Doge’s Palace tickets

4.4(26,289)

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Doge Palace Tickets
























































From happy customers

Loved by 42 million+
pilar arnas adiego
ES

Pilar

Spain
Jul 2025
5/5
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The entrance was very fast, we did not queue just one to pass the security check, the visit was great, it included all the palace including the bridge of sighs.
Marco Battistella

Marco

Jun 2025
4/5
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Revisited the Doge's Palace after almost 20 years, tour route somewhat reduced compared to the past, good visitor flow management. Acceptable wait at 'entrance.
Gradimir Konstantinovic
AU

Gradimir

Australia
Jul 2025
5/5
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+1 more

Great guides (Filipo and Felicia), very friendly and extremely knowledgeable. Timetable followed, guides looking after us on the hot day to have enough rest.
Donald hawkes

Donald

Jun 2025
5/5
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The lighting of the Basilica as part of this tour is spectacutar. Because of the timing of the tour and the size of the tour it really feels like you get the Basilica to your self.
Eric Lee Smith
US

Eric

United States
Jun 2025
5/5
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Our tour guide, Lorenzo, was fantastic! Extremely knowledgeable and created a setting where the history came back to life. I HIGHLY recommend booking the early morning tour before everything gets busy.
Caitlin Erbacher
AU

Caitlin

Australia
Apr 2025
5/5
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+1 more

Our guide was absolutely wonderful, incredibly knowledgeable about the history of Venetian art, architecture, politics, and commerce. Tickets to both the Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica had already sold out by the time I thought to check, so I'm really glad I was able to see them this way. One tiny little thing - the meet up instructions said that the guide would be holding a particular sign, which they weren't, so I hung back for ages cause I couldn't tell which tour group was mine.
Aldo Enrique Camposaragna
AR

Aldo

Argentina
May 2025
5/5
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The visit was well illustrated by our guide, a Spanish woman whose name I unfortunately do not remember, and we had an interesting tour of the interior of the Palace. After the guide's participation, we were able to tour the prison sector.
Jay Webster
US

Jay

United States
Apr 2025
5/5
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+1 more

Our guide, Valentina, was the best things about the tour. The Doge's Palace and associated history are fascinating. Every time I go, I learn something new. Valentina made the tour fun and engaging. Very interesting to learn more about Venice and it's governance over the ages, especially in light of where we find ourselves in the US these days. Would definitely recommend Headout.

Top things to do in Venice

What to expect at Doge's Palace

Courtyard of the Doge's Palace in Venice with ornate architecture and central fountain.
Bridge of Sighs in Venice, Italy, connecting historic buildings over a canal.
Courtyard of Doge's Palace Prisons with stone well and barred windows, Venice.
Gondola on Grand Canal with view of Doge's Palace and Bell Tower, Venice.
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Grand entry

Step into Venice’s epicenter of power: Begin in the grand courtyard, where Gothic arches frame the former seat of the Doge, and feel the weight of centuries of politics, intrigue, and imperial pomp.

Stunning interiors

Wander through opulent chambers: Marvel at Tintoretto’s Il Paradiso, Veronese’s ceilings, and gilded staircases, each hall telling the story of Venice’s wealth and artistry.

One last look

Cross the Bridge of Sighs: Peer through the small windows where prisoners glimpsed their last view of the lagoon before entering the dank, echoing cells below.

The prisons

Explore hidden prisons and secret itineraries: Gain access to private offices, council chambers, and the Piombi and Pozzi cells, uncovering Venice’s political mysteries and chilling justice system.

Make the most of your visit

Choose your pace: Opt for a guided tour to hear tales of conspiracies, ducal ceremonies, and Venetian law, or skip-the-line tickets to maximize your exploration of this historic Gothic masterpiece.

Most visits take 1.5–2.5 hours, with options to combine with St. Mark’s Basilica, Rialto, or gondola rides, giving a full sense of Venice’s civic, religious, and artistic heartbeat.

