Skip to content
Looking up at St Mark's Basilica, with mosaic lunettes, carved arches and bronze horses against a blue sky

Venice City tour, San Marco Basilica and the Doge's Palace

Go deeper into the history of Venice with a local guide.

  • Venice · Veneto
  • 3 hours
  • Private tour
Check availability
The experience

This private city tour invites you to discover Venice through its most iconic landmarks and its hidden stories.

Accompanied by a specialized local guide, you will explore the heart of the city while uncovering the fascinating history, legends, and secrets that have shaped the Serenissima over the centuries.

Your journey begins in the magnificent Piazza San Marco, often described as the “drawing room of Europe.” Surrounded by elegant arcades and historic buildings, the square offers an extraordinary introduction to Venice’s artistic and political grandeur.

You will then step inside the breathtaking St Mark's Basilica, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture adorned with golden mosaics, marble floors, and treasures collected from across the Mediterranean. Your guide will bring its history to life, explaining the symbolism, the art, and the cultural influences that make this basilica truly unique.

The tour continues to the imposing Doge's Palace, once the political heart of the Republic of Venice. Walking through its grand halls and richly decorated chambers, you will discover how the Doge and the Venetian government ruled a powerful maritime empire. Stories of intrigue, justice, and diplomacy will reveal a captivating portrait of Venice at the height of its glory.

Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour offers a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the city’s essential highlights. At the same time, it is equally rewarding for those returning to Venice, providing deeper insight and fresh perspectives that allow you to rediscover its timeless beauty and enduring charm.

Good to know

What awaits you

Tour details

  • Meeting point at your accommodation with a private guide
  • Visit of San Marco Basilica
  • Visit of Doge's Palace
  • Walking city tour
  • Gondola ride available on request at the end of the tour

Included

  • PRIVATE TOUR
  • PRIVATE LICENSED TOUR GUIDE
  • ADMISSION TICKETS

Not included · extras

  • FOOD, DRINKS, SNACKS
  • PERSONAL EXPENSES, SOUVENIRS
  • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION TICKETS
  • GONDOLA RIDE (AVAILABLE ON REQUEST)
  • PALA D’ORO ALTAR (AVAILABLE ON REQUEST)
Please note

At the end of the tour we can add a Gondola ride starting from Piazza San Marco (duration 30 minutes). Gondola Ride in Venice - Enjoy the most iconic experience with your beloved ones - Zest // Dreams come tours

Check out our blog: Zest // Dreams come tours | The Venice Lagoon

Book your experience

Every tour is private and tailor-made. Send us an enquiry: we will shape it around you.

Prefer to talk? +39 342 063 3005

Travel professional?Agencies and tour operators: talk to our trade team directly.

Venice City tour, San Marco Basilica and the Doge's PalaceVenice · 3 hoursBook now