This combined tour will allow you to discover the most important historical places and buildings of Venice in two parts. From a centrally located meeting point, you will be led by a professional guide through the most characteristic places around the areas of St. Mark's Square and Castello. After this walk, you will enjoy a view of the city from the water on-board a gondola. The tour will start with a historical introduction in St. Marks’s Square, and its architectural delights, allowing you to discover the history of the Doge’s Palace, once the seat of the power for the Republic of Venice, and the surrounding buildings. Leaving the square, you will be guided into the residential Castello area, allowing you to discover this part of Venice in all of its elegance through its labyrinth of narrow alleys or calli, many bridges, winding canals and wide picturesque squares known as campi. Discover the Santa Maria Formosa Square, one of the largest squares in Venice with its church, named after its visitation of the Holy Virgin, the Saints Giovanni and Paolo Square where you will be able to admire the famous church, the resting place of several Doges and the equestrian monument of Bartolomeo Colleoni, an Italian mercenary captain. The former residence of Marco Polo, probably the most famous Venetian merchant, and the Malibran Theatre will also be part of the itinerary. After the walking tour, you will be accompanied to Saint Moisè Square, the landing stage of the famous Venetian transportation, the gondola. Relax aboard this historic vessel, enjoying the thrills of both the Grand Canal and minor canals. Admire Venice from this amazing point of view, witness its magnificent architecture and whilst gliding under its bridges, discover secret entrances to the elegant palaces and hidden corners. The gondola ride will not be a guided tour. This 2-hour combined tour will conclude in Campo San Moisè, a short walk from St. Mark’s Square.