Your LivTours’ Private St Mark’s and Doge’s Palace Tour at Night start in one of the most beautiful squares in all of Venice – St Mark’s Square – which has stood for over a millennial. As you admire, St Mark’s Basilica was inspired by ancient churches from the East, your guide will give you a good idea of the timelines and history of Venice’s famous piazza before making your way inside the Doge’s Palace. An exemplary work of Venetian Gothic architecture it was once the seat of the Venetian Republic and their leader, the Doge. For over 700 years, this impressive palace has housed 120 powerful Doges, as well as the government offices, prison cells and the court. You will be mesmerized by the stories your guide will share with you as you stroll through the Doge’s private, ornate apartments and impressive halls with their enormous paintings and frescoes. Walking through the corridors with your private LivTours guide you will appreciate the whole gamut of Venice’s history, not only the romantic and polished side, but this tour also takes you behind the scenes, allowing you to learn about the fear the Palazzo Ducale used to represent. Your private guide will regale you with the stories of famous prisoners who were kept in the dungeons of the Doge’s Palace, discover the most famous one!
Once you have finished enjoying the Doge’s Palace the sun will have set and the darkness which has taken its place will offer the perfect atmosphere for your next stop. There will be no crowds and no waiting in line as LivTours Tours has exclusive access to the basilica at night so only you and your tour guide will be admitted. Imagine being alone at night in St Mark’s!
When you enter, the church will be in complete darkness, your guide will help you find your way to the perfect pew. But get your camera ready, as one by one the lights will be turned on to reveal gorgeous ceiling mosaics. This is truly a one of a kind tour which will leave you with unforgettable memories, making history come to life – and light!
During your time in St Mark’s your guide will take you to see normally restricted areas showing you the Pala D’oro, an ancient altarpiece made entirely of gold and silver, and decorated with over 1300 pearls and 1900 precious gemstones, which is almost impossible to see during the day due to the large crowds.
Your tour of the basilica will also include access to the crypts where some of the wealthiest Venetians, including St Mark, were laid to rest. Learn how the crypt floor was actually raised in the 16th century due to excessive water levels and flooding.
This complete nighttime tour is an absolute must for travelers looking for something different with exclusive access to the two most important historic venues of Venetian history.
Perfect for all ages and all history levels, this is a must for Venice travelers!
