Viator Rating : 5 (97 reviews)
Venice
Venice Private Tour: Doge Palace & Gondola Ride
270
Overview
Best of Venice Private Tour: St. Mark's Doge Palace Gondola Ride offers an exclusive exploration of Venice with a private guide, unveiling the city's most iconic sights. This walking tour is perfect for travelers who want to see all of the highlights of the city, and is also a great way to get around Venice, as it includes skip the line tickets to places that usually have very long wait times.
The journey begins in St. Mark's Square, providing stunning views of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. Guests enjoy skip-the-line access to both landmarks, marveling at the basilica's golden mosaics and traversing the Doge's Palace to witness centuries of Venetian history. A poignant moment awaits on the Bridge of Sighs, offering a glimpse of the city's beauty as seen by prisoners of old.
Following a break, the tour continues to the Rialto Bridge and Marco Polo’s house, culminating in a classic Venetian experience: a private gondola ride through the city's enchanting canals. The experience includes skip-the-line tickets to St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace, a private expert local guide, a 30-minute private gondola ride, and visits to the Hall of the Great Council, Marco Polo’s house, Campo Santa Maria Formosa, the Rialto Bridge, and the Bridge of Sighs. Please note that food, drinks, and gratuities are not included. With a knowledgeable guide and seamless access to key attractions, this tour promises an unforgettable Venetian adventure. 
Highlights
Skip the Lines: Get right into St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace without waiting!
Private Expert Guide: Learn all about Venice from a local who knows the city well.
Gondola Ride: Enjoy a relaxing ride through Venice's pretty canals.
See the Best of Venice: Visit all the important places like Rialto Bridge and Marco Polo's house.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers say the private guide is very knowledgeable and friendly.
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Many enjoyed skipping the long lines at St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace.
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The gondola ride was a highlight for many, offering a relaxing experience.
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Visitors appreciated the detailed historical insights provided.
Some found the walking portion of the tour tiring.
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A few mentioned that the tour felt rushed at times.
The Journey
St. Mark's Square
Begin your Venetian experience in St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco), the heart of Venice and a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Dominated by St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile, the square has been the center of Venetian life for centuries. Experience the lively atmosphere, surrounded by stunning architecture and historical significance, as you meet your guide to begin your tour. This is where the magic of Venice truly comes alive.
St. Mark's Basilica
Step inside St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco), a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture adorned with glittering mosaics and priceless relics. As you skip the line, your guide will share captivating anecdotes about the basilica's history, including its role as the final resting place of St. Mark the Evangelist. Marvel at the Pala d'Oro, an altarpiece encrusted with jewels, and the breathtaking views from the loggia. Note: An original, valid photo ID is required for entry.
Doge's Palace
Gain VIP access to the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), the former political center of Venice and a testament to the city's power and wealth. Explore the lavishly decorated halls, including the Hall of the Great Council, and uncover the secrets of the hidden apartments. Descend into the sinister prisons and cross the infamous Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners took their last glimpse of freedom. Witness an extensive private weapons collection and understand the intrigues of Venetian history within these walls.
Venetian Canals (Gondola Ride)
Conclude your day with a quintessential Venetian experience: a private gondola ride. Your guide will escort you to your gondola, ensuring a seamless and relaxing journey through the city's intricate network of canals. Glide beneath historic bridges, admire the facades of centuries-old palazzi, and soak in the romantic atmosphere of Venice from a unique perspective. This serene voyage offers a tranquil contrast to the bustling streets and a perfect way to appreciate the city's beauty.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes skip-the-line tickets to St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace, entry to the Hall of the Great Council and Doges Prison, and visits to Marco Polo’s house, Campo Santa Maria Formosa, the Rialto Bridge, and the Bridge of Sighs. A 30-minute private gondola ride and a private expert local guide are also included. Food and drinks are not included. Gratuities are optional.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as there will be a lot of walking. Also, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months!
Review Summary
People usually say this tour is a fantastic way to see Venice’s top sights with a knowledgeable guide, especially appreciating the skip-the-line access and personalized attention. Many highlight the gondola ride and the guide’s local insights as standout moments, though some note that the walking can be tiring and the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Explore the top things to do in Venice, Italy. Whether you're interested in hot events or skipping the lines at St. Mark Basilica, we have you covered. Find the perfect experience for you, from a delicious food tour to wine tasting tours. Start making the most of your trip today!
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