Small Group St Mark’s Basilica, Doge's Palace & Hidden Gems

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Landmarks & monuments Guided tours Tours Art Neighborhood tours Culture & history UNESCO sites Rainy-day activities Educational activities Museums & exhibitions Sightseeing Castle & palace tours Religious & spiritual activities Churches & cathedrals Architecture

See Venice’s icons on a 3.5-hour tour: skip-the-line Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s, cross the Bridge of Sighs, admire golden mosaics, and explore hidden gems - La Fenice and the Bovolo Staircase.

Highlights

  • Explore not only Venice Top sights but also Venice Hidden Gems
  • Explore, learn and be entertained by Your Local Venice Guide
  • Enjoy a small group tour for a more intimate experience
  • Skip the line at two top attractions: Doge's Palace and St Mark’s Basilica
  • Take beautiful pictures of the gorgeous buildings from a unique vantage point

Description

Long description Experience the magic of Venice on an unforgettable 3.5-hour guided walking tour that blends the city’s most iconic monuments with its enchanting hidden corners. Skip the lines to visit the Doge’s Palace, once the residence of the Venetian rulers, and walk across the Bridge of Sighs to the historic prison cells. Continue to St. Mark’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Byzantine art, where your expert guide reveals the stories behind its glittering mosaics and opulent interiors . After exploring St. Mark’s Square, wander through Hidden Venice, a maze of charming canals and quiet squares where daily Venetian life unfolds. Admire the elegant La Fenice Theatre, one of the world’s most celebrated opera houses, and marvel at the Bovolo Staircase, a stunning architectural gem known for its unique spiral design and panoramic views. Perfect for first-time visitors, this small-group or private experience offers a comprehensive look at Venice’s art, history, and local culture, combining famous highlights with secret treasures few travelers ever see. Doges Palace Explore the magnificent Doge’s Palace with skip-the-line access on this guided tour of Venice’s most iconic landmark. Discover the opulent halls of power, masterpieces by Tintoretto and Veronese, and cross the legendary Bridge of Sighs to the old prison cells — a journey through the grandeur, secrets, and history of the Venetian Republic. St Mark’s Square monuments and St Mark’s basilica Explore the heart of Venice in St. Mark’s Square, surrounded by architectural masterpieces that reflect the city’s glorious past. Admire the Doge’s Palace, the Bell Tower, and the Clock Tower, before entering the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica with skip-the-line access. Inside, marvel at its shimmering gold mosaics, marble inlays, and Byzantine domes as your expert guide reveals the fascinating history and legends behind Venice’s most celebrated monument La Fenice Theater Admire the elegant façade of La Fenice Theatre, one of the most famous opera houses in the world and a true symbol of Venetian culture. During this outside visit, your guide will share the theatre’s fascinating history—from its 18th-century origins to its dramatic fires and rebirths—revealing why La Fenice remains a beacon of art, music, and resilience in the heart of Venice Bovolo staircase Discover the enchanting Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo), one of Venice’s hidden architectural treasures. This elegant spiral staircase, blending Gothic and Renaissance styles, winds its way up a cylindrical tower offering beautiful views over the city’s rooftops. Your guide will unveil the history of the noble Contarini family and explain how this unique masterpiece became a symbol of Venice’s refined elegance and artistic ingenuity. Hidden Venice Stroll through Hidden Venice, backstreets, quiet canals, and charming little bridges that reveal the city’s authentic soul away from the crowds

Includes

Local Expert English speaking guide for 3.5 hrs Pre-reserved tickets to the Doge's Palace Skip the line tickets to St. Mark’s Basilica Small Groups of 20 or fewer people Headsets

Important Information

  • This tour will operate rain or shine A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops 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 Large bags and rucksacks are not allowed inside St Mark's Basilica At certain times it may not be possible to enter any of the visited churches due to religious functions taking place. These closures are beyond our control so no refunds or discounts will be issued Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund. Small group Tour - maximum 20 people

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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