How to Plan Your Skip-the-Line 2 Hours Private Tour of the Doges Palace and St Mark Basilic in Venice

Visiting the iconic Doges Palace and St Mark Basilica is a must-do when in Venice, but long queues can make the experience quite frustrating. Luckily, with a private skip-the-line tour, you’ll avoid the wait and get the chance to learn all about the rich history of these architectural wonders. In this how-to guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan your own unforgettable visit.

Overview of the Tour

As one of Venice’s most popular tours, the Skip-the-Line 2 Hour Private Tour of the Doges Palace and St Mark Basilic is a fantastic way to see two of the city’s major highlights with minimal waiting time. You’ll have your own local guide to accompany you through the sites, providing you with their expert knowledge and ensuring you won’t miss any of the essential information. The tour begins at San Marco Square, where you’ll meet your guide and receive your admission tickets to the Doges Palace and St Mark Basilica. You can choose between morning and afternoon tours to suit your schedule. With your priorities entrance tickets, you’ll skip the queues and be guided through the Doges Palace, where you’ll learn about the political and cultural history of Venice. You’ll embark on a journey through the palace’s breathtaking chambers and halls adorned with artwork by famous Venetian artists like Tintoretto, Veronese, and Tiepolo. As you wander through the premises, your guide will take you to see the space that Casanova, the notorious Venetian lover, was once imprisoned. You’ll also cross the famous Bridge of Sighs, which once connected the prison to the Doges Palace. Afterward, you’ll head towards the St Mark Basilica, where you’ll have the chance to admire its impressive architecture that dates back almost 1200 years. Your guide will give you an overview of the Basilica’s history and tell you about the significance of artworks and mosaics inside. Throughout your visit, your guide will be available to answer all your questions, making sure you have a comprehensive understanding of the Doges Palace and St Mark Basilica’s history and cultural significance.

What’s Included:

When you book the Skip-the-Line 2 Hour Private Tour of the Doges Palace and St Mark Basilica, you’ll enjoy the following inclusions: – Admission tickets to San Marco Basilic and Doge’s palace – Expert local guide to accompany you through the two sites – Priority entrance to skip the lines – Visit to the prison of the Palace which Casanova escaped – Opportunity to cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs Please note that the tour doesn’t include lunch or any gratuities, which is optional.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is San Marco Square, specifically next to the Lion Pi. It’s essential to be there before time because the tour begins promptly. If you have any inquiries about the meeting point or time, you can always reach out to the organizers via the link here.

Why You Should Book this Tour

The Skip-the-Line 2 Hour Private Tour of the Doges Palace and St Mark Basilica is an exceptional experience that goes beyond a simple visit to two of Venice’s most famous sites. With your knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll get an up-close look at Venetian history and art over hundreds of years, and you won’t have to worry about wasting time standing in long entry queues. Moreover, the private tour is an ideal opportunity to ask questions, take photos, and learn from someone who has an excellent grasp of the local culture and history. You can tailor the tour to your preferences and make sure that you don’t miss any significant points during your time in the Doges Palace or St Mark Basilica.

Book Your Tour Now

The Skip-The-Line 2 Hour Private Tour of The Doges Palace and St Mark Basilic offers an unforgettable way to discover two of Venice’s most iconic landmarks without any wait. With a local guide, you’ll have access to your own history and art expert who’ll enrich your experience by providing insight into the significance of Venetian culture. When you book this tour, you can look forward to priority entry, skipping the long queues and have the opportunity to explore the Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica in depth. Plus, you’ll get to learn about important historical figures such as Casanova, whose presence can still be felt in the city today. Book your Skip-the-Line 2 Hour Private Tour of the Doges Palace and St Mark Basilica today to take your Venice experience to the next level!

Frequently Asked Questions about Venice, Italy

Are you planning a trip to Venice or just curious about this beautiful city? Here are some frequently asked questions about Venice, Italy, that will help you to better plan your visit.

1. What is Venice famous for?

Venice is known for its romantic canals and waterways, stunning architecture, artwork, history, and culture. It is also famous for its unique transport system, which is entirely based on boats, including water taxis, gondolas, vaporettos, and water buses. Some famous landmarks in Venice include St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Venice?

The best time to visit Venice is from late September to early November or from April to early June. During these months, the weather is usually mild and comfortable, and tourist crowds are lighter than in the peak tourist season. July and August can be hot and crowded, and many locals take their summer vacation during this time, causing some businesses to close. Winter months can be foggy, wet, and chilly, but still offer a unique experience.

3. How do I get around Venice?

Venice is a pedestrian city, and cars are not allowed in the historic center. The best way to navigate the city is by walking or taking water transport, such as water taxis, water buses, and gondolas. Vaporetto (water bus) tickets can be purchased at many local vendors, and if you plan to use them often, it’s worth buying a multi-day pass.

4. What are the must-see attractions in Venice?

There are many must-see attractions in Venice, including St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, the Grand Canal, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Other notable places include the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, the Bridge of Sighs, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, and the Ca’ Rezzonico Museum of Eighteenth-century Venice. Be sure to also explore Venice’s many canals and smaller neighborhoods to fully appreciate the city’s charm.

