Gondola

You will find gondoliers all over Venice and they will set the route, which is somewhat dependent on where they are stationed. You might be able to make suggestions, but I would focus on picking a gondolier that communicates well in English (most of them). Our route was mostly on side canals with a little bit of time in the Grand Canal. I would not want a route mostly in the Grand Canal because that area is very busy, but it was nice for some pictures. Just a reminder that it costs more after dark, so remember to factor that into the price depending on what time you want to go. Rates are set by the city and not negotiable.

Enough said!!

And no need to tip a gondolier.

Just a warning that we were disappointed by missing out on a gondola trip because we left it too late in the evening. I think it was around 10:00, after dinner, and all the gondolas were tied up and the stations closed. I'm not sure when they close, but you can't wait too late.

We did our ride at dusk, when all the lights were on at the restaurants and bars on the Grand Canal, and the play of lights on the water and sounds of music and people added to the enjoyment. The Grand Canal was fine too, as much of the daytime traffic had dropped off. Frankly, most of the side canals we went down were not interesting. Splurge for a musician of you can. Arrange for it ahead of time, during the day, and come back at negotiated time. Sure its touristy, but so what.