Do you want to be serenaded without going to Italy? Try the Gondola Rides at the Venetian.
These rides are romantic, but they’re also toddler-friendly. Your whole family can feel the love at this very Instagrammable spot. You will float beneath bridges, beside cafes, and under balconies as you coast down the Grand Canal. A singing gondolier will pilot you through your trip.
There are two separate rides to choose from. The first one is the outdoor ride which will provide you with stunning views of the Venetian property and the north end of the Strip.
The second option is the indoor ride; it runs along the extraordinarily themed canals in the Grand Canal Shoppes. Whether you choose the outdoor or indoor ride, the gondolier will serenade you and your loved one as they would if you were in Venice, Italy.
I prefer the indoor ride because the intricacy of Venetian’s indoor theming is very extraordinary. But at night, the outdoor ride is challenging to beat because of the many Vegas lights that are beaming.
Gondolier March
Two times daily, a team of singing gondoliers march along the indoor Grand Canal Shoppes. They sing in unison. You can catch this video or photo opportunity at 9:50 am and 4:20 pm from Sketchers to Barneys, New York.
Gondola University
If you want to learn how to be a gondolier, Gondola University teaches you how to do that. Only nine lucky people every day can participate in this new program where the gondoliers share the ins and outs of piloting a gondola. If you participate, you’ll receive a hat and t-shirt, a souvenir photo, and a degree certificate.
Important Tips and Tricks to Enjoy Your Gondola Ride Experience
- Your gondolier will remind you of this, but kissing under bridges as you pass underneath is considered to bring good luck. Try it. It won’t hurt.
- The Gondola Ride seats 4. So, if the attraction is busy, you may get paired with another couple if it’s just the two of you. The gondola is configured such that couples face each other. Therefore, the seating arrangement may be awkward for some people. If you want a gondola for yourself, reserve it for $156.
- You can stick around for the free Streetmosphere show in St. Mark’s Square. Performers with various talents, including singers and jugglers, perform several times a day.
- Tipping the gondolier is appreciated. Like any other service, a tip is based on the experience provided. A $5-10 tip per couple is the norm.
- If you are planning an engagement or marriage ceremony, a Gondola Ride at the Venetian is one of the highest-ranked places to do this.
- If you want the best photos and light, I recommend booking rides close to sunset.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much do Gondola Rides at the Venetian cost?
Between Monday and Wednesday, the cost is $34 per person. Between Thursday and Sunday, the price is $39 per person. Optional photo packages start at $32.
How long does a gondola ride last?
The ride typically lasts for 15-20 minutes. The gondolier sings a few songs.
Where can I buy the tickets for the gondola ride?
There are two separate ticket offices. The first is outdoors near the boarding area for the ride. The second is for the indoor rides at the office near St. Mark’s Square and the Waterfall Atrium in the Grand Canal Shoppes.
What are the Gondola Ride hours of operation?
Indoor gondolas run between 10 am and 11 pm on Monday to Thursday and Sunday. On Friday and Saturday, they extend the time of operation to midnight. The outdoor gondolas operate between 10 am and 10 pm every day.
What is the location of the Gondola Rides?
There are two locations. The indoor Gondola Rides have their location at Emporio di Gondola, Level 2, Grand Canal Shoppes. The indoor Gondola Rides have their location at Gondola Ticket Booth, Doge’s Place.
Is there parking for the Gondola Rides?
Yes. And it’s absolutely free.
Which Gondola Ride is Better?
Both the indoor and outdoor gondola rides are great. It will depend on what you want to see.
Is the Gondola Ride free for guests staying at the Venetian?
No. But it’s free to watch people ride. You must purchase tickets, regardless of whether you’re staying at the Venetian.
How many people can fit in a Gondola at the Venetian?
How early can you get a Gondola Ride?
Both indoor and outdoor rides start daily at 10 am.
Can you tip the Gondolier?
Yes! Tips are very much appreciated.
