I will be visiting Venice for the first time, I would like a good walking or boat tour that is no more than 4 hours. Any suggestions? Please give websites also so I can check them out. Thanks!

The best way of seeing Venezia is to get lost. Just wander around and you'll be surprised at what you find. The old city is small so you'll never be completely lost for long.

Our gondolier, on our 50-minute + gondola ride gave us a wonderful "tour," explaining the historical significance of many buildings as we passed by. He also told us some about the Venetian way of life and life as a gondolier. I know not all gondoliers will do that, but if you talk to them before you get in the boat you can get an idea of what they'll provide.

Walk, walk, walk! It's by far the best way to see Venice. Also, take the vaporetti, traghetti etc for another view.

Hi kastarkey,

I googled "Venice walking tours" and came up with "Walks Inside Venice" www.walksinsidevenice.com/ , "Venice Escapes" www.walksinsidevenice.com/ , and "Venice Walks and Tours" www.tours-italy.com/venice/ (which includes canal tours) - for a start.

I've only been to Venice once but I agree with previous posters - do a walkabout on your own and buy a vaporetto pass so you can hop on and off at will.

Cheers,
Linda