Name: Basilica, Doge's Palace, History Gallery & Bell Tower Option
SKU: 21441P20
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.8 (688 reviews)

WizardTrip

Basilica, Doge's Palace, History Gallery & Bell Tower Option

4.8(688)· Venice· By CITY TOURS CO. LTD

Free cancellationLikely to sell out

From

€96.50per person

1 to 15 travelers per booking.

Options5 of 5 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €96.50€96.50

Total€96.50

About the activity

Experience an exclusive guided tour of the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, iconic landmarks of Piazza San Marco. Admire the grandeur of the Golden Staircase and stunning artworks in the Doge's Palace, and cross the Bridge of Sighs to explore the historic prisons where Casanova was held, reminiscent of Alcatraz’s mystique. Visit St. Mark's Basilica, known as the Golden Basilica, to marvel at its glittering mosaics, as dazzling as any European cathedral. Then, enjoy a virtual reality experience at the History Gallery of Venice. With a VR headset, see Piazza San Marco as it once was, imagining the Basilica as the Doge's private chapel and the Palace as a medieval fortress. Choose the St. Mark's Bell Tower option for panoramic views of Venice, much like viewing New York City from above. An elevator ride to the top offers breathtaking vistas of the domes, St. Mark's Square, and the lagoon. Enhance your visit with an audio guide and digital map for deeper insights.

What's included

✓Visit to Rialto Bridge (if option selected)
✓Priority access ticket for the Bell Tower (if the option is selected)
✓Skip-the-line tickets for the Marciana Library (closed on Sundays) and the Archaeological Museum
✓Entrance to the Bridge of Sighs
✓Skip-the-line tickets for Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Cathedral
✓Guided tour by a qualified guide for Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Cathedral (if option selected)
✓Entrance ticket to St. Mark's Cathedral Terrace (if option selected)
✓History Gallery - Venice in the past VR Experience
✓Skip-the-line ticket for the Royal Palace - Correr Museum (Empress Sissi Rooms & Napoleon Dancing Hall)

What is not included

✕Hotel pickup and drop-off service
✕Food and beverages
✕Guided tour of the Archaeological Museum, Marciana Library, and Royal Palace - Correr Museum

Itinerary

1
Palazzo Ducale
Explore the imposing Doge’s Palace, featuring magnificent rooms adorned with artistic masterpieces by renowned Venetian artists. Discover the halls of power where the Doge and high-ranking politicians shaped the destiny of the Venetian Republic. Behold Tintoretto's "The Last Judgment," one of the world's largest paintings, displayed in these historic rooms. Your guide will then lead you through the ancient Venetian prisons, crossing the breathtaking Bridge of Sighs!
· 1 h 15 min· Admission included
2
Basilica di San Marco
Continue to the Basilica of Saint Mark, famously known as the Golden Basilica due to its countless mosaics made of pure gold! Your guide will illuminate the history and significance of the cathedral's decorative masterpieces. (OUTSIDE TOUR IF THE BELL TOWER OPTION IS SELECTED)
· 1 h· Admission included
3
Piazza San Marco
A brief passage through the heart of Venice, showcasing its two most iconic landmarks.
· Non-stop passage
4
Campanile di San Marco
Opt for the St. Mark's Bell Tower for unparalleled panoramic views of Venice from above. Gaze upon the domes of St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, and the picturesque lagoon. A swift elevator ride transports you to the summit for a truly unique vista. Standing at 98 meters, the bell tower is the tallest structure in Venice. (SELECTING THE BELL TOWER OPTION YOU WILL ENJOY THE ST. MARK'S BASILICA VISIT FROM OUTSIDE ONLY)
· 30 min· Admission included

How to use your ticket

Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking.

Meeting point and return

From St. Mark’s Square, face the Basilica and turn right towards the Doge’s Palace. Continue past the Bridge of Sighs to Riva degli Schiavoni (the waterfront promenade). Walk for 2 minutes, then turn left into Calle de le Rasse. The Venice Tours Office is at number 4536.

Please carefully check the title and inclusions of the option booked, as not all options include all services.

The official St. Mark's Basilica ticket price is €12.00 per person (standard) or €24.00 with terrace access; the remaining part of the price covers assistance at the meeting point, accompanied entry with a certified guide or host, access to the Venice Gallery with a dedicated VR experience, the use of an audio guide or radio system with earphones and sales costs.

A valid ID document is mandatory for security checks at the entrance to the Basilica.

Tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of unplanned religious functions (in these cases it can be postponed to the day after otherwise it will be refunded).

During some days of high turnout or for reasons of force majeure (for example high tide or security problems) the waiting time to access St. Mark’s Basilica might be longer than expected: in this case, please line up and respect the instructions provided by the guide.

For the visit of the Basilica suitable clothing is required (no shorts).

You are kindly requested to be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the departure.

Pala D'Oro, Terrace and Museum are not included.

This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for guests with walking disabilities.

Large bags and luggage are not allowed inside Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica or in gondola for security reasons.

Meeting point

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Practical information

Public transportation options are available nearby.
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.
Not recommended for pregnant travelers.
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.
Suitable for all physical fitness levels.
The official St. Mark's Basilica ticket price is €12.00 per person (standard) or €24.00 with terrace access; the remaining part of the price covers assistance at the meeting point, accompanied entry with a certified guide or host, access to the Venice Gallery with a dedicated VR experience, the use of an audio guide or radio system with earphones and sales costs.
A valid ID document is mandatory for security checks at the entrance to the Basilica.
Comfortable shoes are suggested.
On Sundays, feast days and in case of unplanned religious celebrations, the Basilica tour foresees the visit with direct access to the Terrace and to St. Mark's Museum situated on the first floor.
Due to security reasons, luggage and bags are not allowed inside the Basilica.
Please note that the Marciana Library is closed on Sundays.
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
Tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of unplanned religious functions (in these cases it can be postponed to the day after otherwise it will be refunded).
For the visit of the Basilica, suitable clothing is required (no shorts).
Please provide the full names of all travelers when booking. Failure to present a voucher with all travelers’ full names at the ticket office prior to entry may result in denied entry to the attraction.

