Skip the Line St Marks Basilica and Doges Palace Private Tour – Ultimate Guide

Are you planning a trip to Venice and looking for the best way to experience the grandeur and history of the city? Look no further than the Skip the Line St Marks Basilica and Doges Palace Private Tour. This tour offers you the opportunity to explore two of Venice’s most famous attractions with a professional art historian guide. You won’t have to worry about long lines as you will have priority access to both St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, making the most of your precious vacation time.

Overview of the Tour

The tour begins at P.za San Marco 3, where you will meet your art historian guide. The guide will take you through the two attractions, providing you with historical and anecdotal information about the pieces of art and chambers that you will see. As you enter St. Mark’s Basilica, take a moment to admire the shimmering mosaics and golden altars which exemplify that grandeur and splendour of Venice. In the Basilica, you will find the remains of St. Mark, which are housed in the crypt below the high altar. The tour guide will tell you about the history of the basilica, including how it was founded in the 9th century and how the current structure was built in the 11th century. Afterwards, the tour proceeds to Doge’s Palace. This was the home of the government of the Venetian Republic and the residence of the Doge of Venice, the highest elected official of the Republic. Here, you’ll explore the lavish chambers of the Venetian rulers, including the government chambers, private apartments, and prison. The tour guide will be with you during the entire trip and provide you historical and anecdotal information about the sites. The guide will also answer any questions that you may have during the tour. With a private guide, you get a personalized experience, which is perfect for families, couples, or solo travellers.

What’s Included?

The Skip the Line St Marks Basilica and Doges Palace Private Tour includes:

• Professional art historian guide
• Private tour
• Skip the line entrance to Doge’s Palace
• Gratuities
• Transportation to and from the attractions
• Food and drinks

Please note that the tour does not include transportation to the meeting point at P.za San Marco 3.

Meeting Point and Pickup Information

The meeting point for the tour is at P.za San Marco 3, 30124 Venice. It is essential to arrive at the meeting point at least ten to fifteen minutes before the scheduled time of the tour. The tour does not come with transportation to the meeting point, so it is essential to make travel arrangements ahead of time. Public transportation, Vaporettos, and taxis are available to reach the meeting point.

Booking the Tour

The Skip the Line St Marks Basilica and Doges Palace Private Tour is available to be booked online at Viator.com. The tour is available every day of the week, except on certain religious holidays when St. Mark’s Basilica may be closed. The tour duration is two hours and thirty minutes, and the cost of the tour starts from €198.76 per group. Booking the tour in advance is recommended, as it is a popular attraction with limited availability. You can make your reservation through a secure booking platform, either by telephone or online. The best time to go on this tour is in the morning because there are fewer crowds. Additionally, visiting in the morning enables you to schedule other activities later in the day.

Book Your Tour Now

The Skip the Line St Marks Basilica and Doges Palace Private Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Venice, providing you with a unique opportunity to appreciate the grandeur and splendour of this beautiful city in comfort and style. With a professional art historian guide by your side, you’ll experience the history and beauty of Venice like never before. Book here and prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience.

Venice Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Venice is a city in northeastern Italy known for its canals, bridges and beautiful architecture. It is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and romantic experience. In this FAQ, we will cover everything you need to know about traveling to Venice.

1. What is the best time to visit Venice?

The best time to visit Venice is from September to November or from April to June when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. Avoid visiting between June and August, as this is the peak season and the city can be overcrowded and hot.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Venice?

If you are a citizen of the European Union or the United States, you do not need a visa to visit Venice if your stay is for less than 90 days. However, if you are traveling from a country that requires a visa to enter Italy, you will need to obtain one before traveling.

3. What is the best way to get around Venice?

The best way to get around Venice is on foot, as the city is a pedestrian-friendly city. You can also use water buses (vaporetti) or water taxis (motoscafi) to travel around the city by water.

4. How do I get to Venice?

The best way to get to Venice is by flying into the Marco Polo Airport, which is the main airport serving Venice. You can also take a train or a bus from other parts of Italy, or arrive in Venice by water taxi from another part of Italy.

