Are the guided tours always private?

Venicescapes tours are intended to be an intellectually stimulating and enlightening enhancement of your visit to Venice.  They are always kept small and private to promote close interaction and dialogue, particularly regarding points of particular interest to you.

Are the guided historical tours regularly scheduled?

The tours are individually arranged to accomodate your schedule.

Can the longer tours be divided?

Depending upon availability, it is generally possible to spread the longer tours over multiple days for a more leisurely pace.

Who can participate?

Participation in Venicescapes guided tours is limited to registered members of the Society and their families.  The membership, valid for the calendar year, is a simple part of booking an itinerary.

Which guided tour is most appropriate for first-time visitors?

“Story of a Mercantile Empire” is specifically conceived as an introductory tour to cover the city's history and commercial evolution, its architecture, and urban development.

Are the guided tours suited for younger children?

The tours have been conceived primarily for adults.  However, older students interested in a mature, historical perspective may also appreciate the depth and richness offered by Venicescapes programs.  For younger children, parents should carefully evaluate interest level and attention span.

When do the tours begin?

Although the tours are privately conducted in order to better accommodate your needs, the opening and closing times of museums and religious sights may have some bearing on starting times.  To enjoy the entire experience at a relaxed pace, the following times are recommended:

Where do the tours meet?

In most cases, you will be met at or near your place of lodging.  For practical considerations, however, a common meeting place, closer to the starting point on the tour, may also be mutually agreed upon.

Are photographs allowed?

Photographs without flash are generally allowed in accordance with the guidelines established by individual churches and museums.

What is appropriate attire?

While participating in a Venicescapes tour, you are kindly asked to show due respect for the public monuments, private homes, and religious structures that are visited and to refrain from wearing shorts or sleeveless tops or dresses.

Are there breaks during the tours?

The historical tours typically last from 4 to 6 hours with pauses for lunch and refreshments in some of Venice’s more characteristic locales.

Does Venicescapes collaborate with school groups?

The Society is pleased to work with professors and teachers in preparing and conducting on-site seminars that can be integrated into study programs in order to further established educational goals.

Does Venicescapes offer sightseeing tours of Venice?

Venicescapes tours are in-depth, providing a rich and complex understanding of the city’s history and its singular role in Western Civilization.  They differ from general sightseeing tours, which are readily available through numerous local tourist agencies. Venicescapes can provide information and contacts for qualified local tour guides whenever requested and at no cost.

Does Venicescapes provide information or make reservations for other travel-related services?

Venicescapes is organized and operates as a non-profit historical society.  As such, it cannot legally provide tour-agency services.