Legendary Venice St. Mark's Terrace & Doge's Skip the Line
Delve into Venetian history on a tour showcasing the city's most iconic structures—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—as an expert guide sheds light on the stories behind both iconic attractions. Skip the line into the legendary St. Mark's Basilica, where you’ll wander through the mosaic-clad interior and even step onto the balcony overlooking Piazza San Marco—reserved for only a select few! Then, continue to the Doge's Palace and step into the political heart of a powerful empire.
Options
Exclusive Doge's Palace
Small Group: Explore Venice’s top attractions—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—Exclusive Doge's Palace Early Entry - 8 AM only
What's included in Legendary Venice St. Mark's Terrace & Doge's Skip the Line
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Piazza San Marco
Begin in the world-famous St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) and take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking space laid out in front of you. Your guide will lay the foundation for your experience, setting the scene of centuries of Venetian history under the famed arched portico.
Basilica di San Marco
Get special access into the pristine St. Mark’s Basilica, skipping past the long lines and straight into its opulent interior. Wander beneath the mosaics in the company of a local guide who’s especially skilled at reviving the past through storytelling and expert knowledge. Marvel at the mosaics and more of the basilica’s treasures, then take a walk out onto the balcony for a once-in-a-lifetime view overlooking Piazza San Marco, the Doge's Palace, and the Venetian lagoon.
Sightseeing & Photo Stop
Inclusions
- Pre-reserved ticket to the Doge's Palace (25 €)
- Local English-speaking guide
- Exclusive access to St. Mark's Basilica terraces
- Exclusive Early Entry to the Doge's Palace (8 AM only)
- Skip-the-line ticket for St. Mark's Basilica (St. Marks Basilica + Museum 15€)
- Headsets when necessary
- Gratuities
- Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
- Lunch
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
- Due to the religious nature of St. Mark's Basilica, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. You can bring extra covering (scarves, etc) to put on just before entering St. Mark's. Walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry.
- Sites visited during this tour are subject to occasional closures due to holy observances, high tides, and/or flooding. If a site closes, your guide will tour the exterior of the site. If time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. If the local municipality restricts access due to high tide and there are no walkways available, it is the client’s responsibility to bring appropriate footwear (e.g., boots). For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
- No refund will be provided if high tide prevents certain parts of the tour, but adjustments to the route will be made for client safety and comfort.
- If access is restricted due to private events inside St. Mark's Basilica and/or Doge's Palace, we cannot be held responsible. This is a situation beyond our control. No refund will be issued.
- This tour is non-refundable. All guests must supply their full name and date of birth that matches a valid ID at the time of the booking. Should you fail to provide these, your reservation will be canceled. Please note that a photo ID is required to visit the St. Marks Basilica. Name changes are not permitted.
- Due to limited terrace ticket availability, access to the Pala d'Oro (Golden Altar) will be offered on select dates instead. This adjustment ensures you avoid long queues and still enjoy the basilica’s most treasured highlights during peak seasons.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at Correr Museum in Piazza San Marco 52. Your guide will be waiting under the portico just outside the entrance of the museum.
End Points
- Tour ends in St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco).
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. Out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows. • This tour is non-refundable. All guests must supply their full name and date of birth that matches a valid ID at the time of the booking. Should you fail to provide these, your reservation will be canceled. Please note that a photo ID is required to visit the St. Marks Basilica. Name changes are not permitted. • Due to the religious nature of the Basilica, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. A scarf or shawl is acceptable. Walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry. • Sites visited during this tour are subject to occasional closures due to holy observances, high tides, and/or flooding. If a site closes, your guide will tour the exterior of the site. If time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. • Photography and filming are prohibited. Large bags and backpacks cannot be accommodated on this tour. • If the local municipality restricts access due to high tide and there are no walkways available, it is the client’s responsibility to bring appropriate footwear (e.g., boots). The guide will modify the itinerary to include alternate dry paths whenever possible. • No refund will be provided if high tide prevents certain parts of the tour, but adjustments to the route will be made for client safety and comfort. • If access is restricted due to private events inside St. Mark's Basilica and/or Doge's Palace, we cannot be held responsible. This is a situation beyond our control. No refund will be issued. • Due to limited terrace ticket availability, access to the Pala d'Oro (Golden Altar) will be offered on select dates instead. This adjustment ensures you avoid long queues and still enjoy the basilica’s most treasured highlights during peak seasons.