Experience Venice’s beauty and history with exclusive after-hours access to Saint Mark’s Basilica and a small group tour of Doge’s Palace.
- Piazza San Marco - You and your small group will meet your guide in one of Italy’s most famous piazzas – St Mark’s Square – noted for its charming, Italian-Gothic beauty just off the shores of the canal. This very square began to gain cultural relevance over 1000 years ago with its first chapel construction in 819 AD.
Your LivItaly tour guide will tell you just how this square came to importance and the inspiration for St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s palace which create its majestic backdrop. Learn about the cultural influences which have contributed to the architectural beauty of the surrounding buildings – Eastern and Venentian Gothic.
- Doge’s Palace - Your guide will then take you to the Doge’s Palace, originally built as a 10th century fortress and later transformed into a palazzo under Doge Sebastiano Ziani. The palace expanded so much throughout time that it eventually even reached the side walls of St Mark’s Basilica. Learn about the amazing color-changing facade of the Doge’s Palace and why it changes color from day to night.
- Ponte dei Sospiri - Your tour will also take you to the famous Bridge of Sighs, a last sight for prisoners on their march towards imprisonment, known as one of their last and most memorable views of the beautiful Venetian lagoon. A sight worth remembering even today.
- Basilica di San Marco - As your Doge’s Palace tour ends, you will make your way to Saint Mark’s Basilica, the gates of which will have already closed for all other visitors, but will reopen EXCLUSIVELY for us. As you walk in you will be surprised by the darkness within the basilica, but sit on the pews and get ready for a spectacular slow illumination of the prestigious ceiling mosaics – a light show privy only to night visitors. The mosaics depict stories from the Old Testament, images of Noah, Adam and Moses. Learn how according to some scholars, these mosaics replicate the miniatures of ancient medieval manuscripts of the Bible – a historic narrative above, all illuminated to create an ambiance which is absolutely unforgettable.
One of the perks of this tour is being able to see the Pala D’oro ancient altar piece up close, an act that is seemingly impossible during hurried daytime crowds. Admire the craftsmanship of gold and silver metal work as well as the 1300 pearls and 1900 gem stones that adorn it.
Our guests will also get to see the crypts where noble Venetians have been laid to rest. Learn how the crypt was moved in the 16th century to avoid flood damage and how it was sealed off for over two centuries only to be reopened in the 19th century.
But the best part of it all is clearly the fact that you and your group will be completely alone in the basilica for the portion of your tour – a once in a lifetime experience reserved exclusively for our guests.
- Exclusive After Hours entrance to Saint Mark’s Basilica
- Professional Local Expert Guide
- Night tour of the Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs
- Small Group of ONLY 6 people MAX
- Gratuities (optional)
Venice is as famous for its historical splendor and captivating allure as it is for its throngs of tourists. Our tour has been meticulously designed to maintain a small and personal atmosphere with each group not exceeding 6 members. This guarantees a comprehensive experience, allowing you to truly immerse in the sights as is due. The rudiments of Italian hospitality lie in attentive care, which is precisely what a small group size of 6 facilitates. This tour is even further customized with EXCLUSIVE entry into one of Venice’s most esteemed monuments – VIP admittance after the day’s crowd to the magnificent Saint Mark’s Basilica, preceded by a comprehensive and captivating tour of the Doge’s Palace and the notorious Bridge of Sighs. It’s a tour enjoyed by one and all, regardless of their knowledge of history. Make a reservation to enjoy this unbelievable experience today!
- 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
- A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
