Venice: Skip-the-Line Doge’s Palace & Basilica Walking Tour
San Marco, Venice, Venice
Immerse yourself in the history of Venice with an expert guide as you visit St. Mark's Basilica and skip the line when visiting the imposing Doge's Palace.
This guided tour in Venice includes skip-the-line entry to Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, perfect for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Cross the Bridge of Sighs and visit Giacomo Casanova's prison cell
- Skip long lines with fast-track entry to Doge's Palace
- Discover the palace’s history filled with intrigues and political drama
- Suitable for those interested in Venice’s history and spiritual heritage
Description
Begin your visit at Doge's Palace, the seat of the Doge and Venetian Government for over 800 years. Explore the grand halls where key events in European history took place during the Middle Ages.
Learn about the palace’s secret intrigues and the stories behind its walls. The second part of the tour includes an exterior visit to St. Mark's Basilica, an outstanding example of Byzantine architecture.
Admire the golden mosaics that give the basilica its nickname, the 'Golden Basilica,' and hear about the diverse art treasures collected from both western and eastern cultures.
After the tour, keep your Doge's Palace ticket to access Museo Correr, Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana at your own pace in St. Mark's Square.
Includes
- Professional guide
- Personal audio system and headset for commentary
- Skip-the-line entrance ticket to Doge's Palace
- Entrance ticket to St. Mark's Basilica (external visit)
- Admission to Museo Correr, Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and Monumental Rooms of Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana
- Live tour commentary
Excludes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Tips (optional)
Important Information
- No backpacks allowed inside for safety reasons
- Children up to 5 years enter free with valid ID; ages 6 and above require a full ticket
- Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the church
- The basilica will be viewed only from the outside
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, wear comfortable shoes and dress modestly to respect religious site requirements. Morning tours often have smaller crowds.
