Exploring the enchanting city of Venice is a must-do experience for many travelers. With this private tour, visitors can explore the iconic landmarks of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, learning about their captivating histories from an expert guide. Timed entry tickets ensure a seamless experience, allowing guests to skip the lines and enjoy the opulence of golden mosaics and Renaissance art. What makes this tour particularly compelling is the opportunity to discover the vibrant city center, gaining a deeper understanding of Venice’s rich cultural heritage.
Key Points
- A 5-hour private tour of Venice’s top highlights, including St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the Jewish Ghetto, with a maximum of 8 people per guide.
- Timed entry tickets and live commentary from an expert, English-speaking guide provide seamless access and immersive exploration of the landmarks.
- Discounted price of $234.45 per person, with a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes smartphone tickets, commentary on architecture, art, and history, and a satisfaction guarantee.
- Tour meeting point is at the corner of the covered gallery by St. Mark’s bell tower, with a dress code of covering knees and shoulders in religious settings.
Tour Overview
This private 5-hour tour allows visitors to explore Venice’s top highlights, including the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica, the opulent Doge’s Palace, and the historic Jewish Ghetto.
Over the course of 6 hours, including a 1-hour break, guests will enjoy a personalized experience with a maximum of 8 people per guide.
A personalized 6-hour tour with a maximum of 8 guests, including a 1-hour break, for an immersive Venetian experience.
The expert, English-speaking guide will provide live commentary, and timed entry tickets are included for the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.
This tour offers a comprehensive look at Venice’s remarkable architecture, art, and cultural heritage.
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Pricing and Booking
The private tour is priced at $260.50 per person, but a discounted rate of $234.45 is available, allowing guests to save up to 10%. No payment is required today, and guests can reserve their spots now and pay later. Plus, a full refund is offered for any cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
| Pricing | Cost |
| — | — |
| Regular Price | $260.50 |
| Discounted Price | $234.45 |
| Savings | Up to 10% |
| Booking | Reserve Now, Pay Later |
| Cancellation | Free up to 24 hours |
Inclusions
The private tour includes an expert local guide who’ll lead the group on a personalized experience.
Timed entry tickets are provided for both the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, allowing seamless access without waiting in lines. Guests can conveniently use their smartphone tickets.
The tour guarantees satisfaction or a full money-back refund, ensuring a high-quality experience.
Throughout the 5-hour tour, the guide will provide commentary on the magnificent architecture, art, and history of these iconic Venetian landmarks.
Travelers can expect an immersive and enriching exploration of Venice’s top attractions.
Itinerary Highlights
Travelers will enter the renowned St. Mark’s Basilica, awestruck by its golden mosaics and intricate marble carvings.
They’ll then explore the opulent Doge’s Palace, marveling at its lavish apartments and uncovering the history of Venice’s powerful rulers.
The tour will lead them to the iconic Rialto Bridge and the charming Palazzo Mastelli o del Cammello, providing a glimpse into the city’s architectural wonders.
Finally, they’ll explore Venice’s Jewish heritage at the world’s first ghetto, learning about the community’s resilience and cultural contributions.
Throughout the journey, travelers will enjoy the local atmosphere of the San Polo squares.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
The meeting point for this tour is at the corner of the covered gallery by St. Mark’s bell tower.
The meeting point for this tour is at the corner of the covered gallery by St. Mark’s bell tower.
Guests should be mindful of the dress code – knees and shoulders must be covered when visiting religious settings.
Plus, no bags or suitcases are permitted on the tour.
Failure to comply with these rules may result in denied entry without any refunds.
This private tour offers:
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Expert local guide and private guided tour.
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Timed entry tickets for Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.
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Smartphone ticket accepted.
Satisfaction is guaranteed, or your money will be refunded.
Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Venice
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Exploring St. Mark’s Basilica
Although St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice, its interior is equally mesmerizing. Visitors are captivated by the golden mosaics that cover nearly every surface, depicting biblical scenes and Venetian history. As they step inside, they are transported back in time, surrounded by the opulent decor and intricate craftsmanship. The basilica’s centerpiece is the impressive high altar, adorned with precious stones and metals. Exploring the basilica’s various chapels and side altars, guests can appreciate the breadth of its artistic and architectural wonders.
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Mosaics | Golden mosaics covering nearly every surface |
| Altar | Impressive high altar adorned with precious stones and metals |
| Chapels | Various chapels and side altars to explore |
| History | Depicts biblical scenes and Venetian history |
| Decor | Opulent decor and intricate craftsmanship |
Discovering Doge’s Palace
After marveling at the opulence of St. Mark’s Basilica, the tour moves on to the nearby Doge’s Palace. This grand 14th-century structure was the seat of Venetian political power for centuries.
Visitors can:
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Explore the lavish apartments and throne rooms adorned with Renaissance art and gilded ceilings.
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Discover the ornate Bridge of Sighs, which once connected the palace to the nearby prison.
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Stroll through the impressive courtyards and admire the Venetian Gothic architecture.
The Doge’s Palace offers a glimpse into the fascinating history and grandeur of the Venetian Republic, complementing the awe-inspiring St. Mark’s Basilica.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to Visit the Basilica’s Rooftop Terrace?
The tour does not include access to the basilica’s rooftop terrace. Visitors can explore the basilica’s interior, including the grand mosaics and marble carvings, but the rooftop terrace is not part of this tour’s itinerary.
Can I Take Photos Inside the Doge’s Palace?
Photography is generally allowed inside the Doge’s Palace, but visitors should avoid using flash as it can damage the historical artwork and interiors. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to follow the guidance of the tour guide.
Is There an Option for a Private Boat Tour in Venice?
Yes, there are private boat tours available in Venice. These tours allow you to explore the city’s canals and waterways in a personalized and intimate setting, providing a unique perspective of the historic city.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
This tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, the regular price can be discounted by up to 10% if booked in advance, making the final price $234.45 per person.
Can I Access the St. Mark’s Basilica Crypt During the Tour?
No, the tour does not include access to the St. Mark’s Basilica crypt. The tour focuses on the highlights of St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the Jewish Ghetto, without visiting the crypt.
The Sum Up
This private tour of St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and Venice’s vibrant city center offers an enchanting and intimate exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks. With timed entry tickets, skip-the-line access, and an expert guide providing fascinating insights, visitors can enjoy the opulence of golden mosaics and Renaissance art, all while enjoying personalized attention in a small group setting.
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