Venice St. Mark's Basilica Optional & Doge's Palace Guided Tour

Maximize time in Venice on this guided tour featuring skip-the-line access to St. Mark's Basilica (If option with Basilica it's selected) and Doge's Palace. Begin at St. Mark's Basilica, one of Venice's most iconic landmarks, and admire its dazzling golden mosaics, rich history, and remarkable Byzantine architecture with an expert guide. Continue to Doge's Palace, the former seat of the Venetian Republic, where you'll explore magnificent halls, historic chambers, and impressive artworks while uncovering centuries of Venetian power and intrigue. Complete your experience with a visit to a traditional Murano glass workshop, where master artisans demonstrate the centuries-old craft that has made Murano glass famous worldwide. A perfect Venice highlights tour for first-time visitors.

1. 1

   Piazza San Marco

   20 min

   Meet your expert guide in famous St. Mark’s Square and start getting to know "the Floating City" and its origins. Explore the most renowned public space in the city and, learn about its historical, social, and political importance. Learn about the Clock Tower and the Marble Lions that both play an important role in St Mark’s history.

2. 2

   Basilica di San Marco

   20 min

   St. Mark's Basilica, located in the enchanting city of Venice, Italy, captivates visitors from afar with its breathtaking exterior. The basilica's façade, adorned with intricate marble carvings, elegant arches, and majestic bronze doors, stands as a testament to the city's architectural brilliance and historical significance.

3. 3

   Palazzo Ducale

   1 hour

   The Doge's Palace, located in St. Mark's Square, is an iconic monument of Venice and the former home of the Doge, the ruler of the Republic of Venice. This Gothic palace, with Renaissance and Baroque elements, offers a fascinating look into the city's history. Visitors can explore rooms decorated with masterpieces by artists such as Tintoretto and Veronese and the famous Bridge of Sighs that connects to the former prisons. It is a must-see stop to understand the rich history and culture of Venice.

4. 4

   Ponte dei Sospiri

   Pass by

   We will pass by the Bridge of Sighs whose name came from the lamentations of the prisoners before being condemned to death, that is linked with the Doge Palace.

5. 5

   Vecchia Murano

   30 min

   We will conclude our experience with a visit to one of the oldest glass factories in Murano, La Vecchia Murano, where you will discover the centuries-old tradition that has made this island famous around the world. During the visit, you will enjoy a fascinating live demonstration by master glassmakers, showcasing the traditional techniques used to blow and shape authentic Murano glass, a craft passed down through generations. After the demonstration, you will have time to explore the factory’s elegant showrooms, featuring unique glass artworks, sculptures, chandeliers, decorative pieces, and exquisite handcrafted jewelry. This is an excellent opportunity to admire the wide variety of colors, styles, and techniques that make Murano glass so distinctive. For those interested, there will be an opportunity to purchase authentic Murano glass creations, internationally recognized for their exceptional quality, beauty, and craftsmanship.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The visit inside St. Mark’s Basilica lasts about 15–20 minutes, according to local regulations.
• 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.
• We kindly ask you to arrive on time, as late arrivals can’t be accommodated or refunded.
• Please dress appropriately for a place of worship: shoulders and knees should be covered.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.