Legendary Venice St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge’s Palace

Delve into Venetian history on a tour showcasing the city’s most iconic structures—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—as an expert guide sheds light on the stories behind both iconic attractions. Skip the line into the legendary St. Mark’s Basilica, where you’ll wander through the mosaic-clad interior and even step onto the balcony overlooking Piazza San Marco—reserved for only a select few! Then, continue to the Doge’s Palace and step into the political heart of a powerful empire.

Begin in the world-famous St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) and take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking space laid out in front of you. Your guide will lay the foundation for your experience, setting the scene of centuries of Venetian history under the famed arched portico.

Get special access into the pristine St. Mark’s Basilica, skipping past the long lines and straight into its opulent interior. Wander beneath the mosaics in the company of a local guide who’s especially skilled at reviving the past through storytelling and expert knowledge. Marvel at the mosaics and more of the basilica’s treasures, then take a walk out onto the balcony for a once-in-a-lifetime view overlooking Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, and the Venetian lagoon.

Sightseeing & Photo Stop

Sightseeing & Photo Stop

Weave your way through the Doge’s Palace, where pre-reserved tickets once again get you past the lines and inside what was once the political heart of the Venetian empire for hundreds of years. Walk through the Doge’s private apartments and learn how politics and crime went hand in hand—even in medieval Venice. Finally, like many other (unlucky) Venetians before you, you’ll wander over the Bridge of Sighs—and learn why this romantic icon is a little grimmer than you may have heard—before finishing your exploration in the New Prisons.

Sightseeing & Photo Stop

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
• Due to the religious nature of St. Mark’s Basilica, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. You can bring extra covering (scarves, etc) to put on just before entering St. Mark’s. Walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry.
• Sites visited during this tour are subject to occasional closures due to holy observances, high tides, and/or flooding. If a site closes, your guide will tour the exterior of the site. If time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. If the local municipality restricts access due to high tide and there are no walkways available, it is the client’s responsibility to bring appropriate footwear (e.g., boots). For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
• Tour in English only
• No refund will be provided if high tide prevents certain parts of the tour, but adjustments to the route will be made for client safety and comfort.
• If access is restricted due to private events inside St. Mark’s Basilica and/or Doge’s Palace, we cannot be held responsible. This is a situation beyond our control. No refund will be issued.
• This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.

• Private – Legendary Venice
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  Explore Venice’s top attractions—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—on a private guided tour.
• Small Group Tour in English
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  Small Group
• Exclusive Entry Doge’s Palace
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  Early Entry Doge’s Palace: Stand alone and take a breath in the Doge’s Palace an hour before the general public arrives!

• Skip-the-line ticket for St. Mark’s Basilica
• Local English-speaking guide
• Exclusive access to St. Mark’s Basilica terraces
• Exclusive Early Entry to the Doge’s Palace (8 AM only)
• Pre-reserved ticket to the Doge’s Palace
• Headsets when necessary

• Gratuities
• Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off

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• Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. Out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
• Due to the religious nature of the Basilica, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. A scarf or shawl is acceptable. Walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry.
• Sites visited during this tour are subject to occasional closures due to holy observances, high tides, and/or flooding. If a site closes, your guide will tour the exterior of the site. If time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour.
• Photography and filming are prohibited. Large bags and backpacks cannot be accommodated on this tour.
• Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
• If the local municipality restricts access due to high tide and there are no walkways available, it is the client’s responsibility to bring appropriate footwear (e.g., boots). The guide will modify the itinerary to include alternate dry paths whenever possible.
• No refund will be provided if high tide prevents certain parts of the tour, but adjustments to the route will be made for client safety and comfort.
• If access is restricted due to private events inside St. Mark’s Basilica and/or Doge’s Palace, we cannot be held responsible. This is a situation beyond our control. No refund will be issued.
• Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
• Appropriate footwear recommended

Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by Walks – Italy & Spain.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Rome.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• This Tour is Rated 4.5 Stars based on 4623 valid reviews on VIATOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.