Venice
A floating city of impossible beauty, hidden canals, and centuries of secrets.
About Venice
There is nowhere else on earth like Venice. A city built on water, where the "streets" are canals and the "cars" are boats. The art is staggering, the architecture is breathtaking, and the atmosphere is pure magic. But it's also a city that can feel like a theme park. The real Venice is hiding in plain sight, just one tiny bridge away from the crowds. Let a local show you the quiet sestieri (neighbourhoods) of Cannaregio or Dorsoduro, and the bacari (wine bars) where gondoliers actually eat.
Best Time to Visit
April-May or late September-October. The light is beautiful, and the temperatures are mild. "Acqua Alta" (high water) season typically starts in November.
Local Tips
- Swap the gondola for a traghetto.
A private gondola ride is an expensive cliché. For the same experience in 30 seconds, a local knows the traghetto stands—public gondolas that cross the Grand Canal for €2.
- Do the bacaro crawl.
St. Mark's Square is for pigeons. A local will send you on a giro d'ombra (a "shadow tour," or wine bar crawl) in the Rialto Market neighbourhood for tiny, perfect cichetti (Venetian tapas).
- Look beyond Murano.
Instead of just seeing the (often touristy) glass-blowing, a local can arrange a visit to a traditional forcola workshop, where artisans carve the intricate, sculptural oar-rests for gondolas.
Highlights
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Francesca
Bologna, Ravenna +6
👋 Hi, nice to meet you! My name is Francesca, I'm 28 years old and I live in a small town in the province of Ravenna. I speak English and French. 🎨 I'm an art expert because of my two degrees in Cultural Heritage and Visual Arts at the University of Bologna, where I've lived during my studies. This is the main city I chose to speak about in this platform because I've lived it with a student life's eyes (so pubs, restaurants, places to have fun, listen to some music, dance...) but also because I love art through that part of me too (museums, art galleries, history, traditions, culture...). ✈️ After University I've decided to take a break and I've moved to Canada where I've lived for more than one year, then I came back to become a Travel Designer thanks to a course in Milan. 🧳 This year I've also got the certification to be a Tour Leader with the goal to go with families, groups of friends or couples during their travels to show them more than they expect!
Edoardo
Amalfi, Sorrento +11
Born and raised in Italy's Marche region, I have explored the country from north to south during travels and study periods away from home. I have lived part of my life in amazing cities such as Venice and Bologna, and have visited Rome a lot since I have family and friends there. I am an experienced trip planner for destinations all over Italy, from the breezy Cinqueterre in Liguria down to the sun kissed Amalfi coast. If you want someone to help you with all-encompassing guidance and make the best out of your trip to Italy, I will be most happy to help you!
Emanuele
Milan, Como +10
Hi! I’m Emanuele, a passionate traveler and sports enthusiast with a love for discovering cities through their hidden corners and authentic experiences. While I’ve explored many places around the world, my heart is in Milan, a city I know inside out. I enjoy everything from iconic landmarks to quiet streets off the beaten path, and I love sharing those special spots that only a local can show. Whether it’s culture, food, history, or hidden gems, my goal is to create personalized experiences that make you feel truly connected to the city. I believe travel is about curiosity, discovery, and living a place fully (and I’d love to be your guide to experience Italy in a mindful, authentic way).
Valerio
Venice
5.0(2)I’m Valerio, a licensed tourist guide based in Venice and the founder of deTourist. I was born in Italy but spent many years living and working abroad before returning to Venice to focus on cultural heritage and storytelling. With a degree in Cultural Heritage Management from Ca’ Foscari University and several years of experience guiding international travelers, I specialize in private tours that go beyond the usual highlights. My goal is to help visitors experience Venice as a living city, not just a destination. I design experiences that connect art, history, local life, and craftsmanship. From hidden neighborhoods and artisan workshops to the islands of the Venetian lagoon, my tours focus on authentic places and meaningful encounters with the culture of Venice. I speak English, German, Italian, and Spanish, and I enjoy adapting every experience to the interests of my guests - whether they are visiting Venice for the first time or returning to discover a different side of the city. For me, supporting you is not just about sharing information. It is about creating memorable moments and helping you see Venice through the eyes of someone who truly lives here.