Doge's Palace Guided tour with Prison Access
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Doge's Palace, a prime example of Gothic architecture in Venice, can be accessed through the Porta del Frumento overlooking the Venetian Lagoon. As the Doge's residence, it was the center of political and administrative life, serving as a governmental seat and court of justice, symbolizing the Republic of Venice's power. Established after 812 and rebuilt several times due to fires, it became a museum after Venice's annexation to the Kingdom of Italy, now housing the Civic Museum of the Doge's Palace. Your visit begins at the inner courtyard, surrounded by impressive facades and a Gothic colonnade. Marvel at the Giant's Staircase, adorned with statues of Mars and Neptune by Jacopo Sansovino, then proceed to the first floor. There, you will find the Sala del Maggior Consiglio, where the Great Council convened. Conclude your tour by exploring the prisons via the Bridge of Sighs, offering breathtaking views of the lagoon and the distant silhouette of Giudecca.
Available options
Doge's Palace Guided tour with Prison Access
What's included
Professional guide
Entrance to Palazzo Ducale
Access to the Prison
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Nestled at the junction where the Canal Grande meets the southern expanse of San Marco square stands the Doge's Palace, a venerable symbol of Venice's republican past. Once the residence of the Doge—a paramount figure in the city-state's governance—the palace also housed pivotal political institutions. Despite enduring several fires over the centuries, each restoration imbued the palace with new architectural nuances from its respective era.
What's not included
Food and drink
Transport
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If the chosen time is not available, you will be transferred to another time on the same day. These changes do not depend on us. Therefore, when making the reservation you are aware of this possibility, we will not accept subsequent complaints or refund requests. Example: If you choose the 12:00 time slot and the Palace ticket office closes at that time, you will be transferred to the first available time slot, 15:45
This tour is shared
"Skip the Line" means that instead of waiting in the normal long queue, the customer enters a fast, priority queue, together with the other customers who have chosen this option
Important notice for last minute bookings (same day or overnight): in case of lack of spaces, the customer will be accommodated the day following the booked date.
Please leave a Whatsapp number where you will be contacted by our support once you have booked the tour with us
Meeting point
Calle larga de l'Ascension 1256 - 30124 next to the San Marco Post Office (opposite St. Mark's Basilica). Look for the wooden kiosk. Turive assistant
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
$169
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
