HistoricalCultureHiking

St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace Tour in Venice

4.1(34 reviews)Venice, Italy
2hDurationPortuguese, English, Italian, French, SpanishOffered inMobile ticketTicketNot includedPickupEasyLevel

About this experience

Explore Venice by visiting St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace. This tour includes a guided walk through the Doge’s Palace, which served as the center of Venetian power and justice. You will see the Bridge of Sighs, learning about its historical significance. The visit to St. Mark’s Basilica features its Byzantine architecture and notable mosaics. Additionally, the tour includes a stop at a Murano glass workshop. The experience is suitable for those interested in history and art. It may not be ideal for individuals with mobility issues due to the walking involved.

Itinerary

1

Palazzo Ducale

Situated in the heart of St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace is one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks and once served as the residence of the Doge, the head of the Venetian Republic. This architectural gem, primarily Gothic with touches of Renaissance and Baroque influence, provides a captivating glimpse into the city’s political and artistic legacy. Inside, visitors can wander through elaborately decorated chambers showcasing the works of renowned painters like Tintoretto and Veronese.

2

Ponte dei Sospiri

We’ll walk past the Bridge of Sighs, a structure connected to the Doge’s Palace, named for the sorrowful sighs of prisoners who crossed it on their way to face sentencing or imprisonment, often for the last time.

3

St. Mark's Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica, nestled in the heart of Venice, Italy, draws admiration with its stunning exterior even from a distance. Its front façade, embellished with detailed marble sculptures, graceful arches and impressive bronze doors, reflects the city’s rich architectural heritage and enduring historical importance.

4

Piazza San Marco

Just a short walk from St. Mark’s Square, you’ll visit one of the oldest glass factories in Venice, where you’ll witness the mesmerizing craft of Murano glass blowing in action.

What's included / not included

Glass Factory DemonstrationSt. Mark's Basilica skip-the-line tickets (If Basilica option is selected)Headset to hear the guide (for guided tours with more than 7 people)St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace Guided TourDoge's Palace skip-the-line tickets
Hotel pickup and drop-offFood and drinksTips (optional)Access to Terrace and Pala d'Oro

Additional information

Accessibility and comfort

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Good to know

  • Visits inside Saint Mark's Basilica are limited to a maximum of 15–20 minutes, as determined by Basilica authorities.
  • Please note the importance of arriving on time, as each attraction operates on a strict schedule. Delays could result in missing your tour, and late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
  • As Saint Mark's Basilica is a religious site, all visitors are required to wear appropriate attire. Both men and women must ensure that their shoulders and knees are covered.
  • To ensure we can reach you with any updates to your reservation, please provide the correct telephone number, including the country code.
  • During the summer season, please allow up to two hours to travel from the train station to Saint Mark’s Square, as water taxis are in high demand and delays are common due to heavy crowds.
  • Basilica tickets are priced at €12 per person. Doge's Palace tickets are priced at €30 per adult. All additional charges are considered administrative costs
  • The tour runs in all weather conditions. Please note that during certain times of the year, high tide may occur. In that case, raised walkways are set up to allow access and disposable shoe covers can be purchased in front of the entrance.
  • 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.
  • Each traveler must present a valid passport or ID document that matches the name provided at the time of booking for successful entry to St.Mark’s Basilica.
  • Due to the availability of entry time slots for St. Mark's Basilica, the tour start time may be subject to changes. In such a case, you will be contacted directly by email or phone

Traveller reviews

4.134 reviews

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