Husband and I along with another couple will be in Venice the first week of April and will be paying for a gondola ride. Curious if anyone has a suggested place to get one? I know there are stands everywhere but would love to hear of a great place to catch one. Thanks!!
Posted by
The Heartland USA
9022 posts
tmc, I'm not sure what would make one "great", but I'd go for the one most convenient to your hotel, or where you expect to be that evening (because I am sure you'll want to make it an evening experience). The stands we saw were not in particularly scenic locations, mostly back-alley canals, and cul de sacs. You will find gondoliers offering rides as you're walking all over around the heavily touristed areas. I'd ask the hotel for recommendations if necessary.
Posted by
Atlanta
5235 posts
As a general rule, the ones on the back canals used to be cheaper than the ones at major spots like San Marco. All are costly, but well worth it. Just be sure you're in agreement regarding price and time before you start the trip.
Posted by
Charleston, SC, USA
926 posts
On my last trip to Venice in May 2015, we picked one up at the front of the Frari Church. We bought a bottle of wine at a nearby store along with some cups and enjoyed the evening.
Posted by
Italy
3812 posts
As a general rule, the ones on the back canals used to be cheaper than the ones at major spots like San Marco
TC, there is only a general rule: all gondolas cost the same, 80 euro per boat for a 30 minutes ride before night. Up to 6 persons per gondola.
A desperate one could offer a cheaper ride, but as it's illegal you'd better wait for the Gondolier to make the first move.
My 2 cents: the farthest they are from San Marco Square, the better the trip. But don't walk till the mainland looking for the perfect gondola experience!
Posted by
133 posts
We found a gondolier stationed at a very pedestrian-busy side street who took us out for 70E at about 6:45 pm. He sang, gave historical information, took us briefly on the Grand Canal, as well as many back canals, and was generally a lovely person. He said that the gondoliers own their gondola's and work for specific hours for an organization that manages the operation. During that time, there are specific rates and rules they must follow. He said that on their own hours they are able to charge a different rate. Whether he told us the truth or not I don't know. He did make a comment, though, that when you get a ride from a station on the Grand Canal, you may find yourself stuck in canal "traffic" for a good part of your time. Another plus for looking on the side streets.
Posted by
NC
220 posts
I'm also following this thread and interested in the responses. We will be in Venice in October and definitely plan on taking a gondola ride. I'm hoping the hotel can help with finding one - we wouldn't be looking for someone to sing, but rather would like to have them talk about the history/stories of what we are seeing. (Staying between the Rialto and St. Mark's.)
Posted by
Michigan, United States
703 posts
We found our gondalier near Rialto Bridge, just before 7pm when the prices are lower than after 7pm. We talked to him a little while before deciding to go. We had a lovely ride. Took the Grand Canal & went under the Rialto Bridge then into the side canals, winding through many beautiful & scenic canals. We loved it. Our guide was very nice. He didn't sing but he did give us information about the buildings he took us past as well as answered all our questions about gondolas & Venice.