What is the significance of the Bridge of Sighs in Venice's history?

Since the Bridge of Sighs was built to connect the <link linkType="custom" newTab="true" url="https://www.doge-palace-tickets.com/doge-palace-museum/" text="Doge's Palace" /> to the <link linkType="custom" newTab="true" url="https://www.doge-palace-tickets.com/venice-prisons-piombi-and-pozzi/" text="New Prisons" />, serving as a passageway for prisoners it played a crucial role in the functioning of the Venetian justice system and is now a symbol of the city's rich history and architecture.

Are there any guided tours that include a visit to the Bridge of Sighs?

Indeed! There are exclusive <link linkType="custom" newTab="true" url="https://www.doge-palace-tickets.com/guided-tours/" text="guided tours" /> like the "Secret Itinerary" tour, which lets visitors explore areas of the palace and prison not typically accessible to the public, including the Bridge of Sighs. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides insights into the <link linkType="custom" newTab="true" url="https://www.doge-palace-tickets.com/doge-palace-history/" text="history" />, architecture, and legends surrounding the bridge, offering a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

Is the Bridge of Sighs illuminated at night?

The Bridge of Sighs itself isn't directly illuminated at night. However, the surrounding area of the Doge's Palace is often lit up, casting an enchanting glow on the bridge. You might be able to capture a picturesque image with the bridge bathed in the soft light of nearby buildings.

What is the best way to reach the Bridge of Sighs from other parts of Venice?

While you can't enter the bridge itself without a special tour, getting to the Doge's Palace complex, where the bridge is located, is easy. Most visitors rely on vaporetto (water buses). Depending on your starting point, lines 1, 2, 5.1, or 4.1 will get you close to the San Zaccaria stop, a short walk from the palace.

How has the bridge's perception changed over time?

Initially, the bridge served a practical function within the Venetian justice system. Over time, the "Bridge of Sighs" name emerged, likely linked to a romantic legend about prisoners sighing. Today, the bridge is a popular tourist attraction, symbolizing both Venetian history and a touch of melancholy.

What was the daily life of prisoners like after crossing the bridge?

Conditions in the <link linkType="custom" newTab="true" url="https://www.doge-palace-tickets.com/venice-prisons-piombi-and-pozzi/" text="prison (Prigioni Nuove)" /> varied depending on the severity of the crime. Some prisoners faced harsh conditions, while others might have had more privileges. However, crossing the Bridge of Sighs undoubtedly marked a turning point, signifying the start of their confinement.

Who were some of the most popular prisoners in Doge's Palace prisons?

The Doge's Palace housed a fascinating mix of prisoners. Casanova, the infamous escapee, rubbed shoulders with Marco Polo (possibly) and political prisoners like Pellico. Even a Doge, Marino Faliero, met his demise there. Garibaldi, a future Italian unifier, also spent a brief stint within its walls.

Bridge of Sighs: Venice's Icon of History, Romance & Mystery

Tickets

4.4(0)

Doge's Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets

Don't waste time in ticket queues and unearth the secrets of Venetian politics with skip-the-line entry to the Doge's Palace.
Discover huge oil paintings and ceiling frescoes in the main hall, like Il Paradiso by Tintoretto, and The Apotheosis of Venice by Paolo Veronese.
Take a look at St. Mark's Square and the lagoon from the Porta della Carta, a massive gothic archway with exquisite relishes and sculptures!
This ticket also lets you see neoclassical art at Museo Correr, rare antiquities at the Archaeological Museum, and the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana.

Don't waste time in ticket queues and unearth the secrets of Venetian politics with skip-the-line entry to the Doge's Palace.
Discover huge oil paintings and ceiling frescoes in the main hall, like Il Paradiso by Tintoretto, and The Apotheosis of Venice by Paolo Veronese.
Take a look at St. Mark's Square and the lagoon from the Porta della Carta, a massive gothic archway with exquisite relishes and sculptures!
This ticket also lets you see neoclassical art at Museo Correr, rare antiquities at the Archaeological Museum, and the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana.

Inclusions

Skip-the-line entry to Doge's Palace
Access to Museo Correr (if selected)
Access to the Archaeological Museum (if selected)
Access to Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana (if selected)
Audio guide in English (if selected)
Guide book in multiple languages (if selected)

When you book your tickets, keep in mind that entry to Doge's Palace is valid only for the date selected at the time of purchase.
For the other museums, the pass is valid for 3 months from the date of your Doge’s Palace visit. All three must be visited on the same day.
Please note that the Secret Itineraries, Prisons and Armory are not accessible by wheelchair and pram/stroller.
The guide book will be issued on a sharing basis if the reservation is for 2 or more people.
Kindly carry your own headphones for the audio guide.

