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 one synagogue and the midrash, developing an appreciation for both the plight and contributions Italian Jews have made throughout the centuries. 

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.

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. 

Please note that the synagogue, part of the Jewish Museum of Venice, mandates the use of its own guides for interior tours. Therefore, your Context guide will offer detailed explanations about the site before entering and after exiting.

Headed to Rome? See our Rome Jewish History Tour.

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. If we're able to secure the tickets for the requested tour date, your guide will hold your tickets on the day of the tour.

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.