Doge’s Palace Tour, Prisons, Bridge of Sighs & Gondola Ride
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step into the golden age of the Serenissima on this expertly guided tour through the city’s most captivating landmarks. Your exploration begins with skip-the-line entry to the Doge’s Palace, where you will navigate the sprawling seat of Venetian authority and its collection of world-class Renaissance treasures and prisons. After uncovering the hidden stories of St. Mark’s Square, you will traverse the iconic Bridge of Sighs to explore the stark, atmospheric cells of the historic Prisons.
Shift to the water for a traditional 30-minute shared gondola ride, offering a peaceful escape through the shimmering canals that define Venice’s charm.
Your guide will introduce you to a nearby authentic vetreria, providing a fascinating glimpse into the legendary craft of Venetian glassmaking and its exquisite local artistry. This well-rounded experience perfectly balances the city’s dramatic history with its living traditions, offering a comprehensive and memorable portrait of Venice.
Available options
Italian Guided Tour
Doge's Palace and Gondola: Italian guided tour on the Saint Mark Square and the Doge's Palace with a gondola Ride (Basilica ticket not include)
English Guided Tour
Doge's Palace and Gondola: English guided tour on the Saint Mark Square and the Doge's Palace with a gondola Ride (Basilica ticket not include)
Spanish Guided Tour
Doge's Palace and Gondola: Spanish guided tour on the Saint Mark Square and the Doge's Palace with a gondola Ride (Basilica ticket not include)
Tickets and Audio Guide
Tickets with Audio Guide: Explore the Doge’s Palace and uncover its fascinating history with Preserved Tickets and Audio Guide.
French Guided Tour
Doge's Palace and Gondola: French guided tour on the Saint Mark Square and the Doge's Palace with a gondola Ride (Basilica ticket not include)
What's included
Audioguide (If option selected)
Skip the line to the Doge's Palace
Stop at a local vetreria
Shared Gondola Ride
Official Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The heart of Venice, where history, architecture, and vibrant atmosphere come together.
2
Stop 2
A masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture, once the seat of power of the Venetian Republic, where your guided tour brings centuries of history to life.
3
Stop 3
The Bridge of Sighs is a famous enclosed stone bridge in Venice that once connected the Doge’s Palace to the old prisons. It’s named after the sighs of prisoners seeing Venice for the last time through its windows.
What's not included
transport
food and beverage
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Guide guide
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
2.5
4 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
5.0
13 reviews
5★
13
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Viator voucher is not your entry ticket. You will receive all the necessary information via email and Whatsapp.
Visits inside the Doge’s Palace have a typical duration of 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the time spent exploring the various rooms and exhibitions.
The tour runs even in light rain. Please note that during certain time of the year, high tide may occur. In that case, raised walkways are set up to allow access and disposable shoe covers can be purchased in front of the entrance.
Please note that to use the audio guide, you must have a smartphone and headphones.
Meeting time is subject to change; if this occurs, you will receive a call or message from the activity provider. Please provide your correct phone number and country code.
If you select the audioguide option, please download the app to your phone in advance using Wi-Fi, as it will be used offline during the visit.
During the summer season, please allow up to two hours to travel from the train station to Saint Mark’s Square, as water taxis are in high demand and delays are common due to heavy crowds.
Please dress appropriately for a place of worship: shoulders and knees should be covered.
If you wish to upgrade your tour with tickets to the Basilica, please contact us
Meeting point
Meet your host under the blue Clock Tower at the corner of St. Mark's Basilica, next to Bar Americano. The host will be holding a blue flag and wearing a yellow vest.
Important notes
The activity provider will contact you and send the necessary information. Please ensure you provide a correct email address and phone number with the country code. We strongly recommend having WhatsApp and regularly checking your email, SMS, and WhatsApp for any updates.
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