These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.

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Extended validity

Instant confirmation

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Combos

4.3(0)

Combo (Save 3%): St. Mark's Basilica + Doge's Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets

With this cost-saving combo, gain speedy access to 2 iconic symbols of Venice: St. Mark's Basilica & Doge’s Palace.
Discover 12th-century mosaics in the Transept Chapels of the basilica, and bronze horses and ancient tapestries at St. Mark's Museum.
At the Doge's Palace, admire the stunning Gothic façade, gilded ceilings, frescoed walls, and an impressive collection of weaponry and armor.
Uncover iconic artworks within the palace, including Vittore Carpaccio's The Lion of St. Mark and Saint Christopher by Titian.
Your ticket includes the Venice 3-museum pass, granting you entry to Museo Correr, the Archaeological Museum, and the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana.

With this cost-saving combo, gain speedy access to 2 iconic symbols of Venice: St. Mark's Basilica & Doge’s Palace.
Discover 12th-century mosaics in the Transept Chapels of the basilica, and bronze horses and ancient tapestries at St. Mark's Museum.
At the Doge's Palace, admire the stunning Gothic façade, gilded ceilings, frescoed walls, and an impressive collection of weaponry and armor.
Uncover iconic artworks within the palace, including Vittore Carpaccio's The Lion of St. Mark and Saint Christopher by Titian.
Your ticket includes the Venice 3-museum pass, granting you entry to Museo Correr, the Archaeological Museum, and the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana.

Inclusions St. Mark's Basilica

Skip-the-line entry to St. Mark's Basilica

Doge's Palace

Skip-the-line entry to Doge's Palace
Access to Museo Correr
Access to the Archaeological Museum
Access to Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana

Exclusions St. Mark's Basilica

Access to the Pala d'Oro

Doge's Palace

Access to the Old Prisons of Piombi and Pozzi

Both venues are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.

St. Mark's Basilica

Tip: Take a leisurely walk through the narthex, the entrance vestibule of the basilica, which features beautiful marble floors and intricate carvings.
Strict dress code: All guests must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees to enter the basilica.
Keep your camera tucked away – photography is strictly not allowed at the venue.
A ramp is available at the Porta del Fiori (Door of Flowers) entrance on the left-hand side of the basilica.
The Museum on the upper floor of the basilica is served by both a lift and stair lifts.
Note: The wait time to enter St. Mark's Basilica can vary depending on the time of day and season. During peak times, such as weekends or holidays, the wait may exceed 1-2 hours. To avoid longer queues, it is recommended to arrive early or later in the afternoon.

Doge's Palace

Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, and any type of commercial photography is a no-go inside the venue.
Please note that the Secret Itineraries, Prisons and Armory are not wheelchair accessible.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Guided Tours

4.3(0)

Venice Icons: St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Walk through the most legendary Venetian neighborhoods and tour St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace, all with an expert guide.
Don't waste time in queues and discover biblical sculptures and geometric marble inlays within the 5-domed basilica of St. Mark.
Understand the political relevance of the Doge's Palace as you admire artworks like Federico Zuccari's Barbarossa kisses the Pope's foot in lavish rooms like the Great Council Chamber.
Enjoy dedicated attention in your preferred language – choose between an English, Italian, German, Spanish or French-speaking guide.
Your exploration doesn't just stop there! This ticket also gives you access to treasures of the Biblioteca Marciana and the Archaeological Museum.

Walk through the most legendary Venetian neighborhoods and tour St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace, all with an expert guide.
Don't waste time in queues and discover biblical sculptures and geometric marble inlays within the 5-domed basilica of St. Mark.
Understand the political relevance of the Doge's Palace as you admire artworks like Federico Zuccari's Barbarossa kisses the Pope's foot in lavish rooms like the Great Council Chamber.
Enjoy dedicated attention in your preferred language – choose between an English, Italian, German, Spanish or French-speaking guide.
Your exploration doesn't just stop there! This ticket also gives you access to treasures of the Biblioteca Marciana and the Archaeological Museum.

Inclusions

Guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace with skip-the-line entry
Expert English, Italian, German, Spanish, or French-speaking guide
Headsets for groups of 10+ people

Access to:

Correr Museum
Marciana Library
National Archeological Museum
Access to the Pala d'Oro (as per option selected)

Both venues are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.

