Enjoy fast access to the most emblematic monuments of Venice: the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. Marvel at the impressive halls in the palace, the golden mosaics in the basilica and visit the prison crossing the famous Bridge of Sighs.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- Covid-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 2 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Skip the ticket line
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English, German, Spanish, French, Italian
- Small group available
Experience
Highlights
- Skip the lines to enter the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica without delay
- Pass through impressive halls where the doges ruled the Most Serene Republic of Venice
- Walk over the famous Bridge of Sighs
- Admire the golden mosaics and other treasures of St. Mark’s Basilica
Full description
Covid-19 Update
Due to health and safety regulations, this itinerary may change. See Know before you go for the latest updates.
For centuries, the destiny of the Most Serene Republic was decided in the majestic halls of the Doge’s Palace, where the Doge and his Council used to meet to rule the Republic. Walking through the magnificent halls and marvel at the well-conserved priceless treasures, art masterpieces, and frescos.
Visit the prison, passing over the celebrated Bridge of Sighs, so called because prisoners often sighed while looking at their beloved lagoon and freedom for the last time before reaching their cells. Among the famous guests of the Doge’s Palace prisons was Giacomo Casanova, the celebrated seducer and adventurer who managed to escape from the prison in 1756.
Next you’ll visit St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the world’s most stunning churches. As the name suggests, this cathedral is bound tightly to Venice’s patron, St. Mark, and the saint's remains are in fact here. Admire the breathtaking golden mosaics covering the high walls, which together with gold, silver, glass, and precious materials combine to create one of the major treasures of the Basilica. See the Pala d’Oro, an altarpiece made from hundreds of pieces of enamel on a golden leaf.
Includes
- Skip-the line entry to the Doge's Palace
- Admission tickets
- Experienced tour guide
- Headphones (to better hear the tour guide)
Covid-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
- Customers will get a mandatory temperature check
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Under the arches beside the Clock Tower in St Mark's Square
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What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
Not allowed
- Pets
- Shorts
- Luggage or large bags
- Short skirts
- Sleeveless shirts
Know before you go
- Until further notice, entrance inside St. Mark’s Basilica is not possible due to ongoing restoration work. Tours will visit the basilica's Terrace and its Museum instead