About this experience
I invite you to visit the Doge's Palace after lunch, when the crowds thin out, and you can fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the magnificence of the Most Serene Republic. You will see the legendary Bridge of Sighs, the amazing 'alla veneziana' ceilings, and one of the world's largest paintings. I will reveal the behind-the-scenes life of the palace and unveil the secret of the portrait under the black curtain. You will stroll through the 'Golden Staircase' and luxurious halls, as well as visit the secret spots: the new prison and the torture chamber.
What to expect
Immerse yourself in the history of the mysterious palace
You will learn about the six centuries of the palace's life. Over the centuries, it housed the Great Council, the Senate, and secret services. Here were state offices, a prison, but above all, the palace is known as the splendid residence of the rulers of the Venetian Republic— the Doges. I will explain the principles of choosing a Doge and why the state leaders were depicted on their knees in official portraits. You will hear the story of the rise and fall of the Venetian Republic and its powerful leaders.
Stunning facade and 'Paper Door'
You will admire the magnificent architecture of the palace in the Venetian Gothic style of the 14th-15th centuries. At first glance, it may seem that the elements of the facade are not entirely logical, but upon closer inspection, you will understand that the Doge's Palace is a genius ensemble, all parts of which miraculously harmonize with each other. You will be amazed by the incredible combination of arches, airy balconies, lacy galleries, and marble columns. To the left of the facade facing St. Mark's Square, I will show you the 'Porta della Carta'—the magnificent 'Paper Door' created by Giovanni and Bartolomeo Bon. It is made in the form of an elegant lancet arch adorned with Gothic decorative elements.
Walk through the inner courtyard and luxurious halls
The tour will start with a visit to the palace's inner courtyard, where you will see stunning bronze wells, an 18th-century gondola, and even an unusual box for secret reports. Then we will climb to the palace's ceremonial halls via the 'Golden Staircase' by architect Sansovino, which in the past only aristocrats could ascend. You will see the magnificent 'alla veneziana' ceilings adorned with wood carvings and gilding. We will visit the Senate Hall, the Great Council Hall, and the Council of Ten Hall, where the Venetian Committee of State Security met. I will tell you how the legendary Casanova escaped from the prison in the Doge's Palace and show you the secret door leading to the torture chamber.
Introduction to Italian painting masterpieces
The Doge's Palace is a priceless treasure trove of paintings by great masters. You will see masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese, and other renowned artists of the 16th century. I will show you Tintoretto's 'Paradise' from 1590, one of the world's largest paintings covering an entire wall. I will also reveal the secret of the portrait hidden behind the black drape. The paintings in the Doge's Palace are everywhere: not only on the walls but also on the ceilings. They are surrounded by heavy golden patterns, making each work look incredibly luxurious.
Organizational details
- Entrance ticket to the Doge's Palace is not included in the price: adults - 30 euros, children (6-14 years old) and seniors over 65 years old - 15 euros. Children under 6 years old are free of charge.
- The price is for a 1.5-hour tour. If you wish to linger in one of the rooms, you can extend the tour for an additional fee - 40 euros per 30 minutes.
- The tour will be conducted by one of our team's guides — a licensed professional from the Best Venice Guides Association.