On just about every street corner or canal turn in Venice, Italy, lies rich history and charm. If you’re looking to have an exclusive experience as you traverse this iconic city, you might be wondering how a private tour in Venice works and how to plan it.
Private tours of Venice provide a deeper look into the city’s many splendors and secrets. Rather than adventuring with a larger crowd of tourists, you get a much more intimate experience that is catered to your particular pace, preferences, and interests. Plus, you get to explore things that tourists on standard public tours would never get to see.
In this guide, we’ll explore the many kinds of experiences you can expect to find on Venice private tours and how to plan one that aligns with your desired adventure.
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Best 15 Luxury Experiences to Have in Venice via Private Tour
Once you have a knowledgeable local guide at your side, there are several ways in which you can experience the wonders of Venice. Let’s look at a few!
1. Luxury Culinary Experience
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If there’s one thing Italy is known for, it’s food. So, as part of your private tour of Venice, why not plan a culinary adventure through the picturesque streets?
There are hundreds of hidden eateries, authentic trattorias, and renowned restaurants where you and your group can enjoy gourmet offerings you’d only find in Italy.
Of course, a great Italian meal is nothing without a luxury wine pairing. Make sure to book one of our luxury wine tours and experience Italy’s rich wine culture, which dates back thousands of years.
2. Reserved Access to Art and History
When you explore Venice’s art and history attractions with a private tour, you get a deep dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage without the crowds.
Imagine having private museum access so you could take your time and enjoy the works of art without the crowds. On our specialized excursions, uncover the secret treasures hidden behind the doors of charming palazzos.
You are encouraged to explore Venice’s cultural treasures in an opulent and friendly manner as an honored guest, not merely as a passing tourist, while you stay with us.
At every step of your journey, we strive to ensure your visit is not just memorable but truly exceptional, offering you a luxurious and personalized experience that will linger in your heart long after you’ve left Venice.
3. Romantic Exclusive Experiences
Venice, sometimes referred to as the “City of Love,” is tucked away in the center of Italy and appeals to couples looking for the height of romance.
You’ll find an enchanting ambiance where gondolas float over winding canals and history threads its love stories into every crevice. We welcome you to relish a private rooftop meal beneath the Venetian skies to enhance your experience, where delectable fare and spectacular vistas capture the very best of luxury and love. Venice is more than simply a city; it’s a long-lasting romance yearning to be treasured.
Make sure to check out our guide to planning a luxury honeymoon in Italy.
4. Access to Exclusive Locations
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The “exclusivity” factor might be one of the biggest reasons people choose to book private tours Venice.
There’s nothing quite like getting access to exclusive locations and taking a peek into the city’s otherwise hidden or off-limits gems.
Some of our favorite exclusive experiences include:
- Private Dinner on Altana: Altanas are quintessential Venetian rooftop terraces that offer exclusive vantage points of the city. They’re the perfect place to savor panoramic views while enjoying expertly crafted cocktails, fine wines, pasta dishes, and more. With roots tracing back to the 1200s, altanas have been an integral part of Venetian culture for centuries.
- Private Event on Guggenheim Museum Terrace: Enjoy a private event on the terrace of the Peggy Guggenheim Museum. From dinners to cocktail receptions, there’s nothing quite like a quiet soirée surrounded by modern and contemporary art overlooking the Grand Canal.
- After-Hours Access to Palazzo del Doge: Explore the magnificent Palazzo del Doge after regular hours when the crowds have dispersed. As the residence of the elected Doge and the epicenter of the Republic’s governance, the Doge’s Palace has long stood as the driving force behind the Venetian empire. With a private tour, you get the chance to immerse yourself at your own leisure.
- Private Event at Scala del Bovolo: Tucked away within the heart of the St. Mark’s district, amidst the labyrinthine network of narrow Venice streets, lies the Scala Contarini del Bovolo. It offers a remarkable vantage point, winding its way up the tower-like facade of a historic palazzo. Best of all, you can reserve this breathtaking view for a private breakfast, elegant cocktail gathering, or a romantic dinner.
