Doge’s Palace and Prison Guided Tour

4.8

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Picture this: no waiting in long lines, no fuss—just you and a passionate local guide who’s bursting with stories about the Venetian Republic. This 1.5-hour tour of the Doge’s Palace is just what you need! 

As you explore the stunning Gothic halls, you’ll admire incredible artworks by Tiepolo and Titian. And let’s not forget the thrill of peeking into the old prison cells—it truly feels like stepping back in time!

But here’s the best part: after the tour, you’ll have self-guided access to the Correr Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Biblioteca Marciana. This isn’t just a visit; it’s an unforgettable experience waiting for you!

Our Doge Palace and Prisons Guided Tour includes:

  • Expert and Passionate Professional Tour Guide
  • Entry to St. Mark's Square Museums (Correr Museum, National Archeological Museum, and Biblioteca Marciana)
Exclusive Access
Skip the line entry to Doge Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
  • Duration
    1.5-hour experience
  • About the Tour
    This tour is offered in English
  • Audio
    Headsets to ensure clear audio throughout the tour.
  • Group Size
    Maximum group size of 20 people.

What You Will See

Explore the breathtaking Doge’s Palace with an expert guide. Together you’ll discover:

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St. Mark’s Square
St. Mark’s Square
The lively heart of Venice, bustling with energy and surrounded by stunning architecture that tells the city’s story.
Scala dei Giganti
Scala dei Giganti
The grand staircase leading into the Doge’s Palace, flanked by impressive statues that welcome you into this seat of power.
Great Council Chamber
Great Council Chamber
Marvel at the Great Council Chamber, where the Duke and his council shaped the destiny of a 1,000-year-old republic. This grand hall is adorned with intricate frescoes and majestic decor, reflecting the political power and artistic achievements of Venice.
Chamber of Torment
Chamber of Torment
A haunting space that reveals the darker side of Venetian justice, showcasing the intriguing and unsettling methods of interrogation.
Bridge of Sighs
Bridge of Sighs
This iconic bridge captures the sorrow of prisoners taking their last look at freedom before entering confinement.
Prison Cells
Prison Cells
Explore the infamous cells that held notorious criminals, where you can see messages scratched into the walls, echoing their stories of despair.
Golden Staircase
Golden Staircase
Ascend the opulent staircase adorned with gold, once used by the Doges for their grand entrances, reflecting the wealth and prestige of Venice.
Stories You Will Hear
The Doge’s Deadly Dinner

One Doge hosted a lavish banquet filled with delicious food and laughter, only to discover a plot against him right in the middle of it! Can you picture the chaos as guards rushed in, turning a night of celebration into a nail-biting showdown?

Stories You Will Hear
The Tunnels of Intrigue

Did you know there are secret tunnels beneath the palace? It’s said that prisoners would use them to escape, but many were never seen again—just another mystery of Venice!

Stories You Will Hear
The Golden Assassination

Legend has it that a rival Doge once had a golden statue made to mock his enemies. When he was assassinated, the statue was used as a symbol of their betrayal—talk about a dramatic downfall!

Discover Doge's Palace interior beauty

About our local

Knowledgeable Tour Guides

  • Local guides with expert knowledge of history and culture
  • Engaging storytelling that makes history come alive
  • Fluent in multiple languages for a seamless experience
  • Passionate about providing exceptional service on every tour
  • Personalization of tours to tailor to the interests, pace and preferences of the group
  • An interactive approach that encourages participation and creates a memorable hands-on experience
  • Ensuring cultural sensitivity and respect for important World Heritage sites
doge palace tour guide

GREAT FOR THESE TRAVELERS

Whether you’re drawn to Venice’s rich history, passionate about art, or eager to explore the city’s unique cultural landmarks, this tour offers an immersive experience tailored to your interests.

