Private Doge's Palace & Saint Mark's Basilica Tour
From€199
2 hours
Venice, Italy
About this activity
Experience Venice's rich history with a guided tour of Doge's Palace and Saint Mark's Basilica, including skip-the-line access and expert insights.
Highlights
- Skip-the-line access to Doge's Palace
- Explore Saint Mark's Basilica's mosaics
- Visit the Bridge of Sighs
- Admire the Golden Staircase
- Learn from an expert guide
Full description
Dive into Venice's captivating past with this exclusive tour of Doge's Palace and Saint Mark's Basilica. Skip the lines and step into the opulent halls of the Doge's Palace, where you'll be guided through its grand chambers and learn about its political significance. Then, marvel at the intricate mosaics and architectural beauty of Saint Mark's Basilica, a testament to Venice's artistic heritage. Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating stories and historical context, enriching your understanding of these iconic landmarks. This tour offers a seamless blend of art, history, and culture, ensuring an unforgettable Venetian experience.
Included / Excluded
- Skip-the-line access to Doge's Palace and Saint Mark's Basilica
- Expert guide providing historical insights
- Visit to the Bridge of Sighs and the Golden Staircase
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Itinerary
1
Your Doge's Palace and Saint Mark's Tour will begin in beautiful Piazza San Marco, where you will meet your Private Tour Guide. Begin your adventure into two of Venice's most famous sites in this most iconic and picture perfect square, learning all about its architecture, history and anecdotes.
Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Your first official stop will be Saint Mark's Basilica. Enjoy exclusive and privileged skip the (long) line access, and enter straight into what is also known as the Golden Basilica. Here, your Private guide will show you and guide you through the interior of this incredible church, musing on its history, anecdotes, and the many eras it has seen in its hundreds of years of existence. You will surely be stunned by the thousands and thousands of square feet of pure golden mosaics that completely cover the basilica's interior. There is quite literally no other place like this! An original, valid photo ID is required for entry to St. Mark's Basilica. Photocopies are not accepted.
Duration: 50 minAdmission: YES
3
Exit the Basilica, and continue your tour by enjoying once again exclusive skip the line access to the Doge's Palace, the seat of Venice's government for centuries. You will be amazed by the secret stories your guide shares as you walk through the Doge’s private, luxurious apartments and powerful halls, such as the Hall of the Great Council. Then, continue to explore the palace with a visit to the scary, dark and gory prison. After seeing the impressive collection of weapons, you will stop at the notorious Bridge of Sighs. Enjoy the view and snap some perfect pictures for your album at home.
Duration: 50 minAdmission: YES
4
After seeing the impressive collection of weapons, you will stop at the notorious Bridge of Sighs. Enjoy the view and snap some perfect pictures for your album at home.
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; please ensure you understand the language.
- Children under 6 years old can join for free; however, they must be accompanied by an adult.
- The tour operates rain or shine; please dress appropriately for the weather.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces.
- Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
- Photography is allowed in most areas; however, flash photography may be restricted.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
- An original, valid photo ID is required for entry to St. Mark's Basilica. Photocopies are not accepted.
- Please provide the full names of all travelers when booking. Failure to present a voucher with all travelers’ full names at the ticket office prior to entry may result in denied entry to the attraction.
- The ticket includes a cost to enter St. Mark’s Basilica valued at 30 EUR per person.
Traveler reviews
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Doge Palace Tour
Romy was a wonderful guide. She is extremely knowledgeable on the history of Doge Palace. Our family really enjoyed the tour!
heatherd21575May 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR
INCREDIBLE - Thank you Pamela!
This was the most fantastic tour! I could not have been more pleased with the guide, as well as the scene itself!! Great Price. Perfect amount of time!! Not too crowded. All around…INCREDIBLE!!
114aidanfMay 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Best Venice Tour with BEST guide - Pamela!
Pamela! What an amazing guide for a great experience! If you can book with Pamela, you are in for a special day!!!
smooth2pMay 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Wonderful Time in Venice
Nico was amazing. He taught us so much and provided many interesting details. Our group enjoyed our time with him.
Excursion62372939004May 22, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Great tour
Tullia was a wonderful guide — we had a 2 year old in tow and she was so helpful
Eric MMay 22, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
An original, valid photo ID is required for entry to St. Mark's Basilica. Photocopies are not accepted.