Activity options

In-depth Eng Tour
Visit: Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica
Duration: 3 hours
English Guided Tour
Classic France Tour
Visit: Doge's Palace and St Mark's Palace
Duration: 2 hours
French Guided Tour
Classic Eng. Tour
Visit: Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica
Duration: 2 hours
English Guided Tour
Classic Eng. Tour + Lunch
Type of service: Shared Guided Tour & Venetian Lunch
Duration: 4 hours: approx.
Classic Eng Tour + Bell Tower
Visit: Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica and Bell Tower
Duration: 3 hours
English Guided Tour

Duration

2 h à 3 h

How to prepare for your experience

Book the Bell Tower option for stunning city views.
Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking.
Ensure you have a valid ID for security checks.
Dress appropriately for the Basilica visit (no shorts).
Arrive at the meeting point 5 minutes prior to departure.

Discover the heart of Venice with skip-the-line access and expert guides to Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica.

Cancellation conditions

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

Any questions?

Product code: 21441P20

Activity offered by CITY TOURS CO. LTD via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

History enthusiasts
First-time visitors to Venice
Culture seekers

Activity essentials

Skip-the-line access to major attractions
Expert guided tours of Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica
Immersive VR experience of historic Venice
Optional panoramic views from St. Mark's Bell Tower
Explore the Bridge of Sighs and historic prisons

Venice: good to know

Population: 250,369 (2023)
Elevation: 2 m
Currency: euro
Official language: Italian
Driving: on the right
Power plugs: C, F, L · 230 V
Emergency number: 112
Capital city: Rome

Average temperatures

5°Jan
6°Feb
9°Mar
14°Apr
18°May
23°Jun
25°Jul
25°Aug
21°Sept
16°Oct
11°Nov
7°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is the official ticket price for St. Mark's Basilica?

The official St. Mark's Basilica ticket price is €12.00 per person (standard) or €24.00 with terrace access. The remaining part of the price covers assistance at the meeting point, accompanied entry with a certified guide or host, access to the Venice Gallery with a dedicated VR experience, the use of an audio guide or radio system with earphones, and sales costs.

What should I wear for the Basilica visit?

For the visit of the Basilica, suitable clothing is required (no shorts).

Can I bring large bags or luggage inside?

Large bags and luggage are not allowed inside Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica or in gondola for security reasons.

What happens if the tour is cancelled due to bad weather or low participation?

The tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of unplanned religious functions (in these cases it can be postponed to the day after otherwise it will be refunded). The tour is not cancelled due to insufficient participants.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for guests with walking disabilities.

Reviews

4.84.8(688)

5 stars

604

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Viator review
Worth the cost
David_G, October 2026
Use a maps app to find the tour office as it is on a side street. We really liked our guide but felt she was repetitive in her information and we wanted more depth either on the Republic or the history of the art (painter/specific characters/symbolism analysis). The church was basically a quick walkthrough. The bell tower was well worthwhile for the views; try to avoid being there when the bells ring as it is loud. These are unique, extraordinary places to visit and see. Being able to skip the lines makes the price a bargain, especially if you have limited time. Our package included entrance to Museo Correr(?). Make sure to go. I’m a museum buff and this one was interesting (don’t miss the second floor).
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Thank you Francesca
maryashtony, October 2026
Really great guide (Francesca). She is very knowledgeable and had a nice manner with the group. The group was larger than 15, though. Also the group was a combination of people who had selected different sites.
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Great guide and good experience
S6784AJheatherc, October 2026
Easy instructions to get to the pickup point. Guide was good and engaging. She was very knowledgable and had a good pace throughout- didn’t feel rushed and didn’t feel too slow. Some confusion with the bell tower option. We thought we had booked as our booking said it was with bell tower option so might need more clarity when booking. Great experience overall though and would recommend
★★★★★Viator review
Very good overview of the Palace and the Basilica
jay_s, September 2026
Our guide was excellent in taking us through the highlights of the Doge’s Palace and the Basilica. She made the descriptions of the life of the Doges and how the Republic operated under their rule. She pointed out the most interesting aspects of the Basilica. Our tickets included the Bell Tower and the Museum. We assumed that the tour would include a guided visit of the Museum but it did not (the only “con” in the activity). The views from the Bell Tower were absolutely fantastic and not to be missed. You get a panoramic view of the entire area including the Grand Canal and the Lagoon. Really impressive!
★★★★★Viator review
Amazing tour guide
Tammie_E, September 2026
We had such a wonderful tour with our tour guide. It ended up being just my husband and I and so it was very personalized. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable in the Venetian history and we learned so much.

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Guide · 8 min readVenice in One Day, from the Doge’s Palace to BuranoFour guided tours of 2 to 6 hours to see Venice in a day: the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s, a full day with a gondola ride, Murano and Burano by boat, and a food tour. Here is how to choose or combine them.

Frequently asked questions about Venice

What is there to do in Venice?

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According to traveller reviews: « A Sparkling Day in the Prosecco Hills from Venice » (5.0/5, 590 reviews) ; « Eating Venice Small Group Food & Drinks Tour » (5.0/5, 1,315 reviews) ; « Private or Semi Doge's Palace & Saint Mark's Basilica Guided Tour » (5.0/5, 452 reviews).

Can you cancel an activity in Venice for free?

Usually, yes: 23 of the 24 most popular activities in Venice offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.