Venice is one of Europe’s most dazzling destinations, with charming piazzas, atmospheric cafés, and of course miles of dreamy canals lined with dazzling architecture and photogenic residences. It’s a place where decadent balls are still held, and where the walls of art galleries are covered by famous works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Leonardo da Vinci. From Marco Polo to Casanova, many celebrated historic figures have left their mark on Venice, adding to the allure of this romantic lagoon city.
Yet Venice is also one of the most visited cities in the world, and it can sometimes be difficult to extract yourself from the crowds and experience a more authentic side. To combat overtourism and protect the main waterways, the city banned large cruise ships from visiting in 2021. But you’ll still find long queues to get into St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, plenty of overpriced tourist restaurants beside the canals near St. Mark’s Square, and countless gondola touts demanding a small fortune for a few minutes on the water, crammed in alongside everyone else.
Why Boat Tours Are the Best Way to Experience Venice
This might all sound a bit off-putting, but fear not — with trusted local providers offering authentic boat tours in Venice it’s possible to discover the real floating city without having to share it with the hordes. Venice was built for the water, not the tourist crowds, so it makes sense that the best way to explore is from the canals rather than the streets. By taking a boat tour through the quieter backwaters, you’ll experience a quieter, more genuine side of the lagoon. One beloved by locals that still retains its charm all these centuries later.
Boat tours also give you access to lesser-known parts of the city, as well as the islands which of course can only be reached by boat. This is a more relaxed way to explore Venice, allowing you to connect emotionally with one of the world’s most enchanting cities. By all means, do the land-based tourist sights while you’re in town, but if you’re looking for unique things to do in Venice, make sure you leave room in your itinerary to cruise the backwaters and see a unique side of this famous destination.
Exploring the Venetian Lagoon Beyond the Main Canals
So, where will you end up on your explorations by boat? Leaving the central bustle of San Marco far behind, you’ll venture along smaller waterways that wind their way through districts like Cannaregio, Castello, and Dorsoduro. It’s here where you’ll find hidden cicchetti bars patronised by locals rather than tourists, as well as charming Venetian mask painting workshops in ancient buildings that have stood here for centuries. As you glide by the beautiful buildings overlooking the canals, it’s easy to imagine that you’ve travelled back in time. It’s a lot more peaceful here, and you’ll have room to breathe and take it all in, at your own pace.
One of the major perks of a boat tour in Venice is being able to visit the islands in the northern part of the lagoon. Murano wows with its artisan glass workshops and stunning 7th century cathedral, while Burano will have you grabbing for your camera with its brightly coloured houses. The latter is famous for its lace making too, so it’s a great opportunity to get your hands on some unusual souvenirs. The tiny, sparsely populated island of Torcello is another must-see, thanks to its exquisite Byzantine cathedral which is home to several beautifully preserved mosaics.
Authentic Venice Awaits
By visiting these places on a private boat tour, you’ll be travelling deeper, and elevating your experience far beyond what you’d get if you’d just hopped on a water taxi along with everyone else. Having a local guide on hand to share insider secrets and bring the destinations to life makes all the difference, and you’ll also visit places that are often missed by other tourists. It’s an immensely valuable and authentic experience, and one that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
