Overview
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.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Skip-the-line ticket for St. Mark's Basilica
Local English-speaking guide
Exclusive Early Entry to the Doge's Palace (8 AM only)
Exclusive access to the balcony of St. Mark's Basilica
Pre-reserved ticket to the Doge's Palace
Headsets when necessary
Gratuities
Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Lunch
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Correr Museum (Museo Correr) in Piazza San Marco. Meet under the portico just outside the entrance of the museum. Your guide will be holding a Walks sign. Please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time.
End point
Tour ends in St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco).
Good to know
• Departure Point: Correr Museum (Museo Correr) in Piazza San Marco. Meet under the portico just outside the entrance of the museum. Your guide will be holding a green Walks sign.
• The tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
• Walks complies with all local government regulations. Please refer to Italy government guidelines for the most up to date information.
• Backpacks are prohibited inside of St. Mark's Basilica.
• 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.
• Unfortunately, sections of St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace are not wheelchair accessible, therefore we're unable to accommodate wheelchair users or strollers on this tour.
What to expect
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Piazza San Marco
15 min
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.
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Basilica di San Marco
45 min
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.
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Doge's Palace
2 hours
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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/Rome).
Additional Information
- 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. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Venice Tour for Skip-the-Line Entry to Basilica and Palace
Can I cancel Venice Tour for Skip-the-Line Entry to Basilica and Palace for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Where does the tour start?
Meet under the portico just outside the entrance of the Correr Museum (Museo Correr) in Piazza San Marco. The guide will be holding a green Walks sign; the meeting time is 15 minutes before the start time.
Is pickup provided?
No, all travellers meet at the start point: under the portico just outside the entrance of the Correr Museum (Museo Correr) in Piazza San Marco.
Where does the tour end?
The tour ends in St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco).
What stops are included, and in what order?
The tour has 3 stops, in order: Piazza San Marco, Basilica di San Marco, and Doge's Palace.
How long is the tour, and how much time is spent at each stop?
The tour lasts 3 hours, with 15 minutes at Piazza San Marco, 45 minutes at Basilica di San Marco, and 120 minutes at Doge's Palace.
What should I know before entering St. Mark's Basilica?
Backpacks are prohibited inside the basilica, and all visitors must cover their shoulders and knees; a scarf or shawl is acceptable. The tour includes exclusive access to the basilica balcony.
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