St. Mark's Basilica

Tip: Try spotting designs of foxes, peacocks, doves, roosters and rhinoceros in the marble inlays while you’re walking around St. Mark's Basilica.
Strict dress code: All guests must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees to enter the basilica.
Keep your camera tucked away – photography is strictly not allowed at the venue.
A ramp is available at the Porta del Fiori (Door of Flowers) entrance on the left-hand side of the basilica.
The Museum on the upper floor of the basilica is served by both a lift and stair lifts.

Doge's Palace

Tip: Keep an eye out for the statues of Poseidon and Mars at the Staircase of the Giants in Doge's Palace.
Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, and any type of commercial photography is a no-go inside the venue.
Please note that the Secret Itineraries, Prisons and Armory are not wheelchair accessible.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Mobile ticket

1 hr. 30 min. - 3 hr. 30 min.

Tickets

3.6(0)

St. Mark's Basilica Entry & Doge's Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audioguide

Bypass long lines to visit two of the most iconic landmarks in Venice.

Enjoy priority access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace on this self-guided tour.
Enhance your experience with an audioguide app, which offers insights into the history, architecture, and timeless beauty of the attractions.

Bypass long lines to visit two of the most iconic landmarks in Venice.

Enjoy priority access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace on this self-guided tour.
Enhance your experience with an audioguide app, which offers insights into the history, architecture, and timeless beauty of the attractions.

Inclusions

Skip-the-line entry to Doge’s Palace
Skip-the-line entry to St. Mark’s Basilica
Audioguide app with commentary for both Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica
Access to the museums along St. Mark’s Square, including the Correr Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Marciana National Library
Free internet access and assistance at the meeting point

Exclusions

In-person tour guide
- Access to the Pala d’Oro, St. Mark’s Museum, and Loggia Cavalli located inside the basilica
- Headsets
- Transportation
- Meals

Your tickets guarantee priority access but there might be a short wait at security.
This experience is wheelchair accessible.
When you visit the basilica, wear appropriate clothing that covers your shoulders and knees as it is a place of worship.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Guided Tours

4.0(0)

Doge's Palace Guided Tour

An in-depth experience of the Doge's Palace awaits on this expertly crafted tour in the language of your choice.
Walk through opulent gold-ceiling rooms as you hear their unbelievable stories – like the Council of Ten Chamber that used to house Venice's secret police!
Look out for detailed sculptures that adorn the façade, like Noah's Drunkenness by Filippo Calendario, and Adam and Eve by Antonio Rizzo.
Explore the 3 museums in St. Mark's Square on your own: Museo Correr, Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana.

An in-depth experience of the Doge's Palace awaits on this expertly crafted tour in the language of your choice.
Walk through opulent gold-ceiling rooms as you hear their unbelievable stories – like the Council of Ten Chamber that used to house Venice's secret police!
Look out for detailed sculptures that adorn the façade, like Noah's Drunkenness by Filippo Calendario, and Adam and Eve by Antonio Rizzo.
Explore the 3 museums in St. Mark's Square on your own: Museo Correr, Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana.

Inclusions

Guided tour of Doge's Palace with skip-the-line entry
English, German, French, Spanish or Italian-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Access to Piombi & Piozzi prisons (as per option selected)
Access to Casanova's Prison & the Bridge of Sighs (as per option selected)
Headsets
Access to:
Correr Museum
Marciana Library
National Archeological Museum

Tip: Capture stunning views of the Grand Canal from the palace's balconies, offering a unique perspective of Venice's iconic waterways.
Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, and any type of commercial photography is a no-go inside the venue.
Please note that the Secret Itineraries, Prisons and Armoury are not accessible by wheelchair and pram/stroller.
Ramps and elevators are available at the venue for easy access.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Mobile ticket

1 hr. 15 min. - 1 hr. 30 min.

Tickets

4.2(0)

Doge’s Palace Tickets & 11-Museum Pass

Maximize sights and savings when you grab tickets to Doge’s Palace along with a museum pass that gives you access to the 11 civic museums of Venice!
Find a collection of fine art at the Correr Museum, classical manuscripts at the Biblioteca Marciana, and cultural relics at the Archaeological Museum.
Cruising by the islands of Murano and Burano? Find out all about the regional artisanal trades at the Glass Museum and the Lace Museum, respectively!
Explore the home of a writer at the Carla Goldoni House Museum and learn about the history of Venetian textiles at the Mocenigo Palace-Museum.

