Off the Beaten Path Walk in Venice, Venice

About this activity

Discover the floating city of Venice without following the beaten routes with bustling crowds. We will walk in selected hidden alleyways and paths that lead to hidden jewels and we will wander through local neighbourhoods, stunning palaces overlooking the canals and beautiful gardens.

As you take in the peaceful vibes, you’ll get a glimpse of day to day Venetian life, before stumbling upon a church that was used as the setting of a movie. Head towards the canal where locals love to buy their fruits and vegetables straight from a boat.

Every corner you will explore has something unique in store for you. Like a hidden 14th century church with a calming ambiance and a very beautiful and richly decorated inside.

Continue strolling around between narrow "calles" and "campos" where local kids play. Follow your local guide among beautiful palaces, must-see hidden churches in quiet corners, ending up in one of the most scenografic spots of Venice.

Private and Luxury Historical Tours Walking Tours Nature Walks Excellent Quality Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: German, English, Italian, Spanish
Operated by: deTourist Venice Valerio Coppo

Ages: Youth (0–15 years) · Adults (16–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Pick up from hotel or other location in Venice on request (available only for private group option)
Included: Licensed Tour Guide

Not included

Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Campiello dei Squelini

15 min

Our journey begins in a charming Campiello near Ca’ Foscari, a gothic palace on the Grand Canal that houses the headquarters of the Venice University. While we explore Dorsoduro, a neighborhood full of art and local life, remember that our private tours offer ultimate flexibility! Would you prefer to visit other iconic districts like Cannaregio, Castello, San Polo, Santa Croce, or even the heart of San Marco? Just let us know, and we’ll tailor the route to your desires!
Ca' Cappello - Universita Ca' Foscari

15 min

We’ll pass by the iconic Ca’ Foscari, a gothic palace that stands proudly on the Grand Canal. It is home to the Venice University, and its architectural beauty is a perfect example of Venetian Gothic style, with its stunning stonework and intricate details. The building once belonged to the wealthy Foscari family, and today it serves as a center for learning, blending rich history with the vibrancy of student life. It’s an essential part of the cultural fabric of Venice!
Campo San Pantalon

15 min

The Largest Canvas in the World Close to a Banksy Graffito

We’ll continue our journey by entering the Church of San Pantalon, home to the largest painting on canvas in the world. This masterpiece covers the entire ceiling, leaving visitors in awe. Just outside, we’ll find Venice’s only Banksy graffito, cleverly reflected in the canal’s waters—an unexpected juxtaposition of modern art against Venice’s rich historical backdrop.
Campo Santa Margherita

10 min

One Nightlife Hub: Campo Santa Margherita

Next, we’ll visit Campo Santa Margherita, one of the most vibrant and beloved squares in Venice. It’s a hub of social life, especially in the evenings, with bustling cafés, local bars, and outdoor seating that create a lively atmosphere. The square is a perfect blend of authentic Venetian charm and youthful energy, often frequented by locals and students. Its open space, surrounded by beautiful buildings, makes it a great spot to pause, soak in the surroundings, and experience a side of Venice that many tourists miss.
Campo San Barnaba

15 min

Indiana Jones in Venice and Katharine Hepburn Falling into a Canal: Campo San Barnaba

Next, we’ll step into the charming Campo San Barnaba, a picturesque square that transports you to another time. Known for its beautiful church and the iconic scene from the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, this square also features a stunning view of the canal. It's the location where Katharine Hepburn famously "fell" into the water, adding a touch of cinematic history to this tranquil spot. The atmosphere here is serene, making it a perfect place to pause and reflect.
Fondamenta Zattere

15 min

A Mill Transformed Into a Luxury Hotel

We’ll stroll along the San Basilio area, once the bustling maritime terminal for steamers in the 19th century, and enjoy the scenic view of the Canale della Giudecca. On our right, we’ll admire the Molino Stucky, a striking example of 19th-century industrial architecture. This former flour mill has been magnificently transformed into a luxury hotel, retaining its impressive industrial character while blending modern hospitality. The building stands as a testament to Venice's evolving history and its industrial heritage.
Fondamenta Zattere

10 min

A Large Promenade

This wide fondamenta, once known as "Carbonaia" for the coal unloaded here, was paved in 1519 and later named "delle Zattere" due to its role as a docking point for rafts—called "Zattere"—that carried wood to the Arsenale from the mainland. Today, the Zattere offers a beautiful, peaceful walk along the Giudecca Canal, providing stunning views of the water and the buildings that line the shore. It’s a tranquil space where you can soak in Venice’s rich maritime history.
Squero di San Trovaso

5 min

The Heart of Gondola Crafting: Squero San Trovaso

Squero San Trovaso is a hidden gem where the centuries-old tradition of gondola craftsmanship comes to life. Nestled along the peaceful canals of Dorsoduro, this charming boatyard is a living testament to Venice's maritime heritage, offering an intimate look at the art of boatbuilding. The picturesque setting, coupled with the sound of woodwork and gentle waves, makes it a must-see for those seeking to explore the authentic soul of Venice.
Punta della Dogana

5 min

A Fortune Goddess Over the Dorsoduro Triangle Tip

As we reach the tip of the Dorsoduro triangle, we’ll marvel at a fascinating combination of historical landmarks, all set in one of Venice’s most scenic areas where the Grand Canal meets the Giudecca Canal. Here, we’ll stroll by a majestic art museum housed in an old customs building, admire an impressive baroque church, and explore the Patriarchal Seminary of Venice. The highlight is the striking statue of the Fortune Goddess, watching over the tranquil scene, symbolizing both luck and prosperity for this beautiful corner of the city.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

under the trees

End point

The walking tour will end in one of the most scenografic spots of Venice

Pickup points

Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal
Palazzetto Pisani Boutique Resort
Hotel de l'Alboro
Berlino Hotel Venice
Hotel Vecellio
Hotel Caneva
Hotel Bel Sito e Berlino
Hotel Ca'Vendramin Zago
Hotel Becher
Hotel Locanda Salieri
Locanda Cavanella
Hotel Al Vagon

and 391 more pickup points

Personalised pick up is possible only if you booked a private group.

In case you did not booked a share tour in a small group but a private group, please let me know if you wish to get a pick up in any location in the historical center of Venice.

Otherwise meet your guide at the general meeting point in Campiello degli Squelini in Dorsoduro, under the trees.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it