Doges Palace & St. Marks Basilica Guided Tour in Venice

Exploring the grand Doges Palace and the awe-inspiring St. Mark’s Basilica is a must-do for any visitor to Venice. This guided tour offers an enriching experience, allowing you to explore the city’s rich history and admire its stunning architectural and artistic wonders. With expert guidance and convenient scheduling, you’ll uncover the hidden gems and captivating stories that make these iconic landmarks so remarkable. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to learn about the beauty of Venice, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Guided tour of Doges Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, showcasing golden mosaics, marble floors, and the Pala d’Oro.
• Access to hidden chambers, prisons, and torture chambers in Palazzo Ducale.
• Expert guidance on Venice’s history and art during the 2.5-hour tour.
• Priced from $112.60 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Tour not suitable for children under 6 or those with mobility limitations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Doges Palace & St. Marks Basilica Guided Tour in Venice offers a comprehensive exploration of two iconic landmarks.

Priced from $112.60 per person, the 2.5-hour tour provides guided access to both sites.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour highlights include admiring the stunning golden mosaics, marble floors, and Pala d’Oro in the Basilica, as well as discovering the hidden chambers, prisons, and torture chambers in the Palazzo Ducale.

Explore the stunning golden mosaics, marble floors, and Pala d’Oro in the Basilica, as well as the hidden chambers and prisons of the Palazzo Ducale.

An expert guide will provide insights into Venice’s rich history and art.

The tour includes tickets to both attractions.

Tour Highlights and Experience

Guided exploration of Doges Palace and St. Marks Basilica allows visitors to admire the stunning golden mosaics, intricate marble floors, and the magnificent Pala d’Oro within the Basilica.

Guests will discover the hidden chambers, including the prisons and torture chambers, within the Palazzo Ducale.

Expert guidance provides insights into Venice’s captivating history and art.

The tour includes access to the St. Marks Museum and Doges Palace, offering a comprehensive experience.

Travellers can learn about the city’s rich heritage and appreciate the architectural wonders that have stood the test of time.

Meeting Point and Schedule

Guests meet the guide in front of the Columns of San Marco, 15 minutes before the tour starts.

The tour has two schedule options. The first runs from 9:00 AM, with the Doges Palace tour followed by the St. Marks Basilica tour at 11:00 AM.

The second option starts at 3:00 PM, with the Doges Palace tour followed by the Basilica tour at 5:00 PM.

Guests must arrive on time, as the tours depart promptly.

This tour isn’t accessible for those with mobility limitations, and a dress code is required for entry into the Basilica.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes the services of an official certified guide, a radio system for better audibility, and admission tickets to both the Doges Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.

Travelers will enjoy an in-depth exploration of these iconic Venetian landmarks.

Travelers can look forward to an immersive experience exploring these renowned Venetian landmarks.

However, the tour doesn’t include food, drinks, hotel pickup/drop-off, or entrance fees to any attractions not listed.

Certain restrictions apply – the tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, those with medical conditions, or individuals with limited mobility.

Photography is prohibited inside the Basilica, and a dress code must be followed for admission.

Subject to weather and high tide cancellations.

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Important Information and Restrictions

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, those with heart problems, vertigo, mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or pregnant women.

Visitors should bring their passport or ID, and wear comfortable shoes.

The following items aren’t allowed:

• Pets

• Oversized luggage

• Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts (required dress code for Basilica access)

The tour isn’t wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Photography inside the Cathedral is prohibited.

The tour may be subject to cancellation due to weather or high tides, but options for rescheduling or refunds are available.

Exploring the Doges Palace

As visitors cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs, they step into the grand Doges Palace, the former residence of Venice’s powerful rulers.

Inside, they’ll explore hidden chambers, including the prisons and torture chambers. Guides share the palace’s rich history and art, pointing out its stunning golden mosaics, intricate marble floors, and the magnificent Pala d’Oro altar screen.

Visitors explore the palace’s hidden chambers, discovering its prisons and torture rooms, while guides unveil its artistic treasures.

Visitors discover the opulent Doge’s apartments and the impressive Council Chambers where political decisions were made.

The palace offers a glimpse into Venice’s past, allowing guests to enjoy the city’s captivating legacy.

Discovering the St. Marks Basilica

After exploring the opulent Doges Palace, visitors can now turn their attention to the stunning St. Marks Basilica.

This iconic cathedral is renowned for its:

• Breathtaking golden mosaics that adorn the interior walls and ceilings

• Exquisite Pala d’Oro, a stunning altarpiece made of gold, gems, and enamel

• Intricate marble floors that showcase the Basilica’s impressive craftsmanship

The guided tour provides an in-depth look at the Basilica’s history and art, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the grandeur and significance of this architectural masterpiece.

With the expert guidance, guests can enjoy the spiritual and cultural heritage of Venice.

Exploring Venice’s Rich History and Art

While exploring the grandeur of the Doges Palace and St. Marks Basilica, visitors uncover Venice’s rich history and art.

The guided tour takes them through hidden chambers, including prisons and torture chambers, inside the Palazzo Ducale. Here, they learn about Venice’s past and witness the intricate golden mosaics, marble floors, and the stunning Pala d’Oro inside the Basilica.

Expert guidance brings to life the city’s art and architecture, offering a deeper appreciation for Venice’s cultural heritage.

The tour also provides access to the St. Marks Museum, allowing guests to further enjoy the region’s remarkable history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water on the Tour?

The tour details indicate that outside food and drinks are not included. Guests are advised to check the tour’s inclusions and exclusions carefully before booking, as bringing personal snacks and water may not be permitted on this particular guided tour.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is not wheelchair or stroller accessible and may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments, heart problems, vertigo, or claustrophobia. Individuals with disabilities should contact the tour operator to discuss accessibility accommodations.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Doge’s Palace?

Photography is not allowed inside the Doge’s Palace. The tour information specifically states that "Not allowed: … photography inside Cathedral". Visitors must respect this policy during the guided tour of the palace.

What Should I Do if I’m Running Late to the Meeting Point?

If running late, contact the tour provider as soon as possible. They may be able to accommodate late arrivals or provide instructions on how to catch up with the group. Arriving at the meeting point on time is highly recommended to ensure a smooth start to the tour.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Doge’s Palace or St. Mark’s Basilica?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t allow you to extend your stay at the Doge’s Palace or St. Mark’s Basilica. The guided tour has a fixed duration of 2.5 hours and won’t accommodate additional time at the attractions.

The Sum Up

The Doges Palace & St. Marks Basilica Guided Tour offers an enriching experience, allowing visitors to explore Venice’s iconic landmarks. With expert guidance, participants can enjoy the grandeur of golden mosaics, intricate marble floors, and hidden chambers, revealing the city’s rich history and art. This captivating journey is a must-do for those seeking to uncover the treasures of Venice.

You can check availability for your dates here: