Group · 6 Max
1 hr 30 mins
Explore the opulent Doge’s Palace on this exclusive, semi-private evening tour – with a top-rated guide.
For many centuries Venice was a Republic governed by an elected ruler, the Doge. The magnificent palace we see today was both the seat of government and the Doge’s grand private residence.
First constructed in the Middle Ages, the Palace has undergone many renovations over the centuries. On this evening tour, you’ll be able to experience this iconic building, with fewer crowds. Wander its vast halls and admire priceless works of art, as you learn about the fascinating history of Venice and her illustrious rulers.
Semi-Private tours and experiences are guaranteed six participants max.
Our prices always include tickets and reservations fees (no waiting in lines!).
Our tour guides and staff are selected experts and speak perfect English.
Easy to book and prepay your tours with our secure payment system.
Eco-sustainable tourism, designed to respect and support local culture, art and traditions.
The majestic Doge’s Palace is a treasure trove of artistry and political significance—all of which you will get to see on this evening tour.
This architectural marvel was not only the seat of governance but also a lavish home for the Doge, the elected ruler of Venice. Your evening tour begins as the crowds disperse and the temperature cools. In a small group of six people, you’ll follow your expert guide into the Palace.
The ‘Giant’s Staircase’ entrance is so-called because of the two colossal statues of Neptune and Mars that flank it. These heroic and intimidating pagan gods of the Ocean and War symbolized Venice’s maritime power and military might. Between them stands the winged lion of Saint Mark, the city’s Christian patron saint.
Visit the Great Council Chamber, renowned for its golden opulence. Admire Tintoretto’s vast oil painting of “Paradise” beneath which criminals were – ironically – sentenced. The Chamber is also where the Senate elected the new Doge.
From here, you’ll see the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prisons. Its name is derived from the miserable sighs of the prisoners on their way to incarceration. Then, venture into the ominous Chamber of Torment to learn about medieval interrogation techniques and torture. Explore the contrasting conditions of the Pozzi and Piombi prisons – where the notorious Casanova was held.
Marvel at the impressive Armory housing over 2000 weapons, including swords, suits of armor, quivers, crossbows, and halberds. You’ll also learn about Venice’s heavy reliance on mercenary soldiers for its defense during the Medieval and Renaissance eras.
Finally, wander through the Doge’s lavish private apartments. Hear tales of intrigue, politics, and the private lives of these esteemed leaders of the Venetian Republic. Lastly, admire the splendor of the Golden Staircase, adorned with a magnificent ceiling by Sansovino, as you leave, ready for a beautiful evening in Venice.
LivTours’ group size of max 6 participants is and always has been based on sustainable travel, and we are proud to be at the forefront of change and innovation in the industry. LivTours is committed to providing travelers with truly sustainable tours with the lowest possible environmental impact, all while supporting the local industries and people of each unique destination. To learn more about how you can actively support sustainable tourism and how LivTours is contributing, click here.
All LivTours Semi-Private Group Tours are capped at six guests per tour guide. Our commitment to maintaining this uniquely tiny group size can sometimes be a little tricky, mathematically speaking. For example, we want to ensure that traveling families and friends can tour together, so on rare occasions we may add one or two guests to avoid separating groups. On that same note, you may also find yourself on tour with less than six people! We thank you for your understanding and flexibility.
By selecting Choose Dates Later / Buy as Gift at booking, any tour can be purchased without fixed dates. This is the perfect option if you want to purchase your tour as a gift for a loved one, or if you are in the pre-planning phase of your vacation. After booking, you will receive a Travel Voucher Code and full instructions on how to schedule your tours when ready. Once your travel plans are confirmed, you can easily use the Travel Voucher Code on the LivTours website to formally schedule your tours. You can find out more here.