Things to know before buying Doge's Palace tickets

  • Book ahead, tickets sell fast: Doge’s Palace is Venice’s most popular landmark, and entry slots can book out days in advance, especially in summer. Reserve online to secure your visit.
  • What a basic ticket includes: Standard entry covers Doge’s Palace and the museums of St. Mark’s Square (Museo Correr, Archaeological Museum, and Monumental Rooms of Biblioteca Marciana). Entry is valid for a full day.
  • Save time with skip-the-line tickets: Queues often stretch 30–60 minutes. Priority access tickets let you bypass the main line and spend more time exploring instead of waiting.
  • Guided tours vs. self-guided: A guided tour helps you decode the grandeur, explaining Tintoretto’s Paradise, political intrigues, and the significance of the Bridge of Sighs. If you prefer flexibility, an audio guided tour offers storytelling in multiple languages at your own pace.
  • Secret Itineraries = exclusive access: This upgrade includes restricted areas like the torture chambers, old prisons, and council rooms, which are off-limits on a standard ticket. These tours sell out quickly, so book early.
  • Combo tickets with St. Mark’s Basilica: Save by pairing your palace visit with Venice’s golden basilica. With one booking, you’ll see the two icons of St. Mark’s Square and skip both long lines.
  • Accessibility notes: Most of the palace is wheelchair accessible with ramps and lifts. However, the Secret Itineraries tour is not suitable for young children, visitors with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or respiratory conditions.

Which Doge's Palace ticket is best for you

Ticket typeIncludesWhen to chooseBook now

Skip-the-line

Palace, 3 museums, optional audio guide

If you're short on time

Doge's Skip the line Tickets

Guided tours

Expert guide, palace, new prisons

If you want context and stories

Doge's Palace Guided Tours

Secret Itineraries

Hidden rooms, old & new prisons, expert guide

If you're curious about secrets & intrigue

Secret Itineraries tour

Combo deals

Palace + Basilica + gondola ride, optional island visit

If you're visiting for the first time, or want comprehensive budget travel

Basilica & Palace Guided Tour

Exploring the Doge's Palace

Porta della Carta
The Courtyard and the Loggias
Giant's Staircase
Scala d’Oro
Chamber of the Council of Ten
The Chamber of the Great Council
The Doge’s Apartments
The Prisons & Bridge of Sighs
The Armoury
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Porta della Carta

The spectacular entrance gate is an excellent example of classical architecture in Venice, decorated with intricate carvings and figurines of historic or mythical personalities, like St. Mark’s Lion.

The Courtyard and the Loggias

The view around the Courtyard at the Doge’s Palace is an awe-inspiring sight. You’ll find the Renaissance wing on one side and the Piazetta wing on the other. You can also see the Giants’ Staircase connected to the Porta della Carta and statues of Mars and Neptune.

Giant's Staircase

Ascend this grand staircase, a powerful first impression. Imposing statues of Mars and Neptune flank the stairs, symbolizing Venice's military and maritime might.

Scala d’Oro

Known as the Golden Staircase due to its rich gold finish, these steps lead from the ground floor of the Doge’s Palace to the top floors that house the former offices, reception areas and residence of the Doge and his advisors.

Chamber of the Great Council

This was where the early Venetian Parliament lower house was seated. This massive room could accommodate more than 1500 voters at a time! The chamber is worth a visit solely for the fantastic artwork in itself.

The Chamber of the Great Council

The Chamber of the Great Council is the largest room in Europe, covering 1,250 square meters of floor space. It is located on the first floor of Doge's Palace. Its most famous highlight is the largest oil painting in the world, Tintoretto's Il Paradiso.

The Doge’s Apartments

A fire ravaged the Doge's residence in the 1480s, which were then rebuilt with the utmost grandeur and pomp. While each Doge furnished the chambers in their own style, the classy carved ceilings, frescoes, fireplace and artwork are still preserved.

The Prisons & Bridge of Sighs

The Doge's Palace even housed prisoners in a section designed for more light and ventilation. These prisons lead to the Bridge of Sighs - eerily named after prisoners’ sighs after a final look at the lagoon outside as they bid farewell to their freedom.

