If you think Venice is just gondolas, the Rialto Bridge, and crowded alleys around St. Mark’s Square, you’re missing the magic. The real charm of this floating city lies in its tucked-away corners—places where locals linger, tourists rarely wander, and experiences feel deeply authentic.
Even better? You can now book many of these hidden gems online in advance. That means skipping the chaos, saving time, and making the most of your trip to Venice.
Here’s your guide to 10 secret spots and lesser-known activities in Venice that you can actually reserve with a click.
1. Scala Contarini del Bovolo
This whimsical spiral staircase is one of Venice’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away in a quiet courtyard, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo offers panoramic views of rooftops and domes without the crowds.
Why book online: Entry slots are limited, and booking ahead helps avoid disappointment.
Pro tip: Go at sunset for magical light over Venice’s skyline.
2. Mask-Making Workshop with a Venetian Artisan
Venice is famous for its Carnival masks, but few visitors know they can learn to make one themselves. Join a local craftsman in a traditional bottega and design your own mask to take home.
Why book online: These small-group workshops fill up fast, especially in high season.
Reserve via GetYourGuide or Viator for instant confirmation.
3. Cicchetti and Wine Tour in Cannaregio
Cannaregio is where locals go to unwind. Join a food crawl through this laid-back district, tasting Venetian tapas (cicchetti) and sipping local wines.
Why book online: Many of these tours include guides who are local foodies or sommeliers—booking ensures a spot with a top-rated one.
Don’t miss: Baccalà mantecato and polpette di carne.
4. San Giorgio Maggiore Bell Tower
Skip the lines (and crowds) at St. Mark’s Campanile and take a vaporetto to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore instead. Its bell tower offers an even better view of Venice.
Why book online: It’s part of combo passes that can include basilica tours and boat tickets.
Bonus: It’s wheelchair accessible and has an elevator.
5. Private Gondola Ride Through Lesser-Known Canals
Instead of starting your gondola ride near Rialto or San Marco, opt for a quiet route through Castello or Dorsoduro. These canals are peaceful, more scenic, and feel like the “real” Venice.
Why book online: You can choose your time slot, route, and even upgrade with music or a serenade.
Many platforms offer generous commissions for gondola bookings.
6. Underground Tour of the Doge’s Palace
You may have toured the grand halls of the Doge’s Palace, but few people see its secret prisons and torture chambers. This tour takes you behind locked doors, into the shadowy history of Venice.
Why book online: These spots are strictly limited to small groups, and online booking is the only way in.
Cool detail: You’ll walk the same Bridge of Sighs prisoners once did.
7. Row Venice: Learn to Row a Gondola
Yes, you can actually row a gondola—or more precisely, a batela (a traditional Venetian boat). With a trained female rower, you’ll learn how locals navigate the canals.
Why book online: This experience is highly rated and incredibly popular with solo travelers and couples.
Tip: It’s a great workout and an unforgettable story to bring home.
8. Peggy Guggenheim Collection (Skip-the-Line Entry)
If you’re into modern art, this is a must. Housed in Peggy Guggenheim’s former home on the Grand Canal, this museum features works by Pollock, Dali, Kandinsky, and more.
Why book online: You skip the line and get in faster—plus, some platforms offer audio guides.
Combo deal: Book with a Dorsoduro walking tour.
9. Murano Glass Factory Tour with Workshop
is known worldwide for its glass, but don’t just browse the shops. Take a tour inside a working factory, see a live demo, and try your hand at glassblowing.
Why book online: These workshops are not advertised in-store and are often fully booked by tour operators.
Perk: You’ll receive a small handmade souvenir.
10. Evening Ghost Walk in Venice’s Backstreets
Venice has centuries of spooky legends and haunted alleyways. A night tour led by a theatrical local guide takes you through the city’s eerie past.
Why book online: Tours are small and sell out fast, especially around Halloween or Carnival.
Fun fact: The stories blend real history with Venetian myth.
Whether it’s your first or tenth Vatican visit, this guide will help you navigate the crowds, appreciate the art, and maximize your time.
Conclusion
Venice rewards travelers who go beyond the postcard moments. Whether you’re making a mask with a master artisan, learning to row like a Venetian, or sipping wine in a quiet campo, these are the moments you’ll actually remember.
The best part? You don’t have to figure it all out when you get there. Each of these hidden gems can be booked online ahead of your trip—so you can focus on soaking up the magic when you arrive.
Ready to discover the Venice most tourists miss?
Check out the links in the post and start building your own secret itinerary today.