Venice is a city like no other, with its labyrinth of narrow streets, centuries-old architecture, and stories that seem to float in the air. For history lovers, Venice offers an endless array of experiences that go beyond just sightseeing. Some tours, like the Doge’s Palace, reveal the political machinations of the Venetian Republic, while others, such as the Jewish Ghetto private tour, explore lesser-known neighborhoods filled with stories of resilience and culture. What makes Venice’s history so compelling is the way these stories are woven into the very fabric of the city, from its basilicas to its secret waterways.
Among the many options, we particularly love tours that combine skip-the-line access with expert guides—like the Doge’s Palace & San Marco Gallery, which packs in royal history, stunning art, and fascinating tales of power. For a more intimate experience, the private Jewish Ghetto tour offers a personalized look at one of the city’s most historic districts. If you want to escape the crowds and see Venice from a different perspective, the lagoon boat tour is a charming choice that reveals the city’s maritime roots and natural beauty.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the 15 best historical tours in Venice, each offering something unique—whether it’s exploring the towering Bell Tower for panoramic views or wandering through the Gallerie dell’Accademia to see masterpieces that shaped European art. Dive into the details to find the tour that matches your interests, budget, and schedule.
1. Basilica, Doge’s Palace, History Gallery & Bell Tower Option
Discover Venice’s royal past on this comprehensive guided tour. You’ll visit Doge’s Palace, walk through the Bridge of Sighs, and marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica, with skip-the-line entry saving you precious time. Guided commentary offers insights into the lavish interiors and Byzantine mosaics. Plus, you can choose packages that include a visit to the Basilica Terrace or lunch.
What makes this tour special is the depth of access—seeing Tintoretto’s Last Judgment and exploring the old Venetian prisons. With a 5.0/5 rating from 392 reviews, it’s clear travelers find it engaging and well-organized. Expect a 2-3 hour tour filled with history and art, perfect for first-timers eager to get a solid overview. The skip-the-line tickets ensure you won’t waste your time in queues.
Bottom Line: A top-rated, all-in-one experience for those wanting a thorough introduction to Venice’s regal and artistic heritage.
2. Venice: City Center Historical Guided Walking Tour
For a casual introduction to Venice’s main sights, this walking tour covers St. Mark’s Square, Rialto, and hidden nooks. Known for its affordability ($28), it lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours and is led by locals who bring Venice’s streets to life with stories and insider tips.
Highlights include the Rialto Bridge, views of the Grand Canal, and passes by Teatro La Fenice. Travelers rave about guides like Rocco and Francisco, whose enthusiasm makes the history accessible and fun. If you want the best photos and a feel for Venice’s charm, this tour hits the mark. Adding a gondola ride afterwards can give you a water-level perspective of the city’s layout.
Bottom Line: An affordable, lively walk that’s perfect if you want to see Venice’s iconic spots and explore some lesser-known areas.
3. Venice: The History of St. Mark’s Basilica Tour
This short but impactful tour offers priority access to St. Mark’s Basilica, allowing you to bypass long lines. You’ll explore its golden mosaics, marble sculptures, and the Pala d’Oro, a Byzantine masterpiece. Using a dedicated audio guide on your phone, you can enjoy a flexible pace.
Ideal for those with limited time, this 15-45 minute tour focuses on artistic highlights and the history behind the masterpieces. Reviewers mention how the basilica’s glittering mosaics and sacred relics make it a must-see. The experience is perfect for art lovers and history buffs wanting a focused, high-value visit.
Bottom Line: A quick, enriching visit to one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks.
4. Venice: Natural History Museum Entry Ticket
Seeking a family-friendly, indoor activity? The Natural History Museum is a surprisingly engaging stop. With exhibits of dinosaurs, fossils, and rare specimens, including the Sarchosuchus Imperator dinosaur skull, it offers a broad overview of natural sciences.
At just $11, it’s a budget-friendly way to spend a few hours. The museum showcases a collection of around 2 million objects and a library of 40,000 books—a quiet retreat from the bustling streets. Visitors appreciate its well-laid-out displays and the chance to see prehistoric creatures up close.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for families or those interested in natural history, especially on a rainy day.
5. Venice: Bell Tower and San Marco History Gallery Tickets
For breathtaking views and fascinating insights into Venice’s gondola craftsmanship, this combo ticket includes skip-the-line access to the St. Mark’s Bell Tower and the History Gallery. The elevator takes you up 98 meters for panoramic city views, while the VR experience immerses you in Venice’s past.
Many reviews highlight the spectacular vistas and the VR journey as memorable highlights. It’s ideal for those wanting a quick yet immersive cultural experience, with a total duration of about an hour.
Bottom Line: A smart pick for panoramic views with added local history and VR fun.
6. Historical Jewish Ghetto & Magnificent Cannaregio Private Tour
The word “ghetto” was born here, and this private tour offers a deep dive into Venice’s Jewish community history. Led by a passionate local, you’ll visit synagogues, hidden symbols, and learn about the impact of the Holocaust. The tour includes a Jewish pie tasting and a glass of Venetian wine.
Rated 5.0/5 from 39 reviews, it’s perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, personalized experience. The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching exploration of one of Venice’s most meaningful neighborhoods. Guides share stories that reveal the resilience and culture of Venice’s Jewish community.
Bottom Line: A deeply personal journey into Venice’s lesser-known but historically vital district.
7. Venice Lagoon Tour with Historic Venetian Boat
Experience Venice from a different angle with this lagoon boat tour. In just about an hour, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed lagoon, passing hidden corners and wetlands that are inaccessible by land. The boat’s charming wooden design adds to the authenticity.
