Exploring the historic wonders of Venice after-hours offers a truly unique experience. The exclusive St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace VIP Tour provides private access to these iconic landmarks, allowing visitors to marvel at their grandeur without the usual crowds. From the lavish Doge’s Palace to the breathtaking St. Mark’s Basilica, this 3.5-hour journey promises an unforgettable evening in the enchanting city. But the real highlight may be the dramatic crossing of the Bridge of Sighs, which…
Key Points
- This exclusive after-hours VIP tour offers private access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace in Venice, allowing visitors to explore without crowds.
- Highlights include viewing the lavish apartments, the Pala d’Oro altarpiece, and crossing the Bridge of Sighs from the inside.
- The 3.5-hour tour starts at the Correr Museum and includes a live guide throughout.
- The tour is priced at $146.28 per person and has a cancellation policy of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, and a dress code of covered shoulders and knees is required.
Tour Overview
The "Venice: After-Hours St. Mark’s & Doges Palace VIP Tour" offers an exclusive, after-hours experience in this iconic city.
This 3.5-hour tour provides private access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, allowing you to explore these magnificent sites without the crowds.
You’ll wander through the lavish apartments and meeting halls of the Doge’s Palace, and view the stunning Pala d’Oro altarpiece in the basilica, all while hearing stories about Venice’s rich history.
This tour is priced at $146.28 per person and is likely to sell out, so be sure to check availability for starting times.
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Highlights
This tour offers an array of exclusive highlights.
Guests will enjoy private after-hours access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, avoiding crowds and lines. They’ll explore the lavish apartments and meeting halls of the Doge’s Palace, including the impressive Chamber of the Great Council.
Inside St. Mark’s, they’ll see the stunning Pala d’Oro altarpiece up close and witness the basilica’s decorations illuminated by the evening light.
The highlight for many is walking across the famous Bridge of Sighs from the inside.
Throughout, the guide will share captivating stories about Venice’s glorious past as a powerful maritime empire.
Itinerary
The tour begins at the Correr Museum in Piazza San Marco, where participants gather to embark on their exclusive evening adventure. The first stop is the opulent Doge’s Palace, where guests explore the grandiose Chamber of the Great Council and the eerie New Prisons. Next, they venture into the revered St. Mark’s Basilica, admiring the Pala d’Oro altarpiece and walking through the crypt. The tour culminates with a dramatic crossing of the Bridge of Sighs, offering a unique perspective on this iconic Venetian landmark. The evening concludes back in Piazza San Marco, leaving participants with a profound appreciation for Venice’s rich history and architectural wonders.
| Starting Location | Stops Include | Ending Location |
| — | — | — |
| Correr Museum, Piazza San Marco | Doge’s Palace: Chamber of the Great Council, New Prisons
St. Mark’s Basilica: Crypt, Pala d’Oro | Piazza San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy |
Inclusions and Exclusions
Though the tour includes entry to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, a live guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
Guests must cover their shoulders and knees, with a scarf or shawl acceptable.
There are no refunds if high tide restricts access, but the tour operator will make adjustments for safety.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.
More Great Tours NearbyDress Code
Appropriate attire is required for this tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Shoulders and knees must be covered at all times. A scarf or shawl is an acceptable way to comply with the dress code.
This is a formal and sacred site, so visitors should dress respectfully. The following table outlines the appropriate attire:
| Acceptable | Not Acceptable |
| — | — |
| Long pants/trousers | Shorts |
| Blouses/shirts covering shoulders | Sleeveless tops |
| Skirts/dresses below the knee | Mini-skirts |
| Scarves/shawls | Exposed midriffs |
Adhering to the dress code ensures an enriching experience at these historic Venetian landmarks.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance guarantees a full refund for this tour. The cancellation policy provides flexibility for guests:
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Cancellations within 24 hours of the start time aren’t eligible for a refund.
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Changes to the tour date are permitted with at least 24 hours’ notice, subject to availability.
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No-shows or late arrivals forfeit the entire tour cost.
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Weather-related cancellations or closures may result in tour modifications or rescheduling, but a full refund is provided if the tour can’t be accommodated.
This policy allows travelers to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.
Weather Impact
The tour may be affected by high tide conditions, which could restrict access to certain areas. Adjustments will be made for safety if the water level rises during the tour. Refunds aren’t available in the event of high tide, but the tour operator will work to accommodate changes to the itinerary where possible.
Guests are advised to check the weather forecast and be prepared with appropriate attire, as the evening visit to St. Mark’s Basilica may be chilly.
Despite potential weather challenges, the tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Venice’s landmarks after regular hours and away from the daytime crowds.
Customer Feedback
How do past customers rate this after-hours Venice tour? Judging by the reviews, it seems to be a hit.
The tour boasts an impressive 4.7/5 overall rating based on 363 customer reviews.
Highlights include:
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Excellent guide rated 4.9/5
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Outstanding value for money at 4.6/5
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Positive feedback on the private, small group experience
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Reminders to dress warmly in colder months
One customer raved, "Tour better than standard, surprisingly affordable."
Another said, "Excellent guide, exclusive small group experience."
The Sum Up
This exclusive after-hours VIP tour in Venice offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Guests will enjoy private access to the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, without the usual crowds. The tour concludes with a dramatic crossing of the Bridge of Sighs, providing a fitting end to this magical Venetian adventure. It’s an opportunity not to be missed for those seeking an immersive and exclusive glimpse into Venice’s rich history and stunning architecture.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Historical Tours in Venice
- Venice: The History of St. Mark’s Basilica Tour
- Venice of Water and Fire: Tour Through History, Arsenal and the Art of Glass.
- Venice Private Tour: History, Art and Unique Atmosphere
- Venice: Historical Gondola Yard Private Tour
- Venice: Screenprint Workshop in a Historic Atelier
- Venice: Traveling Opera in a Historic Palace on Grand Canal
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