rides in Venice by answering some of the most common questions we receive at our reception desk.
Let’s get started.
HOW MUCH DOES A GONDOLA RIDE COST IN VENICE?
The cost of a gondola ride is often the first question people ask, as there’s a widespread belief that it’s unaffordable. Here’s the real deal: a gondola ride costs 90 euros if you book it before sunset, and 110 euros if you book it during or after sunset. The price is for the entire gondola, not per person, so if you’re with your family, the cost remains the same for the whole group.
WHERE TO CATCH A GONDOLA IN VENICE?
Gondola stations, known as “stazi,” are scattered throughout Venice. The nearest ‘stazio’ to our hotel is in Campo San Moisé.
It is also possible to take a short gondola ride using the Traghetti da Parada to cross the Grand Canal.
ACTIVE TRAGHETTI AND TIMETABLES
TRAGHETTO DOGANA
9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
TRAGHETTO SANTA MARIA DEL GIGLIO
9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
TRAGHETTO SAN TOMA’
8.30 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday to Friday
9.00 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays
TRAGHETTO CARBON
9 a.m. – 12 noon Monday to Friday
Saturday, Sunday and holidays closed
TRAGHETTO SANTA SOFIA
8.30 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday to Friday
9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays
As you explore the city, you’ll notice many spots where you can catch a gondola ride, especially as you approach St. Mark’s Square. If you prefer, we can also book a gondola tour for you at the reception.
HOW LONG DOES A GONDOLA RIDE LAST IN VENICE?
The duration of a gondola ride varies. It can last either 30 minutes or 1 hour, depending on your preference. The prices mentioned above are for a one-hour tour. You can also ask the gondolier to take you to specific places you’d like to see, as long as it’s feasible.
One of the most popular tours includes a ride along the Grand Canal or passing under the iconic Bridge of Sighs, which connects the Doge’s Palace to the prisons.
IS A GONDOLA RIDE FOR YOU?
Gondola rides aren’t just for couples; they offer a unique way to experience the city. Historically, Venetians used gondolas to travel everywhere in the city, as the true essence of Venice lies in its canals, not its streets. Walking was primarily for the lower classes, while gondolas were the main mode of transportation for everyone else.
