Viator Rating : 5 (191 reviews)
Venice
Venice Doge's Palace & St. Mark's: Max 6 People
150
Overview
Venice Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Semi-Private Tour, Max 6 People, offers an in-depth exploration of Venice's most iconic landmarks. This walking tour, designed for small groups, provides an intimate experience of the city's rich history and stunning architecture. Expect to uncover the secrets of Saint Mark's Square, Saint Mark's Basilica, and the Doge's Palace, all while enjoying skip-the-line access and personalized attention from a local expert guide.
Visitors will discover the breathtaking views from the Bridge of Sighs and explore the Doge's Palace's infamous prisons, impressive Gun Room, and the magnificent Hall of the Great Council. The tour includes entry to the Hall of the Great Council, St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace, including its apartments and prisons. It excludes food and drinks, hotel pickup and drop-off, and gratuities.
This semi-private tour is limited to a maximum of 6 people, ensuring a personalized experience. It offers skip-the-line access to both St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. With a local expert guide, discover Venice's historical landmarks. 
Highlights
Skip the Lines: Breeze past the crowds with skip-the-line access to St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a personalized tour with a maximum of 6 people for an intimate experience.
Expert Local Guide: Learn about Venice's history and culture from a knowledgeable local guide.
See Iconic Landmarks: Explore St. Mark's Square, Bridge of Sighs, and the Doge's Palace's prisons.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved skipping the long lines and getting into the attractions quickly.
-
The small group size made the tour feel personal and easy to hear the guide.
-
Many reviewers said their guide was very knowledgeable and shared interesting stories.
-
Visitors highlighted that the attractions were spectacular and worth seeing.
Some reviewers mentioned it was hard to find the meeting point
-
Few thought the tour was shorter than expected.
The Journey
Saint Mark's Square
Begin your Venetian adventure in Saint Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco), the city's vibrant heart and a breathtaking spectacle of history and architecture. This iconic square, framed by stunning structures like St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, and the Campanile, has been the center of Venetian life for centuries. Capture picture-perfect moments amidst the bustling atmosphere, soak in the grandeur of the surrounding buildings, and feel the pulse of Venice as you prepare to delve deeper into its rich history and cultural treasures. Its origins date back to the 9th century, when a small area in front of the original St Mark's Basilica served as a marketplace and gathering place. Over the centuries, it has evolved into the grand square we know today, witnessing countless historical events, festivals, and celebrations.
Saint Mark's Basilica
Step inside St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco), also known as the Golden Basilica, a breathtaking masterpiece of Byzantine architecture adorned with over 8,000 square meters of shimmering gold mosaics. Marvel at the intricate details of these dazzling mosaics, depicting biblical scenes and the history of Venice. Explore the basilica's rich history, dating back to the 11th century, and discover the relics of St. Mark, the city's patron saint. This isn't just a church; it's a living testament to Venice's power, wealth, and artistic prowess, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the city's opulent past. Remember to bring your valid photo ID for entry!
Doge's Palace
Enter the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), the former seat of Venetian power and a magnificent display of Gothic architecture. Wander through the lavish apartments of the Doge, the ruler of Venice, and explore the imposing halls where crucial decisions shaped the fate of the Venetian Republic for centuries. Uncover secret histories and intriguing anecdotes as you journey through the palace, leading to the chilling prison cells and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. From the impressive collection of weapons to the somber atmosphere of the prison, the Doge's Palace offers a captivating and multifaceted glimpse into Venice's complex past, where power, art, and intrigue intertwined.
Know Before You Go
This semi-private tour is limited to a maximum of 6 people and includes skip-the-line access to St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. A local expert guide will accompany the group. The tour includes visits to the Hall of the Great Council, St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace (including apartments and prisons), and the Bridge of Sighs. Food and drinks, hotel pickup and drop-off, and gratuities are not included. The meeting point is in front of the entrance of the Basilica. Please arrive 15 minutes before your departure.
