Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica Tickets + Tour Options

History

Venice, a maritime superpower for over a millennium, thrived as a republic under the leadership of the Doge, whose residence and seat of power was the Doge’s Palace, built in the 9th century and expanded in Gothic splendor by the 14th century. The palace housed the government, courts, and notorious prisons, linked by the Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners like Casanova faced their fates. St. Mark’s Basilica, begun in 828 AD to house the relics of St. Mark, became a symbol of Venetian wealth, its golden mosaics and Byzantine architecture reflecting the city’s trade with the East.

This tour, with skip-the-line access, continues Venice’s tradition of showcasing its grandeur, blending the political legacy of the Doge’s Palace with the spiritual magnificence of St. Mark’s Basilica. Optional access to the St. Mark’s Square Museums connects visitors to Venice’s cultural depth, a tradition of preservation since the 19th century when these institutions opened to the public.

Highlights

• Skip the lines to explore the Doge’s Palace, its prisons, and the Bridge of Sighs.
• Visit St. Mark’s Basilica with guided, hosted, or audioguide options.
• Hear expert stories of Venice’s art, history, and legends from a certified guide.
• Optional terrace access for panoramic views of St. Mark’s Square.
• Complimentary entry to Museo Correr, National Archaeological Museum, and Biblioteca Marciana.

Full Description

Experience Venice’s iconic landmarks with a 2-2.5-hour tour, starting at one of eight meeting points near Piazza San Marco, such as Colonna di San Marco. Choose from three options: a Combo Ticket with Audioguide for self-paced exploration via the Crown Tours App, a Guided Tour with a certified expert (English, French, German, Italian), or a Guided Tour with St. Mark’s Terrace access for stunning views. All include skip-the-line entry to the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, plus three-day access to St. Mark’s Square Museums (Museo Correr, National Archaeological Museum, Biblioteca Marciana).

Begin in Piazza San Marco, then enter the Doge’s Palace to explore its opulent halls, where Venetian rulers once governed, and cross the Bridge of Sighs to the New Prisons, hearing tales of justice and intrigue. At St. Mark’s Basilica, marvel at 8,000 square meters of golden mosaics and the Pala d’Oro (optional, extra fee from July 1, 2025). Guided tours offer rich storytelling, while the audioguide (500 MB, bring headphones) provides flexibility. The terrace option adds sweeping views of Venice’s rooftops. Conclude with optional self-guided museum visits, immersing you in Venice’s artistic and historical legacy.

Why Choose This Experience?

This tour offers tailored access to Venice’s heart, with skip-the-line entry saving hours and options for guided depth or audioguide flexibility. The small-group or private formats, multilingual guides, and exclusive digital content via the Crown Tours App ensure a personalized dive into Venetian history, ideal for art lovers, history buffs, or first-time visitors.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours, reserve-now-pay-later, and complimentary museum access add value, while the terrace option elevates the experience with unforgettable views. It’s a perfect way to explore Venice’s iconic sites while avoiding crowds, complementing trips to Murano or the Grand Canal.

What’s Included

• Skip-the-line entry to Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica
• Guided or hosted entry to St. Mark’s Basilica (based on option)
• Complimentary entry to Museo Correr, National Archaeological Museum, and Biblioteca Marciana (3-day access)
• Certified guide (Guided Tour options, English, French, German, Italian)
• Audio system for clear commentary (Guided Tours)
• Digital audioguide via Crown Tours App (Audioguide option, bring headphones)
• St. Mark’s Museum and Terrace access (if specified in booked option)
• Digital maps and tips via Crown Tours App

Itinerary

• Meet at one of eight locations near Piazza San Marco (e.g., Colonna di San Marco)
• Walk through Piazza San Marco with guide or audioguide introduction
• Explore Doge’s Palace: grand halls, New Prisons, and Bridge of Sighs
• Visit St. Mark’s Basilica: mosaics, optional Pala d’Oro (extra fee from July 1, 2025)
• Optional: Access St. Mark’s Terrace for views (if booked)
• Self-guided visit to Museo Correr, National Archaeological Museum, or Biblioteca Marciana (within 3 days)
• Conclude at Piazza San Marco

Pricing

From $80 per person (additional fees from July 1, 2025: Basilica €12, Museum/Pala d’Oro €24, both €36, Campanile €18, Doge’s Palace €30, Museum Pass €40)

Meeting Point

Varies by option (e.g., Colonna di San Marco, P.za San Marco, 61), Venice, Italy; confirmed upon booking

How to Get There

• By vaporetto: Take Line 1 or 2 to San Marco Vallaresso or San Zaccaria, then walk 2-5 minutes to Piazza San Marco.
• By train: From Venice Santa Lucia station, take vaporetto or walk 20-25 minutes to Piazza San Marco.
• By foot: From central Venice (e.g., Rialto Bridge), walk 5-10 minutes to the meeting points.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Passport or ID card (tickets are nominative)
• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Headphones and charged smartphone (Audioguide option, 500 MB download)
• Modest clothing (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts for Basilica)

Know Before You Go

• Pets, backpacks, large bags, weapons, and alcohol/drugs are prohibited.
• Basilica may close for religious events or high tides; visits are time-limited.
• Download the Crown Tours App in advance for audioguides due to limited connectivity.
• Hosted tickets require staying with the group; security checks are mandatory.
• Children 11+ (Basilica) or 6+ (Doge’s Palace) need adult tickets.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reviews

• Our guide was exceptional, sharing deep knowledge and patiently answering questions. The skip-the-line access saved us hours, and the Basilica’s mosaics were breathtaking. A seamless and enriching Venice experience!
• The tour was fantastic—our guide made Venice’s history come alive with engaging stories. The Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs were highlights, and the terrace views were stunning. Highly recommend!
• Skipping the queues was a game-changer, as lines were long. The architecture of both sites was awe-inspiring, and our guide’s enthusiasm made every detail fascinating. A must-do for Venice visitors!