Venice gondola ride

[PMO]

We are going to Venice for the first time and wanted to take a gondola ride, of course. I would love to take a sunset one but not with a mass of people. We wanted to book this ahead of time but are unsure of where. We would love the back canals instead of the busy Grand Canal. Can anyone be of help?

[aquilegia]

It really is unnecessary to book ahead of time. There are gondolas all over the place and there is a set price. It would be a pity to book and find it was raining, when if you'd waiting an hour or two it might have been dry.

[mapleleaves]

I agree with the PP ... wait until you get there, and can look for the 'right' place. There is a set price but if things are slow you might be able to haggle.

Good info in this site:

http://europeforvisitors.com/venice/articles/gallivanting_by_gondola.htm

[4774Papa]

No need to book ahead.

Also, negotiate, especially if you have kids. My 13 year old Daughter did ours and we got a great deal.

[helpthejuggler]

Fixed price but watch the duration.... The other variable you pay for. ...