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art aficionado

The Art Aficionado

You’re an artist or an art lover, and we know you don’t want to miss any local or historical art on your visit. This tour will allow you to experience renowned and hidden art pieces guided by experts who are as passionate about art as you.

the solo adventurer

The Solo Adventurer

You are independent and love traveling alone. This tour is perfect to help you enjoy your experience safely, connect with locals and stay true to yourself!

the romantic roamer

The Romantic Roamer

You and your partner want unique and memorable experiences that you can share. This tour is the perfect setting for allowing you that quality time (and fun) together!

historian

The Historian

You love to read and soak up every detail about history! This tour is perfect to help you deepen your understanding with detailed insights that will enrich your historical knowledge.

Reviews

What Our Customers Say

Tour was excellent.

Our guide, Cristina, was just amazing — knowledgeable, funny, passionate. St. Mark’s is stunning and the Venetian history was fascinating.

Will
Doge’s Palace and Prison Guided Tour

Highly Recommend!

Marina, our guide, was exceptional. Her personality was delightful, and her extremely well-versed knowledge of the sites was truly remarkable. I’ve never had such a wonderful experience on a tour. 

Kathleen
Doge’s Palace and Prison Guided Tour

100% worth it!

Our tour had the ideal guide: a history teacher! The guide covered all of the highlights and took her time to allow us to ask questions and stop for photos. 100% worth it!

Ryan A
Doge’s Palace and Prison Guided Tour
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Authentic stories, expertly guided by Europe’s most trusted tour operator.

As a leading tour operator in Europe, our commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in everything we do, from selecting passionate guides to crafting detailed itineraries that showcase the best of each destination. We make booking straightforward and direct, ensuring you get great value and a seamless experience, guaranteed. At Crown Tours, we don’t just visit places — we tell stories, sharing the rich histories and cultures along the way. Join us to Explore, Discover, and Dream.

Interior view of Venice Doge's Palace, Venice Tours

Expert Guides

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Doge's palace hall with grand paintings and tourists at Venice Tours

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Enjoy the comfort and convenience of luxury paired with authentic local experiences.
Majestic tour inside Doge's Palace hall, Venice Tours

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Mural elegance at Doge's Palace with guided tour in Venice tour

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Impressive doge's palace with architectural richness in venice tours

Renowned Expertise

As a leading tour operator, we host thousands of guests annually across many European cities, showcasing our depth of experience and commitment to quality.
Doge's palace with detailed architecture

Authentic Storytelling

Dive into the heart of each destination with stories brought to life by our passionate and knowledgeable local guides, guiding curious travelers through tales inspired by centuries of dreamers.
Interior view of Venice at Doge's Palace tours

Exceptional Customer Service

Our dedicated full-time staff are always on hand to ensure your trip is flawlessly organized and all your questions are expertly answered.
Interior view of Venice Doge's Palace in Venice tours

Small Groups + VIP Access

Gain special entry to hidden gems and iconic landmarks with our insider access, reserved only for our guests.

About The Trip

FAQs

Doge’s Palace, or Palazzo Ducale, is a magnificent symbol of Venice’s history, originally built in the 9th century as the residence of the Doge, the highest authority in the Venetian Republic. Over the years, it has undergone numerous renovations, showcasing a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Byzantine architecture.

As the center of government, the palace hosted crucial political events and decisions that shaped the city. Today, it stands as a testament to Venice’s glorious past, inviting visitors to explore its opulent halls and discover the captivating stories behind its walls.

Doge’s Palace is best known for its stunning Gothic architecture and its role as the center of power in the Venetian Republic. Highlights include the opulent Great Council Chamber, the beautiful Golden Staircase, and the famous Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prisons. The palace also features exquisite artwork by masters like Titian and Tiepolo, showcasing Venice’s rich political and artistic legacy.

February is a fantastic time to visit Venice, especially for the lively Carnivale atmosphere. In spring (March to May), enjoy mild weather and vibrant energy, though larger crowds are expected. Summer brings warmth and exciting festivals, but also more visitors. In the off-season (October to January), you’ll find fewer crowds for a more intimate experience, but be aware that this period is prone to flooding, which may cause entrance delays. Each season has its perks, so pick the one that suits you best—Doge’s Palace is captivating year-round!

