Discover the Southern Venetian Lagoon (Private Tour)
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape the crowds and explore a quieter, more atmospheric side of Venice on this intimate Southern lagoon boat tour.
Stop at a private island that was once a warehouse for construction materials and is now home to the luxurious JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa. Visit its panoramic rooftop bar, enjoy a drink, and take in stunning views over the lagoon and Venice.
Continue to Poveglia Island, one of the lagoon’s most intriguing islands. Formerly a quarantine station and hospital, Poveglia is steeped in dark history. You’ll have about 30 minutes of free time to explore the island on foot, among abandoned buildings and wild nature.
Cruise past Malamocco, a peaceful and authentic village on Lido di Venezia, before passing the iconic Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort, famous as the home of the Venice Film Festival.
Before returning, relax as we cruise through the quiet canals of the Lido, offering a final, serene perspective of lagoon life before heading back to Venice.
Available options
Discover the Southern Venetian Lagoon (Private Tour)
What's included
Bottled water
Private boat and Skipper/Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
We’ll stop at this beautiful island, once a vast warehouse for construction materials and now transformed into an elegant five-star hotel. You’ll have the chance to head up to its stunning rooftop bar, enjoy a drink, and take in one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Venetian Lagoon and the historic skyline of Venice.
2
We’ll also stop at Poveglia Island, one of the most mysterious and haunting islands of the Venetian Lagoon. Once used as a quarantine station and later as a hospital, the island carries a dark and complex history that still lingers among its abandoned buildings and overgrown paths. You’ll have about half an hour to explore the island on foot, soaking in its eerie atmosphere and discovering a side of Venice that few visitors ever experience—silent, unsettling, and completely off the beaten track.
3
We’ll then cruise past Malamocco, a tiny and timeless village on Lido di Venezia. Once the original seat of Venice’s government in the early Middle Ages, Malamocco is now one of the quietest and most authentic corners of the lagoon. As we glide by, you’ll see pastel-colored houses, small fishing boats, and narrow canals where daily life still moves at a slow, local pace. It’s a peaceful glimpse into a Venice that feels untouched by tourism—simple, elegant, and wonderfully real.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
We’ll cruise past the iconic Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort, a symbol of timeless glamour and the legendary home of the Venice Film Festival. With its distinctive Moorish architecture and private beach, the Excelsior has welcomed movie stars, directors, and artists from all over the world for decades.
From here, we’ll slip into the beautiful and quiet canals of Lido di Venezia, far from the crowds and traffic of the historic center. Surrounded by elegant villas, peaceful waterways, and everyday local life, this relaxing stretch of the journey offers a final, serene perspective on the lagoon—before we gently head back toward Venice.
What's not included
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We'll meet in front of the Chioschetto Zattere bar. I will be waiting on the boat next to it, you can't miss it.
About Venice
Venice is a unique and enchanting city built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Known for its canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for its rich history, art, and culture. The city offers a romantic and timeless atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the world.
Top Attractions
St. Mark's Basilica
A stunning Byzantine cathedral known for its opulent design, golden mosaics, and historical significance. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free entry, €3 for museum and treasury
Doge's Palace
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Doge's Palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government. It offers a glimpse into the city's political and cultural history.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€25 for standard ticket, €30 for Secret Itineraries Tour
Rialto Bridge
The oldest and most famous of Venice's four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city.
Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Grand Canal
The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal is lined with beautiful palaces, churches, and historic buildings. A vaporetto ride along the canal offers stunning views.
Nature/Scenic
30-60 minutes
€7.50 for a vaporetto ticket
Murano
An island famous for its glass-making tradition. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique glass souvenirs.
Cultural/Historical
Half-day
Free to explore, €10 for museum
Burano
A colorful island known for its lace-making tradition and picturesque houses. Burano is a charming and photogenic destination.
Cultural/Scenic
Half-day
Free to explore, €5 for lace museum
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto al Nero di Seppia
A risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a distinctive black color and rich, briny flavor.
Main Course
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.
Sarde in Saor
Sweet and sour sardines marinated with onions, raisins, pine nuts, and vinegar.
Appetizer
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Bigoli in Salsa
Pasta with a sauce made from anchovies, onions, and breadcrumbs.
Main Course
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Frito Misto
A mix of fried seafood and vegetables, including shrimp, squid, and zucchini.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians.
Popular Activities
Kayaking in the canals
Cycling on Lido di Venezia
Hiking in the Venetian Lagoon
Sunbathing on Lido di Venezia
Enjoying a gondola ride
Visiting a spa or wellness center
Attending a concert or opera
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. The city is vibrant with events and festivals, and the temperatures are comfortable for exploring.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken in local areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Venice is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, and acqua alta (high water) events can disrupt travel plans.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Use official taxis and ticket vendors
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
Getting there
By air
- Venice Marco Polo Airport • 12 km from city center
By train
Santa Lucia Railway Station
By bus
Piazzale Roma
Getting around
Public transport
The vaporetto is the main public transport system in Venice. It operates on fixed routes and is the most convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps
Rentals
Neighborhoods
San Marco
Dorsoduro
Cannaregio
Castello
Day trips
Burano and Murano
10-45 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
Visit the colorful island of Burano and the glass-making island of Murano for a unique and picturesque day trip.
Lido di Venezia
20 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
A long, narrow island between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, known for its beaches, the Venice Film Festival, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Padua (Padova)
40 km (25 miles) • Half-day to full day
A charming city known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and the famous Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto.
Festivals
Venice Carnival • February or March (dates vary)
Venice Film Festival • Late August to early September
Festa del Redentore • Third weekend of July
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more authentic experience
- Try local specialties and dishes, and ask locals for recommendations
- Use a map or GPS to navigate the intricate streets and canals, as Venice can be easy to get lost in
- Be prepared for acqua alta (high water) events, especially from October to January, and check forecasts and plan accordingly
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
