Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica Fast-Track Tour in Venice
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Skip the long lines and uncover Venice’s most iconic landmarks on this guided tour of the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. Start in St. Mark’s Square, the heart of Venice, before stepping into the Doge’s Palace, where opulent halls and political intrigue shaped the Venetian Republic. Admire stunning masterpieces that once impressed foreign ambassadors and walk the same corridors as the city’s rulers.
Then, bypass the crowds and enter St. Mark’s Basilica, where golden mosaics shimmer under the light, creating an almost otherworldly glow. Spot hidden saints in the mosaics and uncover the mystery of the famous bronze horses that have traveled the world.
Your journey doesn’t end there—your ticket includes free entry to three museums in St. Mark’s Square, revealing rare manuscripts and Venetian history.
Want to take your experience to the next level? Upgrade for exclusive access to St. Mark’s panoramic terrace and soak in the best views of Venice from above!
Available options
English Tour
Doge & St. Mark Tour: Explore Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica on a 2-hour guided tour. Skip the lines and uncover Venice’s history.<br/>Duration: 2 hours
English Tour + Terrace Access
Full Tour + Self-led Terrace: Guided tour of Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica, plus self-led access to St. Mark’s Museum & Terrace for stunning views.<br/>Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes: 2-hour guided tour + approx. 30 minutes self-led visit to the terrace and museums.
What's included
Optional Upgrade: Self-led Visit of St. Mark’s Basilica’s Terrace
On-Site Assistance at Meeting Point
Complimentary Entry to Museo Correr (not guided)
Exclusive Digital Content via Crown Tours App
Skip-the-line entry to Doge's Palace
Skip-the-line entry to St. Mark's Basilica
Complimentary Entry to Monumental Rooms of Biblioteca Marciana (not guided)
Personal Audio System
Guided Tour of Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica
Complimentary Entry to National Archaeological Museum (not guided)
Professional Licensed Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your adventure begins in Venice’s grandest square! A stunning open-air masterpiece where golden light bounces off centuries of history. The perfect place to soak in the magic!
2
Stop 2
Step into the lavish world of Venice’s rulers. Ornate halls, gilded ceilings, and a touch of drama—this is where power, art, and intrigue come alive.
3
Walk across this hauntingly beautiful bridge, where whispers of the past linger. Imagine the final glances of prisoners before stepping into the eerie yet fascinating Piombi Prisons for a brief but unforgettable look at history.
4
A dazzling masterpiece of golden mosaics and intricate domes. Every inch tells a story, every detail feels like stepping into a dream.
5
Stop 5
(Includes access, not guided) – Explore Venice’s fascinating past at your own pace. From grand Napoleonic halls to maritime history, this museum is a quiet retreat filled with art, maps, and Venetian treasures.
6
(Includes access, not guided) – Step back in time through an impressive collection of ancient Roman and Greek sculptures, artifacts, and mosaics. A must for history lovers!
7
(Includes access to the Monumental Rooms, not guided) – Step inside the breathtaking Monumental Rooms of this historic library, where Renaissance frescoes and rare manuscripts create a true literary masterpiece.
What's not included
Food & Drinks
Gratuities
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
47 reviews
5★
41
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.6
11 reviews
5★
9
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tickets are nominative. Name/s provided during the booking must match the valid photo ID presented by each participant. Entry may be denied otherwise.
Visitors aged 11+ (Basilica-only) or 6+ (Doge’s Palace) must buy a standard adult ticket.
Please note that St. Mark's Basilica enforces a strict dress code. Visitors must always cover their knees and shoulders.
Skip-the-line does not bypass security check lines. During peak season, wait times may be longer.
The Basilica is an active place of worship. Access may be restricted or modified without notice due to religious events, high tide or crowd control.
Audioguides are provided via the Crown Tours App. Due to limited local connectivity, we strongly recommend downloading the app beforehand (requires 500 MB). Bring a charged smartphone & personal headphones.