5. What are the must-see sights in Venice?

Venice has many must-see sights, including:

• The Grand Canal: one of the main waterways of Venice
• Saint Mark’s Basilica: a stunning example of Byzantine architecture
• The Rialto Bridge: a famous landmark with beautiful views of the city
• The Doge’s Palace: a magnificent palace built in the Venetian Gothic style
• The Gallerie dell’Accademia: an art museum with a vast collection of Venetian art

6. What is the local cuisine in Venice?

Venice has a unique cuisine that is influenced by its location on the water. Some must-try dishes in Venice include:

• Sarde in Saor: fried sardines marinated in onions and vinegar
• Baccalà Mantecato: a creamy codfish dish served on polenta
• Risotto al Nero di Seppia: black squid ink risotto
• Tiramisu: a famous Italian dessert

7. Where are the best places to shop in Venice?

Some of the best places to shop in Venice include:

• The Rialto Market: a famous market where you can buy fresh produce and seafood
• The Mercerie: a shopping street with many shops selling clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs
• The Fondaco dei Tedeschi: a luxurious shopping mall with high-end stores and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of Venice

8. What is the nightlife like in Venice?

Venice is known for its relaxed nightlife scene. You can find many bars and restaurants in the city where you can enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine. However, Venice is not known for its nightlife, so if you are looking for a wild night out, it may not be the best destination for you.

9. What are some tips for traveling to Venice?

Here are some tips for traveling to Venice:

• Wear comfortable shoes as the city is best explored on foot.
• Make sure to visit the city’s landmarks during the off-season to avoid the crowds.
• Try to learn a few words in Italian, as this will make your trip more enjoyable.
• Be careful with your valuables as pickpocketing can be a problem in some areas of Venice.

10. Are there any special events in Venice that I should know about?

Venice has many special events throughout the year, including:

• The Venice Carnival: a famous event held during the weeks leading up to Lent, with elaborate costumes and masks.
• The Venice Biennale: a prestigious art exhibition held every two years.
• The Festa della Sensa: an event celebrating the marriage of Venice to the sea.

Final Thoughts

Venice is a magical city that has captured the hearts of travelers for centuries. With its romantic canals, stunning architecture, and unique culture, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy. By following the tips in this FAQ, you can make the most of your trip to Venice and create memories that will last a lifetime.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Venice

Venice is one of the most famous and romantic cities in the world, attracting millions of tourists each year. With its charming canals, winding streets and stunning architecture, Venice is a magical destination that captivates visitors. If you’re planning to visit Venice, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Venice.

1. Take a Gondola Ride

Taking a gondola ride is one of the most popular things to do in Venice, and it’s easy to see why. The city’s network of canals is the perfect place to soak up the stunning views and experience the romantic atmosphere of Venice. A gondola ride typically lasts around 30 minutes to an hour, and there are many different routes you can take. A popular route is the Grand Canal, which runs through the heart of Venice and is lined with beautiful palaces and historic buildings.

2. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and Square

St. Mark’s Basilica is one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s well worth a visit. The church is an impressive example of Byzantine architecture, with a stunning gold mosaic façade and intricate decoration. St. Mark’s Square is also a must-see attraction in Venice, and it’s a great place to relax with a coffee or gelato and soak up the atmosphere. St. Mark’s Basilica and Square can get busy, so it’s a good idea to visit early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the crowds.

3. Explore the Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace is another must-see attraction in Venice, and it’s a fascinating insight into the city’s history. The palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice, who was the ruler of the city, and it’s a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The palace contains many important works of art and is a great way to learn more about Venice’s rich history and culture.

4. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a must-visit for art lovers, and it’s one of the best modern art museums in Italy. The collection contains works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th century, including Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Jackson Pollock. The museum is located in Peggy Guggenheim’s former home, which is a stunning 18th-century palace overlooking the Grand Canal.

5. Explore the Rialto Market

The Rialto Market is the oldest market in Venice, and it’s a great place to experience the city’s lively atmosphere and sample some delicious food. The market sells everything from fresh seafood and vegetables to spices and souvenirs, and it’s a great place to pick up some local produce to take back home.

6. Take a Day Trip to the Islands

Venice is surrounded by a number of small islands that are well worth exploring. Murano is famous for its glass-making, Burano for its colorful houses and lace-making, and Torcello for its historic cathedrals and quiet atmosphere. Taking a day trip to one of the islands is a great way to escape the crowds of Venice and experience a different side of the city.

7. Enjoy Some Local Cuisine

Venice is famous for its delicious cuisine, and there are many local dishes that you should try while you’re in the city. Some of the most popular dishes include cicchetti (small plates of food, similar to tapas), risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto), and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines). There are also many great restaurants, bars, and cafes in Venice where you can enjoy a meal, drink or snack.

8. Attend a Concert or Opera Performance

Venice is known for its music, and there are many great venues where you can enjoy a concert or opera performance. One of the most famous venues is La Fenice, which is a stunning opera house with a rich history. Other great venues include the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, which hosts classical music concerts, and the Teatro Malibran, which hosts a range of performances including ballet, opera, and theatre.

Book Your Tour Now

Venice is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or music, there’s plenty to see and do in this magical city. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Venice and create some unforgettable memories.