5. What should I eat in Venice?

Venice is known for its seafood dishes, including risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto), spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines). Other specialties include cicchetti (small bites of food), tramezzini (Italian sandwiches), and tiramisu. Be sure to also try some local wines, such as Prosecco and Soave.

6. What are the best areas to stay in Venice?

Some of the best areas to stay in Venice include San Marco, Castello, Cannaregio, and Dorsoduro. San Marco is the most central and touristy area, while Castello and Cannaregio offer a more local feel. Dorsoduro is known for its charming canals and historic buildings. Look for hotels or apartments that are located near water transport, as this will make getting around the city much easier.

7. Is Venice expensive?

Venice can be expensive, especially during peak tourist season. Expect to pay more for hotels, restaurants, and popular attractions. However, there are also many free or low-cost things to do in Venice, such as walking around the city, exploring local markets, and admiring the architecture.

8. What is the climate like in Venice?

Venice has a humid subtropical climate with mild to cool winters and warm summers. The city is prone to flooding, particularly during the winter months, so bring waterproof shoes and clothing. Average temperatures range from 2°C (36°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in July, but temperatures can vary depending on the time of day and location.

9. Is it safe to travel to Venice?

Venice is a generally safe city, but like any popular tourist destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpockets and other petty crime. Avoid walking alone at night, especially on less-traveled streets or alleys. Be alert when using public transport, and always keep your valuables in a secure place.

10. What is the currency in Venice?

The currency in Venice is the Euro (€). It’s best to bring some cash with you for small transactions or purchases from local vendors. Credit cards are widely accepted in many places, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case. ATMs are available throughout the city, including at many major tourist sites.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Venice

Venice – the floating city built on more than 100 small islands in the Venetian lagoon. It is a city that boasts a unique blend of Renaissance art, historic architecture, and culture. Venice has plenty of attractions for tourists to see and activities for them to participate in. Here is an itinerary for visitors to Venice, detailing how to make the most out of your time in the city.

Day 1: A Walking Tour of Venice

Start your trip with a walking tour of Venice. This will help you understand the city’s structure and its rich history while discovering its beauty. There are many great walking tours available in Venice, but you can also create your own route. Here are some sights you can include in your walk:

1. Piazza San Marco

Start your walk from Piazza San Marco, one of the most iconic squares in the world. The square is home to several historic buildings such as the Basilica di San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and Torre dell’Orologio. Take in the opulent beauty of the square and get a feel for the grandeur of the city.

2. Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge is a must-see attraction in Venice. This beautiful bridge has a long history, dating back to the 16th century. From the bridge, you can see the Grand Canal, which is the main waterway of Venice.

3. Basilica San Giovanni e Paolo

This impressive basilica is one of the largest churches in Venice. It has beautiful architecture, artwork, and a fascinating history. The church is also the final resting place of several Doges, Venetian dukes.

4. Bridge of Sighs

Another picturesque bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, is located close to Piazza San Marco. It has a unique story and a beautiful view of the canal.

5. Gallerie dell’Accademia

The Gallerie dell’Accademia is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum houses a vast collection of Venetian art from the 14th to the 18th centuries, including works from Bellini, Tintoretto, and Titian.

6. Bacari Crawl

End your walking tour by exploring Venice’s bacari, local wine bars. The city is known for its aperitivo tradition, and the bacari offer the perfect opportunity to sample the local cuisine while enjoying an Aperol spritz or a glass of wine.

Day 2: Explore the Canals of Venice

On your second day in Venice, take a boat ride and explore the canals of the city. Venice has over 150 canals, and exploring them is a unique experience. Here are some activities you can include in your trip:

1. Gondola Ride

There is no better way to explore the canals of Venice than by taking a gondola ride. The gondoliers are experts on the landscape of the city, and they can add an interesting perspective to your tour. However, they can be expensive, so make sure you negotiate the price beforehand.

2. Grand Canal Tour

The Grand Canal is the main waterway in Venice, and it offers a view of the most beautiful historic buildings in the city, including palaces, churches, and museums. You can take a vaporetto, a public transportation system used in Venice, to explore the Grand Canal.

3. Murano Island

Murano Island is known for its glassblowing industry, and it is a great place to explore. You can take a boat ride to the island and see the glass-blowers in action or visit the glass museum to learn more about the industry.

4. Burano Island

Burano Island is famous for its colorful houses, lace-making industry, and fresh seafood. Take a boat ride to the island and stroll around, exploring the narrow streets and canals.

Day 3: Visit the Islands around Venice

On your third day in Venice, venture out of the city and visit some of the nearby islands. Here are some of the islands you can explore:

1. Lido Island

Lido Island is a great destination for those who love the beach. It has a long stretch of sand and offers a lot of water activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing.

2. Torcello Island

Torcello Island is a great destination for those who love history. The island was once a thriving city, and it has many ruins and historic buildings.

3. San Francisco del Deserto Island

San Francisco del Deserto Island is a peaceful destination with a beautiful monastery. The island is a great place to relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the Venetian lagoon.

Book Your Tour Now

Venice is a unique city with a lot of things to offer, and three days are not enough to see it all. However, this itinerary will help you make the most of your trip by exploring the city on foot, discovering its canals and islands, and experiencing the local culture.