Get in contact with our team at Luxo Italia to start building your perfect luxury itinerary!
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Discover Hidden Luxuries of Italy
Dive into our curated collection of Italy's most luxurious, hidden treasures. Tailored for discerning tastes, explore what others don't know.
Exclusive Experiences to Have in Venice Via Private Tour
There are endless exclusive experiences to enjoy in Venice, though the beauty of all of them is that they allow you to escape the bustling crowds. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the city’s cuisine, wine, or culture, here are some of the finest private tours Venice has to offer.
5. Secret Venetian Haunts
If you aren’t faint of heart, we urge you to explore one of Venice’s many ghost tours!
Though there are many tours to choose from, most of them lead you through the dimly lit evening streets of Venice while enthralling you with chilling ghost stories and legends. Check out one of our absolute favorites — The Original Venice Ghost and Legends Walking Tour.
6. Michelin-Starred Dining
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Amidst Venice’s array of luxury hotels and historic venues, there is a growing commitment among the city’s restaurateurs to achieve gastronomic excellence. In the pursuit, we’re seeing more and more Michelin-starred restaurants popping up around town.
Here are some of our most highly recommended dining experiences:
- Il Glam – The Glam, crafted by the renowned Enrico Bartolini with multiple Michelin stars to his name, is situated within Palazzo Venart, a luxurious hotel nestled in the Santa Croce district along the Grand Canal. The restaurant has the capacity to host up to 30 guests.
- Ristorante Da Fiore – Mara and Maurizio Martin warmly greet their patrons at Ristorante Da Fiore with unique flavors and a warm, familial ambiance. Their elegant service and intriguing culinary offerings have solidified the establishment’s reputation over the years.
- Il Ridotto – Il Ridotto is a petite yet sophisticated dining establishment with only nine tables. The restaurant appeared in 2006 under the dedicated stewardship of its proprietor, Gianni Bonaccorsi, who prides himself on delivering a seasonal menu rooted in the finest ingredients sourced from both the land and the sea.
7. Venetian Palazzo Tours
With a Venetian Palazzo tour, you can take a peek into the hidden world of Venetian aristocracy. These historic palazzos are not open to the general public, meaning you’ll get to explore something completely unique.
Inside these immaculate palazzos, you’ll find everything from art-laden salons to lavish furnishings. As you make your way through, your knowledgeable guides will regale you with tales of the nobility’s grandeur and influence in Venetian history.
The architecture and private art collections here are absolutely stunning, and many of them have been passed down through generations.
8. Luxury Venetian Cruise
Looking for a unique way to explore Venice’s picturesque waterways?
If so, you might consider booking a private cruise!
Whether a gondola or yacht, a single-day rendezvous, or a multi-day exploration, a luxury Venetian cruise offers one of the best ways to escape the crowds and savor the city’s iconic sights, all with a “sea breeze” in your hair.
Most of these private tours Venice offers include food and wine, while experienced guides share anecdotes and historical facts about the city. We’ll be the first to tell you that there’s nothing quite like enjoying a glass of Prosecco while basking in the romantic ambiance of Venice from the water.
9. Private Wine Tasting
Venice offers some of the most exquisite wine-tasting experiences in all of Europe.
For those who relish sampling local wines while on vacation, the city is a veritable treasure trove, especially with wines like Soave and Prosecco, which both hail from the renowned Veneto region.
However, these two are just the tip of the iceberg, as the Veneto region boasts a wide array of other equally exceptional wines, some of which may even surpass their more globally recognized counterparts in taste and quality.
With a private wine tasting, you’ll learn everything there is to know about the region’s wines and winemaking processes
10. Personal Shopper Experience
Looking for a local eye to help you get the most out of shopping in this one-of-a-kind Italian city? Why not book a personal shopper? These private tours Venice has are one-of-a-kind.
You just let your personal shopper know what kind of gift it is that you’re after, and they will help you find it, whether it’s an interesting antique, something to feed your appetite or a special souvenir for a loved one back home.
