Venice: Commissario Brunetti Walking Tour & Donna Leon Sites

Summary

Follow Brunetti’s footsteps through Venice’s winding alleys, secret bars, and the real-life scenes from Donna Leon’s novels

You’ll trace Commissario Brunetti’s steps across Venice—from his front door in Cannaregio to bars full of local gossip and film secrets near Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo. Expect stories from your licensed guide, real-life filming spots, and small moments that make you feel part of Donna Leon’s world—even if just for an afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the chipped green door in Cannaregio—honestly, I’d walked past it twice before our guide pointed it out with a little grin. “Brunetti’s house,” she said, almost like she was letting us in on a secret only Venetians and die-hard Donna Leon fans would know. The canal smelled faintly of algae and coffee drifting from somewhere nearby. I tried to imagine Paola hurrying out, maybe late for something. It just felt… weirdly familiar, even though I’d only seen it in my head before.

We ducked into a bar where apparently Vice-Questore Patta had one too many grappas (our guide told that story with an eye-roll—guess some things are universal). The place was small, all wood and old posters, and there was this sharp scent of espresso and pastry sugar. I ordered a tramezzino because Vianello supposedly loves them here. Not sure if mine lived up to his standards but it was salty and soft, and honestly perfect after wandering those narrow streets. The guide kept tossing in little bits about filming—how they’d have to clear out locals for a scene or how Chiara’s big reveal happened right down the block.

Outside the Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, Signora Maria’s kiosk was still there (or at least someone who looked like she could be her). Our group got quiet for a second; maybe everyone else was picturing Brett Lynch or just soaking up the sunlight on the stones. There was this moment where the city felt both totally normal—kids chasing pigeons—and also charged with all these stories layered over each other. Kind of made me want to reread Acqua Alta right then.

The tour ended at that columned hall—the Questura from the TV series—with its famous green door. I lingered there longer than I meant to, half-expecting Brunetti himself to walk out looking tired but kind. Venice is different when you see it through his eyes; messier maybe, but warmer too. That stuck with me after we left.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Brunetti's Venice locations

• Start at Brunetti's house door
• Visit Angelo Animale headquarters
• See masked figures chase scene
• Stop at bar for chocolate ice cream
• Discuss investigation in pub
• Enjoy café and croissants at bar
• Meet Signora Maria at kiosk
• End at columned hall near Questura

Top questions

Where does the Commissario Brunetti walking tour start?

The tour starts at Brunetti’s house door in Cannaregio, Venice.

Is this tour focused on Donna Leon's books or TV series?

The tour covers both Donna Leon's novels and the TV adaptation locations in Venice.

Are visits to bars or cafes included in the itinerary?

Yes, you’ll stop at bars featured in the stories where characters meet or discuss cases.

Does the tour include entry to Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo?

The tour visits areas around the basilica but doesn’t specify interior entry.

Is a local guide included on this Venice walking tour?

Yes, your experience includes a licensed local guide throughout the walk.

How long does this Commissario Brunetti tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect a standard walking pace covering several sites.

Are service animals allowed on this Venice walking tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the experience.

Is this day trip suitable for travelers with strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can join using prams or strollers.

Will I need to pay an access fee if visiting Venice for just one day?

Certain dates require a city access fee for day visitors; check official sites for details.

What’s included

Your day includes a licensed local guide (registration number 06000001), stops at key Commissario Brunetti locations featured in Donna Leon’s novels and TV series—including Cannaregio and near Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo—and time to pause at memorable bars along the way. Public transport is nearby if you’re coming from outside central Venice, and service animals as well as strollers are welcome throughout the walk.