venice jewish ghetto tour

Jewish Venice History Tour

Explore the deep history of Jewish life in Venice with an historian

The Finer Details
On this two-hour tour of the Jewish ghetto in Venice, you'll look at one of the oldest, most enduring Jewish cultures in Europe, examining its amazing history with a local scholar of Jewish history. Along with your expert guide, you'll visit sites of historical importance throughout Venice's deeply important Jewish ghetto, including two synagogues, developing an appreciation for both the plight and contributions Italian Jews have made throughout the centuries. 

A Thriving Community

The Jewish community in Venice is still alive and flourishing. Thus, our Venice Jewish ghetto tour offers the opportunity to interact with the new generation of scholars and devotees while exploring the history and customs of a little-known aspect of Venetian culture.

Jewish History Throughout Venice

You will begin your tour with an introduction to the ghetto, the home of the Jewish Venetian community so vividly depicted in Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice. We will then spend time visiting the synagogue, which brings special insight to the ghetto and its religious traditions, as well as view two moving memorials to Italian Jews lost in World Wars I and II. Your tour will conclude by spending additional time exploring the ghetto. Founded in 1516, its serene nature has entranced visitors and locals alike for centuries, providing a respite from the city's many bustling streets. 

FAQ

Will you pre-purchase tickets? Due to venue restrictions, we currently have to pre-purchase tickets for the Jewish Synagogue to ensure you're able to take part in the guided visit. Please note that there are currently limited tickets available.

Will we visit the Museum on this tour?
Unfortunately, the museum has been closed for restoration since 2021. We hope it reopens soon but can assure you that your experience will not be impacted by this as you'll still be able to explore the Synagogue and Jewish Ghetto neighborhoods.

Do you reserve headsets for this tour? 
Depending on your group size, we may be required by the venue to order headsets in which case you’ll see a “Headset Fee” added to your order.

Is this tour suitable for clients with mobility issues?
This tour doesn’t cover extensive territory, however, it does involve some stairs, therefore, it isn’t suitable for clients in wheelchairs.
Book a Tour
Meet the Experts

Expertly Led,

Personally Delivered

“ What I love about Context is the flexibility in a tour's itinerary: not only to satisfy our guests’ requests or needs, but especially to renew my interest and my passion for this fantastic town. ”

Where You’ll Go

From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.

  • Venice Jewish Synagogue
  • Cannaregio Neighborhood
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
  • English-speaking expert guide
    Tours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
  • Intentionally sized groups
    A smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
  • Tickets and entrance fees
    All entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
  • Headsets
    Headsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Excluded
  • Gratuities
    We encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
  • Food and drink
    Refreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
  • Transportation to and from the meeting point
    Guests organize pre- and post-tour transport themselves - this service can be added by request.
  • Hotel pickup or drop-off
    Unless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Map of Jewish Venice History Tour general meeting point area

Make the Most of Your Tour

Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.

Dos:
  • Wear comfortable footwear
  • Check the weather and dress appropriately
  • Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
  • Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
  • Bring firearms or weapons
  • Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
  • Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always contact us.

Don’t just take our word for it

139 Reviews

She was excellent and very knowledgeable

Our two hours with Matteo Gabbrielli in the Venice Ghetto flew by. We would never have known that the Sephardic synagogues' simple exteriors hide such beauty inside! Matteo's description of Jewish life in Venice was rich in detail - - - he was fun to be with, too!

Tour was excellent! Matteo was very knowledgeable

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