Venice: Full Day Tour With Gondola, Doges Palace & Basilica

Setting out on a full-day tour of Venice is undoubtedly a captivating experience. Visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, from the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica to the opulence of Doge’s Palace, while skipping the lines. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can explore the city’s rich history and Byzantine architecture. But the true highlight may just be the scenic 30-minute gondola ride through Venice’s picturesque canals. This intimate tour promises an unforgettable day in the heart of this enchanting city.

Key Points

• A comprehensive 7-hour tour of Venice’s iconic landmarks, including skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.
• A guided walking tour and a 30-minute gondola ride through the city’s enchanting canals.
• Exploration of the Castello neighborhood and the Basilica of Santi Giovanni e Paolo.
• Insights from an art and history expert throughout the tour.
• Opportunity for independent discovery and a 1.5-hour break for rest or further exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This comprehensive full-day tour of Venice offers participants a chance to discover the city’s iconic landmarks and captivating history.

The tour lasts 7 hours and is limited to just 10 people, ensuring an intimate experience. Guests will enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, as well as a guided walking tour and a 30-minute gondola ride.

Priced at $155.81 per person, the tour provides exceptional value, with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later, making it a convenient option for planning their Venetian adventure.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at St. Mark’s Square, the iconic heart of Venice.

From here, the journey leads to the famous Bridge of Sighs, connecting the Doge’s Palace to the New Prison.

Next, the tour explores the charming Castello neighborhood and the Church of San Zaccaria.

The grand Santi Giovanni e Paolo Basilica, known as the "Pantheon of Venice," is another highlight.

The tour then grants skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica, allowing visitors to marvel at its stunning Byzantine architecture.

Finally, a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace reveals its opulent ballrooms and Opera Museum.

Tour Experience

Although the tour is led by an art and history expert, the experience also allows participants to discover Venice’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems on their own.

The guided tour provides valuable insights into the history and significance of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Guests will enjoy a 30-minute gondola ride, seeing the enchanting canals and admiring the city’s stunning architecture.

Cultural highlights include learning about the Basilica’s grandeur and the Doge’s Palace’s opulent ballrooms and Opera Museum.

This comprehensive tour offers a well-balanced mix of guided exploration and independent discovery.

Inclusions

The full-day Venice tour includes a walking guided tour, skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica, and exclusive access to the Basilica terraces.

You’ll also have access to the Doge’s Palace and enjoy a 30-minute gondola ride.

The tour includes:

• Walking guided tour

• Skip-the-line entrance to St. Mark’s Basilica

• Exclusive access to Basilica terraces

• Access to Palazzo Ducale

• 30-minute gondola ride

Hotel pick-up and drop-off are provided, though optional tips aren’t included.

The tour allows you to explore Venice’s iconic landmarks and learn about the city’s rich history and culture.

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Important Information

Meeting point for the tour is St. Marks Square at 9:30 am, under the column with the lion in front of Doges Palace.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a significant amount of walking.

Comfortable shoes are a must for this tour, as it involves a considerable amount of walking.

Please note that this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments.

There’s a 1.5-hour break during the tour, allowing visitors to move from the gondolas to St. Mark’s Square on their own.

This break provides an opportunity to explore the area further or take a short rest before continuing the tour.

Bridge of Sighs and Castello

After departing from St. Mark’s Square, the tour continues to explore the iconic landmarks of Venice.

Passing by the Bridge of Sighs, a poignant reminder of the city’s history, the group ventures into the Castello district.

This charming neighborhood offers a glimpse into Venetian life, showcasing:

• The serene San Zaccaria church, known for its remarkable Renaissance architecture.

• The imposing Santi Giovanni e Paolo basilica, a prime example of Venetian Gothic style.

• Quaint alleyways and picturesque canals, inviting visitors to enjoy the city’s authenticity.

• The Riva degli Schiavoni promenade, offering stunning views of the lagoon.

• Opportunities to savor traditional Venetian cuisine and discover hidden local gems.

San Zaccaria and Santi Giovanni E Paolo

Nestled in the heart of the Castello district, the San Zaccaria church stands as a testament to the city’s remarkable Renaissance architecture. Its ornate façade and stunning interior immediately captivate visitors.

Just a short walk away lies the Santi Giovanni e Paolo, a grand Dominican basilica known for its impressive Gothic style. Towering over the surrounding canals, this church is a visual delight.

Exploring these two historic sites offers a deeper understanding of Venice’s rich cultural heritage and the diverse architectural styles that define the city’s iconic landscape.

Saint Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace

Leaving the tranquil Castello district, the tour continues its exploration of Venice’s most iconic landmarks – Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.

Guests are granted skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s, admiring its stunning Byzantine architecture and ornate golden mosaics. The guide provides insightful commentary on the basilica’s history and significance.

Next, they visit the Doge’s Palace, the former residence of Venice’s rulers, for a guided tour. Highlights include:

• Ornate ballrooms and chambers

• The Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the prison

• The Opera Museum, showcasing the palace’s rich artistic heritage

• Opportunities to learn about Venetian governance and power dynamics

• Ample time for photos and independent exploration.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour of Venice provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. With skip-the-line access and a guided exploration, travelers can explore the city’s rich history and captivating architecture. The highlight is the 30-minute gondola ride, offering a unique perspective of Venice’s picturesque canals. This intimate tour is an excellent way to discover the enchanting beauty of the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: