Venice Skip‑the‑Line Doge’s Palace & Guided City Walking Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Venice’s most iconic landmarks with hidden historical gems, all guided by a local expert. Enjoy skip-the-line access to the Doge’s Palace and explore its grand halls, secret prisons, and the legendary Bridge of Sighs.
Walk through the heart of Venice—from Piazza San Marco to Marco Polo’s neighborhood—while uncovering stories of power, art, and adventure.
With a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture, this tour offers a rich, immersive experience that brings Venice’s fascinating past to life in a seamless, hassle-free way.
Available options
English Guided Tour
Doge's Palace Tour at 11:45: The Doge's Palace tour takes place at 11:45am after the walking tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a walking tour from 09:00 to 10:30, followed by a visit to the Doge's Palace from 11:45 to 13:00.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Doge's Palace
Spanish Guided Tour
Doge's Palace Tour at 11:45: The Doge's Palace tour takes place at 11:45am after the walking tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a walking tour from 09:00 to 10:30, followed by a visit to the Doge's Palace from 11:45 to 13:00.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Doge's Palace
German Guided Tour
Doge's Palace Tour at 11:45: The Doge's Palace tour takes place at 11:45am after the walking tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a walking tour from 09:00 to 10:30, followed by a visit to the Doge's Palace from 11:45 to 13:00.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Doge's Palace
French Guided Tour
Doge's Palace Tour at 11:45: The Doge's Palace tour takes place at 11:45am after the walking tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a walking tour from 09:00 to 10:30, followed by a visit to the Doge's Palace from 11:45 to 13:00.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Doge's Palace
What's included
Official certified guide
City Guided Tour
Radio system to hear the guide
Tickets and Reservations to Doge's Palace
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Discover the best of Venice in one unforgettable experience combining a professionally guided city walking tour with priority access to the majestic Doge’s Palace. This engaging and informative tour is ideal for first-time visitors and history lovers who want to dive deeper into the unique story of Venice, uncovering its artistic, political, and architectural wonders.
Your journey begins in the heart of Venice—Piazza San Marco, one of the most famous and photographed squares in the world. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll explore the rich symbolism and stories behind its most iconic monuments. Learn about the dazzling St. Mark’s Basilica with its golden domes, ornate mosaics, and bronze horses stolen from Constantinople. Your guide will explain their origin and cultural meaning, all from the exterior, offering incredible photo opportunities and storytelling.
2
You’ll also hear about the Campanile (Bell Tower) and the Procuratie, which once served as governmental and commercial buildings, forming the backbone of the Venetian Republic’s administrative life. This square once served as a center of public life, religious rituals, and international diplomacy.
Continue the walking tour through the narrow alleyways and wide campos of Venice to Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo, a massive Gothic church often called the “Pantheon of Venice” for its many doges buried inside. Alongside, you’ll view the Scuola Grande di San Marco—a Renaissance masterpiece that reflects the charitable and artistic culture of the Venetian Republic.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transportation to/from attractions
Entrance tickets to the attractions not mentioned in inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Unfortunately, wheelchairs and strollers cannot be accommodated on this tour. All customers must be able to autonomously walk, climb and get off the steps
Due to recent safety concerns, some lines to enter the Doge's Palace may occur even for skip-the-line ticket holders
For security reasons sacks, bags or knapsacks are not allowed inside the Palace
The walking tour does not include entrance to the main sites and will completely take place outside (only external comments of the various sites will be provided)
The tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of religious functions (in these cases it can be rearranged or refunded)
This tour does not include entrance to the main sites and will completely take place outside (only external comments of the various sites will be provided)
Please note that the tour requires a minimum number of two guests to run.
Please note that if you arrive after the tour start time you will not be able to join and will not be refunded or have your tour rescheduled.
Subject to favourable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund..
There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements, in the event of this occurring you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
Please note that the 09:00 AM tour includes the guided city walking tour. The Doge's Palace guided tour will take place at 11:45 AM from the same meeting point. Make sure to return to the meeting location on time for the Doge's Palace tour.
Please note that customers suffering from claustrophobia, vertigo of cardio-respiratory disorders, pregnant women and Children under 6 are not allowed on this tour.
Unfortunately, wheelchairs and strollers cannot be accommodated on this tour. All customers must be able to autonomously walk, climb and get off the steps.
Meeting point
Please meet your guide in front of the wooden souvenir kiosk, just behind the Correr Museum in Piazza San Marco, next to the entrance to the post office.
Important notes
The entrance tickets will be delivered by the guide or our representative at the meeting point prior to the start of the tour.
Please follow the instructions to the meeting point as on the voucher.
Please note that the 09:00 AM tour includes the guided city walking tour. The Doge's Palace guided tour will take place at 11:45 AM from the same meeting point. Make sure to return to the meeting location on time for the Doge's Palace tour.
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
