Doge’s Palace and St. Mark's Basilica skip-the-line and guided tour
Do this because
- Discover the fascinating stories behind Venice's past with your guide
- Explore the history of Venice that resides inside the Doge's Palace
- Marvel at St. Mark's Basilica and its dazzling architecture
- Enjoy a personalized tour experience with a small group of around 15 people
What to expect
This Doge’s Palace and St. Mark's Basilica tour is perfect for visitors who want to taste the city. In just a few hours, you'll be taken to two of Venice's most iconic sites, venturing inside the Basilica di San Marco (St. Mark’s Basilica) and the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace).
The tour starts at the Palazzo Ducale. Once home to the Duke of Venice and the city’s courts, it is the center of Venetian history (and as one of the world’s oldest republics, that’s quite a history). You’ll explore all the best sights of the palace open to the public, from spectacular works produced on demand by artistic masters Tintoretto and Veronese to the evidence of the genius checks and balances that made the republic so successful.
Next, you'll admire the heart of Venice, Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square). One of the highlights of this tour comes at the end when skip-the-line access takes you straight into the Basilica, saving precious vacation time. Marvel at the diversity of Venetian culture, where eastern architecture and western design have blended to create a structure with an onion dome, before following your guide through the beautiful frescoes inside the basilica.
Important to know
Accessibility:
- Due to uneven and steep surfaces, the activity is unsuitable for anyone with walking difficulties or wheelchair users. Strollers or baby carriages are also not permitted
Not allowed:
- Please note that Doge's Palace doesn't admit bulky luggage (any luggage whose sum of the three sides exceeds 1 linear meter)
- A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops are 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
Extra fees to be paid on-site:
- Please note that the Municipality of Venice will implement an "Access Fee" on specific dates in 2024. To ensure a smooth experience, you're recommended to review the official guidelines and registration procedures before planning your visit
Know in advance:
- St. Mark's Basilica is subject to closure without notice. When this occurs, guests are offered an extended tour of the basilica and St. Mark’s Square from outside. The tour provider will try to tell you ahead of time if there are any planned disruptions to Basilica opening hours, but this isn't always possible. In these cases, there are no refunds or discounts
- The terraces aren't included in this guided tour, but you can visit them on your own. You can buy a separate ticket in cash on the spot
- This activity ends inside the Doges' Palace
What’s included
Skip the line access and entrance ticket to the Doge’s Palace
Skip the line access to St. Mark’s Basilica
Headsets (to hear the guide)
Tour guide
Small group experience
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Pickup points
To see which pickup points are available, check under availability & prices.
Provider
City Wonders
Need a hand?
Would you like some help making a booking? Or perhaps you just want to ask a few questions. Whatever the reason, don't hesitate to get in touch.
Opening hours: Our team is available from 10.00 to 18.00 CET
Phone number: +44 121 468 3145
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