Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo) Tours
35 Reviews
Tucked down a Venice side street near the Grand Canal, Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is worth a detour for its Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo). Named for the Venetian word for snail, this spiral staircase—the most famous in Venice—is housed in a cylindrical tower with open arches that climbs the facade, offering beautiful views over the city.
The Basics
The Scala Contarini del Bovolo was commissioned by Pietro Contarini at the end of the 15th century, and built by Giorgio Spavento in perfect synthesis to the original palace’s six floors of loggias designed by Giovanni Candi. A dramatic series of white stone arches spiral more than 90 feet (27 meters) up the imposing brick tower and seem inspired by the coils of a snail shell; at the top of the 80 steps, the belvedere has wonderful views over the Venetian rooftops.
Though it’s the city’s most famous staircase, Bovolo is also somewhat of a hidden treasure, and visits to this architectural gem are often a highlight of off-the-beaten-track city tours. Consider joining a Secret Venice tour to explore the lesser-known corners of the city along with must-see sights such as St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. You can also pair walking tours with a gondola ride, so you can explore the city both by land and water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bovolo Staircase is especially interesting for architecture enthusiasts.
- Be sure to bring your camera to capture the lovely views from the staircase and rooftop scenic overlook.
- Tours of hidden Venice require a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- Due to steps and no elevator to reach the belvedere, the Bovolo Staircase is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
The Bovolo Staircase is located at the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, near Campo Manin in the San Marco district of Venice. Take vaporetto line 1 or 2 to the Rialto stop from the train station. Trains to Venice run from most major cities in Italy, including Rome and Florence.
When to Get There
Bovolo Staircase is wonderful any time of day and year. If you’re a photography buff, visit in the late afternoon (before its 6pm closing time) to capture the city of Venice as the sun sets.
Bovolo on the Silver Screen
The Bovolo Staircase became popular among visitors to Venice after being immortalized on screen in Orson Welles’ 1952 adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello.
Address: Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, San Marco 4299, Venezia 30124, Italy
Admission Tickets (2)
Attraction TicketsEntrance ticket to Scala Contarini del Bovolo
The purchase of the entrance ticket to Scala Contarini del Bovolo will allow you to immerse yourself in the most evocative and unique tower in Venice.
Scala Contarini del Bovolo ("Bovolo" in Venetian dialect means "snail") is one of the most singular examples of Venetian architecture of transition from the Gothic to the Renaissance style (Ca. 1499).
26 meters high and connected to the adjacent building via three loggias, it leads to the noble floor where the two exhibition rooms are located and culminates, after 113 steps, in the domed Belvedere. From here you can admire a splendid and unusual view of all of Venice.
... More
- 30 minutes
From
$8.43
Recent Reviews from Experiences in Venice
Not sure....
Jessica_B
, Jul 2020
We thought there would be a nice view to take photos of Venice, but the view was really blah from the top of the tower. The only nice thing was that due to covid, we had to be given an official tour of the structure by a guide, who told us the history of the building. Also there was a small art gallery on the 2nd floor, which we got to view. I suppose for the price it's worth it overall, but don't expect too much as far as panoramic view or photo opportunities.
Venezia nascosta
massimilianoMonza
, Jul 2020
Uno degli scorci più belli e forse meno conosciuti di una splendida ed unica città come Venezia.
Accompagnati da guide molto breve e preparate. Mezz'ora di bellissima esperienza da non perdere.
40 Tours and Activities to Experience Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo)
Select Dates
Sort by:Featured
Attraction TicketsEntrance ticket to Scala Contarini del Bovolo
The purchase of the entrance ticket to Scala Contarini del Bovolo will allow you to immerse yourself in the most evocative and unique tower in Venice.
Scala Contarini del Bovolo ("Bovolo" in Venetian dialect means "snail") is one of the most singular examples of Venetian architecture of transition from the Gothic to the Renaissance style (Ca. 1499).
26 meters high and connected to the adjacent building via three loggias, it leads to the noble floor where the two exhibition rooms are located and culminates, after 113 steps, in the domed Belvedere. From here you can admire a splendid and unusual view of all of Venice.
... More
- 30 minutes
From
$8.43
Attraction TicketsScala Contarini del Bovolo - Entrance Ticket
Discover the stories and secrets behind the most unusual staircase in Venice, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo. Pre-book your admission ticket and visit anytime during opening hours to climb this architectural curiosity, which spirals up the side of an ancient palazzo tucked within the city’s maze-like streets.
... More
- 30 minutes
From
$8.43
Walking ToursVenice Ghost and Legends Walking Tour
As night falls on Venice and the crowds disappear, discover the city’s darkest secrets on this devilishly entertaining ghost tour. Wander through narrow passageways and past the blackened, vacant canals to uncover Venice’s haunted history. Listen to your ghost-hunter guide spin tales about the sinister deeds and tragic ends of the figures who once walked the streets—some of whom are believed to still wander as restless spirits.
