VENICE, FRANKINCENSE AND MYRRH! A JOURNEY ON AROMATICS TRADE

Imagine stepping into a world where the air is thick with the scent of ancient spices and sacred resins. That’s exactly what this 1.5-hour tour offers—an aromatic journey through Venice’s historic role as a trading hub connecting the Middle and Far East. Hosted by ANBESA SRL, this experience takes you into the heart of Venice’s merchant traditions, with a notable focus on frankincense, myrrh, and other exotic raw materials that once made Venice the center of a global spice network.

What truly sets this tour apart is its hands-on olfactory component—a chance to smell and compare some of the most valued aromatics from around the world. We love the detailed storytelling about Venice’s history, especially how the city’s maritime prowess and trade routes like the Silk, Spice, and Frankincense routes shaped its wealth and cultural influence.

A small caveat? The experience is quite focused on the history and scents, so if you’re expecting more sightseeing or visual attractions, you’ll want to supplement this with other Venice tours. However, for those interested in sensory discovery and historical insights, this tour fits like a charm—especially for travelers curious about the trade, botany, and perfumes of the ancient world.

This experience will appeal to those who love history, fragrances, and immersive learning—perfect for curious travelers eager to understand Venice’s aromatic legacy beyond the usual landmarks.

Key Points

• Authentic olfactory experience with a curated collection of raw aromatics
• Learn about Venice’s historic trade with Middle and Far East
• Expert guides help decode the significance of each spice and resin
• Accessible and compact 1.5-hour private tour, great for busy schedules
• Ideal for scent enthusiasts and history buffs
• Located in a dedicated showroom that feels like stepping into an incense kingdom

An In-Depth Look at the Aromatic Tour in Venice

What Makes This Tour Special?

This tour isn’t just about sniffing pretty smells; it’s a window into Venice’s past as a bustling trader that connected Europe to the exotic riches of the Orient. Hosted at the Anbesa showroom, which feels more like an Incense Kingdom, you’re welcomed into a carefully curated space—an environment crafted from decades of research, trading, and importing the finest aromatic raw materials. It’s a genuine passion project for the guides, who are proud Venetians committed to keeping this merchant tradition alive.

The main draw? The chance to smell authentic aromatics like frankincense, myrrh, sandalwood, benzoin, and storax, many of which have been traded since antiquity. The collection at Anbesa is extensive, allowing your nose to experience the subtle differences between each resin and spice. As one reviewer mentioned, “you’ll be driven to far regions, places of origin of these perfumes,” and that’s no exaggeration; it’s a sensory voyage.

The Itinerary: From San Samuele to the Incense Kingdom

Starting at the Chiesa di San Samuele, the tour begins with a brief walk to the showroom, giving you a chance to appreciate Venice’s charming streets and waterways. Once inside, the guide sets the scene with a storytelling session about Venice’s historical trade routes—highlighting how Stato da Terra e Stato da Mar (land and sea domains) supported Venice’s merchant empire.

The first part of the tour is dedicated to narrating Venice’s orientalist history—how the city became a gateway for spices, resins, and precious goods from the Middle and Far East. You’ll learn about key trading vessels, the Arsenale, and how Venice became intertwined with the Silk, Spice, and Frankincense routes. This context enriches your understanding of why these fragrances were so valuable and how they influenced Venetian culture, religion, and aesthetics.

The second part focuses on olfactory exploration. Here, you’ll get to smell a wide selection of raw materials like frankincense, myrrh, mastic, sandalwood, colophony, copal, and others. Many reviewers have praised the guides’ knowledge, with one noting, “They explain the inner secrets and characteristics of each aroma,” making it not just a sensory experience but an educational one.

What to Expect: Sensory and Historical Insights

Expect a small, intimate group setting—private groups make the experience personal, allowing the guide to tailor explanations and answer your questions. The guided tasting involves smelling from glass jars or raw materials directly, which is a rare opportunity to encounter these substances outside of a perfume lab or a museum.

The guide’s expertise is often highlighted as a standout feature. “The guides are very knowledgeable,” said one reviewer, “and they help you understand the uses of these aromatics in medicine, cosmetics, and religious rituals.” This adds an extra layer of appreciation, especially if you’re interested in botany, history, or perfumery.

Practical Details and Value

At $30 per person, this tour offers excellent value for an educational and sensory experience. It’s short but packed with information, making it perfect for travelers who want a meaningful glimpse into Venice’s aromatic history without spending hours. The tour lasts about 90 minutes, with enough time to smell, learn, and ask questions.

The meeting point at the San Samuele water bus stop is convenient, especially if you’re already exploring the city. The tour’s private nature means you’ll have a more relaxed and personalized experience compared to larger group tours, and the flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is not for everyone—if you’re looking for grand landmarks or visual sightseeing, this might feel too niche. However, if you’re intrigued by history, trade, and perfumes, you’ll find this tour both informative and fun. It’s particularly suited for adults, scent lovers, and history enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances of raw materials and want a unique, sensory perspective on Venice’s past.

Authenticity and Quality of Guides

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and their ability to make complex stories accessible. One reviewer mentioned, “The guides help you decode the inner secrets of each fragrance,” emphasizing their role as both educators and storytellers. This depth of expertise makes the experience more engaging and worthwhile.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who value authentic, sensory experiences over just sightseeing. If you’re fascinated by spices, perfumes, history, or the art of trade, you’ll find this tour a delightful addition to your Venice visit. It’s particularly suited to those interested in learning about the origins and uses of aromatic substances—whether for personal curiosity, hobby, or professional interest.

It’s also a great choice for couples or small groups seeking a private, intimate experience that’s both educational and fun. Remember, the focus is on smell and story, so come prepared to breathe deeply and ask lots of questions.

Final Thoughts

Venice’s history as a trading powerhouse is often reduced to its iconic canals and architecture, but this tour offers a fascinating alternative—an smell-based journey into its merchant past. The combination of expert guides, authentic raw materials, and in-depth storytelling makes this experience a worthy addition for those eager to understand Venice’s role in global trade and cultural exchange.

While it’s not a sightseeing tour of Venice’s landmarks, it provides a rich context and sensory delight that complements any comprehensive visit. For lovers of history, perfumes, or just curious travelers wanting something different, this tour delivers a memorable, educational experience that awakens the senses and expands your understanding of Venice’s aromatic legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s designed for adults and older children who can appreciate and understand the aromatic experience. The focus on scents and trade history may not hold very young children’s interest.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak Italian?
Yes, the tour is offered in both Italian and English, ensuring you can follow along comfortably.

How long does the tour take?
The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at the San Samuele water bus stop, marked with a sign bearing ANBESA-THE INCENSE KINGDOM and the tour name.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get an introduction to Venice’s trade history and a sensory journey through fragrant raw materials from a collection at the showroom.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s held for private groups, providing a more personalized experience.

Are there any physical requirements or restrictions?
The tour involves standing and smelling; it’s accessible to most, but those with allergies or scent sensitivities should consider this before booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This aromatic journey in Venice offers a compelling blend of history, culture, and sensory exploration—a distinctive way to deepen your understanding of the city’s merchant soul. For curious minds and scent enthusiasts alike, it’s a small investment that promises a big olfactory payoff.