suego

Anyone have a recommendation on how to book a very nice gondola ride? Should I book in advance since I only have one night in Venice?

RufusTFirefly

Unless there is something unusual going on, you shouldn't have trouble finding a gondola. Don't go on the Grand Canal in a gondola, it's better seen by vaporetto. A gondola on the Grand Canal is vieing with the much larger vaporettos, water taxis, service boats of all kinds--and it can get quite choppy plus your views are often blocked. Leave the Grand Canal to the Japanese and Korean tour groups. Gondolas are superb for exploring smaller canals, getting a look at parts of Venice that are difficult to see any other way. Don't go at low tide--you'll be looking at old building foundations--or at high tide--the gondola won't be able to get under some low bridges, limiting your route.

rex

No need to book ahead (I don't even know if it is possible). You don't say how many "you" are - - the challenge is finding a good price if you are two (or even worse, one). The price is generally NOT per person, but per gondola.

For two or one, the American Express tour apparently includes a gondola ride (i.e., sharing with others taking the tour with you), and may cost you less than a gondola ride if you are solo.

Best wishes,

Rex
[email protected]

suego

It's just the 2 of us but, we don't mind sharing. It's a good way to meet people! Thanks!

rex

From http://www.fodors.com/forums/pgTopics.jsp?fid=2&searchText=american+and+express +and+gondola

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=2&tid=34410283

and numerous others.

I don't know how you would go about sharing with others, short of simply making the acquaintance of other tourists and asking them if they are interested in sharing with you. I think that is why they AmEx option is fairly appealing to a number of one-sie/two-sies.

Lesli

Sue -

With all due respect, what guidebook are you using? It should address many of your questions; if it doesn't, invest in a better one!

The Destinations section here is taken from the Fodors books; I also like Frommers, which gives good specific, practical advice re issues like transport and has pretty good maps. Re gondolas: http://www.frommers.com/destinations/venice/0067037967.html

Do a text search here for "gondola AND venice" to find many threads on this subject. I think you can make arrangements with a gondolier when you arrive. I personally have not yet been on a gondola, and don't feel I've missed much, but many will do doubt disagree with me on that issue.

suego

Yes, I have several guidebooks, National Geo, Rick Steves, and Frommers. However, nothing beats the personal touch. I like to hear personal opions and recommendations.

maitaitom

When I stayed at Pension Accademia they booked a kind of touristy, but very fun, gondola ride. There were six of us (four who went on trip with another couple who we had met previously in Florence). It was some sort of singing gondolier thing that ran about 60 bucks a couple and went for one hour. The reason we had so much fun was that we brought wine for us...and the gondolier. We were the only boat that did it, and believe me the people in the other gondolas wished they'd thought of it. Although our gondolier was nearly decapitated by one of the bridges (kinew he shouldn't have had that last glass of wine), it was a blast. For the more romantic gondola rides, I am sure the fine romantic people on this board can fill you in.