Gondola Workshop

Experience overview

Step into one of Venice’s oldest and most fascinating traditions with a journey beyond the bustling Piazza San Marco and its souvenir shops. Discover the art of gondola craftsmanship at one of the city’s last remaining workshops—a rare opportunity to delve into a centuries-old skill that embodies the soul of Venice. Of the hundreds of workshops that once populated the city, only three remain today, preserving this unique heritage.

ItalyCharme invites you to explore these artisan spaces, where master craftsmen create gondolas using techniques unchanged for generations. Learn how each gondola takes up to 45 days to build, crafted from seven types of wood: mahogany, cherry, fir, walnut, oak, elm, and lime. These workshops are not merely places of work but living legacies of Venetian artistry.

During your visit, you’ll uncover the tools passed down through generations, hear stories of their history, and witness the intricate process of creating these shallow, asymmetrical boats. Each gondola is a little masterpiece, a testament to Venice’s creativity and craftsmanship, and a symbol recognised worldwide.

All our experiences are fully customisable to suit your interests. We specialise in curating extraordinary memories, blending local knowledge with the magic of Italy.

Experience information