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Venice gondola ride timings | When to take a gondola tour
Venice gondola ride timings
General timings: Standard hours from 9am to 7pm, at a fixed rate of €80. Rides after 7am can go on up till even 3am, but after-hours charges are €100.
Closed: The gondola rides operate year round, unless there is a case of extreme weather conditions or if there is a gondolier strike.
When is the best time to take a gondola ride?
Peak season vs low season
Peak season: Mid-May to Mid-September
Lean season: October to April
The busiest time of the year is during summer, between June to August, where you’ll have to navigate the city amidst a throng of tourists and under the blazing sun. Perhaps the best time to take a ride is from April to May and between September to October. The number of tourists are comparatively lower, so it is easier to get a ride. If you happen to visit Venice between November to March, gondola rides during the early mornings and evenings are perfect for a romantic ambience.
Weekday vs weekend
On weekdays, you'll have a better gondola ride experience as there are fewer boats in the canals and the atmosphere is more peaceful. Queues for gondola rides also tend to be shorter. However, some shops and restaurants might have limited hours on weekdays as compared to weekends. If you opt to go for a gondola ride on the weekends, you can expect longer wait times and queues. The upside is that stores, restaurants and shops on the waterfront will be open for much longer.
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Frequently asked questions about Venice gondola timings
What are the Venice gondola hours?
Venice gondola rides typically begin after 9am and can go on well into the wee hours of the morning, sometimes even 3am.
Are these gondola rides available everyday?
Yes, Venice gondolas ply every day except in situations of extreme weather or if the gondoliers go on strike, although the latter is not a common occurrence.
Are there any specific times for last admission to a gondola ride?
Most gondoliers stop their service by midnight, although some can wind up by 9 PM too. If you are seeking a late-night gondola ride, you will have to find a gondolier who's willing to ferry you at the time of your liking. Note that this will cost more, possibly upwards of €100.
How long are the gondola rides at Venice?
The gondola rides are generally 30 minutes long, although during traffic conditions the ride duration can come down by few minutes. If you'd like to extend your ride, you can request the gondolier, although an extension isn't guaranteed (especially during peak season).
When is the best time to take a Venice gondola ride?
Venice gondola rides are best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon of a weekday, specially during the lean season (from October to April). This ensures lesser crowds at the boarding points and a more relaxed ride experience.
Should I take a gondola ride on a public holiday?
While taking a gondola ride on a public holiday is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike, be prepared for longer wait times and denser queues at the boarding points. The canals are also likely to see more traffic on these days.
Can I book a gondola ride for a specific time?
Yes, if you book online, you can choose your ride slot. Most gondola stations operate on a first-come, first-served basis while booking on-site. This means that wait times can be longer if you book on-spot.
How long does it take to wait for a gondola ride during busy periods?
Waiting times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, season and gondola station. During peak hours, especially at busy gondola stations like St. Marks Square waiting times can range from 30 minutes to an hour or even longer.
