Venice by Night: Highlights & Hidden Gems Tour
Discover Venice by night on a guided walk through iconic sights and hidden gems. Experience the city’s magic and mystery under the stars.
Venice by Night Highlights
- Experience Venice without the crowds, enjoying its serene and magical nighttime atmosphere.
- Discover iconic landmarks alongside hidden corners off the beaten path.
- Uncover legends, history, and local tales that bring Venice’s past to life.
- Admire breathtaking views of illuminated canals, bridges, and piazzas.
- Enjoy a relaxed, authentic walking tour through quiet alleys and lively squares.
Meeting Point
For private tours:
Personalized pick-up is available anywhere within the historical center of Venice. If you’ve booked a private tour, feel free to request pick-up at your hotel or any other central location — just let me know in advance.
For small-group tours in German o in English
The meeting point is:
7:30 pm: Campo dei Gesuiti, at COMBO, in the internal courtyard near the well.
9:30 pm: Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II, Riva degli Schiavoni, in front of Londra Hotel Palace.
Description
Step into Venice’s enchanting embrace by night! Join this walking tour to discover dazzling highlights and hidden gems beneath the moonlit canals. Immerse yourself in the allure of Venice after sunset — every corner holds a story waiting to be unveiled.
Prepare for an enchanting evening where Venice’s charm is amplified by the gentle glow of streetlights, illuminating grand monuments and elusive treasures. Lose yourself in the mesmerizing dance of light and shadow on the tranquil waters of the Grand Canal, as your senses soak in the magic that cloaks Venice after dusk.
Embark on a journey through the intricate labyrinth of narrow alleys winding through Venice’s heart. Uncover ancient tales, mythical legends, and long-guarded secrets that come alive during this exclusive night tour. Wander through the city’s significant nooks and crannies, where the silhouettes of historic churches and majestic palaces cast ethereal shadows against the captivating night sky.
Itinerary
Jesuits church
We begin at Combo, the former Convento dei Gesuiti, and step out to admire the dazzling facade of the Church of the Jesuits. With its intricate Rococo design, this 18th-century Jesuit church dazzles with its over-the-top grandeur, making it one of Venice’s most visually stunning landmarks. The ornate decorations are so intricate that it’s almost impossible to capture the entire beauty in a single photo. Prepare for a true Baroque masterpiece!
Off the beaten path
We’ll dive deep into the heart of Venice by night, wandering through its enchanting maze of narrow streets and hidden squares. As we lose ourselves in this labyrinth, we’ll uncover the secrets behind the city’s unique construction, marveling at how Venice has evolved over the centuries. The most magical part of Venice is its unpredictability—sometimes, the best way to explore is simply to wander aimlessly and let the city reveal its charm at every turn.
The most beatiful hospital in the world
Instead of a father-son Sunday soccer game, sculptor Pietro Lombardo and his sons had a more ambitious project in mind: creating a high Renaissance marble facade for the “Ospedale di San Giovanni e Paolo”. Completed by Mauro Codussi, this masterpiece is a sight to behold, especially at sunset or at night. The magnificent lions of St. Mark guard the entrance, while trompe l’oeil details captivate the eye. Today, it continues to serve as a public hospital.
An equestrian monument with deception
Bartolomeo Colleoni’s bronze equestrian statue is one of only two public equestrian monuments in Venice. Commemorating one of Venice’s most loyal mercenary commanders, Colleoni served the Republic of Venice from 1448. True to his mercenary nature, he occasionally switched sides when dissatisfied with pay or promotions. The monument’s strategic placement makes it a striking landmark, especially when you consider the intricate details of the sculpture.
Pantheon of the Dogi
Known as “San Zanipolo” in Venetian dialect, this church was designed to inspire awe with its vast interior, capable of holding half the local population in the 14th century. Its striking Gothic style, with cross-beams supporting the 33m-high nave, reflects Venice’s unique architectural challenges. The 15th-century Murano stained glass and the 25 Doge tombs make it a site of great historical significance. For centuries, it served as the final resting place for Venice’s rulers, adding to its rich legacy.
Ponte dei Colafelzi
This picturesque bridge is a hidden gem in Venice, offering a beautiful and peaceful spot to pause and admire the canal views. With its charming surroundings, it encapsulates the elegance and serenity of Venice’s lesser-known corners. The location is perfect for taking in the quieter side of the city, away from the usual hustle and bustle, making it an ideal place to reflect on the beauty of Venice. A must-see for anyone looking to explore Venice beyond the well-trodden paths.