... More
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$31.39
Half-day ToursPrivate Tour: Venice Half-Day Walking Tour
Discover Venice exactly the way you want to with this completely customized private tour. Your friendly local guide will create a 3-hour itinerary based on preferences you provide at booking. Whether you’re interested in architecture, local legends or Renaissance art, this tour is for you! Along the way, pop in at a local bar for a glass of regional wine and appetizers, and feel free to ask all the questions you like.
... More
- 3 hours
- Taking safety measures
From
$180.54
Price varies by group size
Private and LuxuryPrivate Gondola Ride for Two in Venice
Treat a loved one to the ultimate Venice experience with a private, 30-minute gondola ride along the Grand Canal and smaller side canals. Pass elegant Venetian palaces, colorful facades, and some of Venice’s most iconic landmarks. This private gondola tour is perfect for capturing photos of your time in Venice, and both morning and evening departures are available.
... More
- 25 to 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$148.04
per group
$32.50 savings
From
$148.04
per group
$32.50 savings
- 25 to 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
Walking ToursSecret Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride
Experience two of the most unique sides of Venice with a combination of a walking tour of hidden gems and a gondola ride on the Grand Canal. Join an experienced guide for the start of your 2-hour combined tour by exploring some less-visited parts of Venice on foot. See the famous La Fenice theater's facade and the elegant spiral stair of Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo. Then enjoy a romantic gondola ride along the Grand Canal and some side canals, during which you'll see the magical city from a whole new perspective. Get to know some of the unusual areas of Venice.
... More
- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$63.19
Private and LuxuryPrivate Gondola Ride in Venice
Enjoy a quintessentially Venetian experience with this 30-minute private gondola ride for up to 6 people. Travel through Venice's picturesque canals for great photo opportunities of palaces and a view of the city you can't get any other way.
... More
- 25 to 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$144.43
per group
$36.11 savings
From
$144.43
per group
$36.11 savings
- 25 to 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
Walking ToursHidden Venice Walking Tour
Get to know some of the canal city's secrets during this 1.5-hour walking tour of hidden Venice. Let an experienced local guide show you some of the city's more off-beat sights. Walk from the popular St. Mark's Square to the Rialto Bridge to find the hidden gems along the way. Enjoy seeing this unique city at a leisurely pace.
... More
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$29.67
Full-day ToursVenice Classic Gondola Ride
Cruise through Venice’s canals on this 30-minute gondola ride. Admire the city and its beauty as you ride around in the comfort of a 6-person gondola. Your gondolier steers the way, and tells you all about the city’s history as you go. Start at the Grand Canal, and see spots such as Santa Maria della Salute and Ponte dell'Accademia, as you make your way to the Fenice area.
... More
- 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$34.90
Audio GuidesUnusual Venice Walking Tour
Venture beyond the major tourist spots to discover centuries of Venetian history and secrets. Stroll through the narrow backstreets and along quiet canals that run between St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, stopping to hear the legends behind landmarks like Teatro Fenice and the mysterious Bovolo Staircase. At just over an hour, it's a great way to get off the beaten path in Venice, even with limited time.
... More
- 1 hour 15 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$27.68
Cultural ToursDiscover Venice Walking Tour with Gondola Ride
Combine a walking tour of Venice with a classic gondola ride in this 2-hour tour. Follow your guide through Piazza San Marco to the Rialto Bridge, then explore the city's canals with a gondolier.
... More
- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$63.19
Gondola CruisesHidden Venice: Unusual walking tour & charming gondola ride
Discover the charming history of Venice by land and by water on this combo walking tour and gondola ride. Explore the historic area between St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, following a knowledgeable guide through narrow side streets, hidden squares, and quiet canals where the medieval atmosphere is soaked into the stones. Then, climb aboard a classic Venetian gondola for a 30-minute ride along the most scenic part of the Grand Canal plus smaller, romantic waterways lined with palazzos and scenes of daily life on the enchanting island.
... More
- 1 hour 45 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$58.98
Walking ToursHidden Venice Afternoon Walking Tour
Venture off the beaten track and see the secret side of Venice on this 1.15-hour walking tour. Stroll along the tranquil canal ways and get a glimpse of local life as you explore Venice’s vibrant neighborhoods. Along the way, stop to snap photos of the Rialto Bridge, admire the striking Bovolo Staircase and La Fenice Theater, and peek into lively bacaris (local bars).
... More
- 1 hour 9 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$29.67
Cultural ToursAfternoon Discover Venice
Enjoy a relaxing stroll around the beautiful city of Venice on this 90-minute walking tour. See the city’s famous sights such as Piazza San Marco, Scala del Bovolo, and the Rialto Bridge as you listen to informative commentary from your guide about the city’s rich history. Admire the beauty of the canal system and the exquisite architecture of Venice.
... More
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$27.68
Walking ToursCarnival Mask Treasure Hunt
An amazing treasure hunt around Venice!
Diversion couple adventure, funny family game or amusing friends contest: an incredible activity which fits everyone spirit and taste.
Find your treasure and win a real carnival Venetian mask made by a local craftsman.
During the hunt, you’ll have to take a picture of at least 3 points highlighted on the map. At the end, the treasure will be yours: one Venetian mask, ready to be painted. A professional Mask-maker will happily give suggestions to personalize it!
