Doge’s Palace and Basilica: The Legacy of the Roman Empire™
Active
2h - 4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What is this tour about?
Guided tour of the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica from an ambassador’s perspective. Follow the ceremonial route once reserved for foreign envoys and discover how Venice proudly claimed its Eastern Roman legacy.
Who are you during the visit?
You are not just a visitor, but an ambassador, sharing the viewpoint of those who once represented empires before the Doge.
What will you see?
St. Mark’s Basilica with its golden mosaics, the Doge’s Palace halls of power, and the prisons with the Bridge of Sighs.
How does the experience begin?
With a short VR introduction showing St. Mark’s Square through the centuries.
Can I upgrade the experience?
Yes. Add a gondola ride and experience Venice as ambassadors once did, arriving by water.
Doge's Palace and Basilica: The Legacy of the Roman Empire™ © Venice Tours S.r.l. Licensed to City Tours Co. Ltd. All rights reserved.
Available options
Basilica, Doge & Gondola ride
Duration: 3 hours
Doge's palace & Basilica Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Premium Basilica & Doge Tour
Duration: 3 hours
Basilica, doge & Gondola Ride
Duration: 3 hours
Doge's Palace & Basilica Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Basilica, Doge & Gondola Ride
Duration: 3 hours
Doge's Palace & Basilica tour
Duration: 2 hours
Premium Basilica,Doge,Gondola
Duration: 4 hours
Doge's Palace & basilica Tour
Duration: 2 hours
What's included
Guided Tour to Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica
Priority Ticket to Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica
Optional Gondola Experience™ (20-min intro with the Gondola Gallery and VR & 30-min gondola ride)
Access to Museums in Saint Mark's Square (Correr & Archeological Museums and Marciana Library)
History Gallery VR Experience of St. Mark's Square in the past
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Learning about the past of this charming city while walking along the historical streets of Venice!
Walk through the Piazza San Marco with a qualified and experienced guide in order to learn Venetian history before the viewing of the main monuments in this area, including the Basilica San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Bell Tower, Clock Tower and Procuratie. You will admire Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo (the “Pantheon” of Venice), the Great School of Charity before viewing Marco Polo’s House and the Malibran Theatre. Visit the stunning Rialto Bridge with its traditional market.
Coming back to San Marco through the main shopping area known as Mercerie!
2
Stop 2
The Palazzo Ducale has been for centuries the seat of the Venetian political power. In its splendid rooms, plastered and immersed in hundreds of painting masterpieces, the Duke and his Council controlled the fate for thousand-years in the old Republic. You’ll live it together with a guide who will show you the halls of power, plunging you into a very special historical context: the European Middle Ages. You’ll be surprised by the details of the gold staircase and of the realism of the scenes depicted by many artists who have decorated this building.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Relive the anguish of the prisoners crossing the famous Bridge of Sighs, and entering the Venetian prisons, famous for hosting Giacomo Casanova.
4
Stop 4
Follow a tour guide through St. Mark's Basilica, one of the most majestic cathedrals in the world. Learning about byzantine art and its religious background while taking a glimpse at the gold mosaics and marble floors.
After the visit of the Basilica you will have the opportunity to visit a Glass Factory close to Saint Mark’s Square where you can see a Glass Craftsman at work. Please note this is a free of charge optional tour of approximately 20 minutes and it is not a part of the tour.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
You may visit by yourself the other magnificent palaces around St. Mark’s Square as known as Procuratie. You will discover the Venetian way of life, Venetian paintings, library, coinage, sculpture. You will go back directly to the secrets of Venetian Empire and you will visit the area built by Napoleon and the rooms restored for Sissi Empress Austria
6
Stop 6
Upgrade your experience with a gondola ride experience on the Grand Canal and smaller romantic canals.
What's not included
Hotel pickup & Drop Off
Food & Drinks
Access to St. Mark's Basilica Pala d'Oro, Terrace, and Museum
Guided tour of Correr and National Archeological Museums, and Marciana Library
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
2.8
9 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
1
2★
2
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.6
7 reviews
5★
5
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A valid ID document is mandatory for security checks at the entrance to the Basilica.
For security reasons, large bags and luggage are not permitted inside St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, or on the gondola.
On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee.
Tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of unexpected religious functions (in these cases it can be postponed the days after otherwise it will be refunded)
For the visit of the Basilica suitable clothing is required (no shorts)
This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for guests with walking disabilities.