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The Armoury

These rooms contain over 2000 exhibits and collections of historic armaments and weapons, dating back to before the 14th Century. These collections include swords, crossbows, firearms prohibited by law and suits of armor, along with possessions captured from enemies after wars.

Plan your visit to Doge's Palace

Doge Palace Venice

General timings: 9am - 7pm
Last entry: One hour before closing
Special timings: From April 1 to October 31, 9am to 7pm. From November 1 to March 31, 9am to 6 pm
Closed on: 25 December and 1 January

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Doge's Palace is during the months of April to June and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a more enjoyable experience compared to the peak summer months. Early morning or late afternoon visits on weekdays within this timeframe are ideal for avoiding crowds.

Check Doge's Palace complete schedule

Address: Piazza San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Getting there

  • By vaporetto (Water bus): Take Line 1, 2, 4.1, 5.1, and 5.2.
    Closest stop: San Zaccaria, 290 m away
  • By train: R, RV
    Closest stop: Santa Lucia Railway Station, 2.3 km away
  • By boat: Consider a water taxi for a luxurious and unique experience.
  • By car: Park at Tronchetto Parking Garage or Garage San Marco and travel to the palace on foot or by water taxi.
Step-by-step directions to Doge's Palace
Entrance of the Doge's Palace in the Piazza San Marco

The Doge's Palace has one main public entrance.

Main entrance (Porta del Frumento): This is the most commonly used entry point, facing the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront on the palace's right side if you're approaching from St. Mark's Square. It features a simple Renaissance style contrasting with the palace's overall Gothic architecture.

A guide to Doge's Palace entrance
bookshop
  • Information desk
  • Cloakroom
  • Restrooms
  • Museum app for audio guide
  • Bookshop
  • Cafeteria
  • Elevators
  • Baby pit stop
Plan your visit to Doge's Palace
Accessibility
  • While the main entrance (Porta del Frumento) has a slightly raised step, staff are readily available to assist or direct you to a nearby accessible entrance.
  • A wheelchair ramp is available inside the palace to navigate many areas.
  • An elevator provides access to most floors within the Doge's Palace, allowing visitors with disabilities to explore a significant portion of the palace.
  • There are accessible restrooms at the first floor available within the Doge's Palace for visitor convenience.
  • The palace has a hearing loop system in place to assist visitors with hearing impairments.

Important considerations: Some exceptions exist. The Secret Itineraries tour, Prisons, and Armory are not wheelchair accessible due to their historical layout and architectural constraints.

rules
  • Enjoy your snacks and drinks outside the palace grounds. Food and drink are not permitted inside the exhibition areas.
  • While appreciating the art and architecture, please maintain a respectful volume to ensure a peaceful experience for all visitors.
  • Please refrain from touching any artworks, furniture, or displays to preserve them for future generations.
  • Regular photography is allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted in some rooms with sensitive artworks. Check signage or ask staff for guidance.
  • Large bags, backpacks, or luggage may not be allowed inside the Doge's Palace due to security and space limitations.
  • There's no strict dress code, but avoid overly revealing clothing or swimwear. Opt for comfortable attire suitable for exploring a historical landmark.
helpful tips
  • Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the palace, including the main halls, armory, prisons, and apartments.
  • If not joining a guided tour, consider renting an audio guide for detailed information about the exhibits and rooms, while still exploring at your own pace.
  • Don't miss a gondola ride after exploring the Doge's Palace – it's the perfect way to end your Venetian day trip!
  • Unfortunately, furry friends are not permitted inside the Doge's Palace, so plan accordingly.
  • Get a printed copy of your e-ticket, as you may be required to show it at the entrance.
  • The palace is extensive with many stairs and uneven surfaces; comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant visit.

Frequently asked questions about Doge's Palace tickets

Why should I take a guided tour of Doge's Palace?

