Private Doge's Palace & Prisons Tour｜Italy

One of the architectural and cultural highlights of Venice, the Doge’s Palace was the seat of the Venetian Republic and its rulers for centuries. Meet your local guide at Venice’s Royal Gardens for a short walk to the palace in St Mark’s Square. Admire the magnificent Gothic exterior before heading to the front of the long queue with your skip-the-line ticket.

Wander through the palace’s awe-inspiring public rooms, decorated from floor to ceiling with gilded decor and elaborate murals. Admire masterpieces of Renaissance painting, including works by Tintoretto and the striking Juno Bestowing her Gifts on Venice by Veronese. As you explore, listen to your guide’s narration through provided headsets.

See the Trial Chambers of the Council of Ten and learn about the powerful and secretive practices the mighty doges used to rule the Venetian Republic for centuries. Walk across the famous Bridge of Sighs that connects the palace to the adjoining New Prison complex, where convicts and enemies of the republic were confined. Walk in the footsteps of the condemned as you explore the foreboding hallways and cells of the prison. Your 2-hour tour concludes back outside the palace in the welcoming, open air of St Mark’s Square.