Glide from Rialto into Venice’s quieter canals on a private 45- or 60-minute gondola. This ride pairs Grand Canal panoramas with intimate inner waterways and practical tips for booking, boarding, and timing your visit.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off from a narrow wooden mooring a few steps from Rialto, the gondolier’s pole dipping rhythmically as the canal narrows and the city exhales around you.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
45–60 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires stepping into a low-sided boat and maintaining balance while boarding.
Wildlife
History
Gondolas were once common working craft used for transport, evolving through centuries into the iconic black boats associated with Venetian navigation and ceremony.
Conservation
Heavy tourism and boat traffic strain fragile foundations and water quality; avoid littering, respect private doorways, and support licensed local operators.
Reserve your spot on the 45-Minute or 1-hour Private Gondola Ride from Rialto today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Book the exact pickup point
Confirm the gondola mooring near the Rialto market when you book and arrive 10 minutes early to avoid crowd delays.
Time your light
Choose morning or late afternoon for softer photos and fewer large tour boats on the Grand Canal.
Watch low bridges
Be prepared to lower your head briefly when passing under some of the smaller bridges; follow the gondolier’s instructions.
Pack sun and water
Bring sunscreen and a small bottle of water — shade is limited and the glassy canals reflect strong light.
Low-traction shoes
Stable, flat-soled shoes help when stepping into and out of the gondola.
Light jacket or shawl
Evenings and early mornings can be cool on the water.
spring
Sunscreen and hat
Direct sun reflects off the canals — protection matters.
summer
Phone or small camera
Compact cameras capture low-angle canal views; keep a secure pocket for boarding.