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 34 reviews, travelers enjoy Khalil’s storytelling and the peaceful atmosphere. Unlike crowded gondola rides, this offers a quiet, scenic journey through Venice’s maritime landscape, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Bottom Line: An authentic, tranquil way to appreciate Venice’s natural and cultural environment.
8. Venice, Submarine Enrico Dandolo and Naval History Museum
Explore Venice’s naval might during the Cold War with a visit aboard the Enrico Dandolo submarine. Inside the Venice Arsenal, you’ll see the control room and torpedo chambers, gaining insight into Italy’s maritime defense history.
Rated 4.6/5 from 62 reviews, visitors find the submarine impressive and immersive, especially fans of military history. It’s a unique experience that combines technology and history, suited for those curious about Venice’s naval traditions.
Bottom Line: An unusual, engaging experience that appeals to military and history enthusiasts.
9. Small Group Tour of the Venetian Jewish Ghetto
This small-group tour offers an up-close look at Venice’s Jewish Ghetto, focusing on hidden streets, synagogues, and stories of World War II. The intimate format allows for deeper conversations and personalized attention.
Rated 5.0/5, it’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic, slow-paced exploration. The tour lasts around 2 hours and includes tips on hidden symbols and local legends, making it perfect for history and culture aficionados.
Bottom Line: A thoughtful, detailed journey into Venice’s Jewish heritage for curious explorers.
10. Venice: Entrance Ticket to the Naval Historical Museum
This self-guided entry provides a comprehensive look at Venice’s maritime history, from ancient boats to modern navy models. Managed by Italy’s Ministry of Defense, the museum showcases ship models, artwork, and documents.
Rated 4.6/5 from 21 reviews, it offers a mix of educational exhibits and historical artifacts. It’s best suited for travelers with a particular interest in naval history or as a supplement to other tours.
Bottom Line: A solid, budget-friendly option for maritime enthusiasts.
11. The History of Venice: San Marco Highlights Private Tour
This private 3-hour tour covers the essentials—Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and the basilica—plus a gondola ride. Led by a local host, it offers personalized attention and flexibility.
Rated 4.5/5, travelers appreciate the customized route and insightful storytelling. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet intimate experience of Venice’s heart.
Bottom Line: Great for couples or small groups wanting a luxurious, tailored overview of Venice.
12. Venice: Doge’s Palace Historic Mysteries Guided Tour
Explore the dark secrets of the Doge’s Palace on this mystery-themed tour. You’ll see Casanova’s prison and cross the Bridge of Sighs, with a VR journey that transports you back in time.
Rated 3.7/5, the focus on secrets and stories makes it appealing to those interested in intrigue and legend. The 1-1.5 hour format is good for a quick dose of Venice’s darker side.
Bottom Line: An entertaining, story-driven tour for history and mystery fans.
13. Gallerie dell’Accademia, private tour: art and history
Art lovers will enjoy this private 2-hour tour of Venice’s premier art museum. The Gallerie dell’Accademia houses works from Bellini, Carpaccio, Tiepolo, and Canaletto, spanning from the 14th century to the 1800s.
Rated 5.0/5, visitors praise the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see masterpieces in context. The museum’s neo-classical sculptures add to the experience, making it ideal for those interested in European painting and sculpture.
Bottom Line: A must-do for art enthusiasts wanting an in-depth look at Venetian art history.
14. Historical Journey and Dress up Experience in Venetian Carnival
Step into Venice’s famous Carnival with this interactive experience. It includes a visit to a mask maker’s workshop, a costume dress-up, and a guided walk through historic streets.
Rated 5.0/5, participants love the chance to wear authentic masks and learn about traditional Carnival customs. The 2-hour experience is perfect for anyone wanting an immersive cultural activity that ends with professional photos.
Bottom Line: A lively, hands-on way to connect with Venetian traditions.
15. Ducal Venice, Historical Walking Tour & Skip the line Doge’s Palace
This 3-hour private tour combines walking through St. Mark’s and Castello with skip-the-line access to Doge’s Palace. Led by a local guide, it features headsets for clarity and detailed stories about Venice’s dignitaries and palatial architecture.
Rated 4.5/5, travelers find it informative and efficient, especially those who want a rundown without the crowds. It’s suitable for history buffs wanting an in-depth exploration.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a full, guided experience combined with skip-the-line convenience.
How to Choose the Best Historical Tour in Venice
When selecting your perfect tour, consider your budget, time available, and specific interests. If you want a full immersion into Venice’s royal history, the Doge’s Palace & Basilica offers a detailed look at the city’s power. For art lovers, the Gallerie dell’Accademia provides an in-depth art tour, while the Jewish Ghetto private experience offers a personalized, culturally rich walk. Budget travelers might prefer the guided walking tour, and families or those with more time could enjoy the lagoon boat for a scenic escape.
Book early if you want to secure the popular Doge’s Palace skip-the-line or Bell Tower tickets. Tours fill quickly during peak seasons, and many include skip-the-line access to save hours of waiting.
Venice’s rich tapestry of history is best experienced through these thoughtfully curated tours. Whether you’re interested in royal palaces, art collections, hidden districts, or maritime legends, there’s a tour that will deepen your appreciation of this magical city. For a comprehensive dive, the Doge’s Palace & Museum remains a top pick, but for a quieter, more personal experience, the Jewish Ghetto tour offers a moving look at Venice’s lesser-known history. Whatever you choose, early booking is your best bet for snagging seats on these popular experiences—and making your Venice visit truly unforgettable.
