Another Side of the City: Discovering Authentic Venice

Exploring the Authentic Side of Venice: A Look at the “Another Side of the City” Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Venice and want to see a different, less touristy side of this enchanting city, the “Another Side of the City: Discovering Authentic Venice” tour might be just what you’re after. While many visitors stick to the crowded San Marco and the main waterways, this private walking experience takes you through quiet neighborhoods, historic churches, and local areas that give a more genuine taste of Venetian life.

What we love about this tour is how personalized and flexible it is. It’s designed to let you escape the crowds and see Venice through the eyes of locals, with guides who are clearly passionate and knowledgeable. And at around $100 per person, it offers a good value for an intimate, thoughtfully curated experience. That said, be prepared for quite a bit of walking on uneven surfaces—this isn’t a tour for those with mobility issues.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy learning about the city’s lesser-known stories, want an authentic experience, and prefer a private guide to tailor the visit to their interests. It’s not a quick overview of famous sights but rather a curated stroll into Venice’s hidden corners.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: The tour is exclusive to your group, allowing for a tailored experience.
• Off the Tourist Trail: Explore areas away from the crowds, including quieter neighborhoods and backstreets.
• Local Insights: Guides share stories, history, and lesser-known facts about Venice’s hidden gems.
• Variety of Stops: From historic churches to gondola-making yards, each stop offers something unique.
• Good Value: At just over $100, you get a comprehensive, intimate look at Venetian life.
• Walking Required: Prepare for a moderate walk on uneven streets—comfortable shoes are a must.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins at the Gallerie dell’Accademia, conveniently located in central Venice, making it easy for most travelers to reach. From there, your guide kicks things off with a relaxed, walking approach. The total duration is around two hours, which is perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary without feeling rushed.

What’s especially appealing about this tour is its flexibility. You can choose from multiple start times, and your guide can meet you at a designated spot or even at your hotel if needed. That kind of convenience is rare and appreciated, especially after a long journey or a busy travel schedule.

Key Stops and What They Offer

Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute: The tour’s first stop is this grand church built at the end of one of Venice’s last plagues. It’s an impressive structure built outside the usual tourist flow. Best of all, it’s free to admire from the outside, though it’s worth noting that entry is not included—so you’re just appreciating its exterior and historical significance.

Fondamenta Zattere: One of the highlights, this seaside promenade offers beautiful views of the Giudecca Canal. It’s a favorite spot for locals to relax, sunbathe, and unwind away from tourist throngs. You might be carried away by the peaceful atmosphere, and possibly stop at Nico’s, a well-loved local spot for a refreshment.

Squero di San Trovaso: A real treat for those interested in craftsmanship—this is one of the last remaining gondola workshops in Venice. From across the canal, you can watch gondolas being built or repaired, which adds an authentic, tangible connection to the city’s traditional boat-making.

Campo San Barnaba: A picturesque square that captures Venice’s charm, it’s often overlooked by visitors rushing to more famous sites. Here, you’ll see local life in action, with small cafes and lively residents.

Campo Santa Margherita: The tour’s final stop is a lively square filled with locals and students. It’s a perfect spot to end with a drink or a meal, soaking in the everyday Venice vibe.

Authenticity and Local Insights

Multiple reviewers mention how guides offer stories, historical trivia, and hidden gems that you wouldn’t find just wandering on your own. For example, one reviewer describes how their guide took them through the backstreets and shared personal stories about Venetian life, making the experience feel intimate and genuine.

You’ll also appreciate the small touches—like a quick visit inside a Venetian apartment or recommendations for local eateries—that give a richer sense of what living in Venice is really like.

The Guides and Personal Touch

Guests consistently praise the guides, especially Elisabetta and Martina, for their knowledge, friendliness, and accommodating nature. One reviewer even mentions that their guide met them at their hotel, which removed a bit of hassle from their day.

It’s clear that these guides are passionate about Venice and eager to share their insider knowledge. That level of personalized attention makes a difference, especially when wandering through unfamiliar neighborhoods.

The Value for Money

At just over $100 per person, this tour offers an excellent chance to see Venice beyond the usual highlights without breaking the bank. Considering it’s a private experience, the personalized approach, and the quality of guides, most travelers seem to agree it’s worth every penny.

Plus, reviews mention how guides often treat visitors to goodies like gelato or cicchetti, and even wine. These small gestures add an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

Walking and Comfort Considerations

Keep in mind, this is a walking tour covering several neighborhoods with uneven pavement, bridges, and narrow streets. Reviewers note that it involves quite a bit of walking—sometimes several miles—so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s not ideal if you have mobility concerns, but for most active travelers, it’s perfectly manageable.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who want to see Venice from a local’s perspective—away from the crowds and tourist traps. If you’re curious about the city’s quieter neighborhoods, love learning stories behind the sights, and enjoy personalized tours, you’ll likely find this a highlight.

It’s especially good for people who seek a relaxed pace, want insider tips, and enjoy small-group or private experiences. Travelers with some physical fitness will appreciate the walking involved, but it’s not overly strenuous.

Final Thoughts

The “Another Side of the City” tour offers a personalized and authentic way to explore Venice’s lesser-known neighborhoods and local stories. It’s an excellent choice if you’re tired of the crowds and want to see a more genuine, everyday Venice. With knowledgeable guides, a flexible schedule, and stops that highlight real Venetian life, it stands out as a compelling option for those seeking depth over surface-level sightseeing.

While it’s not a tour for anyone with mobility issues or those who prefer a quick, broad overview of the city’s main attractions, it’s perfect for curious travelers wanting to dig a little deeper. For around $100, you get an intimate, insightful experience that’s surprisingly rich in local flavor.

If you love the idea of wandering quiet streets, discovering hidden corners, and listening to stories straight from locals, this tour could be one of your most memorable Venice experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour focuses on walking through neighborhoods and historical sites, children who enjoy walking and exploring should be fine. No specific mention of family-friendly activities, but the pace and content seem suitable for curious older children.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately two hours long, making it easy to fit into most itineraries without feeling rushed.

Can this tour be customized?
Yes, the tour offers multiple start times and can meet you at your hotel or a central location, allowing some flexibility to suit your schedule.

Are tickets included for all sites?
Most stops are free to admire from the outside. No admission fees are specified for the churches or landmarks visited, but you might find some optional visits inside churches are not included.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking on uneven pavement and crossing bridges.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private tour is a fantastic way to experience Venice beyond the usual tourist spots, giving you a more authentic and personal look at this captivating city. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of quiet streets, or simply want to see what locals see, it’s well worth considering for your Venice trip.