Venice Architectural Gems with Under The Tuscan Sun Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; walking on cobblestones and standing for periods is involved.
Overview
Discover Venice's legendary architecture and stories on a captivating 2.5-hour tour of the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. Perfect for history lovers and architecture buffs alike, this guided experience unveils the city’s rich past through stunning sites and fascinating tales.
St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Tour
Starting at €225 | Up to 6 people | The two most important places of the Republic of Venice history
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2.5-hour tour of Venice's historical heart, exploring the majestic Doge’s Palace and the awe-inspiring St. Mark’s Basilica. Discover the rich tapestry of Venetian power and spirituality through stunning architecture, intricate mosaics, and the haunting tales of the Bridge of Sighs, immersing yourself in centuries of history.
Discover the two most important places in the history of the Republic of Venice!
Rates
Tour € 225–€ 388
Duration
_ 2:30 hours _
About
With this tour you will discover the two most important places in the history of the Republic of Venice: Doge’s Palace, the centre of the temporal power, and St. Mark’s Basilica, the symbol of spiritual power and religion.
The first structure of the Doge’s Palace was built around the ninth century… Over the centuries it has been altered several times to become a real jewel of Venetian Gothic architecture art which represented for centuries the seat of the Venetian political power. In his splendid rooms, plastered and immersed in hundreds of masterpieces of painting, the Doge and his Council controlled the fate of a thousand-year history republic. You will live it together with your tour guide that will show you the halls of power, submerging you in a very particular historical context: the European Middle Ages and the immediately following centuries. You will be surprised of the rich details of the golden staircase, of the realism of the scenes depicted by many artists who have decorated this building, you will relive the anguish of the prisoners crossing the famous Bridge of Sighs, and entering the Venetian prisons.
After the Palace the tour guide will take you to the splendid St Mark’s Basilica, the chapel of Doge’s Palace until the fall of the Venetian Republic and later elected as the cathedral of Venice. In a deep spiritual atmosphere, mosaics, majestic architecture and sumptuous vestments make St Mark’s Basilica a work of art of inestimable value, it is one of the most majestic cathedrals in the world.
You will understand the strong message displayed in 8000 square meters of mosaics, explained in hundreds of biblical episodes.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
Venice’s streets and bridges require walking on uneven surfaces for an authentic experience.
Bring a camera
Capture the intricate mosaics and scenic views, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Arrive early
Beat the crowds at major sites to better enjoy the architecture and avoid long lines.
Hydrate and pace yourself
Venice can be warm and humid, especially in summer, so take breaks to stay comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons in Piazza San Marco
- Gondolas passing through quieter canals
History
Venice’s architecture reflects centuries of maritime dominance, with many buildings showcasing Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance influences.
Conservation
Venice’s preservation relies heavily on sustainable tourism practices, balancing visitor access with protection of its fragile structures.
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Adventure Hotspots in Venice
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating Venice’s uneven, cobbled streets comfortably.
Sun protection
Protects against the sun during outdoor parts of the tour in warm months.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Useful for sudden weather changes common in transitional seasons.
spring|fall|winter specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning architecture and scenic views throughout the tour.