Doge’s Palace tickets & tours

4.4(27K Ratings)

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Doge Palace Tickets






From the happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Sheila Geer
US

Sheila

United States
Apr 2025
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The experience was great, although finding the meeting location was a bit of a challenge ...our guide was very good...spent a good deal of time explaining and answering questions. She was very knowledgeable and threw in lots of stories and theories and susperstitions about the legends. Both St Marks and Doges Palace were worth the tour!
Juan Antonio Ortiz Lopez

Juan

Mar 2025
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+1 more

The whole program was as planned, and I thought everything we visited was spectacular, and there was no waiting to enter the monuments.
Stephen Bold
GB

Stephen

United Kingdom
Apr 2025
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+2 more

I had no expectation when booking the ticket. I was really happily surprised. Fantastic building and history lesson. It's an amazing place and we spent many hours exploring all of the building and it's contents. I would recommend this place to all. The staff are fabulous and even the cafe is a great post experience chill.
Susan London
US

Susan

United States
Mar 2025
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+1 more

The galleries of paintings, bas relief sculptures and visit to the prison were outstanding. It would take a week to fully investigate the history and beauty of all we were privy to at Doge's Palace.
Janet Murphy
US

Janet

United States
Mar 2025
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+1 more

The craftsmanship that can never be replicated is mind boggling. Floors, ceilings and stutues. Would be incredible if the original plans exsisted. Not to be missed.
Larysa Blyzniuk
UA

Larysa

Ukraine
Mar 2025
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The best choice is to buy a subscription. The best Venice tours in your pocket without queues. Everything is very simple and convenient. I recommend
Nicola Perretta
GB

Nicola

United Kingdom
Mar 2025
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Easy to book and then collect the tickets in Venice. St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace were really worth the visit Just make sure the audio guides are working whilst you are collecting tickets as ours for Doge's Palace didn't work and we had to purchase one inside the palace
Laura Basadre

Laura

Jul 2024
Our tour guide, Virginia was very knowledgeable and shared history and facts in. Very interesting way. It was a great tour

Top things to do in Venice

Doge's Palace: Former residence of the Venetian Doge

From the 1400s to 1600s, Venice thrived as a rich republic with the Doge at its helm, ruling over a magnificent era of art and wealth. This majestic landmark, standing tall on Venice's Grand Canal, was the seat of Venetian power for centuries, housing the Doge and the Venetian Republic's government. Explore grand halls, hidden chambers, and the famed Bridge of Sighs, all adorned with intricate Gothic architecture and lavish interiors featuring artworks by Titian and Tintoretto. Find curated tickets and tours with a complementary visitor's guide.

Things to know before buying Doge's Palace tickets

  • Doge's Palace doesn't have a standalone ticket. Instead, you get for a ticket that includes priority access to the palace and optional entry to ​Museo Correr, the Archaeological Museum, the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana, and an English audio guide. Venice can get crowded, especially during peak season and at the widely popular Doge's Palace. You can save around 30 minutes to an hour with online skip the line tickets.

  • You can get the Venice museum pass, which grants access to the museums in the ​St. Mark's Square and several other top ones through Venice, offering flexibility and potential cost savings. The pass has a 6-month window. Activate the pass within 24 months of purchase to access one of 11 museums. The remaining 10 can be visited within 6 months of activation. Receive your pass via email, print it, or save it on your phone, and present it at designated spots for quick entry.

  • Unlike the conventional Doge's Palace guided tour, which covers history and architecture, the Secret itineraries tour provides an engaging narrative with anecdotes, legends, and curiosities about Venetian justice and politics. The difference between the two is mainly thematic. These tours tend to be popular, so book early, they fill up fast!

  • The Secret Itineraries tour can be difficult for children under 6 years, individuals with mobility problems, those suffering from claustrophobia, and those with vertigo or cardio-respiratory disorders. The rest of Doge's Palace is wheelchair-friendly, equipped with ramps and lifts.

  • For guided insights into the rooms, art, and ​history of the legendary Doge's Palace, consider our highly-rated ​group tours available. These tours are also a reliable last-minute option if standard tickets are sold out for your dates.

  • Children under 18 years enjoy a 50% concession on your regular ticket.

Your Doge's Palace tickets explained

skip the line

Skip-the-line tickets

Suited for: Travelers who are short on time.
Duration: Flexible
Prisons access: New Prisons - yes, Pozzi and Piombi - no
Guide: No

  • Bypass long queues, saving 30 minutes to an hour during peak seasons. Gain insights with an English audio guide and a multilingual guidebook during your self-exploration.
  • Enjoy access to additional attractions including Museo Correr, the Archaeological Museum, and the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana. Extend your access to 11 more with a museum pass or the nearby St. Mark's Basilica with a combo ticket.

