Shore Excursions Group
Secret Venice
Secret Venice
Step into a Venetian palace, visit an unlikely yet breathtaking staircase, explore the most hidden corners of Venice, and experience the exciting atmospheres of “Acqua Alta” bookstore, probably the most singular bookstore you will ever see.
Your local tour guide will take you through the most beautiful and least known areas of Venice. You will discover gems such as Marco Polo’s house where you will learn about the famous Venetian traveler and his epic journey. You will walk by the Malibran Theater, inaugurated during Carnival in 1678 and quickly became one of the main and most extravagant Venetian stages.
Then, continue to the Palazzo Grimani. This beautiful palace was the residence of the Doge Antonio Grimani, and was expanded in the mid-sixteenth century by the Patriarch of Aquileia, Giovanni Grimaldi. An educated man and an avid collector of classical art and archaeology, it is said that he designed the building’s features.
Not far from the Palazzo, you will walk through some of the best-preserved medieval lanes, across pointed arches and cobbled streets, the foundations of which were laid many centuries ago. While strolling around in a maze of narrow lanes, you will head to Campo Santa Maria Formosa, one of the largest and most lively squares in the city. The square is dominated by the splendid Santa Maria Formosa Church, the first church in Venice dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the 7th century A.D.
Just around the corner from Santa Maria Formosa, your guide will take you along a tiny alley that will lead you to a particular bookshop, with piles of books arranged in very unusual shelves and versatile containers, in an attempt to withstand floods in times of high tide. It is a place where you are literally surrounded by heaps of books in an otherworldly atmosphere, which will remind you of fairy tales and ghost stories that took place once upon a time. This is a rare opportunity for book lovers to find old and new publications, as well as for visitors to enjoy a peaceful reading spot away from the suffocating crowds.
Discover secret Venice on this walking tour through its lesser known yet spectacular hidden streets.
Please Note: Depending on your ship’s docking location, a vaporetto, water shuttle, or walk may be required. Transportation between your ship and Campo San Bartolomeo and entrance to sites are not included in the tour price.
| Day 1 |
Venice, Florida, a charming coastal city on the Gulf of Mexico, is a perfect blend of natural beauty and relaxed ambiance. Known for its picturesque Venice Beach, this destination offers pristine sands and clear waters ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and shelling. The beach is renowned for its fossilized shark teeth, making it a favorite spot for amateur paleontologists. The city's historic downtown area, with its Mediterranean Revival architecture, exudes a timeless charm. Stroll along Venice Avenue, where you’ll find quaint boutiques, art galleries, and delightful eateries. The area reflects Venice’s unique blend of old-world elegance and modern convenience, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of shopping and dining. For nature enthusiasts, the Legacy Trail offers a scenic route through Sarasota County, ideal for biking and hiking. This 10.6-mile trail provides beautiful views of the surrounding wetlands and forests. Nearby, the Myakka River State Park offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, including alligators and a variety of bird species. Fun Fact: Venice is home to the world’s largest collection of fossilized shark teeth, with some specimens dating back millions of years. It’s a paradise for treasure hunters and beachcombers alike! |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
05/03/22 - 04/09/27 |
Starting At $40 |
Get A Quote |
This tour takes place in historical areas and, therefore, is not wheelchair accessible. Guests must be able to walk on paved and cobblestone surfaces. This tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or those who use partly-motorized vehicles or walkers.