In case of exceptionally high tide or extremely bad weather, parts of the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. If this occurs, an alternative tour or a new date may be offered.
Access to the Basilica may be restricted during religious services.
Each gondola accommodates a maximum of 5 passengers.
Seating is assigned by the gondolier to ensure proper weight balance.
Meeting point
From St. Mark’s Square, face the Basilica and turn right towards the Doge’s Palace. Continue past the Bridge of Sighs to Riva degli Schiavoni (the waterfront promenade). Walk for 2 minutes, then turn left into Calle de le Rasse. The Venice Tours Office is at number 4536;
Important notes
• The official St. Mark's Basilica ticket price is €12.00 per person (standard) or €24.00 with terrace access; the remaining part of the price covers assistance at the meeting point, accompanied entry with a certified guide or host, access to the Venice Gallery with a dedicated VR experience, the use of an audio guide or radio system with earphones and sales costs.
• A valid ID document is mandatory for security checks at the entrance to the Basilica.
• You are kindly requested to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the departure
• Tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of religious functions (in these cases it can be postponed the day after otherwise it will be refunded)
• For the visit of the Basilica suitable clothing is required (no shorts)
• For security reasons sacks, bags or knapsacks are not allowed inside the Basilica and inside the Doges’ Palace.
• Tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of religious functions (in these cases it can be postponed the days after otherwise it will be refunded).
About Venice
Venice is a unique and enchanting city built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Known for its canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for its rich history, art, and culture. The city offers a romantic and timeless atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the world.
Top Attractions
St. Mark's Basilica
A stunning Byzantine cathedral known for its opulent design, golden mosaics, and historical significance. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free entry, €3 for museum and treasury
Doge's Palace
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Doge's Palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government. It offers a glimpse into the city's political and cultural history.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€25 for standard ticket, €30 for Secret Itineraries Tour
Rialto Bridge
The oldest and most famous of Venice's four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city.
Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Grand Canal
The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal is lined with beautiful palaces, churches, and historic buildings. A vaporetto ride along the canal offers stunning views.
Nature/Scenic
30-60 minutes
€7.50 for a vaporetto ticket
Murano
An island famous for its glass-making tradition. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique glass souvenirs.
Cultural/Historical
Half-day
Free to explore, €10 for museum
Burano
A colorful island known for its lace-making tradition and picturesque houses. Burano is a charming and photogenic destination.
Cultural/Scenic
Half-day
Free to explore, €5 for lace museum
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto al Nero di Seppia
A risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a distinctive black color and rich, briny flavor.
Main Course
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.
Sarde in Saor
Sweet and sour sardines marinated with onions, raisins, pine nuts, and vinegar.
Appetizer
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Bigoli in Salsa
Pasta with a sauce made from anchovies, onions, and breadcrumbs.
Main Course
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Frito Misto
A mix of fried seafood and vegetables, including shrimp, squid, and zucchini.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians.
Popular Activities
Kayaking in the canals
Cycling on Lido di Venezia
Hiking in the Venetian Lagoon
Sunbathing on Lido di Venezia
Enjoying a gondola ride
Visiting a spa or wellness center
Attending a concert or opera
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. The city is vibrant with events and festivals, and the temperatures are comfortable for exploring.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken in local areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Venice is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, and acqua alta (high water) events can disrupt travel plans.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Use official taxis and ticket vendors
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
Getting there
By air
- Venice Marco Polo Airport • 12 km from city center
By train
Santa Lucia Railway Station
By bus
Piazzale Roma
Getting around
Public transport
The vaporetto is the main public transport system in Venice. It operates on fixed routes and is the most convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps
Rentals
Neighborhoods
San Marco
Dorsoduro
Cannaregio
Castello
Day trips
Burano and Murano
10-45 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
Visit the colorful island of Burano and the glass-making island of Murano for a unique and picturesque day trip.
Lido di Venezia
20 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
A long, narrow island between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, known for its beaches, the Venice Film Festival, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Padua (Padova)
40 km (25 miles) • Half-day to full day
A charming city known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and the famous Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto.
Festivals
Venice Carnival • February or March (dates vary)
Venice Film Festival • Late August to early September
Festa del Redentore • Third weekend of July
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more authentic experience
- Try local specialties and dishes, and ask locals for recommendations
- Use a map or GPS to navigate the intricate streets and canals, as Venice can be easy to get lost in
- Be prepared for acqua alta (high water) events, especially from October to January, and check forecasts and plan accordingly
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per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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