Venice Gondola Ride and Serenade with Dinner

The quintessential Venetian experience of a serenaded gondola ride is so beloved by visitors that tours are likely to sell out weeks in advance. Book ahead so you don’t miss out on the ride of a lifetime!

Choose from an afternoon or evening departure, and then make your way to the launch point near the Grand Canal. Climb aboard a traditional polished wooden gondola, which comfortably seats six passengers. These beautiful handcrafted vessels used to be one of the primary modes of transportation for Venetians centuries ago, and their craftsmanship is a time-honored tradition. 

Settle in for the ride as your gondolier skillfully navigates the boat along Venice’s famous Grand Canal using a long wooden oar. Admire the historic homes, palazzos and cathedrals that line the canal as you travel along with a flotilla of several other gondolas. Head through some of the city’s smaller canals where you’ll pass under bridges and get a glimpse of quieter, charming backstreets. Adding to the enchanting atmosphere, a skilled opera singer and musician (usually an accordion or guitar player) will ride aboard one of the gondolas in your group and serenade you with classic Italian ballads.

At the end of your 35-minute ride, disembark at the picturesque Campo Santa Maria del Giglio and make your way through romantic alleyways to the nearby Hostaria Ai Coristi Restaurant. Savor a two-course meal including a fish or meat entrée served with house wine, water and coffee. 

Please note: If you choose a 3:30 pm departure, your meal can be either lunch (served before the gondola ride between 12pm and 3pm) or dinner (enjoyed after the ride between 7pm and 9pm).