Hot Tip
Some reviewers suggest arriving early at the meeting point to ensure you find it easily, especially during busy times. Also, consider wearing comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Review Summary
Customers generally say this semi-private tour offers a rich and engaging introduction to Venice’s top landmarks with the benefit of knowledgeable, friendly guides and small group sizes enhancing the experience. The skip-the-line access is frequently praised for saving time, while the intimate group setting allows for better interaction. Some feedback notes the tight schedule can be brisk, and accessibility might be challenging for those with limited mobility. Overall, the blend of historical insights, exclusive viewing spots such as St. Mark’s balcony, and the detailed walkthrough of the Doge’s Palace are highly appreciated by travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Venice
€199
Exclusive Venice: Private Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Basilica Tour
5.0
(314 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Explore Venice's highlights with a private tour of Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. Enjoy skip-the-line access, personalized pace, and in-depth insights into the Basilica's mosaics, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Doge's Palace's historic chambers. Discover Venice's rich history intimately.
Venice
€85
Unveiling Secret Venice: Authentic Walking Tour
5.0
(54 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Secret Venice: Discover hidden gems beyond tourist hotspots. Explore authentic streets, canals, and squares on this walking tour. Uncover the city's best-preserved face, away from the crowds. See little-known places that merit a visit, blending history and local culture. Excellent quality and great memories guaranteed.
Venice
€210
Venice: Exclusive After-Hours St. Mark's Basilica Private Tour
5.0
(70 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
The Exclusive Private Tour of Saint Mark's Basilica After Hours offers an incredibly special visit to this famous church after it closes to the public. The crowds are gone, and the doors reopen just for the tour group. This special access lets visitors be the only ones to see the Golden Church of Venice at night.
A professional guide leads the private group on an intimate journey through the Basilica as evening falls. In the quiet, the mosaics light up, creating an amazing light show. Guests get close to the Pala d'Oro and go down into the crypt. This is a unique, dramatic, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Visitors will explore Piazza San Marco and St. Mark's Basilica. The tour includes exclusive after-hours access, a professional guide, and the chance to see the golden mosaics light up. Gratuities are not included.
Venice
€450
Venice Private Tour: Doge Palace & Gondola Ride
4.9
(97 reviews)
Duration: 270
minutes
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.
Venice
€169
Saint Mark's Basilica: Unveiling Venice's Golden Secrets After Dark
5.0
(47 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Saint Mark's VIP Night Tour offers exclusive after-hours access to the Basilica in a small group. A professional guide leads an intimate journey through the illuminated mosaics. Limited to six people, the experience ensures a unique, unforgettable view of Venice's Golden Church, creating a truly special memory.
Bologna
€169
Bologna Food Tour: Factory Visits & Lunch
5.0
(1196 reviews)
Duration: 540
minutes
Bologna Food Experience: Factory tours & Family-Style Lunch starts in Bologna and takes guests on a delicious journey through the region's culinary heartland. This full-day bus tour is perfect for food lovers who want to see how some of Italy's most famous products are made.
Guests will visit the Parmigiano Reggiano Dairy, where they'll witness the cheese-making process from start to finish. Next, they'll head to the Prosciutto Factory Montevecchio to learn about the art of curing prosciutto. The tour also includes a stop at a Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Cellar of Modena, where they can sample this aged delicacy. What to Expect: Get ready for generous tastings of all products, breakfast with wine and coffee and a multicourse italian-style lunch included.
This experience includes lunch with matching wines, alcoholic beverages, a driver/guide, air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, round trip transportation from and to Bologna, coffee and tea, and food tastings. Gratuities are not included. The meeting point is at 7 am in Piazza XX Settembre, nearby the train station in Bologna. Guests joining from outside Bologna can contact the tour operator to arrange for a different meeting point if driving. This tour ensures a comfortable and insightful exploration of Bologna's food treasures, making it a top choice for those seeking an authentic Italian culinary adventure.
Nearby Events
Kioene Arena
Apr 11
9:00 PMGigi D'Alessio Live at Kioene Arena Padova
Gigi D'Alessio will bring his celebrated voice and heartfelt Italian pop music to the Kioene Arena in Padova for the Palasport 2026 event. Fans can expect an immersive concert experience featuring selections from his extensive repertoire including his recent works, showcasing why he remains one of Italy's most beloved contemporary artists.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and modern facilities, Kioene Arena serves as the perfect venue for this major live music event. The arena is a premier destination in Padova for concerts and sporting events, attracting visitors eager for memorable entertainment in the heart of Italy's Veneto region.
Unipol Arena
Mar 06
9:00 PMJason Derulo Live at Unipol Arena - Book Tickets Now
Jason Derulo's The Last Dance World Tour arrives at Unipol Arena in Casalecchio di Reno, delivering an electrifying night of pop music and high-energy performances. Known for chart-topping hits like “Savage Love” and “Talk Dirty,” Derulo continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his dynamic voice and signature dance moves.
As a multi-platinum seller with over 250 million singles sold, Jason Derulo blends R&B, pop, and global sounds, further boosted by his massive TikTok influence. Unipol Arena, renowned for hosting major international concerts, offers an ideal setting for this unforgettable event in Italy’s vibrant music scene.
Gran Teatro GEOX
Mar 24
9:15 PMUccio De Santis Live at Gran Teatro GEOX Padova
Uccio De Santis brings his captivating show “Scusi, per Hollywood?” to the iconic Gran Teatro GEOX in Padova, delivering a unique blend of comedy and storytelling. This event showcases De Santis’s dynamic performance style that combines monologues and sketches reflecting his rich experience as an actor and writer.
Celebrated for roles in films like "Non me lo dire" and "La Grande Guerra del Salento," Uccio De Santis is known for his deep connection to Italian cinema and engaging stage presence. Gran Teatro GEOX, renowned for its excellent acoustics and modern amenities, provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
Teatro Storchi
Mar 31
9:00 PMAlessandro Cattelan Live in Modena - Book Tickets
Alessandro Cattelan returns to Teatro Storchi in Modena with Benvenuto nell'AI!, his latest theatrical tour exploring the contradictions of our technology-dominated era. This highly anticipated show follows the success of his previous tour "Salutava Sempre," blending sharp comedy, music, and spectacular moments to examine how artificial intelligence and digital culture are reshaping modern life.
Cattelan is renowned for his irreverent, thought-provoking approach to performance art, delivering a lucid and provocative narrative that transforms contemporary anxieties into moments of both laughter and reflection. Teatro Storchi, Modena's prestigious cultural venue, provides an intimate setting for this captivating theatrical experience.
Unipol Arena
Apr 13
8:30 PMTame Impala Live at Unipol Arena 2026
Tame Impala brings their psychedelic rock energy to Unipol Arena in Casalecchio di Reno, delivering a night of immersive sound and unforgettable visuals. The band, known for their genre-defining albums like 'Currents' and 'The Slow Rush,' continues to captivate audiences worldwide with their dynamic live performances and innovative production.
Unipol Arena, one of Italy’s premier concert venues, offers state-of-the-art acoustics and a vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for Tame Impala’s signature blend of rock and pop. Fans can expect a setlist that mixes fan favorites with fresh tracks, ensuring a memorable experience for both longtime listeners and new fans.
Arena di Verona
July 06
9:00 PMThe Lumineers: Automatic World Tour at Arena di Verona
The Lumineers bring their Automatic World Tour to the legendary Arena di Verona, delivering an unforgettable night of soulful rock and heartfelt storytelling. Fans can expect a powerful setlist featuring hits like 'Ho Hey,' 'Ophelia,' and new tracks from their 2025 album, Automatic, which has been praised for its emotional depth and anthemic sound.
The Lumineers have built a global reputation for their captivating live performances and authentic connection with audiences. The Arena di Verona, a historic Roman amphitheater, sets the stage for a magical evening, blending ancient architecture with modern music for a truly unique concert experience.
The Ultimate Top Things to Do in Venice, Italy Guide
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!
View Venice Activities