Venice: St Marks, Rialto & Instagrammable Gems Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Venice and want to capture the magic of the city through your lens, this Venice: St Marks, Rialto & Instagrammable Gems Walking Tour could be just what you’re looking for. Offered by CITY TOURS CO LTD, this experience promises a mix of well-known sights and lesser-known treasures, all perfect for snapping those envy-inducing photos.

What appeals most? We love that it’s a guided walk that combines iconic photo spots like St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge with special hidden corners like Santa Maria Formosa and the Church of Miracles. Plus, the included gondola ride offers a fantastic way to see Venice from its famous waterways. However, the tour’s pace might be a little brisk for some, especially those with mobility issues.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager to capture stunning images, explore off-the-beaten-path Venice, and enjoy a relaxed combination of sightseeing and local flavor. It’s ideal if you’re up for a walking adventure that’s as much about photo ops as history and if you want a guide who can point out those special spots you might miss on your own.

Key Points

• Instagram-focused: Designed for capturing beautiful photos at Venice’s most photogenic spots
• Guided walk: Led by knowledgeable guides who share insights and hidden gems
• Varied itinerary: Combines major landmarks with lesser-known architectural and cultural sites
• Includes a gondola ride: A scenic trip that adds a classic Venetian touch
• Time flexibility: Tours range from 1 to 3 hours, accommodating different schedules
• Not suited for mobility impairments: Due to the walking nature and narrow calli

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Experience in Detail

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off in St. Mark’s Square, arguably Venice’s most recognizable scene. With the basilica, bell tower, and open piazza all ready for photos, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the city’s visual energy. As many reviews mention, this spot is perfect for iconic shots but can also be crowded, so timing your visit early can help.

Exploring Charming Calli and Squares

From there, the walk takes you through winding calli (Venetian alleys) to Santa Maria Formosa, a lesser-known but beautiful square that’s ideal for capturing authentic Venice. The guide will point out the architecture and history, enriching your photo sessions with background stories.

Hidden Gems and Architectural Wonders

One favorite stop among travelers is the Church of Miracles, a Renaissance jewel that often flies under most travelers’ radar. As one reviewer put it, it’s “a hidden gem,” offering a glimpse into Venice’s artistic elegance without the crowds. The Scuola Grande di San Marco is another standout, with its elaborate façade making for striking photos.

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Marco Polo’s House and Local Vibes

Next, you’ll visit Marco Polo’s House, imagining the tales of the famous explorer, while capturing shots of its historic façade. Then, you’ll have time to enjoy a spritz stop in a local bacaro—a classic Venetian experience that doubles as a relaxed photo op and a chance to soak in local lifestyle vibes.

Architectural Highlights and Canal Views

The walk continues with architectural marvels like Palazzo Tetta, uniquely positioned at a canal intersection, and the Gothic Palazzo Soranzo Van Axel—both excellent for visual storytelling. These spots are perfect for those looking to add variety and detail to their Venice photo collection.

The Grand Finale: Rialto Bridge

No visit to Venice is complete without a stop at the Rialto Bridge. Here, you’ll find some of the best panoramic views over the Grand Canal, making it an ideal place to end your tour with that postcard shot. The reviews rave about this moment, noting that it’s “the most Instagrammable landmark of Venice,” and worth the wait for perfect lighting.

The Gondola Ride: A Scenic Waterway Escape

The tour also includes a gondola ride, which many reviewers say is a highlight. It’s a short trip—about 30 minutes—that offers a different perspective of the city’s narrow canals and lively waterway scenes. Guides often provide extra info in various languages, and you’ll share the gondola with a small group, making it a more intimate experience.

A few travelers mention that the gondola ride might be postponed due to weather or strikes, so it’s good to be flexible. Also, since gondolas hold only five people, it’s a cozy, personal way to soak in Venice’s waterfront beauty.

Tips for the Gondola

• Download the audio commentary beforehand for additional context.
• Expect the gondola to seat guests based on weight, so be prepared for some flexibility.
• Bring your camera, but hold on tight—those narrow canals can be charming but also tricky to shoot from.

Group Size, Duration, and Value

This tour is quite flexible: it can last from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and interests. Group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest it can be a medium-sized group, which might affect how much individual attention you get. The tour includes skip-the-line access, which saves you time, and the guides are multilingual, making it accessible for many travelers.

In terms of value, the combination of guided sightseeing, hidden gems, and a gondola ride offers a lot for the price. Several reviewers praise it as a “really good bargain,” especially considering the photos and insights you gain.

Pricing and Overall Worth

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the reviews suggest that for what you get—a guided walk, exclusive photo spots, and a gondola—it’s a worthy investment for travelers who prioritize visual storytelling and local experiences over just ticking landmarks off a list.

What to Keep in Mind

• Walking pace: The tour can be brisk, especially in narrow calli, so those with mobility issues might find it challenging.
• Crowds: Popular spots like St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge get busy, so early morning or late afternoon visits can improve your photos.
• Timing: The tour offers different start times, so pick one that fits your schedule and allows for good lighting.
• Weather contingency: The gondola ride is weather-dependent and might be canceled in bad conditions, but refunds are available if that happens.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves visual storytelling, wants to discover hidden corners, and enjoys a guided walk with local insights, this tour is a great fit. It’s ideal if you’re eager to snap incredible photos and see Venice from many angles, including its waterways.

While it may not be suited for travelers with mobility impairments or those seeking a very leisurely pace, active visitors who love photography and exploring on foot will find much to enjoy here. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors who want a curated, scenic introduction to Venice’s most iconic and Instagram-worthy sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for small children or families?
The tour is primarily a walking experience through narrow alleys and busy squares, so it’s best suited for adults and older children comfortable with walking. It’s not specifically designed for families with very young kids or those with mobility issues.

How long does the tour last?
It ranges from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and preferences. Check the available starting times to fit your schedule.

Does the tour include tickets to the attractions?
The tour offers skip-the-line access, but it doesn’t specify whether entrance tickets are included. It mainly covers the guided walk and the gondola ride.

What is the meeting point?
The meeting point is near the Basilica of San Marco, under the arches, in Campo San Gallo, at the Venice Tours Office.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.

What happens if the gondola ride is canceled?
In case of bad weather, strikes, or high/low tides, the gondola ride may be postponed or refunded if rescheduling isn’t possible.

Final Thoughts

This Venice: St Marks, Rialto & Instagrammable Gems Walking Tour strikes a good balance between exploring the city’s biggest sights and uncovering its hidden beauty. The guides seem knowledgeable and personable, often adding personal stories and tips that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. The inclusion of a gondola ride makes it feel distinctly Venetian and provides some memorable waterway views.

It’s perfect for travelers who love photography, discovering lesser-known spots, and enjoying local ambiance. While it might feel a little rushed for some, the overall value and the chance to see Venice through a visual lens make it a worthwhile option, especially if capturing stunning photos is a priority.

For those who want a fun, insightful, and scenic introduction to Venice, this tour offers plenty of opportunities—just be prepared for some walking and crowds. It’s a good way to make your Venice visit both beautiful and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: