Exclusive Venice: Private Hidden Islands Food & Boat Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Venice wasn’t built for walking—it was built for sailing. This exclusive boat tour takes you beyond the postcard clichés to explore the Venetian archipelago as it was meant to be experienced: from the water, in small groups, with access to places that most visitors will never discover.
Over four carefully curated hours, you’ll journey through islands that each tell a different chapter of Venice’s story. From witnessing firsthand the agricultural marvel of Sant’Erasmo (yes, Venice grows its own vegetables) to getting a glimpse of the island where Venice’s most famous are laid to rest, you’ll witness traditions that have survived centuries of change.
This isn’t about collecting Instagram moments, though you’ll certainly have them. It’s about understanding Venice as a living, breathing archipelago where real people create extraordinary things, away from the crowds.
Available options
Exclusive Venice: Private Hidden Islands Food & Boat Tour
What's included
Local English-speaking guide
Taste vegetables grown in lagoon soil, artisanal pizza, a primi piatti and tiramisu!
‘Food & the City’ Insider Tips
Sail past San Michele Cemetery, where Venice’s most illustrious rest on their own private island
Explore the Venetian lagoon by boat in a small group (max 5 guests), ensuring an intimate experience
Detailed itinerary
1
You'll begin your journey at a traditional Venetian bacaro (wine bar) to taste a local classic: cicchetto, a creamy salted cod snack, perfectly paired with a glass of crisp, regional wine.
2
Sailing through the lagoon, we'll pass the serene and hauntingly beautiful island of San Michele. Your guide will share the history of Venice's iconic cemetery island, a unique landmark where the city's most illustrious figures rest.
3
We'll cruise to Sant'Erasmo, the 'garden of Venice,' for a true farm-to-table taste of the lagoon. You'll sample seasonal products grown in the unique local soil, paired with a glass of crisp, family-made prosecco.
4
Next, we indulge in a moment of perfect simplicity with a delicious, artisanal pizza. Enjoy your slice fresh from the oven, with a cold beer or a soft drink of your choice.
5
Sail through the Venetian Lagoon and enjoy unique perspectives of the city and its islands, while learning how it has shaped Venice’s history, culture, and maritime identity.
Enjoy the sunset with a slice of pizza, while returning to Venice Mainland.
6
Your culinary journey culminates at a charming local eatery. You'll enjoy a signature primi piatti (first course) paired with a fine local wine, followed by a classic, creamy tiramisù for the perfect Italian finish.
What's not included
Gratuities / Tips for the guide
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Extra drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note that the tastings mentioned are a selection of the delicious foods we often feature. Both offerings and tour stops may vary by day or season, but you're sure to enjoy a delightful array of local flavors!
Have dietary requirements? Simply email us or add a note at booking, and we’ll do our best to accommodate vegetarians, gluten-free guests or other dietary needs where we can. For guest safety, this experience isn’t suitable for those with severe or life-threatening food allergies to ingredients found on the tour, and the company cannot take responsibility for any food allergies or intolerances.
Meeting point
Your guide will be waiting for you and wearing our purple Eating Europe bag!
Important notes
Please aim to arrive 15 minutes early, so the tour can start on time.
You do not need to print out a page to join the tour - showing us the confirmation email you will receive on your phone is fine!
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
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Free cancellation available
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