Venice, Submarine Enrico Dandolo and Naval History Museum

If you’re heading to Venice and looking for something off the beaten path, the Submarine Enrico Dandolo and Naval History Museum offers an unusual peek into Italy’s military past. We haven’t done this experience ourselves, but based on the reviews and details we’ve gathered, it seems like a solid choice for anyone interested in naval history, military technology, or just wanting a different perspective from the usual gondola rides and historic streets.

What makes this tour really stand out are a couple of things: first, the chance to walk through a Cold War-era submarine, which is not something you get to do every day, especially in Venice. Second, the combined ticket includes access to the Naval Museum, giving you a broader context of Venice’s maritime legacy.

One thing to keep in mind though — the submarine visit is quite confined and may not suit everyone, especially if you’re claustrophobic or have mobility difficulties. Also, the tour is on the shorter side at about 1.5 hours, so it’s more of a quick, impactful experience rather than a comprehensive museum visit. That said, it’s well-suited for history aficionados, families with older children, and those curious about underwater military technology.

If you’re after a unique, hands-on experience that combines history, technology, and a bit of adventure, this tour could be a nice addition to your Venice itinerary.

Key Points

• Unique access to a Cold War submarine within Venice’s Arsenal
• Includes a visit to Italy’s most important naval museum, covering 6,000 square meters
• Small group experience with audio guides and expert commentary
• Price point offers good value for such an unusual attraction
• Not suitable for young children under 6, claustrophobic individuals, or those with mobility issues
• The tour lasts roughly 1.5 hours, so perfect for fitting into a day packed with other activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

The experience begins with entering the Enrico Dandolo Submarine, a vessel measuring 46 meters in length and nearly 5 meters wide. Built during Italy’s Cold War era, it was among the first units designed for underwater combat, but thankfully, the advanced technology it housed was never used for offensive purposes. Today, this submarine is open to visitors who want to step inside and get a tangible sense of naval engineering from that period.

Once aboard, you’ll have the chance to explore key areas like the control room and torpedo launching chamber. These spaces are small and quite confined, which adds to the sense of authenticity but can also be a bit daunting if you’re sensitive to enclosed environments. The audio guide, included in your ticket, provides detailed commentary in several languages, helping you understand the submarine’s significance and the technology behind it.

The visit is led by an operator who will accompany your small group, typically limited to around 10 participants. This smaller size means you’re not just a face in a crowd — you can ask questions and get a more personalized experience. As one reviewer noted, “Le texte de l’audio guide est aussi très intéressant et touchant,” highlighting that the narration is engaging and adds depth to the visit.

After exploring the submarine, your ticket grants access to the Naval Historical Museum, which is just a five-minute walk away. Spread across five floors and covering 6,000 square meters, MUNAV is the most significant naval museum in Italy. Here, you’ll find exhibits that showcase Venice’s maritime dominance, from ancient ships to modern naval technology. It’s a comprehensive look that complements the submarine experience well, giving you the broader historical context.

The Value of the Experience

At $29 per person, this combined tour offers a good bang for your buck, especially considering the access to two different attractions. The submarine alone is worth the price if you’re interested in military history or engineering, as it’s not often open for public visits. The museum adds depth, making it a rounded, educational experience.

The small group approach enhances the visit, allowing more meaningful interactions and personalized commentary. The audio guide, available in multiple languages, ensures you can appreciate the details regardless of your native tongue.

However, do note that the tour does not include a guided tour — your experience is self-guided with the operator providing explanations. If you’re someone who prefers a guided narrative, you might need to explore the museum independently afterward.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Timing: Check availability for the 1.5-hour slots and plan to arrive on time. Remember, if you want to visit the museum after the submarine tour, it’s best to do so on the same day, especially for the 3 PM tour, as you might not have enough time afterward.
• Age considerations: The experience is recommended starting from 6 years old. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult with a ticket.
• Accessibility: Unfortunately, the submarine and museum are not wheelchair accessible, and the confined nature of the spaces makes it unsuitable for visitors with severe mobility issues or claustrophobia.
• What to bring: Don’t forget your passport or ID card for check-in.
• Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for narrow, enclosed spaces.

Authentic Perspectives from Visitors

One reviewer from Michele summed it up nicely: “C’est très impressionnant de voir une partie de l’Arsenal de Venise… Visiter le sous-marin Enrico Dandolo est une expérience unique. Merci à nos guides pour leur expertise.” Their comment highlights the awe-inspiring nature of the submarine and the quality of the guides.

Another review pointed out the emotional impact of the audio guide, emphasizing that the narration is “très intéressant et touchant.” This suggests that the experience isn’t just visually stimulating but also encourages reflection on Italy’s naval history.

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Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, military enthusiasts, and those interested in engineering or technology. The small group setup and detailed audio guides cater well to curious travelers who enjoy learning at a relaxed pace. Families with older children might also enjoy it, especially if they have an interest in ships or history.

It’s less suitable for very young kids, those with mobility challenges, or anyone who is claustrophobic. If you’re looking for a quick, engaging slice of Venice’s maritime past, though, this tour ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Submarine Enrico Dandolo and Naval History Museum offers a rare chance to step inside a Cold War submarine and learn about Venice’s historic naval role in a way that’s both tangible and educational. It’s a quality experience at a reasonable price with a small-group setting that maximizes engagement.

While the confined spaces and lack of guided tour might not appeal to everyone, the authentic atmosphere and well-curated exhibits make this an experience worth considering. It’s particularly suited for those with an interest in military history, naval technology, or just seeking something different from Venice’s usual attractions.

Whether you’re a history lover or a curious traveler, this tour provides insight, atmosphere, and a bit of adventure all wrapped into a compact, meaningful package. Just remember to plan your timing carefully and prepare for the confined spaces — you’re in for a memorable visit.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, starting from 6 years old. However, children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult with a ticket. It’s best for kids who aren’t claustrophobic or sensitive to confined spaces.

How long does the tour last?
The submarine visit is approximately 1.5 hours. The museum visit is included in your ticket and can be done before or after, but note that the 3 PM tour doesn’t leave time for museum exploration afterward.

Is there a guided tour?
No, the tour is led by an operator with an audio guide included. You get a small-group experience for more personalized explanations.

Can I visit the museum independently after the submarine tour?
Yes, but if you do the 3 PM tour, it’s recommended to visit the museum beforehand, as time might be tight afterward.

Are the spaces wheelchair accessible?
No, the submarine and museum are not wheelchair accessible, and the confined spaces may be challenging for some visitors with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for check-in. Comfortable shoes are also advisable, and be prepared for enclosed spaces.

This experience offers a rare and engaging look into Italy’s naval past, making it a worthwhile addition for history fans and anyone eager for a different side of Venice.

You can check availability for your dates here: