Doge's Palace & Golden Basilica - Live Guided Tour With Terrace Access

2 hours and 50 minutes

Very easy

Guided visit in the main attractions of Piazza San Marco! Admire the Golden Basilica and Doge's Palace where you will cross the famous Bridge of Sighs! The guided tour is with skip the line ticket!

Embark on a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace, the historic heart of Venetian political power for centuries. Within its magnificent rooms, adorned with hundreds of masterpieces, the Doge and his Council shaped the fate of the Venetian Republic. Step back in time with a knowledgeable guide as you explore the halls where decisions that impacted a millennium-old republic were made, immersing yourself in the context of medieval Europe and the centuries that followed.

Marvel at the intricate details of the Golden Staircase, and be awed by the vivid realism of the scenes painted by renowned artists who graced the palace. Experience the somber atmosphere as you cross the famous Bridge of Sighs and enter the Venetian prisons, once home to the notorious Giacomo Casanova.

Then, continue your exploration with a visit to one of the world’s most majestic cathedrals. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, accredited by the Curia of Venice, you will experience the splendor of this Byzantine masterpiece, unique in Italy. Delight in the stunning gold mosaics and intricate marble inlays on the floors as our guide reveals the biblical scenes depicted, the history, and the special features of this ancient basilica.

Your ticket also grants access to the other magnificent palaces surrounding St. Mark’s Square, known as the Procuratie. Here, you can explore the Venetian way of life through paintings, sculptures, and artifacts, including fascinating insights into the Arsenal, where the legendary Venetian battleships were crafted. Visit the areas built by Napoleon and discover the rooms restored for Empress Sissi of Austria.

A rich and diverse experience that you won’t want to miss!

What's included?
  • Entry or admission fee
  • 2 hours shared guided tour with commentary by a qualified and experienced guide
  • “Skip the line”: Doge’s Palace, The Basilica and Terrace shared guided tour
  • Entrance ticket valid to visit by yourself the palaces in St. Mark’s Square (Old Royal Palace now Museo Correr, Museo Archeologico Nazionale and Monumental rooms of the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana)
  • Audio receiver devices in case of groups over 10 people
Exclusions
  • Food & drinks
Please note
  • Dress code


  • Unfortunately the tour is not totally accessible for wheelchair users or people with walking disabilities.
  • Comfortable shoes and appropriate clothes suggested
  • For security reasons sacks, bags or knapsacks are not allowed inside the Doges’ Palace: FREE DEPOSIT INSIDE
  • For the visit of the Basilica proper clothing is required (no shorts or tank tops)
  • During some days of high turnout or for reason of force majeure (for example high tide or security problems) the waiting time to access St. Mark’s Basilica might be longer than expected: in this case, please line up and respect the instructions provided by the guide.
What to bring