A visit to Venice is not complete without taking a ride on the iconic gondola. Or is it?
In dots
- no need to bargain anymore since 2013, you might get a little discount if the guy is bored or it’s a rainy day
- €80,- till 7 PM, €100,- afterwards (price per boat), 30 minutes ride (give or take, but better keeping an eye on the watch)
- you can take it everywhere basically, better not in St. Marks’ square (due to the waves) or Rialto bridge (due to water high traffic)
- small canals are better because quieter for more peaceful and relaxing experience
- wait under low tide has passed: shallow water exposes the smelly shells along canal sides, not really nice
- there are two boats they use, the one with this is a proper gondola, the other one is a sandolo
- a cheap & handy ride is taking it from one of the several “stations” along Canal Grande which go from one side to the other. there is not much romance though
- don’t book it online:
- you’ll be sharing one in a massive group’s caravan
- you’ll pay €30 per person for sharing it with other 5 passengers
- 208 pieces of wood, all hand-crafted here
• •
The experience
While the gondola is considered a must-do for many tourists, it may not be for everyone. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of taking a gondola ride in Venice, including the cost, where to go, and tips for making the most of your experience.
When it comes to where to take your gondola ride, you can basically go anywhere in Venice, but some places are better than others. It is best to avoid taking a gondola ride in St. Mark’s Square because of the waves and Rialto Bridge because of the high water traffic. Instead, opt for a ride in the smaller canals for a more peaceful and relaxing experience. Additionally, it is best to wait until low tide has passed as the shallow water can expose smelly shells along the canal sides, which is not very pleasant.
The boat
There are two types of boats that gondoliers use: the traditional gondola and the sandolo. The gondola is the more iconic of the two (you can see them on the left), but the sandolo is a smaller and more flat option.
There are several differences between them, however the easiest to spot is on the front. The gondola has this big metal bow representing the six sestiere and Rialto bridge.
It is worth mentioning that each gondola is hand-crafted with 208 pieces of wood. This adds to the charm and character of the gondola ride, making it a unique experience. You may experience the visit at Squero and their little gallery.
Critical point: the price
Lastly, let’s talk about cost. Since 2013, gondola prices have been set and there is no longer the opportunity to bargain with the gondolier. However, you may be able to get a small discount on a rainy day or if the gondolier is bored. The standard price for a gondola ride is €90 until 7 PM and €110 afterwards, and the ride lasts approximately 30 minutes. Keep in mind that the gondolier may not strictly adhere to the 30-minute time frame, so it is best to keep an eye on the time.
One tip to keep in mind is to not book your gondola ride online. If you book a ride online, you will be sharing the gondola with a group of other people and you will pay €30 per person for the shared ride. Instead, it is best to find a gondolier on the spot for a private ride.
A cheap and handy option is taking a gondola ride from one of the several “stations” along the Canal Grande that go from one side to the other. However, keep in mind that this option is not as romantic as a private gondola ride.
Long story short: not everyone’s cup of tea
In conclusion, a gondola ride in Venice is a must-do for many tourists, but it may not be for everyone. The cost can be high, but the experience can be worth it for the peaceful and romantic atmosphere. Keep in mind the tips provided in this article for making the most of your gondola ride, and enjoy the hand-crafted charm of one of Venice’s most iconic boats.
• • •