While there’s a lovely (though pricey) café inside the palace serving drinks, sandwiches, and sweet treats, you’ll find even more delightful dining options just a short stroll away. Be sure to check out Harry’s Bar, renowned for its classic Bellini cocktail, and Caffè Florian, one of the world’s oldest cafés, where you can enjoy delicious pastries in a charming setting.

The area is filled with great lunch and dining spots, so be sure to sample local specialties like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto), and bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti with anchovy sauce). For a quick snack, grab some cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at a nearby bacaro for an authentic taste of Venice.

Doge’s Palace is located in the vibrant heart of Venice, right on Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square), the city’s most iconic gathering spot. This prime location puts the palace next to other must-see landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile (bell tower), making it an ideal starting point for your Venetian adventure.

Since Venice is a car-free city, you can easily reach Doge’s Palace via its famous waterways. Hop on a vaporetto or water taxi and get off at Palazzo Ducale from the Grand Canal or from St. Mark’s Boat Stop—you can’t miss it!

While it’s definitely possible to explore Doge’s Palace on your own, you’d be missing out on a wealth of fascinating history! A knowledgeable guide brings the palace’s stunning halls to life with captivating stories and historical insights that truly enhance your experience.

The palace is quite expansive, and navigating it solo can be challenging. A guide will not only help you discover the highlights but also ensure you don’t miss any hidden gems along the way. Plus, with a guide by your side, all your questions will be answered, making your visit even more enriching!

The ideal times to visit Doge’s Palace are early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Getting there right when it opens allows you to appreciate the stunning architecture without the crowds, while later visits provide a more peaceful atmosphere as our tour groups start to thin out. The soft afternoon light also adds a beautiful glow for your photos! However, don’t stress too much about the exact time—just make sure to go! No matter when you visit, you’re sure to be captivated!

While photography is permitted in most areas, flash photography and tripods are not allowed. Be mindful of the rules to avoid disruptions.

Some of the best photo spots include the magnificent façade of the palace itself, the picturesque St. Mark’s Square, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. Don’t forget to snap some shots of the Golden Staircase from outside and the beautiful canals nearby. While you can’t take photos inside, the breathtaking views outside will surely make up for it!

There’s no limit on how long you can stay in Doge’s Palace after your tour—you’re welcome to continue exploring the site! The only restriction is based on the opening hours. Your tour also includes access to St. Mark’s Museum, which features the Correr Museum, National Archaeological Museum, and Biblioteca Marciana. Just keep in mind that the last entrance for these sites is 1 hour before closing, and each museum can be visited only once.

The Correr Museum is open from April 1 to October 31 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entrance at 5:00 PM. From November 1 to March 31, the hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entrance at 4:00 PM.


Please note that all guests will receive two PDFs on the day of their visit. Access to the three additional sites is granted for one entrance per museum within 24 hours of the date and time printed on the “MUSEI P. SAN MARCO – CORRER” ticket.

The National Archaeological Museum is open from November 1 to March 31 (winter hours), from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In the summer months, April 1 to October 31, the museum extends its hours to 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Last entry to the museum is granted 1 hour before closing time. 

Please note that the museum is closed on January 1 and December 25.

Please note that all guests will receive two PDFs on the day of their visit. Access to the three additional sites is granted for one entrance per museum within 24 hours of the date and time printed on the “MUSEI P. SAN MARCO – CORRER” ticket.

The Biblioteca Marciana is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. During the holiday season, it operates with special hours from December 24 to December 31, opening from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

Please note that the library is closed on weekends and the following holidays: January 1 and 6, Easter Monday, April 25, May 1, June 2, August 15, November 1 and 21, and December 8, 25, and 26.

Please note that all guests will receive two PDFs on the day of their visit. Access to the three additional sites is granted for one entrance per museum within 24 hours of the date and time printed on the “MUSEI P. SAN MARCO – CORRER” ticket.