From July 1, 2025, the entry fee for Basilica-only access is €12. Optional access: Museum or Pala d’Oro €24; Museum and Pala d’Oro €36; Campanile €18; Doge’s Palace €30; Extended Museum Pass €40. Remaining value covers operational costs, including audioguide provision and hosting services, or certified guides with whisper devices.
Meeting point
Meet us in St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco).
Walk towards Caffè Florian, the historic café on the side of the square. Our meeting point is just past it in the open square. Look for our team in purple “Crown Tours” t-shirts — easy to spot and ready to welcome you..
Important notes
Meet us in St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco).
Once you’re in the square, walk towards Caffè Florian, the famous historic café along the side of the square. Our meeting point is in the open square, just past Caffè Florian. Look for our team wearing purple “Crown Tours” t-shirts — we’ll be clearly visible and ready to welcome you.
Tickets have a strict entrance time. Being there at least 15 minutes before your entry time is recommended.
About Venice
Venice is a unique and enchanting city built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Known for its canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for its rich history, art, and culture. The city offers a romantic and timeless atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the world.
Top Attractions
St. Mark's Basilica
A stunning Byzantine cathedral known for its opulent design, golden mosaics, and historical significance. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free entry, €3 for museum and treasury
Doge's Palace
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Doge's Palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government. It offers a glimpse into the city's political and cultural history.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€25 for standard ticket, €30 for Secret Itineraries Tour
Rialto Bridge
The oldest and most famous of Venice's four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city.
Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Grand Canal
The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal is lined with beautiful palaces, churches, and historic buildings. A vaporetto ride along the canal offers stunning views.
Nature/Scenic
30-60 minutes
€7.50 for a vaporetto ticket
Murano
An island famous for its glass-making tradition. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique glass souvenirs.
Cultural/Historical
Half-day
Free to explore, €10 for museum
Burano
A colorful island known for its lace-making tradition and picturesque houses. Burano is a charming and photogenic destination.
Cultural/Scenic
Half-day
Free to explore, €5 for lace museum
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto al Nero di Seppia
A risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a distinctive black color and rich, briny flavor.
Main Course
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.
Sarde in Saor
Sweet and sour sardines marinated with onions, raisins, pine nuts, and vinegar.
Appetizer
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Bigoli in Salsa
Pasta with a sauce made from anchovies, onions, and breadcrumbs.
Main Course
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Frito Misto
A mix of fried seafood and vegetables, including shrimp, squid, and zucchini.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians.
Popular Activities
Kayaking in the canals
Cycling on Lido di Venezia
Hiking in the Venetian Lagoon
Sunbathing on Lido di Venezia
Enjoying a gondola ride
Visiting a spa or wellness center
Attending a concert or opera
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. The city is vibrant with events and festivals, and the temperatures are comfortable for exploring.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken in local areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Venice is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, and acqua alta (high water) events can disrupt travel plans.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Use official taxis and ticket vendors
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
Getting there
By air
- Venice Marco Polo Airport • 12 km from city center
By train
Santa Lucia Railway Station
By bus
Piazzale Roma
Getting around
Public transport
The vaporetto is the main public transport system in Venice. It operates on fixed routes and is the most convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps
Rentals
Neighborhoods
San Marco
Dorsoduro
Cannaregio
Castello
Day trips
Burano and Murano
10-45 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
Visit the colorful island of Burano and the glass-making island of Murano for a unique and picturesque day trip.
Lido di Venezia
20 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
A long, narrow island between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, known for its beaches, the Venice Film Festival, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Padua (Padova)
40 km (25 miles) • Half-day to full day
A charming city known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and the famous Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto.
Festivals
Venice Carnival • February or March (dates vary)
Venice Film Festival • Late August to early September
Festa del Redentore • Third weekend of July
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more authentic experience
- Try local specialties and dishes, and ask locals for recommendations
- Use a map or GPS to navigate the intricate streets and canals, as Venice can be easy to get lost in
- Be prepared for acqua alta (high water) events, especially from October to January, and check forecasts and plan accordingly
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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