Private
The Artisans of Venice
Overview
Take an unusual walk in the heart of Venice where you will discover a few remaining artisans and witness them at work, away from the crowds. These artisans carry on centuries of traditions, crafting beautiful and high-quality Venetian products. Unfortunately, rising costs and mass-produced souvenirs have forced many of their colleagues out of business. Luckily, these artists who make Venice unique and famous all over the world will open their doors to us exclusively. You will get to visit long-occupied workshops, hidden down tiny backstreets and canals, where one of the city's 3 remaining gondola manufacturers is located. You will also learn about the ancient craft of weaving in Venice, watch masks being painted by hand, witness amazing puppets coming to life, and visit a tailor who makes period costumes.
In true Venetian style, the tour will stop at some of the tiny local wine bars, known as bacari, to relax a little and enjoy a glass of wine and some nibbles. This will give you a chance to see the local charm of the sestiere (quarter) we are in and restore your strength to continue on this unique journey of discovering a Venice that you would otherwise never know was there.
Duration
3 hours
Starting From
EUR 240
Per person for two travelers
Tailored to your departure and group.
Venice has a long tradition of exquisite crafts, which are most commonly seen today during the Venice Carnival. Yet all year round artists are working hard to produce the famous masks, the fabulous materials and costumes visitors will wear and the gondolas that will take them through the city. On this very special tour, our local guide has agreed with some of these artisans to welcome you into their workshops to learn how the magic works and see the traditional techniques that have been kept alive over the centuries.
- Tour Style
- Private
- Meeting Point
- Your hotel
Gallery
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Visits to the workshops of Venetian artisans
- English-speaking local guide
- Visit to a local bacaro
What's Not Included
- Everything not clearly specified under “rates include”.
- Gratuities of any type
Traveler Reviews
Ron and Deb CrosbyDear Guiseppe and Jesse,
We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future.
Hotels
1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of our journey very stress free. They made us feel like we were part of their family. I would recommend it to anyone and would specifically ask for it if we were to make a return visit.
2. Hotel La Baia in Monterosso was nice and it's location was very good especially for us older folks humping luggage from/to the train station.
3. Hotel Lucchesi in Florence- what can I say expect FANTASTIC. The rooftop view at sunset is well worth it. Again very friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend it to everyone.
Wine Tour
Money well spent. We had a great time overall. The driver Mario was OUTSTANDING. He had lots of local knowledge as well as about winemaking. USE HIM AGAIN!!!
The various wineries we visited on tour:
Altesino- fantastic and they were not cheap on their pouring. Great experience.
Azienda Agricola Patrizia Cencion Sloaria- Again a great tour by one of the owner's daughters. We felt like we were the only thing on their mind although there were other customers there. A great way to complete the day.
Again we had a fantastic time and are very appreciative of everything you booked for us. We wish you continued success and if our travels should bring us back to Italy, we know who to call.
Leon and MicheleThe trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country.
Bob & SandyJesse & Giuseppe,
Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever.
Jo Ann WestJesse,
There are no words to describe the fabulous time we had in Italy. Everything went as you promised. Absolutely no problems! The venues were fabulous. The guides were punctual and helpful. It couldn't have worked out better. You and your staff deserve high praise for the quality and efficiency of your work. BTW, Guiseppe was an absolute delight. We enjoyed his informative and effervescent personality he was a hit with our group. The serenading was an added bonus! Our stay in Calabria went well too. Thank you for all your work and coordination for making this dream come true for us! If any of us travel there again, you will surely be hearing from us. I will not hesitate to recommend you to others as well. Ciao for now,
Location
Italy Venice
Venice and beyond
3 hours through Italy, with every stop chosen by the people who live here.
Where we meet
Your hotel
Nearby Experiences
Carnival Mask Making and Dinner in Venice with Local Hosts
Birdwatching on the Venice Lagoon
Venice off the Beaten Path
Venice in a Day Shore Excursion
Venice Rialto Market Walk
Private Bacari Walking Tour
Private Day Trip to the Dolomites
Venice Weekend for Lovers
Private Half Day Tour of Venice with St. Mark's & the Doge's Palace
The Venetian Islands Private Tour from Venice
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private tour, or will we join a group?
Private. You travel with your own guide and driver, and the only people on the itinerary are the ones you bring with you. Nothing is shared with strangers, and the pace of each day is yours to set.
Can the itinerary be changed to suit us?
Yes. What you see here is a starting point, not a fixed departure. Tell us how long you have, what you love and what you would rather skip, and we will reshape it around you. A slower morning, an extra night somewhere you fell for, a different region entirely.
How do we start planning?
Send us a note using the form on this page, or call us on 1-866-779-2565. A travel specialist replies within one business day, usually with a few questions of their own. There is no cost and no obligation in asking.
When should we book?
The earlier the better, particularly for travel between May and September, when the guides worth having are taken first. That said, we have put together beautiful trips at short notice, so ask and we will tell you honestly what is still possible for your dates.
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