Inside Doge’s Palace, there are several key highlights that you won’t want to miss. Let’s start with the Great Council Chamber, a grand hall adorned with magnificent frescoes, where the Duke and his council once shaped the fate of Venice. Of course, there’s also the Golden Staircase, richly decorated with gold, which leads to the upper floors of the palace. And the infamous Bridge of Sighs, a poignant connection to the prisons, where prisoners took their last look at freedom. We can’t forget about the Chamber of Torment reveals the darker side of Venetian justice with its eerie atmosphere and methods of interrogation. Finally, there’s the prison cells, offering a glimpse into the harsh realities faced by those confined within.

Doge’s Palace is home to several remarkable artworks that highlight Venice’s rich artistic heritage. One of the standout pieces is “The Paradiso” by Tintoretto, a stunning ceiling painting that captures the grandeur of the heavenly realm. In the Great Council Chamber, you’ll find “The Battle of Lepanto”, another masterpiece by Andrea Vicentino, depicting the historic naval battle. Don’t miss Titian’s “The Presentation of the Virgin”, located in the Sala dello Scrutinio, showcasing his masterful use of color and light. Additionally, Giovanni Battista Tiepolo’s frescoes adorn the palace, infusing the space with vibrancy and life. Each artwork contributes to the overall grandeur of the palace, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts!

We recommend traveling light. Small backpacks are allowed, but medium to regular sized bags,, and umbrellas may be considered unsuitable by staff upon entry. If so, they’ll need to be stored in the cloakroom for the duration of your visit. The good news is the cloakroom service is free of charge!

Please note, the cloakroom has limited space, larger more bulkier items, such as suitcases will need to be stored in luggage facilities around the city.

Yes, you can buy tickets on the day of your visit at the ticket office, but be prepared for potentially long lines. To make the most of your time, we highly recommend booking in advance. Whether you prefer a standard ticket or a guided tour, booking online with us allows you to skip the line and dive straight into the history of Doge’s Palace!

Yes, there are a few restrictions when it comes to food and drinks at Doge’s Palace. To help maintain the beauty and integrity of this historic site, visitors are not allowed to bring food or beverages inside. But don’t worry! There are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants just a stone’s throw away where you can grab a bite or a drink before or after your visit. Alternatively, if you’re looking to hang inside the Palace at the end of your visit for some self exploration, you could grab yourself a treat at the onsite Palazzo Ducale Caffe.

Start by checking your confirmation voucher, which contains specific details about the meeting point and any additional instructions. It’s advisable to arrive at least 15-30 minutes early to give yourself ample time to locate your guide. If you have difficulties finding the meeting point on the day of the tour, don’t hesitate to use the dedicated tour group chat, where our team will be ready to assist you. This way, you can ensure a smooth start to your experience!

While the Doge’s Palace doesn’t have a strict dress code, modest attire is recommended—especially if you plan to visit nearby basilicas. Comfortable shoes are essential, as there’s a lot of walking during the tour. Please note that admission will be denied to those with covered faces.

Yes, there are security checks at Doge’s Palace, including bag checks at the entrance. If you’ve purchased tickets at a reduced price, please note that you may also need to present ID for verification, which could cause a slight delay in entering. The good news is that if you book your tickets or tour online, you can skip the ticketing queues and get right to exploring!

Generally, tours will continue rain or shine. Please note that high tides in Venice, especially during October, November, and December, can lead to delays in entry to Doge’s Palace and may temporarily impact pre-reserved priority access. In cases of severe flooding, skip-the-line access may be suspended, as all visitors may be required to enter through an alternate entrance.

For this tour, we recommend that guests with mobility issues consider alternative options, as accessibility at the Doge’s Palace is limited. While there is a dedicated entrance for wheelchair access, certain areas between the ground floor and the first level remain inaccessible. Notably, the Armory and the Bridge of Sighs feature narrow passageways and staircases, which may pose challenges. We encourage guests to reach out for further assistance or to discuss accommodations before their visit.

