See Venice by chauffered rowboat.

Gondolier at Salute Church

Can you enjoy a trip to Venice without hiring a gondola? Of course. But if a private boat ride is on your bucket list, read our tips before hitting the water:

Bring plenty of cash.

  • The official daytime gondola base rate is €90 for a 40-minute ride.
  • (Longer rides cost more.)

  • From 7 p.m. to 8 a.m., the base rate goes up to €110.
  • Gondolas accomodate up to five people, so you can reduce the cost per person by sharing a ride with family or friends.

Pick the right location.

  • You can hire gondolas in St. Mark's Basin (near the Piazza San Marco), at various points along the Grand Canal, or in the quiet side canals of Venice.
  • We prefer the quiet side canals, which offer a smoother, more peaceful ride with constantly-changing views.

Book a ride on the spot.

  • As you walk around Venice, you'll pass many gondola stations, and you'll often encounter gondoliers who politely inquire "Gondola?" as you walk by.
  • Simply indicate your interest and confirm or negotiate a rate.

    (The gondolier may try to deviate from the official rate, so make sure you've agreed on the price and length of the ride before you board the boat.)

Don't expect a singing gondolier.

In-depth articles at Venice for Visitors: