Private two-hour tour of the Doge’s Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark’s Square

Discover the history, art and political power of the Venetian Republic during a private early-evening tour led by a licensed Venice guide.

Begin in St. Mark’s Square, where your guide will explain its magnificent panorama and principal monuments, including St. Mark’s Basilica, the Campanile, Clock Tower and Doge’s Palace.

You will then enter the Doge’s Palace to explore its monumental staircases, institutional chambers, masterpieces and prisons before crossing the legendary Bridge of Sighs.

Explore the Doge’s Palace

Step inside one of Venice’s most important landmarks and discover the former seat of the Doge and the government of the Venetian Republic.

Walk through the palace courtyard before ascending the magnificent Golden Staircase. Inside the institutional chambers, learn how Venice’s sophisticated political and judicial system governed a powerful maritime republic for centuries.

Admire the richly decorated ceilings and works by celebrated Venetian artists while your private guide reveals the stories, ceremonies and political intrigues hidden behind them.

The Chamber of the Great Council

Enter the immense Chamber of the Great Council, where members of the Venetian aristocracy gathered to make decisions that shaped the history of the Republic.

The hall contains Tintoretto’s monumental Paradise, one of the largest canvas paintings in the world, together with portraits and artworks celebrating Venice’s power and independence.

Cross the Bridge of Sighs

Continue through the former courtrooms and prisons before crossing the enclosed Bridge of Sighs.

Look through its stone windows and imagine the prisoners who caught a final glimpse of Venice while being escorted from the palace to their cells. Your guide will explain the true history behind the bridge and the romantic legend associated with its name.

St. Mark’s Square in the Evening

Complete your experience with an explanation of the spectacular panorama of St. Mark’s Square.

As the day moves towards evening, admire the façades of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, the Campanile and the historic arcades surrounding what Napoleon famously described as one of Europe’s most beautiful drawing rooms.

Depending on the season and weather, the softer evening light may create wonderful photographic views across the square and lagoon.

Special Summer Evening Openings

From 1 May to 26 September 2026, the Doge’s Palace remains open until 23:00 every Friday and Saturday, with last admission at 22:00.

On these selected evenings, later starting times may be available, allowing visitors to experience the palace after the normal daytime opening hours. Advance reservation is recommended, and availability must be confirmed before booking.

Museo Correr Bonus

Your admission ticket also provides access to the Museo Correr, including its historic rooms and important collections dedicated to Venetian history and art.

You may visit the museum independently the following day, giving you more time to continue discovering the history of St. Mark’s Square at your own pace.

Tour Information

• Duration: 2 hours
• Regular time: 17:00–19:00
• Tour type: Private guided tour
• Language: English
• Price: €150 per person
• Meeting point: Entrance of the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square
• Doge’s Palace entrance ticket: Included
• Museo Correr admission: Included
• Licensed private guide: Included
• St. Mark’s Square panorama and monument explanation: Included

Important Information

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• The itinerary includes stairs and is not fully accessible to visitors with serious mobility difficulties.
• Security checks may cause a short delay at the entrance.
• Seasonal evening openings and entrance times are subject to the museum’s official schedule.