Gondola Ride

A gondola ride is a traditional way to see Venice, Italy, from the water, on narrow side canals and part of the Grand Canal. The gondola is a flat-bottomed black boat about 11 metres long, rowed by a gondolier standing at the stern with a single oar. Departure points are found across the city, with common ones near San Marco, Rialto, the Accademia bridge and the railway station. Official gondola fares are set by the city, at about €80 for a 30-minute daytime ride for up to five passengers, and a higher rate, often around €100 or more, after sunset. Extra time is charged in increments. The price should be agreed before boarding, and it is per boat, not per person. Rides typically last 30 to 40 minutes and go through quiet canals in areas such as Dorsoduro or Cannaregio, passing under small bridges and past old palazzi. Some gondoliers give commentary or sing, but this is not standard and may cost extra. Routes from the San Marco area pass the Bridge of Sighs from below, while routes from the Rialto cover parts of the Grand Canal. Quieter canals away from the main routes give a more peaceful experience and avoid the traffic of vaporetti and water taxis on the Grand Canal. Early morning and late evening offer softer light and fewer boats, and gondolas at sunset are popular and worth booking ahead. Gondolas are also available as traghetti, shared ferries that cross the Grand Canal for a few euros, and this is a cheap way to experience the boat. Visitors should sit still while boarding and dress for the weather, since there is little cover.