Recommended tickets:

  • Doge's Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets

For extended access:

guided tour

Guided tours

Suited for: In-depth exploration
Duration: 1 hr 15 mins
Prisons access: New Prisons - yes, Pozzi and Piombi - no
Guide: Yes

  • Go beyond the grand facade with a knowledgeable guide who brings the palace's history and lesser-known stories to life.
  • Save precious vacation minutes by breezing past long queues with priority access.
  • Your tour includes access to the Doge's Palace, Museo Correr, Archaeological Museum, and Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana, making for a comprehensive Venetian experience.

Recommended tickets:

  • Doge's Palace Guided Tour
Secret itineraries tour

Secret itineraries tour

Suited for: History buffs, thrill seekers
Duration: 50 mins
Prisons access: Yes
Guide:

  • Venture beyond the usual tourist path and explore secret chambers, passageways, and chilling Piombi and Pozzi prisons inaccessible on a standard tour.
  • Unravel the palace's hidden stories, including tales of Doges, political intrigue, and the infamous Casanova's escape attempt.

Recommended tickets:

combo deals

Combo deals

Suited for: First-time Venice travelers, exploring beyond
Duration: 3 hr - 9 hr
Prisons access: New Prisons - yes, Pozzi and Piombi - no
Guide: Yes

  • Explore multiple Venice highlights in a single day, including iconic Basilica and charming islands of Murano & Burano.
  • Skip the long lines at these popular landmarks and learn from knowledgeable guides who curate the perfect itinerary for an efficient and enriching experience.
  • Enjoy a gondola ride, witness traditional crafts like glass-blowing and lace-making, and round-trip transfers to/from the Murano & Burano Islands.

Recommended tickets:

  • Venice Icons: St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
  • Venice in a Day: St. Mark’s, Doge’s Palace, Murano & Burano with Gondola Ride

Exploring the Doge's Palace

Porta della Carta
Scala d’Oro
Giant's Staircase
Chamber of the Council of Ten
The Chamber of the Great Council
Museo dell’Opera
The Courtyard and the Loggias
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.

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.

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.

Chamber of the Council of Ten

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, measuring 53 meters long, 25 meters wide, and 11.50 meters high, covering 1,250 square meters of floor space. It is located on the first floor of Doge's Palace.

Museo dell’Opera

An homage to the Venetian glory days, the museum paints a vivid picture of the art and culture. After several restoration projects, the museum now hosts a variety of sculptures, parts of old facades, remains of old structures and statues, and other classical decorative items.

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.

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.

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: 6pm
Special timings: From 1 May to 30 September 2024, every Friday and Saturday the palace is open until 11pm (last entrance at 10pm)
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 and a few historic ones that are not-functional anymore.

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. There might be a small step at the entrance, but staff can assist if needed.

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.
Customers inside a restaurant
  • Caffe Chioggia: Just a short stroll from Doge's Palace, the ​Caffe Chioggia offers delightful dining experience accompanied by great music and a fantastic atmosphere.
  • Bar Mio: Relax and enjoy a drink at the lively ​Bar Mio, conveniently located only 500 meters from Doge's Palace.
  • Pasticceria Da Bonifacio: : If you're a coffee enthusiast, be sure to visit ​Da Bonifacio, a mere 220 meters from the palace, for your caffeine fix.
  • Al Chianti: Known for serving some of Venice's finest pizzas over the years, ​ Al Chianti is 290 m away from the Doge’s Palace.
stay
  • Budget:
    Alloggi Barbaria (​1.1 km), Locanda Cavanella (​0.3 km), Hotel ai do Mori (​0.2 km)
  • Mid-range:
    Hotel Concordia (​0.2 km), Hotel Dona Palace (​0.3 km),  Hotel Le Isole (​0.2 km)
  • Luxury:
    Aqua Palace Hotel (​0.5 km), Londra Palace Venezia (​0.2 km), Ca' Maria Adele (​0.7 km)

Beyond Doge's palace

St. Mark's Basilica

St. Mark's Basilica

Distance: ​190 m
Standing majestically next to the Doge's Palace, this Byzantine marvel boasts stunning mosaics, golden domes, and a rich history as Venice's religious heart.

Book St. Mark's Basilica tickets
museo correr

Museo Correr

Distance: ​300 m
Connected to the Doge's Palace by a bridge, this museum houses an extensive collection of Venetian art, history, and everyday life, offering a deeper dive into the city's soul.

Book Correr Museum Tickets
national library

National Library

Distance: 98 m
A bibliophile's paradise, this library showcases breathtaking Renaissance architecture and houses a treasure trove of manuscripts, maps, and ancient texts.

Frequently asked questions about Doge's Palace tickets

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.

Are there any discounted or free admission opportunities?

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

Is a guided tour of Doge's Palace worth it?

Yes, a ​guided tour of Doge's Palace is worth it. It 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.

Do we need 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.

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 is the maximum group size for guided Doge’s Palace tours?

The Doge’s Palace is accepting guided tour groups with a maximum of 10 guests.

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.

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

Yes, your regular 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

More reads

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

Plan Your Visit

Doge Palace

About

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.