Maximize sights and savings when you grab tickets to Doge’s Palace along with a museum pass that gives you access to the 11 civic museums of Venice!
Find a collection of fine art at the Correr Museum, classical manuscripts at the Biblioteca Marciana, and cultural relics at the Archaeological Museum.
Cruising by the islands of Murano and Burano? Find out all about the regional artisanal trades at the Glass Museum and the Lace Museum, respectively!
Explore the home of a writer at the Carla Goldoni House Museum and learn about the history of Venetian textiles at the Mocenigo Palace-Museum.

Inclusions

Skip-the-line entry to Doge’s Palace
Entry to Museo Correr
Entry to the Archaeological Museum
Entry to Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Marciana
Entry to Ca’ Rezzonico Museum
Entry Carlo Goldoni House Museum
Entry to Mocenigo Palace-Museum
Entry to Ca’ Pesaro Museum of Modern & Oriental Art
Entry to Natural History Museum
Entry to Lace Museum
Entry to Glass Museum
Entry to Fortuny Museum

Exclusions

Access to the Old Prisons of Piombi and Pozzi

Access to St. Mark’s Clock Tower

Activate the pass and access any 1 of the 11 museums within 24 months of the purchase date.
The remaining 10 museums can be accessed within 6 months of the activation date.
Receive your pass via email, print it out, or save it on your phone. Present the e-ticket or physical pass at designated spots for prompt entry.
Click here for a detailed list of museums covered in your pass.

Tip: Make sure to check out Fortuny Museum, available in this pass. This offbeat palatial home has rooms draped in an assortment of luxurious fabrics!
Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, and any type of commercial photography is a no-go inside the venues.
Please note that the Secret Itineraries, Prisons and Armory at the Doge’s Palace are not accessible by wheelchair and pram/stroller.
Ramps and elevators are available at Doge’s Palace for easy access.

These tickets are valid for 24 months from the date of purchase.
These tickets are valid for 24 months from the date of purchase.

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Extended validity

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Guided Tours

4.4(0)

Venice in a Day: St. Mark’s, Doge’s Palace, Murano & Burano with Gondola Ride

Explore the best of Venice as you skip the lines to St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace.

Glide through historic canals on a 30-minute gondola ride, led by an expert gondolier who shares captivating stories.
Learn all about the history of St. Mark's and the political significance of the Doge's Palace from an expert English-speaking guide.
Pick what suits your plan; a half or full-day trip. Extend your journey into the colorful towns of Murano and Burano Islands.
With an optional visit to the islands, be ready to immerse in the artisanal magic of glass-blowing and lace-making workshops.

Explore the best of Venice as you skip the lines to St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace.

Glide through historic canals on a 30-minute gondola ride, led by an expert gondolier who shares captivating stories.
Learn all about the history of St. Mark's and the political significance of the Doge's Palace from an expert English-speaking guide.
Pick what suits your plan; a half or full-day trip. Extend your journey into the colorful towns of Murano and Burano Islands.
With an optional visit to the islands, be ready to immerse in the artisanal magic of glass-blowing and lace-making workshops.

Inclusions

Full/half-day tour of Venice (as per option selected)
Guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica with skip-the-line entry
Guided tour of Doge's Palace with skip-the-line entry
Expert English-speaking guide
30-minute shared gondola ride
Round-trip transfers to/from Murano & Burano Islands (optional)
Glass-blowing demonstration (optional)
Lace-making demonstration (optional)

Half-day tour

St Marks Basilica
Doge's Palace
30-minute gondola ride

Full-day tour

St Marks Basilica
Doge's Palace
30-minute gondola ride
Glass-blowing demonstration at Murano Island
Lace-making demonstration at Burano Island

Tip: Take advantage of the local expert knowledge! Request your gondolier to point out the lesser-known sights along the canals.

St. Mark's Basilica

Strict dress code: All guests must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees to enter the basilica.
Keep your camera tucked away – photography is strictly not allowed at the venue.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
A ramp is available at the Porta del Fiori (Door of Flowers) entrance on the left-hand side of the basilica.
The Museum on the upper floor of the basilica is served by both a lift and stair lifts.

Doge's Palace

Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, and any type of commercial photography is a no-go inside the venue.
Please note that the Secret Itineraries, Prisons and Armory are not wheelchair accessible.

Venice Gondola Ride

Seating arrangements within a gondola may vary for balance and safety reasons, it may not be possible to sit next to your partner.
The gondola ride is not accessible for wheelchair users.
Please note that the tour may not operate under exceptional high tide conditions or during religious functions at the basilica. In the event of cancellation, your tour will either be rescheduled or refunded for your convenience.