A guided tour of Doge's Palace enriches your experience with detailed insights into the palace's history, architecture, and art, and includes fascinating anecdotes about the Venetian Republic. Expert guides bring the palace to life, making the visit more engaging and informative. Also, tours often provide access to areas not available with standard entry, such as the secret itineraries, adding depth to your exploration.

Is it a good idea to combine Doge's Palace visit with other Venice landmarks on the same day?

Combining your Doge's Palace visit with other landmarks in Venice on the same day can be a fantastic way to maximize your time and experience the city's rich history and culture.  Skip the lines with pre-booked tickets and move seamlessly between nearby landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica or the Correr Museum. Balance your day with grand palaces and serene basilicas, or add a gondola ride for a romantic touch.

How big of a difference is there between secret itineraries vs. standard entry?

The difference between the Secret Itineraries Tour and standard entry to Doge's Palace is significant and mainly thematic. Standard entry covers the main areas, focusing on the palace’s history, architecture, and artwork. In contrast, the Secret Itineraries Tour provides access to hidden rooms like Piombi and Pozzi prisons, Superior Chancery and the torture chambers - complemented by engaging stories and legends about the Venetian Republic’s justice system. This guided tour dives deeper into the palace's lesser-known past, making it a standout option for a unique and comprehensive understanding.

What are the benefits of skip-the-line tickets for Doge's Palace?

Skip-the-line tickets for the Doge's Palace aren't mandatory, but they can be a huge timesaver, especially during peak season or on weekends. Lines can get long, and pre-booked tickets let you breeze past them, maximizing your sightseeing time in Venice. Consider your budget and priorities. If you have limited time or dislike waiting, skip-the-line tickets offer a smoother experience.

Are there any discounted or free admission opportunities?

While there's no free general admission to the Doge's Palace, children under 18 years are in luck – they enjoy a 50% discount on standard entry tickets. Children under 6 years also get to enter for free. Also, remember, booking online can often save you money compared to purchasing tickets on-site owing to special promotions and seasonal discounts.

What is the cancelation policy for Doge’s Palace tickets?

It depends on the Doge’s Palace ticket you choose to book. While some tickets offer a full refund on canceling tickets up to 48-72 hours in advance, for others there may be no refund available on cancelation. Please check before you make your reservation.

Can I visit the New Prisons with my standard Doge's Palace entry ticket?

Yes, a regular guided tour of Doge's Palace tickets do include access to the New Prisons, allowing you to explore this dark chapter of Venetian history. But the older prisons (Piombi and Pozzi) are accessible via Secret Itineraries tour exclusively. The new prisons are connected to the Doge's Palace by the famous Bridge of Sighs. Do note that they are not wheelchair accessible

Are my Doge’s Palace tickets refundable?

Cancellation policy for the Doge's Palace tickets vary with the particular type of ticket that you've chosen. While skip-the-line tickets can't be canceled or rescheduled, other city experiences like Venice Icons: St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Tour can be canceled or rescheduled within the 24-hour window. Please check your specific ticket details.

Is the Doge’s Palace wheelchair-accessible?

Yes. Most of the Doge’s Palace is wheel-chair accessible. Only the Secret Itineraries, Armoury and Prisons cannot be accessed.

How long does it take to see the Doge’s Palace?

On average, visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the main areas of Doge's Palace. However, the duration can vary based on individual interests and whether you choose to explore additional sections or take guided tours.

Can I visit Doge's Palace with kids?

Yes, you can visit the Doge's Palace with kids, but keep a few things in mind for an enjoyable experience. Younger children (under 4 years) might struggle with the length and historical details of the tours, which can last over an hour. Some parts, like the prison stories and torture chambers, that are included in the Secret itineraries tours might be too dark for kids under 6 years. Plan for breaks in the courtyard or at cafes, and prepare the kids with some history and context on what they will see. With some planning, it can be an educational and fascinating experience for the whole family.

More reads

View of Piazza San Macro and the St. Mark's Basilica - Venice

Plan Your Visit

Doge Palace

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The Architecture of Doge's Palace Prisons

History

Doge's Palace Tickets
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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.