Doge's Palace and St. Mark's church

Tour Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the history of the Floating City with the help of your expert local guide
• Choose from a private or shared group experience
• See Venice’s Lagoon from the usually off-limits terrace at St. Mark’s Basilica
• Hear anecdotes about how and why Venice was built on a lagoon in the 5th century and other fascinating facts

Tour Details

Delve deep into Venice’s history with a 3-hour guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge's Palace, either as a private tour or shared group experience. Take in two of the city’s most important landmarks while discovering the history of the one-time mercantile capital of the Mediterranean. 

Start by exploring St. Mark's Square with your guide before heading into the cathedral. From the first-floor terrace you’ll be able to admire views across the lagoon and see the famous bronze horses up close. Hear how they traveled all the way to Paris and back in Napoleon’s time.

St. Mark's Basilica sometimes closes to visitors without warning. If this happens, visit the Church of San Zaccaria or the Correr Museum instead, depending on availability. Take a tour of the beautifully ornate 15th-century church and its flooded crypt or learn about the art and history of Venice.

Next, you’ll use the priority entrance to reach Doge's Palace, formerly the residence of the leader of the Republic of Venice. Enjoy visiting the Chamber of the Great Council and courtrooms among other things. Highlights include frescoes by Tintoretto and the Giants’ Staircase. 

After this, cross the infamous Bridge of Sighs that links to the New Prisons. Learn how the bridge got its name and the purpose for its construction in the 17th century as you take in the amazing views of the canals.

At the end of your tour, feel free to stay and explore the Doge’s Palace with tips from your guide.

Tour Include

• Guided tour with expert guide
• Priority entrance to the Doge's Palace
• St. Mark's Basilica first floor and terrace access ticket
• Church of San Zaccaria and its crypt entry or Correr Museum entry (if St. Mark's Basilica is closed)

Tour Exclude

• Reception and travel

Important Notes

Not suitable for

• Wheelchair users

Meeting point

• Make sure to check your email for instructions and credentials to access the tour.

The tour is not suitable for

• Elderly and pregnant women