Venice's Best: Basilica, Doge's Palace, Gondola & History Gallery

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Overview

Available languages

English
French
Spanish

3 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Discover the enchanting history and art of Venice in this immersive 3-hour experience!

Join an expert guide as you explore the stunning Doge’s Palace and the magnificent Saint Mark’s Basilica located in the heart of Piazza San Marco. Marvel at the artwork and dive into the rich history of the Venetian Republic. You’ll also stroll across the iconic Bridge of Sighs, a symbol of romance and intrigue!

Next, indulge in a romantic gondola ride through the Grand Canal and its charming waterways. As you glide along, take in Venice's must-see highlights, including the famed Fenice Opera House, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and the stunning Santa Maria della Salute Church, among others.

Finally, immerse yourself in a unique virtual reality experience as you float over the serene waters of the Grand Canal at sunset, witnessing centuries of history unfold. You’ll also get an insider’s view of the craftsmanship behind Venice's iconic gondolas with a close-up look at a detailed model.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The official St. Mark's Basilica ticket price is €12.00 per person (standard) or €24.00 with terrace access; the remaining part of the price covers assistance at the meeting point, accompanied entry with a certified guide or host, access to the Venice Gallery with a dedicated VR experience, the use of an audio guide or radio system with earphones and sales costs.

A valid ID document is mandatory for security checks at the entrance to the Basilica.

Each gondola can host maximum 5 people; the seat aboard cannot be chosen but will be assigned by the gondolier depending of guests weight.

The gondola ride does not operate in case of exceptionally bad weather, high/low tide or local gondoliers strike (in these cases it can be postponed the days after otherwise it will be refunded)

The itinerary of gondola ride may change in the event of wind or bad weather

For the visit of the Basilica suitable clothing is required (no shorts)

On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it

Tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of unplanned religious functions (in these cases it can be postponed to the day after otherwise it will be refunded)

Due to the security reason, luggage and bags are not allowed inside the Basilica and Doge Palace

For the visit of the Basilica suitable clothing is required (no shorts).

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Shared 30-minute gondola ride

Guided tour of the Doge's Palace and Saint Mark's Basilica

Skip-the-line ticket to St. Mark's Basilica

Access to Museums in Saint Mark's Square (Correr Museum, Archeological Museum, and Marciana Library)

Skip-the-line ticket to Doge's Palace

History Gallery: a unique Vr experience of Venice in the past

20-minute gondola introductory experience

Hotel pick-up

Food and drinks

Guided tour of Museo Correr, Museo Nazionale Archologico, and Biblioteca Marciana

What To Expect

1

Piazza San Marco

St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is the heart of Venice and one of the most iconic squares in the world. Surrounded by historic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Campanile, it’s a stunning open space that reflects the grandeur of the Venetian Republic. A must-see for every visitor to Venice.

Admission Not Applicable
2

Basilica di San Marco

Then, you will enjoy an amazing guided tour to the historical and famous Golden Basilica. You will admire stunning gold mosaics and marble inlays of the floors, sitting comfortably while our guide will show you the represented biblical scenes, the history and the particularities of this ancient basilica.

45 minutes • Admission Included

Options

Classic Tour + Gondola ride

Spanish Guided Tour

Classic tour + Gondola ride

French Guided Tour

Premium Tour + Gondola Ride

English Guided Tour: Enjoy a premium English-guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and a gondola ride.

Reviews

4.70

1,815 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

1504
181
68
21
41
  • Highly Recommend! Our guide was fabulous! The gondola ride was quicker than we thought so take in every second.

    nicola l,

    Aug 12, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    This is a must!! Absolutely beautiful and enjoyed the historical stories. The gondola ride was fabulous especially when we reached the grand canal! Just wish it lasted longer than 15 mins.

  • 30th Anniversary

    Derrick M,

    Aug 12, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    The Saint Marc Basillica and Doge tour was amazing. Our tour guide Francesco was very knowledgeable and personable.

  • Great experience learned...

    Youlander C,

    Aug 11, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Great experience learned alot about the history of the Dodge and the Laws. Great experience. Viator always have great tours.

  • We had a wonderful...

    Alice H,

    Aug 11, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    We had a wonderful experience with Victoria. It was great to gain access to the experiences quickly and spend more time inside exploring and hearing all of the stories . She was so passionate and knowledgable of the history and culture and she made the day most enjoyable.

  • It was very good and the...

    Johny Z,

    Aug 5, 2025

    - Viator

    4.00

    It was very good and the Gondola ride was perfect though it was crowded but the tour leader managed to keep everyone almost while the Gondola tour leader was excellent

From EUR 68

4.70
1,815 reviews