Gondolas navigating the Grand Canal and smaller waterways of Venice are some of the most iconic images of Venice in the world. They, along with, the Gondoliers in striped shirts and black pants are a symbol of the history and tradition of the famous city. For this reason, riding in a Gondola ranks high as an experience that many people want to try in their lifetime. On my visit Venice, this was a tourist trap that I more than willingly fall into. But what’s the history behind Gondolas? How much do they cost? Where should you catch one at? Hopefully I can provide some insight below.
History
Venice is made up of 118 small islands, connected by the Grand Canal and smaller waterways. There are no cars or roads, so the only way to travel through the city is by foot or by boat. Gondola’s have existed in Venice since the 11th century and was the primary method of transportation up until the 19th century. They are made up of 250 pieces, made from 8 different types of wood.
There used to be as many as 10,000 gondolas navigating the waterways of Venice but now, there are only around four hundred in active service today. Today, gondolas are used primarily by tourist visiting the cities. Local Venetians will also hire them out for weddings or use them for racing.
Getting A Gondola
As of the writing of this article, a Gondola ride will cost about 80 Euros for a 30-40 minute ride. The prices are non-negotiable and will increase into the night. For this reason, I suggest the Venice Highlights Tour with Gondola Ride from The Roman Guy. This tour cost $77 and not only will you get the Gondola ride, but you will also get a guided tour of the hidden highlights of Venice from a local Venetian.
The tour is 2.5 hours and I was able to see many historical parts of Venice, locations with PHENOMENAL views of the city and canals, and shops that I otherwise wouldn’t have known existed. During the tour, I saved many of the GPS locations that we visited so that I could return the next day.
What To Expect
Once you procure your Gondola, the gondolier will help you board and invite you to sit and get comfortable. Many gondola’s are lavishly decorated and have blankets and comfortable seats. They can hold a maximum of six people and the gondolier may ask you to change seats to balance the boat.
The gondolier will be wearing traditional Venetian gondolier attire which consists of black pants, a striped shirt and dark shoes. They may or may not wear the boat hat. Once everyone has boarded, they will take you on a ride through the canals near your departure point.
Some of the gondoliers are happy to give you information about the scenery you’ll observe on your ride, but all may not do this. I would encourage you to strike up a conversation with your gondolier and get him talking. I lucked up and got a gondolier who loved to sing. I got an earful of what I can only describe as classical Italian music, and also some J. Balvin. Who’d have thought right?
Gondoliers row standing up and use only one oar, as this is the best way to row through the narrow canals. Occasionally you will see the gondolier pushing off of the walls with their feet as they turn corners or come close to walls. All in all, I found the ride itself is very relaxing and a great way to see the beautiful architecture and scenery of Venice. Combined with the Hidden Venice Highlights Tour I mentioned above, it’s a definite “to do” on your visit.
You can find The Venice Highlights and Gondola Tour here.
You can follow The Roman Guy on Instagram at @thetourguy
Geron is an avid traveler, entreprenuer and mens style aficionado. He love’s mac and cheese, getting discounts, his momma, and a good whiskey, not particularly in that order. It’s alleged he lives in Miami, but no one really knows anymore.
Follow him on instagram at @geronp
