Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica Guided Tour in Venice
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the heart of Venice like never before with our exclusive guided tour of the Doge’s Palace and Saint Mark’s Basilica.
Skip the lines and explore hidden chambers, prison cells, and magnificent art, all while a knowledgeable guide brings history to life. From political intrigue to Byzantine masterpieces, this tour offers an immersive, hassle-free journey through Venice’s rich history.
Don’t miss out—book now for an unforgettable adventure!
Available options
Spanish Guided Tour
Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a St Mark Basilica tour 10:45 or 14:45, followed by Doge's Palace from 11:45 or 15:45.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Doge's Palace
French Guided Tour
Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a St Mark Basilica tour 10:45 or 14:45, followed by Doge's Palace from 11:45 or 15:45.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Doge's Palace
Italian Guided Tour
Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a St Mark Basilica tour 10:45 or 14:45, followed by Doge's Palace from 11:45 or 15:45.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Doge's Palace
English Guided Tour
Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a St Mark Basilica tour 10:45 or 14:45, followed by Doge's Palace from 11:45 or 15:45.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Doge's Palace
German Guided Tour
Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a St Mark Basilica tour 10:45 or 14:45, followed by Doge's Palace from 11:45 or 15:45.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Doge's Palace
What's included
Officially certified guide
Radio system to hear the guide
Tickets and Reservations to Doge's Palace
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your guided tour at the meeting point, then enter the Doge’s Palace through its majestic marble courtyard, a stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture.
Step through a small doorway into the Pozzi, the dark, damp underground cells where prisoners endured harsh confinement in silence and isolation. Hear haunting stories of their suffering, carved and drawn into the walls. Continue up a narrow staircase to the offices of the Ducal Notary and Deputato alla Segreta, key figures in the Republic’s political engine.
Explore the grand Chamber of the Secret Chancellery, lined with ancient cabinets full of public and classified records, then enter the chilling Torture Chamber, where your guide will explain grim interrogation practices. Visit the Piombi, attic prison cells for political detainees, and the attic armory showcasing 16th-century weapons.
Finally, step into the feared Chamber of the Inquisitors, guardians of Venice’s darkest state secrets and political order.
2
Stop 2
After leaving the Doge’s Palace, your guide leads you just a short walk across the square to Saint Mark’s Basilica, where you’ll enjoy skip-the-line access to one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks. Inside, marvel at the stunning Byzantine mosaics that cover the walls and ceilings, depicting stories from the Old Testament and the life of Saint Mark.
Your guide will share fascinating insights into how these mosaics, spanning over 8,000 square meters, reflect the fusion of Eastern and Western artistic influences. Walk on the intricate marble inlays of the basilica’s floors while learning about its unique architectural history.
Next, explore the Treasury, home to sacred relics and religious artifacts from centuries of Venetian devotion. Ascend to the Museum of Saint Mark’s, where you can admire the mosaics up close and get a deeper understanding of the basilica’s artistic and historical significance.
The tour concludes here, but feel free to stay and explore at your leisure.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Transportation to/from attractions
Entrance tickets to the attractions are not mentioned in the inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Photography is not allowed at St. Mark’s Cathedral only.
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
For security reasons sacks, bags or knapsacks are not allowed inside the Basilica and Doge's palace.
The tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of religious functions (in these cases it can be rearranged or refunded).
Please wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved.
Please note that the tour requires a minimum number of two guests to run.
Please note that if you arrive after the tour start time you will not be able to join and will not be refunded or have your tour rescheduled.
Subject to favourable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements, in the event of this occurring you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
Please note that the 10:45 tour includes the guided Saint Mark's Basilica tour. The Doge's Palace tour will take place at 11:45 from the same meeting point. Make sure to return to the meeting location on time for the Doge's Palace tour.
Please note that the 14:45 tour includes the guided Saint Mark's Basilica tour. The Doge's Palace tour will take place at 15:45 from the same meeting point. Make sure to return to the meeting location on time for the Doge's Palace tour.
Please note that customers suffering from claustrophobia, vertigo or cardio-respiratory disorders, pregnant women and Children under 6 are not allowed on this tour.
Meeting point
Please meet your guide in front of the wooden souvenir kiosk, just behind the Correr Museum in Piazza San Marco, next to the entrance to the post office.
Important notes
The entrance tickets will be delivered by the guide or our representative at the meeting point prior to the start of the tour.
Please follow the instructions to the meeting point as on the voucher
Please note that both the 10:45 and 14:45 tours include a guided visit to Saint Mark's Basilica, followed by the Doge's Palace tour (at 11:45 and 15:45 respectively) from the same meeting point. Ensure you return to the meeting location on time for the Doge's Palace tour.
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
Instant confirmation
