Tucked into a secluded part of the city where tourists are scarce but wonderful sights abound, this Venice Jewish ghetto private tour explores the enduring legacy of the western world's first Jewish ghetto. Dive into the rich history and traditions of Jewish life in Venice from the 16th century up to modern day. During this Venice Jewish ghetto private tour, you will uncover the cultural impact of Venice's longstanding Jewish community with the insider knowledge of your local guide.

Venice Jewish Ghetto Private Tour

Since its onset, this wondrous city on the water has always had a unique position – in history, in commerce, and in culture and within this, the Jewish community has a long and captivating story to tell. Explore the long and diverse history of Jews in the City of Water and traces their 500-year + heritage on this Venice Jewish ghetto private tour. Step into the past as you stroll through the streets and canals of the city’s most historic and picturesque neighborhood, the Jewish Ghetto in Cannaregio.

The Ghetto contrasts sharply with the opulence and splendor of the rest of Venice and is dominated by narrow alleyways, significantly taller buildings due to demographic pressures and a somewhat stark environment. Many consider the area to be a little piece of authentic Venice, tucked away from the well-trodden tourist trail, where the streets resonate with the sounds of locals laughing and catching up on gossip.

Located away from the hectic, big tourist attractions of Venice, the Jewish Ghetto is one of the most beautiful hidden treasures of the city and a favorite place among locals. Appreciate being away from the crowds as you explore this unique district and hear its storied history with your guide. Experience a slice of daily Venetian life, learn about the origins of the Jewish community, how the Jews lived here over the centuries, and what role they played in the history and economy of the city.

Life in the Venice Jewish Ghetto

The center of Jewish tradition in Venice, the Ghetto is home to the Jewish Museum, synagogues, and bakeries. For more than two centuries, however, beginning in 1516, the Jews were kept prisoners in this area. The only means of living available to them include money lending, merchandizing, selling rags, and the odd medical job.

During wartime, this neighborhood was a refuge for Jews, attracting so many refugees that buildings grew up haphazardly to accommodate them. This jumble of buildings today rises along some of the prettiest and quietest canals in Venice. Today the Jewish Ghetto is a quiet and genuine area of Venice where a small community still lives in keeping up their daily activities and kosher culinary traditions resulting in a delectable cuisine.

Visiting the Venice Jewish Ghetto Today

Hear how the Jewish Ghetto was the first of its kind in the world, and how it served as the inspiration for William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, as you amble along its pretty streets. While the Jewish population in the ghetto reached a peak of 4,000 inhabitants by the mid-17th century, today Venice is home to around 500 Jews who live all over the city. The quarter still thrives as a spiritual and cultural center for Venice’s Jewish community thus, you will have the opportunity to get an inside look at this thriving community, both past and present.

Interested in getting an authentic taste of Venice’s Jewish Ghetto? Read our post to explore the best taverns in which to try Venice’s traditional cicchetti in the historical Cannaregio quarter.