With personal shopper private Venice tours, you get a multi-hour shopping extravaganza that is tailored to your individual tastes!
11. View of Venice from an Exclusive Rooftop and Terrace
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While the historical architecture and enchanting narrow streets undoubtedly have their appeal, there are moments when you might yearn for a higher perspective to fully grasp the splendor of La Serenissima
The rooftops and terraces in Venice offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s skyline, whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or an elegant cocktail gathering.
Here are a few of our favorite places where you can enjoy an unparalleled backdrop from a bird’s eye view:
- Skyline Rooftop Bar – Hilton Molino Stucky – This rooftop bar presents an unrivaled 360-degree panorama of Venice, where you can try an array of light snacks and cocktails, perfect for a romantic night out or a one-of-a-kind photography session.
- Caffè Florian – Piazza San Marco – Although it may not be perched on a rooftop, the terrace of Caffè Florian provides a one-of-a-kind vantage point overlooking Piazza San Marco. Dating back to 1720, this café is a key part of Venetian history.
- Terrazza Danieli – Hotel Danieli – The Terrazza Danieli presents a regal vista overlooking the grandeur of the Grand Canal. This charming terrace has long been renowned for its timeless Venetian appeal. Make sure to try out their Bellini cocktail!
12. Venetian Opera Performance
Though you might think, “opera is not my thing,” in Venice, it’s a must.
Plus, there’s no better way to experience the world of Venetian opera than with an intimate private performance. Our private tours in Venice take people through the city’s many historic venues, such as Teatro Goldoni and La Fenice, to the list of noble palazzos, where you can dip into the enchanting sounds of classical arias and operatic masterpieces in several forms.
Opera may seem like a bygone era of melodrama, but in Venice, it’s a mesmerizing experience.
13. Luxury Accommodations
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From lavish hotels to boutique lodgings, there are many luxury accommodations to explore in Venice.
One of our favorite luxury hotels, nestled in the heart of Venice’s city center, is the five-star St. Regis Venice. From the full-fledged fitness center to the serene embrace of Spa Suites, there’s something here for everyone. Plus, the city’s finest art galleries and attractions are just steps away, making it the perfect retreat to call home.
Hotel Cipriani has a diverse range of suites too, no matter your traveling style. From the culinary masterpieces of the hotel’s restaurant to the onsite spa, it’s a great place to rejuvenate after touring the Italian countryside.
14. Venetian Spa and Wellness Retreats
After many days out in the city, you might be looking to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul with a private spa and wellness retreat.
Whether you’re looking for skilled therapists to provide personalized treatments, such as relaxing massages or facials, or a more traditional Venetian wellness ritual, such as a thermal bath or mud treatment, there are endless ways to indulge in self-care.
15. Visiting Sautter Boutique
In the heart of San Marco, you’ll find an enchanting realm of velvet and damask.
The Sautter Boutique is a gateway to Antonia Sautter’s world, one of the city’s most celebrated fashion designers and the creative force behind the Doge’s Ball in Venice. Whether it’s pearls, crystals, jeweled bags, Venetian silks, or intricately embroidered shoes you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. With our private tours Venice, you get to see Antonia’s costumes in a live, immersive experience, which will ultimately give you a better appreciation for what she does.
Get in touch with us today to learn about more of the exclusive experiences.
Benefits of Private Tours in Venice
So, why should you go on a Venice private tour? Let’s take a look at a few of the benefits!
Tailored Luxury: Exclusivity & Personalized Experiences
Touring Italy isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience, and while many opt for the traditional route from Rome to Florence and Venice, there are endless possibilities to explore. Though we highly encourage visiting these iconic cities, there are also many lesser-known treasures that might intrigue you.
While you can certainly organize your own vacation without relying on a tour company, you might forego some exclusive experiences that aren’t typically accessible to the general public.
With our Venice private tours, we have the privilege of arranging exclusive encounters, such as private tastings with esteemed winemakers or walking tours that delve far deeper into the culture and history of the city than you’d get with standard public tours.
