The Grand Canal carves an S-shaped passage through the center of the city, and there is no better way to explore it than from the love seat in a gondola, chaperoned by an opera-loving gondolier. Yes, it's expensive, and yes, you'll look like a

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The Grand Canal carves an S-shaped passage through the center of the city, and there is no better way to explore it than from the love seat in a gondola, chaperoned by an opera-loving gondolier. Yes, it's expensive, and yes, you'll look like a tourist, but the gondola remains the time-honored Venice excursion for lovers. Your only option: submit. There are eight landings around the city, but to avoid lines, head well away from the San Marco area queues; one less-crowded dock is Stazio Gondole di San Tomà, next to the San Tomà vaporetto stop. Expect to pay about $150 for a 40-minute tour for up to six passengers (more after 7 p.m.). If you join forces with others note that only two can snuggle into the love seat.

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