... More
- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$12.02
Cultural ToursPublic Tour: Strolling around Venetian Calli and Canals
Water connects everything in Venice, and on this private gondola ride, you’ll see life as the local do. Sit back and relax as your professional gondolier guides you through the city’s canals and waterways. Then, take a walking tour of the area between Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge, passing by the Teatro la Fenice and Scala Contarini del Bovolo.
... More
- 1 hour 45 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$63.19
Cultural ToursPalazzo Ducale and Venice Walking Tour
Uncover the legends and legacy of the Venetian Republic on this 2.5-hour combo tour led by an art historian guide. Skip the long lines at the Doge's Palace to explore the lavish rooms and chilling prisons once used by Venice's powerful rulers, and then stroll through a web of winding streets and along charming canals on a guided walking tour towards the Rialto Bridge. Dig even deeper into Venetian history with included tickets to the three museums of the Procuratie at St. Mark's Square, which you can explore independently at your leisure.
... More
- 2 hours 20 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$83.05
Half-day ToursSkip-the-Line: Venice Walking Tour, Doge’s Palace, and Gondola Ride
Discover Venice with this tour by foot and gondola, and visit the Doge’s Palace, too. With a guide, you’ll bypass the main entrance line to tour the historic palace in St. Mark’s Square. Learn about the doges of the Venetian republic, then explore the streets of modern-day Venice. Hear the history behind sights such as the Rialto Bridge before you take to the water, gliding through Venice on a traditional gondola boat. Numbers are limited to just 15 people for a small-group experience.
... More
- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$123.80
Cultural ToursDiscover Venice: City Center Walking Tour
Step off the well-trodden path in Venice for a peek into the real life of the city. During this walking tour, your in-the-know guide will show you some of the hidden corners of this famous city and teach you about what life is like for locals. Headsets are included to hear your guide clearly.
... More
- 1 hour 15 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$29.67
Cultural ToursPublic Tour: Discovering the Beauties of Venice
Avoid the hassle of navigating on your own on a walking tour of central Venice. Your guide offers stories and background at each location, from popular landmarks like the Rialto Bridge to hidden gems like the tallest spiral staircase in the city. Cap the tour with a gondola ride, a classic Venetian experience booked in advance for your convenience.
... More
- 1 hour 45 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$63.19
Historical ToursHidden Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride
Discover the magic and mysteries of Venice from two different perspectives on a combo gondola ride and walking tour. Climb aboard a traditional Venetian gondola for a voyage through the Grand Canal and some smaller, atmospheric canals, passing magnificent palazzos and churches along the way. Then, explore the historic area between St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge on foot, following a guide through winding backstreets, squares, and marketplaces brimming with character to uncover the hidden stories of Venice.
... More
- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$68.35
Private Sightseeing ToursIn Venice for the first time
This tour will provide you with an orientation and introduction to the history of this magical city.
The walk unfolds through the elegant Piazza San Marco, you will admire the heart of the city until you reach the Rialto Bridge accompanied by your Myvenicexperience guide who will tell you curious anecdotes and historical facts.
... More
- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$84.25
Airport & Hotel TransfersVenice City Pass: Free admission to Venice's top attractions & airport transfer!
Sightseeing, especially in a city as famous as Venice, can quickly get expensive. Save money, and time, with the Venice City Pass, which gives you free, skip-the-line, admission to many of the city's most important attractions.
... More
- 7 days
From
$108.20
Full-day ToursSecrets of Venice Private Walking Tour with Guide
The area between Rialto and Piazza San Marco is typically thick with tourists. On this intimate tour, venture away from these heavily-trafficked paths to explore the quieter, more authentic parts of Venice. Your private guide escorts you to lesser-known sites such as Campo Santo Stefano, Scala Contarini del Bovolo, and Teatro Goldoni. Time to ask questions, and take photos is scheduled in.
... More
- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$347.83
per group
Half-day ToursPublic Tour: Beauties and Traditions of an Ancient Power
Discover the Doge's Palace, the ancient seat of the Venetian political power. Enjoy a walking tour of the area between Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge, passing by Teatro la Fenice, Scala del Bovolo, Rialto Bridge. Have a gondola tour along the Grand Canal and minor canals.
... More
- 3 hours 15 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$123.80
Cultural ToursPublic Tour: Beauties in Venice
Discover one of the most charming and historic parts of Venice on a walking tour of the winding maze between St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. Leave the crowds behind as a guide leads you through winding sidestreets and across foot bridges, stopping to hear the legends behind landmarks like the Teatro la Fenice opera house and the curious Scala del Bovolo staircase.
... More
- 1 hour 15 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$29.67
Things to do near Venice
- Things to do in Veneto
- Things to do in Treviso
- Things to do in Padua
- Things to do in Vicenza
- Things to do in Ferrara
- Things to do in Piran
- Things to do in Porec
- Things to do in Bologna
- Things to do in Ljubljana
- Things to do in Florence
- Things to do in Innsbruck
- Things to do in Milan
- Things to do in Pisa
- Things to do in Istria
- Things to do in Friuli-Venezia Giulia