Local Guides: Your Trusted Experts
The right private tour guide should possess an intricate understanding of every stop on your journey.
In traveling with someone well-versed in the historical facts and profound cultural significance of each locale you explore, you’ll get insights into the local perspectives and experiences tied to these destinations.
Along the way, you can ask any questions about things that pique your curiosity and gain a new perspective on the places you visit, connecting with the destination on a deeper level.
Tailored Itineraries: Embrace the Flexibility
If you have specific preferences in mind, you’re better off taking advantage of a customized tour.
Our tailor-made private tours Venice are carefully crafted for guests to explore and encounter new destinations and gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage of Venice. Plus, you’re never at the whim of public tours, allowing you to move at your own pace.
Skip the Lines: Avoiding Crowds and Tourist Traps
When you have the ability to influence and shape your travel plans, you open doors to experiencing destinations that may not typically be included in a standard public itinerary. In this way, you can avoid the slew of crowds during on-season and enjoy a more intimate experience.
7 Steps to Crafting Your Personalized Venice Experience
Before delving into the intricacies of planning your private tour, here are the steps to consider. Taking a moment to carefully consider these aspects will pave the way for a seamless and unforgettable journey tailored to your preferences.
Step 1: Tailoring Tours to Match Your Interests
Personalized tours are adaptable, among all else!
For example, you might decide to forgo exploring the canals of Venice in the early morning and instead opt for a late-night Michelin-starred fine dining. Whatever your unique interests, a personalized tour is designed to cater to your preferences, making sure your travel experiences align with your desires.
Step 2: Selecting the Perfect Tour and Ideal Duration
Are you looking to travel with a small group or with your romantic partner? Do you want to take a full-day excursion with activities and dining, or do you want a short hour-long tour of one of the local museums?
With a private tour, you can choose what makes sense for you!
Step 3: Picking the Premier Venice Private Tour Provider
Luxo Italia is rooted in a profound passion for crafting luxury experiences for your sojourns in Italy.
Every itinerary we create for our clients is meticulously tailored, reflecting a level of detail and personalization as if we were the ones embarking on the adventure. Not only do we meet with our clients to get to know them and their interests, but through our years of service, we’ve made connections throughout Italy that allow us to deliver service beyond what most private Venice tours are capable of.
Step 4: Scrutinizing Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Many of our clients have been eager to share their luxury holiday experiences with us, from outdoor adventures to immersive gastronomic exploration of Italy’s most enchanting cities, all of which are born out of the luxury itineraries we meticulously select.
Explore our testimonials page to get an idea of what we do for our clients.
Step 5: Choosing the Best Time to Explore Venice
Venice doesn’t truly have a distinct “off-season,” as the worldwide acclaim beckons visitors year-round. However, each season brings its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, if you’re looking to enjoy some of the best Venetian festivals, you might consider going from May to October. However, if you’re looking to save a bit of money, November to February is best.
Step 6: Navigating Booking Logistics and Key Considerations
In terms of logistics, here are a few things to consider for your Venice trip:
- Flights – It’s always best to book your flights well in advance to secure the best deals.
- Accommodations – From luxury hotels to charming boutiques, the accommodation options are nearly endless! We recommend staying in Venice’s historic center for a more immersive experience.
- Transportation: Though the city is best explored on foot, from cars to water taxis, planning your transportation ahead of time is a good idea.
- Tours and Activities: If you plan on taking private guided tours, book them in advance. This is especially true for popular attractions like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
Step 7: Exploring the Potential for Tailoring Your Tour
Make your Venice trip as memorable as possible, and customize your tour to your liking. Make sure to check out our Luxo Italia trip planner to see how we can design a professional itinerary catered to you.
Conclusion
As you can see, private tours offer a unique form of exclusivity and intimacy that you can’t get elsewhere, and here at Luxo Italia, we work closely with each one of our clients to make sure every nuance of every experience is optimal.
Are you ready to dive in and experience the magic of private Venice tours?
Get in touch with us at Luxo Italia today to learn more!
