Hidden History — Private tours

Byzantine art on the walls in Venice

Your tour, your interests

A private Hidden History tour can be anywhere in central Venice, at any time of day, and concentrate on the topics which interest you.

I can meet you at your hotel in the morning, or at the restaurant where you’ve had lunch, or wherever it suits you in Venice, and we’ll walk around the city together, searching for messages from the past.

If you have any particular interests, we can concentrate more on those subjects.

A two-hour private tour is minimum €200 for the group, or €40/person. Longer tours are charged at €75, or €15/person, for each additional hour.

Payment is normally at the end of the tour. I accept most credit cards (Visa, Master, AmEx, etc.) and, of course, cash. Payment in advance is also possible, but not a requirement.

You can book by email to info@historywalksvenice.com.

Alternatively, you can browse the available times, and book your private tour directly in my calendar. You’ll get a confirmation email, and I will be notified immediately when you click the link in that email.

These articles are examples of some the topics we can discuss on a private tour:

  • Prostitution in Venice

    Prostitution in Venice

    In ancient Venice prostitution was considered a necessary evil, where more harm would come from a ban than from a de facto acceptance

  • Daghe adosso, Nino!

    Daghe adosso, Nino!

    An Austrian admiral giving orders in Venetian, in a naval battle against Italy, which eventually led to Venice becoming Italian

  • Palazzo Morosini

    Palazzo Morosini

    Palazzo Morosini is a mixed Venetian Gothic and Renaissance palace in the Castello Sestiere which is unfortunately inaccessible to the public.

What others said

Thank you very much for your time and attention to detail

March 6, 2024

If you are looking for a very detailed history of Venice then this is for you!

Catherine
Verified

Very interesting and cozy tour

February 25, 2024

It was so much fun to listen and walk around with René. He has a quite entertaining way to explain past events and show how it impacts Venice today. We learned a lot (goal achieved) and can definitely recommend his tour!

Donato
Verified

First class and insightful tour

February 23, 2024

Rene is a first class guide with a deep understanding of Venetian history and culture. A Dane having lived for many years in Venice, he combines the wider perspectives of an “outsider”, with a love of his new “home”. So many guides have only a superficial knowledge of the more famous aspects of Venice, Rene takes you back in time to explain how Venice grew and why, to its gradual decline from a position of a trading supremacy that funded its art and culture. Our time passed too quickly. I would without reservation recommend Rene if you really want to understand this unique city.

Paul
Verified

The best history tour!

February 20, 2024

I love history and architecture and always want to know the history and stories behind all the unique details on Vancian buildings and streets. So happy I found Rene’s tour! It’s the best tour we had all our trips to Europe. Will definitely take another tour with Rene If we come back to Venice! Highly recommend!

Claire
Verified

Thanks so much for a wonderful tour one’s again

February 12, 2024

This is my second time taking the tour with Renee, he has a vast knowledge of Venice history. My friend been his fist time, thought the tour was wonderful as well. You will discover the real history of Venice and how people lived at the start of the island. A must take tour while in Venice, you won’t be disappointed.

Guillermo
Verified

We loved the historic details you shared with us. It was an unforgettable experience!

February 11, 2024

Rene was a gem! A vast knowledge of history of Venice. A desire to share his knowledge with us. Very pleasant manner is story telling. Great interest to details. Thank you Rene! We learnt so much with you!

Julia
Verified

Would recommend to anyone

January 22, 2024

Had a great time touring a small part of Venice with Rene. His deep knowledge and passion for history are evident and would recommend to anyone looking for a detailed dive into the history of Venice.

Natalie
Verified

Grazi Mille. Loved the tour. Will check out your website.

January 17, 2024

Wonderful tour. Rene was intelligent, friendly and adapted the tour to my interests. I would highly recommend to anyone interested in the history of Venice.

Siva
Verified