Eyes of Rome
Eyes of Rome

Venice Hidden Gems: Grand Canal, San Giorgio's Basilica, and Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Explore Venice’s hidden gems by boat, from the Grand Canal to San Giorgio.

Focus

  • Architecture
  • Art
  • History
  • Religion

What makes this tour Special

Glide along the Grand Canal on a private boat, admiring Venice’s majestic palaces and hidden waterways with your expert guide.

Marvel at the breathtaking Tintoretto frescoes inside the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a hidden masterpiece often called the “Sistine Chapel of Venice.”

Ascend the San Giorgio Bell Tower for a stunning panoramic view over Venice, St. Mark’s Square, and the shimmering lagoon—without the crowds.

What to Expect

PRIVATE TOUR

Enjoy your tour with your own private tour expert at your party's disposal only

DURATION

2.5 hours

START TIME

09:00 - 14:00

TRANSFER

Meet&Greet at your hotel/accomodation. Transfer to the tour site included

KID FRIENDLY

This tour is suitable for kids of all ages

ENTRANCE TICKETS

Entrance tickets are included! Enjoy your tour!

WHEELCHAIRS

Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users

What's Included
  • Official Private Tour Guide
  • Pick-up from Hotels located within the San Polo and San Marco areas
  • Private Boat at your disposal (2 hours)
  • San Giorgio Basilica and Bell Tower Skip-the-Line Tickets
  • Scuola Grande di San Rocco Skip-the-Line Tickets
Not Included/ Optional Extras
  • Drop-off to your Hotel
  • Food & Drinks

Sites you’ll visit

  • Grand Canal
  • Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore
  • Scuola Grande di San Rocco
  • The floating city of Venice is surprisingly not just one island. It is made up of 118 islands that are connected by over 400 bridges! The most characteristic aspects of the city are the beautiful canals that run through every corner of the city as if streets. The largest and most important of all is the Grand Canal that runs through Venice dividing it into two, lined with great palaces.
  • The Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore is a masterpiece of Palladian architecture, standing on its own island across from St. Mark’s Square. Inside, admire stunning artworks by Tintoretto, and climb the bell tower for one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Venice.
  • The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Venice, Italy. Established in the 16th century, this institution serves as a confluence of artistic brilliance and cultural heritage. Renowned for its association with the esteemed Venetian painter Tintoretto, the Scuola showcases an impressive collection of his masterpieces, illustrating the Passion of Christ in a series of captivating paintings. The building itself is a testament to Venetian Renaissance architecture, featuring ornate interiors adorned with intricate detailing and remarkable artworks. Visitors to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco are treated to a visual feast, as Tintoretto's genius unfolds within its walls. Beyond its artistic significance, the Scuola played a pivotal role in Venice's response to the plague, commemorating the victims and serving as a cultural and religious center during a crucial period in the city's history. Today, a visit to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of art, history, and spirituality in the enchanting city of Venice.

Tour description

Discover a different side of Venice with this private boat tour, combining the beauty of the Grand Canal with two of the city’s most fascinating yet lesser-known landmarks: Scuola Grande di San Rocco and San Giorgio’s Basilica.


Your journey begins with a private boat ride along the Grand Canal, Venice’s most iconic waterway. Glide past majestic palaces, historic bridges, and lively waterfronts as your guide unveils the history and secrets behind this breathtaking floating city.


The first stop is the stunning San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica, a masterpiece of Palladian architecture standing on its own island. Admire its elegant façade before entering to discover its remarkable interiors, featuring works by Tintoretto. Then, ascend the San Giorgio Bell Tower, where an unforgettable panoramic view of Venice awaits. Unlike other crowded viewpoints, this serene spot offers a breathtaking vista over St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal, and the Venetian lagoon.


Next, step inside the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a true jewel of Venetian art. This extraordinary confraternity hall is adorned with magnificent Tintoretto frescoes, often compared to the Sistine Chapel for its grandeur and artistic mastery. Your guide will illuminate the stories behind these masterpieces, making the experience even more immersive.


With a private guide and boat at your disposal, this tour offers an intimate and refined experience, unveiling the hidden gems of Venice while enjoying its most spectacular views. Perfect for art lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking a deeper connection to the magic of Venice.

Useful information

  • Dress Code Required: Knees and Shoulders must be covered to access holy sites


  • Big bags, luggages, and trolleys are not allowed


  • Pick-up and Meet&Greet are included only for those who are staying within the San Polo or San Marco areas

Full Refund Cancellation Policy

Eyes of Rome has two policies with full refund terms.
The policies are included and non-optional.
  1. Dolce Vita policy is applied on all Standard Bookings placed more than 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms up to 72 hours from the date of the event for any reason. To apply for a refund including where your tour is cancelled or changed by Eyes of Rome®, please contact our customer service team at info@eyesofrome.com.
  2. Peace of Mind policy is applied on Selected Bookings and on all Bookings placed within 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms so if you are unable to attend your booking due to unforeseen circumstances outside of your control you may be entitled to a refund - please see our full set of Refundable Terms and Conditions here. To apply for a refund, please find the instructions on how to apply in the booking confirmation email you received after payment.

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