Santa Maria Formosa and Spiderman
This beautiful campo marks the boundary between Venice’s tourist-heavy areas and its more authentic, local spaces. It’s also the setting for a thrilling moment in Spiderman: Far From Home, where the superhero saves the bell tower from destruction. The area blends historical charm with cinematic fame, offering a glimpse into both Venice’s grandeur and its quieter, more genuine side.
A final magnific view on Venice highlights
Piazza San Marco at night is serene and almost empty, offering a stark contrast to its busy daytime crowds. The square, illuminated softly by the lights of the cafés and the basilica, becomes an intimate, tranquil space. The campanile stands proudly against the night sky, and the reflection in the quiet waters adds to the calm atmosphere. It’s a perfect moment to experience the beauty of Venice without the usual crowds, giving the square a magical and peaceful allure.
Tour Variations: Customizable Experience
The 19:30 tours begin at Combo in Campo dei Gesuiti and end at St. Mark’s Square, while the 21:30 tours follow a similar route but in reverse, starting at Riva degli Schiavoni and ending near Rialto. Private tours offer a personalized experience with options for hotel pick-up or drop-off, as well as a customized route to fit your preferences.
What is included
Top-rated Local Guide
Pickup from your hotel or any location in Venice’s historic center (private tours only)
What’s not included
Gratuities are at your discretion
Please Note
The shared small-group tour is available only in German and limited to 15 participants max.
For English, Italian, Spanish, or German, you can book a private tour.
Private tours are fully customizable and reserved exclusively for your group.
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
Accessibility
I strive to make this experience as inclusive and accessible as possible.
If you have motor, sensory, or cognitive disabilities, please inform me in advance — I’ll do my best to accommodate your needs.
The shared group tour is not wheelchair accessible, but a wheelchair-friendly private version is available upon request.
FAQs
1. In which languages is the tour available?
The shared small-group tour is available in English and German.
Private tours in Italian or Spanish can be arranged on request.
2. How long does the tour last?
The standard tour lasts 1.5 hours.
Private tours can be customized with extra stops. Contact me to tailor your experience.
3. Where is the meeting point?
7:30 pm tour: Campo dei Gesuiti, at COMBO, in the internal courtyard near the well.
9:30 pm tour: Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II, Riva degli Schiavoni, in front of Londra Hotel Palace.
For private tours, personalized pick-up at your hotel or any central location in Venice can be arranged.
4. Can the tour be customized?
Yes! Private tours are fully customizable. Let me know your interests—whether history, secret spots, or photography—and I’ll design your route.
5. Is it safe to walk Venice at night?
Absolutely! Venice is very safe at night. The streets are well-lit, and locals often stroll late. Enjoy the city’s peaceful and magical atmosphere.
6. Can I be dropped off at my hotel or meet at a restaurant after dinner?
For private tours: Yes, hotel drop-off or meeting at a restaurant is possible—just ask in advance.
For group tours: No drop-off included, but I’ll provide directions for returning on foot or by public transport.
7. Does the tour include visits inside buildings?
The tour focuses on outdoor sites, as many buildings close at night. We will explore facades, hidden courtyards, and share their stories.
8. Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes! Perfect for first-timers and returning visitors looking for a unique nighttime perspective without crowds.
9. Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The group tour is not wheelchair accessible due to bridges and narrow streets.
Wheelchair-accessible private tours can be arranged on request.
10. How much walking is involved?
Expect moderate walking on mostly flat terrain with some bridges and cobblestones. Wear comfortable shoes.
11. What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. In severe weather, I’ll contact you to discuss adjustments. Dress accordingly.
12. What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours before.
No refunds for late cancellations or no-shows.
Full refund or credit if cancelled due to extreme weather or unforeseen events.
13. Can I book additional tours or experiences?
Absolutely! Many guests combine this night tour with other experiences such as food tours, private boat rides, or visits to Murano.
Contact me for recommendations and special offers to make the most of your time in Venice.
14. How can I contact you?
For questions about the tour or your stay, contact me:
📧 valerio@detourist.it
📱 WhatsApp: +39 340 671 1267
Booking Experience
No availability? Fully booked? Custom request? Contact me via WhatsApp or email — I might still make it happen!