Yes, each tour group has a maximum capacity of up to 20 guests. To ensure everyone can hear the guide clearly, we provide audio equipment at the beginning of the tour. This way, you won’t miss any fascinating details about the history and beauty of Doge’s Palace!

Absolutely this is a great family activity! We encourage families to join us and explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Doge’s Palace together. It’s a fantastic way for kids to learn and have fun in a beautiful setting!

At Crown Tours, we believe in flexibility. Guests may cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time to receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be eligible for a refund. Alternatively, guests may choose to reschedule their tour within this time frame, subject to availability.

Itinerary

We look forward to hosting you on this Doge’s Palace Tour, guiding you through one of Venice’s most historical landmarks. This tour is 1.5 hours and includes approximately 1.4 kilometers/0.86 miles of walking. Here’s everything you need to know!

 

1

Meet at Piazzetta S. Marco

Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before your Doge’s Palace Tour. Please note that we cannot guarantee access to the tour if you do not arrive by this time. Please meet us at St. Mark’s Square near the waterfront by the two large columns. You will find our staff dressed in Crown Tours purple.

2

St Mark’s Square

Kick off your adventure in the lively St. Mark’s Square, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and stunning surroundings

3

Great Council Chamber

Marvel at the Great Council Chamber, where the Duke and his council shaped the destiny of a 1,000-year-old republic. This grand hall is adorned with intricate frescoes and majestic decor, reflecting the political power and artistic achievements of Venice

4

Chamber of Torment

Venture into the eerie Chamber of Torment, where you’ll learn about the darker aspects of Venetian justice. This chilling space reveals the methods used during interrogations, offering a haunting glimpse into the city’s past.

5

Bridge of Sighs

Cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs, a symbol of love and despair. As you walk across, imagine the sighs of prisoners who crossed it on their way to imprisonment, and feel the weight of history in this poignant moment.

6

Golden Staircase

Ascend the breathtaking Golden Staircase, an architectural masterpiece adorned with gilded decorations. This opulent staircase leads you deeper into the heart of the palace, showcasing the wealth and grandeur of the Doges.

7

Opportunity for self exploration

After the tour, enhance your Venice experience with complimentary access to three cultural gems. Explore the Correr Museum for fascinating artifacts, visit the National Archaeological Museum to see ancient Roman and Greek sculptures, and conclude at the stunning Biblioteca Marciana, filled with priceless manuscripts. Enjoy this chance to discover at your own pace!

Special Notes:

High tides in Venice may delay entry to the Doge’s Palace, affecting pre-reserved priority access, especially in October, November, and December.

All guests are given complimentary access to  the Correr Museum, the National Archaeological Museum and the Biblioteca Marciana. These visits are unguided.

What to wear: While the Doge’s Palace doesn’t have a strict dress code, modest attire is recommended—especially if you plan to visit nearby basilicas. Comfortable shoes are essential, as there’s a lot of walking during the tour. Please note that admission will be denied to those with covered faces.

What to bring: It’s a good idea to bring a photocopy of your ID, especially if you’re using a ticket with a reduced price, as proof of age may be required at the entrance.

Bag restrictions: We recommend traveling light. Small backpacks are allowed, but bulky bags, large suitcases, and umbrellas may be considered unsuitable by staff upon entry. If so, they’ll need to be stored in the cloakroom for the duration of your visit. The good news is the cloakroom service is free of charge!

Mobility restrictions: For this tour, we recommend that guests with mobility issues consider alternative options, as accessibility at the Doge’s Palace is limited. While there is a dedicated entrance for wheelchair access, certain areas between the ground floor and the first level remain inaccessible. Notably, the Armory and the Bridge of Sighs feature narrow passageways and staircases, which may pose challenges. We encourage guests to reach out for further assistance or to discuss accommodations before their visit.

Photography restrictions:  While photography is permitted in most areas, flash photography and tripods are not allowed. Be mindful of the rules to avoid disruptions.

Cancelation Policy: Guests may cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time to receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be eligible for a refund.

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