Doge’s Palace Secret Passages Tour with Casanova’s Cell & St. Mark's
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Discover the hidden corners of the Doge's Palace, a place unknown to many visitors and even locals. This exclusive tour, limited to just 20 people at a time, takes you through secret prisons, archives, offices, and even a torture chamber within the Palazzo Ducale, unveiling a darker side of history.The Doge's Palace is undoubtedly the most intriguing building in Venice for those with an interest in art, history, literature, or scandal. As the home to the world's oldest republic, it serves as a treasure trove of secrets and artworks, providing a detailed insight into life in the Republic of Venice. Accompanied by your guide, you'll bypass the queues and head straight for the palace's hidden areas. A special door, opened by a guard, leads you into the concealed parts of the palace. Here, you'll see the prison cell where Casanova was held and hear the fascinating tale of his escape. You'll also visit the archives to learn how secrets were safeguarded and hidden council rooms.The tour also includes access to grand audience rooms, ballrooms adorned with exquisite paintings by Veronese and Tintoretto, and the private apartments of the Duke of Venice. Your VIP experience continues with crossing the famed Bridge of Sighs to explore the New Prisons.Your last highlight, a guided tour of Venice's most important church, St. Mark's Basilica. Admire the east-meets-west architecture and hear how most of the basilica's prized possessions ended up here by less than honest means.
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Activity package
to get availability.
Facilities
Free cancellation
mobile
3 hours
Available in English
Important information
Accessibility:
* Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour, it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers
* Not suitable for people suffering from claustrophobia
* This is a walking tour. You should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity, including standing for extended periods and climbing stairs, which may not be suitable for travellers with certain health conditions or mobility limitations
Not allowed:
* Due to Doge's Palace regulations, children under the age of 6 cannot take part in this tour
* Any large backpacks or luggage are not permitted inside Doge's Palace. You have to check them in the cloakroom
Know in advance:
* No refund will be provided if high tide prevents certain parts of the tour, but adjustments to the route will be made for your safety and comfort
* If access is restricted due to private events inside Doge's Palace, the local operator cannot be held responsible, and no refund will be issued
* This tour is in English
* All guests (including children) must bring ID on the day of their tour.
* 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.
Remember to bring:
* All guests (including children) must bring their ID on the day of the tour
* In case of high tide, remember to bring appropriate footwear (e.g. boots)