Step into the world of Dante Alighieri and discover how Venice shaped his literary genius. From his brief stay in the city to the places that inspired his vision of the afterlife, this tour uncovers the hidden Dante within the Venetian landscape.
Explore his connections to the city and see Venice through the eyes of the poet who immortalized it in his Divine Comedy.
Explore the hidden connections between Dante Alighieri and Venice on this immersive walking tour. This immersive walking tour takes you to key landmarks linked to Dante’s journey, including the Palazzo Soranzo, where Dante was hosted as an ambassador, and the Arsenale, which inspired scenes in Inferno. Visit sites like the Church of San Giacomo di Rialto and Campo Santa Maria Formosa, hearing readings from the Divine Comedy along the way. Learn about Dante’s life in exile, the political climate of Venice, and the lasting impact of his work on the city’s culture.

Campo San Polo
The Soranzo Legacy: Begin the tour in Campo San Polo, one of Venice’s largest squares, dominated by the Palazzo Soranzo. Here, Dante was hosted in 1321 during his diplomatic mission on behalf of Guido Novello da Polenta, the lord of Ravenna. Learn about the Soranzo family and the historical context of Dante’s visit to Venice.

Church of San Giacomo di Rialto
The Heart of Venetian Trade Head to the Church of San Giacomo di Rialto, one of the oldest churches in Venice, located near the iconic Rialto Bridge. Dante likely visited this area during his stay, where the bustling mercantile activity would have shaped his view of Venice. We will discuss the significance of trade and commerce in Dante’s time and how it ties into his view of the world in the Divine Comedy.

Campo Santa Maria Formosa
The Merchant’s Venice This bustling square was a hub of commercial activity during the Middle Ages and offers a glimpse into the mercantile Venice Dante would have witnessed. Discuss the economic and political significance of the city and how it is reflected in Dante’s depiction of the Arsenale in Inferno (Canto XXI).

The Doge’s Palace
Dante’s Venice of Power The heart of Venetian power, the Doge’s Palace, represents the grandeur and complexity of the Serenissima. Dante would have been struck by its magnificence, echoing the divine justice that permeates the Divine Comedy.

Riva degli Schiavoni
Reflections of Exile Stroll along the Riva degli Schiavoni, once a thriving commercial port. Here, reflect on Dante’s life in exile, a theme central to his work, as he gazed across the sea and contemplated ideas of home and separation.

The Arsenale
Infernal Imagery in Venice End the tour at the entrance to the Arsenale, Venice’s legendary shipyard, vividly described in Inferno (Canto XXI). Discover how Dante compares the work of the shipbuilders to infernal scenes, blending the symbolic and the real in this iconic location.

An Immersive and literary experience
Each stop will be enriched with readings from the Divine Comedy, historical anecdotes, and connections between Dante’s legacy and Venice, creating a truly immersive cultural and literary experience.

Top-rated local guide
Pickup from your hotel or any location in Venice’s historic center

What’s not included

Gratuities at your discretion

The tour is offered in English, Italian, Spanish and German.

It is a private tour: it will be a customized private experience with your group only.

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 5 minutes before the tour starts to ensure a smooth and high-quality experience.
I recommend wearing comfortable shoes.

The experience is meant to be inclusive and accessible: if you are a traveller with motor, sensorial or cognitive disabilities, please let us know in advance and we will make our best to meet your needs. The tour can be arranged as wheelchair accessible on request.

1.In which languages is the tour available?
This is a private tour and can be conducted in English, German, Italian, or Spanish, depending on your preference. Just let me know your preferred language when booking.

2. How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

3. Where does the tour start and end?
We begin in Campo San Polo and end near the Arsenale, in the eastern Castello district. If you book a private tour, I can arrange a personalized meeting point or pick-up from your accommodation.

4. Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for adults and teenagers interested in history, literature, or Dante’s legacy. It may not be ideal for younger children.

5. Is this a good choice for students or scholars of Dante?
Absolutely. The tour is perfect for those studying Dante, the Divine Comedy, or Italian cultural history. It includes references to specific passages and insights into Dante’s time in Venice.

6. Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the standard route includes uneven surfaces and bridges. However, for private tours, I can adapt the itinerary to follow accessible paths. Please contact me in advance to discuss your needs.

7. What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. The streets and bridges of Venice can be slippery when wet.

8. What if it rains?
The tour takes place rain or shine. In case of severe weather, I’ll contact you to reschedule or adapt the itinerary if needed.

9. Are any tickets or entrance fees required?
No entrance tickets are necessary. This is an outdoor walking tour focused on Venice’s streets, squares, and hidden corners connected to Dante’s story.

10. Can I take photos during the tour?
Of course! I’ll point out some photogenic and lesser-known spots connected to Dante’s legacy along the way.

11. Can I book other tours or experiences?
Yes! Many guests combine this tour with my other experiences, such as food tours, boat tours, or off-the-beaten-path walks. Contact me to learn about personalized combinations and special offers.

12. How can I contact you for more information?
📩 Email: valerio@detourist.it
📲 WhatsApp: +39 340 671 1267