Discover the captivating history and breathtaking sights of Venice with the exclusive "Private Entry Doge Palace & St. Mark Terraces Tour." This guided adventure offers skip-the-line access to the iconic Doge’s Palace and the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich heritage. Led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, the tour promises an unforgettable journey, revealing the architectural splendor and panoramic vistas that have enthralled travelers for centuries. But there’s more to uncover about this enchanting experience.
Key Points

- This 2.5-hour guided tour in Venice provides skip-the-line access to the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, including the Basilica’s terrace.
- The tour starts at the Column of Saint Mark and includes a visit to the Doge’s Palace before it opens to the public.
- A live English-speaking guide provides historical insights and commentary throughout the tour.
- The tour is priced at $106.60 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Participants should wear comfortable shoes, avoid large bags, and cover their shoulders and knees for entry to the Basilica.
Tour Overview

The "Venice: Private Entry Doge Palace & St. Mark Terraces Tour" is a 2.5-hour guided experience in the heart of Venice.
A 2.5-hour guided experience in the heart of Venice, exploring the iconic Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.
Priced at $106.60 per person, the tour offers a chance to explore the iconic Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica before the general public.
Highlights include skip-the-line access, a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace, and access to the Basilica’s terrace for panoramic views.
The tour also includes headsets for better audio and a live English-speaking guide.
Visitors can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Highlights of the Itinerary

Starting at the Column of Saint Mark, this tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through Venice’s rich history.
The first stop is the Doge’s Palace, where visitors will explore the seat of Venetian power before the public arrives.
Next, the tour moves to St. Mark’s Basilica, skipping the long lines to admire its stunning Byzantine architecture and golden mosaics.
The highlight is accessing the Basilica’s terrace, offering panoramic views of Venice’s iconic landmarks.
Throughout the experience, a knowledgeable guide provides insights into the city’s captivating past, making this a must-do tour for any visitor to Venice.
Key Features of the Tour

This tour offers a range of valuable inclusions that enhance the overall experience. Guests can explore the Doge’s Palace before it opens to the public, skip the lines at St. Mark’s Basilica, and visit the iconic Bridge of Sighs. They’ll also enjoy panoramic views from the St. Mark’s Basilica terrace. The tour provides live English-speaking guides and headsets for better audio. While food, drinks, and tips are excluded, the tour delivers excellent value for money, as evidenced by its strong customer ratings.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
| — | — |
| Before-hours ticket to Doge’s Palace | Food and drinks |
| Skip-the-line ticket to St. Mark’s Basilica | Tips |
| Access to St. Mark’s Basilica terrace | |
| Live tour guide (English) | |
| Headsets for better audio | |
Meeting Point and Participant Information

Visitors meet the tour group in front of the Columns of San Marco, under the column of the Lion. The meeting point is centrally located, making it easy to find.
To make the most of the tour, participants should:
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves extensive walking.
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Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and views.
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Avoid large bags, as they aren’t allowed in certain areas.
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Dress appropriately, covering shoulders and knees, to enter St. Mark’s Basilica.
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so they should consider alternative options.
More Great Tours NearbyDress Code and Accessibility

To enter St. Mark’s Basilica, visitors must adhere to a dress code. Shoulders and knees must be covered, and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. This rule ensures respect for the sacred nature of the site. While the tour is open to all, it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and steps. The table below provides a quick overview of the accessibility details:
| Criteria | Details |
| — | — |
| Wheelchair Access | Not suitable |
| Mobility Assistance | Not recommended |
| Steps/Uneven Terrain | Present |
| Restrooms | Available |
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Customer Feedback and Ratings

What do past customers have to say about this tour? According to 312 reviews, the Venice Doge Palace tour earns an impressive 4.7/5 overall rating.
Travelers praised the tour guide’s:
Exceptional knowledge and historical insights, enthusiastic and engaging presentation, effective organization with access to St. Mark’s Basilica terrace.
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Exceptional knowledge and historical insights.
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Enthusiasm and engaging presentation style.
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Effective organization of the tour, especially the access to the St. Mark’s Basilica terrace.
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Value for money, with the early entry to Doge’s Palace cited as a highlight.
Customers emphasized that the tour offers excellent value, with one reviewer from Canada noting the guide’s expertise, and a U.S. traveler highlighting the stunning views from the basilica terrace.
Cancellation Policy and Reservation

According to the provided information, visitors can enjoy a hassle-free booking experience with the Venice Doge Palace tour.
The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. Plus, the tour operates a reserve now and pay later option, eliminating the need for upfront payment.
This flexibility and convenience make the tour an attractive choice for travelers, as they can secure their spot without immediate financial commitment.
Exploring the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica

The Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica are the two iconic landmarks that visitors can explore on this captivating tour.
Guests will gain exclusive early access to the Doge’s Palace, allowing them to marvel at its ornate architecture and learn about the seat of Venetian political power.
The tour then proceeds to St. Mark’s Basilica, where visitors can skip the long lines and admire the stunning mosaics and golden interiors.
Key features of this experience include:
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Guided tour of the Doge’s Palace (1 hour)
-
Guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica (1 hour)
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Access to the St. Mark’s Basilica terrace for panoramic views
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Headsets for better audio experience during the tours
The Sum Up

This exclusive tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Venice’s rich history and architectural grandeur. With skip-the-line access to the iconic Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, along with a knowledgeable guide and stunning terrace views, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience. The tour’s focus on personalized service and comfort ensures a seamless and enjoyable journey through the enchanting city of Venice.
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