The traghetto across the Grand Canal is probably the quickest and cheapest way of experiencing a gondola if only for a couple of minutes, as the permanence of board is very short. Since the Grand Canal cuts the city in two but it’s crossed only by three bridges there are several crossing-stations (called “stazi”) along the most important waterway in Venice that can save lots of time and walking, bringing the Venetians from one bank to the opposite one. Traditionally the traghetto runs from early in the morning until 7.00 or 8.00 pm (even a little bit later in the summer). The gondola shuttle back and forward almost continuously , so you should not wait more than a few minutes. Once on board you can sit, perch on the gunnel (banda)or stand but remember that it’s customary to stand during the crossing. The 50 eurocent fare must be paid as you leave the gondola (don’t try to pay while boarding!). A last advise: don’t pay attention to the rudeness of the gondoliers, they are just preventing people from falling into the water.

THE GONDOLA TRAGHETTO 'FERRY'