8 Ways to Get Closer to the Water

Surprise! Venice isn’t just canals — it also boasts a wide, sandy beach!

Hop on a water bus from Piazza San Marco for just 15 minutes to reach Lido, then after a short walk you’ll be toes-deep in the inviting waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Enjoy real beach time and unwind with breezy bicycle rides away from the city’s hustle.

How extraordinary would it be to glide through Venice’s canals in your own self-propelled vessel?

If “Awesome, where do I sign?” is your immediate answer, then you’re in luck — there’s a great selection of kayak tours available, including some perfectly timed for sunset.

If kayaking feels a bit too adventurous and you’d rather try something new, there’s a safer alternative — and one that’s also deeply Venetian.

VeniceOnBoard and RowVenice offer 90-minute lessons in traditional Venetian rowing, taught aboard a batellina — a stable, traditional boat once used around the lagoon.

After learning the basic forward stroke (a prua, at the prow), you’ll be invited to try your hand at the poppa — steering from the stern, just like a gondolier.

Grab the oars and give it a go!

Riding a gondola is on many people's bucket lists, and it’s truly as unique to Venice as it gets.

A 30-minute gondola ride has a fixed price set by the city: €90 during the day and €110 in the evening or at night.

This price covers a private gondola that can hold up to 5 passengers, but note that payment is only accepted in cash.

If you don’t have cash on hand, or if you're traveling solo or as a couple, consider booking a shared gondola online for a more affordable option.

Plenty of boat tours float around Venice, but this 90-minute catamaran cruise is the sweet spot — smooth sailing, spritz in hand, and your budget still intact.

Departing near Naval History Museum, it loops through the scenic San Marco Basin with relaxing music and a glass of prosecco or spritz to keep you company.

There are over 100 islands in the lagoon, but the most famous ones are Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

Boat tours take you to all three islands in just a few hours, which is a great idea if you have limited time.

Murano has been the heart of Venice’s renowned glass-making industry since 1291.

Burano is distinguished by its brightly painted houses and is renowned for its traditional lace artisans.

Torcello is often seen as the symbolic birthplace of Venice.

If you prefer safe, firm ground, Venice’s scenic embankments offer the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge.