Doge's Palace small group or private tour with a local guide

4.8 (16 reviews) Venice, Italy
Duration2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Ready to channel your inner Sherlock? Step into the UNESCO-listed Doge’s Palace, a stunning symbol of Venetian power and grandeur. Gothic vibes, lavish decor, and spine-tingling secrets await—especially as you cross the eerie Bridge of Sighs to the New Prisons. “It’s not just a name,” says Illaria, one of our local guides, “it’s where prisoners caught their last glimpse of Venice.”

Start with insta-worthy shots of the courtyard, grand façade, and quirky lion mouth letterboxes—the old Venetian complaint system. Inside, marvel at the Golden Staircase, statues of Hercules and Atlas, and incredible ceiling art. Wander through the Great Council Hall, where Tintoretto’s Paradise demands a selfie.

Next, dive into the Armory—portraits, swords, armour—and the luxurious Doge’s Apartments. Finally, cross the Bridge of Sighs and hear thrilling tales, including Casanova’s legendary escape. A real-life adventure through Venice’s dramatic past!

Options

Private Tour in English

Private Tour in English

Shared Tour in English

Shared Tour in English

What's included

  • Entrance to St Mark's Square Museum
  • 2-hour private tour
  • Friendly and local guide
  • Tickets and guided visit inside the Doge's Palace including the New Prisons and the Bridge of Sighs
  • Transportation to the meeting point
  • Guided visit inside St Mark's Square Museums

What to expect

  1. Palazzo Ducale
    1h 30m · Admission ticket included
    Visit, with a private guide, the stunning palace that has represented the center of the Venetian political power for centuries.
  2. Pass by
    Brace yourselves for spine-tingling secrets as you cross the Bridge of Sighs to the New Prisons, where prisoners took their last peek at beautiful Venice.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide between the two big columns in the square (Colonne di San Marco and San Todaro). Please be at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the start of the tour. The guide will hold a TUI sign.

End point

Meet your guide between the two big columns in the square (Colonne di San Marco and San Todaro). Please be at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the start of the tour. The guide will hold a TUI sign.

Additional information

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • For security reasons sacks, bags or backpacks are not allowed inside Doge’s Palace
  • 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
  • You will visit in a small, shared group of up to 10 people. The small-group size gives you a personalized experience away from the crowds. Alternatively, you can opt for a private tour
  • This ticket includes entrance to all St Mark's Square Museums (Correr Museum, Archaeological Museum, Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana) which you will be free to explore after the guided tour has finished.

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

4.8 (16)
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€63.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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