Venice's Castello District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Active
40m - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the Castello District on a self-guided tour to discover the remarkable Venetians who shaped the city's history.
On this self-guided walking tour through Venice's Castello District you'll uncover the stories of the city's daring Venetians. From the tranquil Giardini della Biennale to the historic Basilica di San Pietro di Castello, learn about both renowned and forgotten figures who shaped Venice's past. Hear tales of triumph and tragedy, including a foiled pirate attack and the feats of Carlo de Ghega, a pioneering railway engineer. Explore the formidable Venetian Arsenal and discover the legacy of revolutionary leader Giuseppe Garibaldi. By the tour's end at the Museo Storico Navale di Venezia and Chiesa di San Biagio Vescovo, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the individuals who contributed to Venice's greatness.
Available options
Venice's Castello District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
What's included
Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Detailed itinerary
1
Start on a journey through Venice's Castello district, a historic enclave brimming with tales of ingenuity and courage, where you'll uncover the stories of the ingenious Venetians who shaped the city's illustrious past.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Explore the serene beauty of Giardini della Biennale, a verdant oasis nestled within the heart of Venice, where Napoleon Bonaparte's transformative vision gave rise to a tranquil green space amid the bustling cityscape.
3
Pay homage to the courage and resilience of the Venetian women who fought valiantly in the Resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II, at the Monument to the Partisan Woman, a poignant tribute to their unwavering spirit.
4
Honor the legacy of Giosuè Carducci, the esteemed poet and the first Italian to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, whose profound literary contributions continue to inspire and captivate readers around the world.
5
Stand in reverence before the Monument to the Partisan Woman, a solemn memorial commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of the courageous women who played a pivotal role in the liberation of Venice during World War II.
6
Reflect on the extraordinary adventures and daring exploits of Pier Luigi Penzo, a fearless Venetian explorer whose intrepid voyages into the unknown left an indelible mark on the annals of maritime history.
7
Pay tribute to Francesco Querini, a gallant Venetian navigator whose unwavering determination and indomitable spirit propelled him on daring seafaring expeditions, forever etching his name in the annals of maritime lore.
8
Marvel at the architectural marvels of the Venetian Arsenal, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Venetian shipbuilders, whose unparalleled skill and expertise made it the foremost industrial complex in Europe during its heyday.
9
Decipher the ancient runes adorning the shoulders of the Piraeus Lion, an enigmatic symbol of Venice's maritime prowess and naval supremacy, gracing the facade of the Venetian Arsenal with its majestic presence.
10
Conclude your journey at the Museo Storico Navale di Venezia, where the rich tapestry of Venice's maritime heritage comes to life through a captivating collection of artefacts and exhibits, offering a glimpse into the city's seafaring legacy.
What's not included
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The tour starts outside Paradiso Restaurant (1260 Giardini della Biennale, Castello).
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
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
$9
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
