Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access Tour

Description

HIGHLIGHTS

• Immerse yourself in the history of the Floating City with the help of your expert local guide
• Miss the hordes with priority entrance for the Doge’s Palace
• Choose from a private or shared group experience
• See Venice’s Lagoon from the usually off-limits terrace at St. Mark’s Basilica
• Hear anecdotes about how and why Venice was built on a lagoon in the 5th century and other fascinating facts
  

MORE DETAILS
Delve deep into Venice’s history with a 3-hour guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, either as a private tour or shared group experience. Take in two of the city’s most important landmarks while discovering the history of the one-time mercantile capital of the Mediterranean.
Start by exploring St. Mark’s Square with your guide before heading into the cathedral. From the first-floor terrace you’ll be able to admire views across the lagoon and see the famous bronze horses up close. Hear how they traveled all the way to Paris and back in Napoleon’s time.
Next, you’ll use the priority entrance to reach Doge’s Palace, formerly the residence of the leader of the Republic of Venice. Enjoy visiting the Chamber of the Great Council and courtrooms among other things. Highlights include frescoes by Tintoretto and the Giants’ Staircase.
After this, cross the infamous Bridge of Sighs that links to the New Prisons. Learn how the bridge got its name and the purpose for its construction in the 17th century as you take in the amazing views of the canals.
At the end of your tour, feel free to stay and explore the Doge’s Palace with tips from your guide.