Venice In a Day: St Mark's, Doges Palace Gondola Ride & City Tour
Overview
Available languages
6 hours
Mobile ticket
First time in Venice? Maximize your time in the city with a full-day itinerary that ticks off all the most memorable attractions. Stroll across the Rialto Bridge and browse the lively Rialto fish market, then hop aboard a traditional gondola for a romantic cruise along the Grand Canal. Next, access St. Mark’s Basilica (8:15am & 8:30am tours only) and gaze in awe at the stunning gold mosaics. Finally, enjoy skip-the-line entrance to the grandiose Doge’s Palace. This small-group tour is limited to 20 people ensuring a personalized experience. If you're short on time, be sure to select the Express option when booking to explore these iconic sites (excluding St. Mark's Basilica) in even less time.
Additional Info
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.
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.
In case of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather (heavy rain, strong wind, high tide) conditions that prevent the gondola ride from taking place or any operational or safety reasons beyond our control it may be substituted for another experience, but no refund will be provided.
Due to the religious nature of sites on this tour, all individuals (regardless of gender) must cover their shoulders and knees. It is acceptable to bring extra coverings to put on just before entering a holy site. Walks cannot be responsible for anyone denied entry.
This tour is non-refundable. All guests must supply their full name that matches a valid ID at the time of the booking. Should you fail to provide these, your reservation will be canceled. Name changes are not permitted.
8:15am & 8:30am tours only: Skip-the-line ticket for St. Mark's Basilica
9am Express tour: Skip-the-line ticket for St. Mark's Basilica
Please note that a photo ID is required to visit the St. Marks Basilica. Failure to bring an ID can result in the security staff refusing your entrance to the monument.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
What‘s Included
Gondola Ride
Pre-reserved ticket to the Doge's Palace (25 €)
Local English-speaking guide
Expertly guided walking tour with headset
8:15am & 8:30am tours only: Skip-the-line ticket for St. Mark's Basilica (12 €)
Gratuities
Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Lunch
9:00 AM departure does NOT visit St. Mark's Basilica
What To Expect
Ponte di Rialto
Your tour starts at ground level with a guided walking tour of the city's most famous and most interesting sights. See the Rialto Bridge and learn about Venice's food culture at the Rialto Fish Market. Along the way hear tales of famous Venetians like Marco Polo as well as how Venice came to be—and how it survived against the odds. (1 hour if Express option selected)
Mercato di Rialto
Sightseeing & Photo Stop
Options
Venice in a Day
Small Group Tour: 815 AM tour only - Experience Venice in a Day in about 4hrs, St. Marks included. 830 AM tour - Full 6hrs Venice Experience
Venice Express Day Tour
Venice’s top sights in about 4 hours a gondola ride, and skip-the-line access to Doge's Palace. Does NOT include the Basilica
Private - Venice in a Day
Explore Venice from top to bottom in just one day, visit St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, & a picturesque gondola ride
Reviews
3,256 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
It is strenuous…lots of...
Janet B,
Aug 12, 2025
- Viator
5.00It is strenuous…lots of steps. The history was great. Learned a lot about Venice, architecture, art. Gave nice restroom breaks. Guide was very knowledgeable and funny
Blown away!
Robert S,
Aug 11, 2025
- Viator
5.00The guide packed a full semester into one 6 hour tour across the highest of highlights the city has to offer. So well informed!
Venice in a day
Sawsan A,
Aug 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had a great experience with this tour and Lori( Laura) was very knowledgeable and helpful. I would definitely recommend this tour to all of my friends and family.
Nico was a fantastic tour...
Lindsay M,
Aug 9, 2025
- Viator
5.00Nico was a fantastic tour guide! He was very engaging, kind, and made jokes along the way. He explained the history of Venice highlighting important locations along the way to St Mark’s Bacilica and Doges Palace where he explained the significance of art, rooms, etc. Nico is a 10/10 tour guide!
A Perfect Venetian Dream Come True!
Kane A,
Aug 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00If you’re looking to experience the heart and soul of Venice in just one day, this tour is an absolute gem. From the moment we met our guide (Elena I think her name was), everything was seamless, engaging, and unforgettable. 🚶♂️ The day began with a leisurely walking tour through Venice’s charming streets and hidden corners, offering a wonderful introduction to the city’s unique character. Our guide shared fascinating insights and pointed out details we would’ve missed on our own. 🛶 Then came the gondola ride, and it was pure magic. Drifting through the canals with the gentle rhythm of the water and the soft echo of Venetian life around us was the perfect way to soak in the city’s romantic atmosphere. It was peaceful, picturesque, and a highlight of the morning. 🍝 After a delicious lunch break (not included but with plenty of local options nearby), we delved into the city’s rich history with visits to two of its most iconic landmarks. ✨ Basilica San Marco was breathtaking—stepping inside felt like entering a golden treasure chest. The mosaics shimmered with centuries of history, and our guide brought every detail to life with stories that made the past feel vivid and real. 🏰 The Doge’s Palace was equally mesmerizing. Walking through its grand halls and crossing the Bridge of Sighs was surreal. The mix of opulence and intrigue gave us a deep appreciation for Venice’s political and artistic legacy. 💬 The guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate—answering every question and making sure everyone felt included. The pacing was perfect, and we never felt rushed. 📸 We left with incredible photos, deeper knowledge, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a history buff, a romantic, or just someone who wants to soak in the beauty of Venice, this tour is a must. Five stars aren’t enough—this was a ten-star experience! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
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