Doge's Palace Tickets

Doge's Palace Secret Itineraries Tour

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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.

Doge Palace Tickets






Top things to do in Venice

Learn Doge's Palace's secrets on a hidden passageways tour

The Doge's Palace, Venice's iconic landmark, holds more than just lavish chambers and exquisite art. The Secret Itineraries Tour unlocks a hidden world, whisking you beyond the usual tourist trail. Explore secretive chambers, delve into the chilling Doge's Palace prisons, and learn about the darker side of Venetian history. Unlike conventional guided tours, this experience offers a unique perspective on the Venetian administrative and strict judicial system through intriguing anecdotes and legends. Remember to book this enriching adventure in advance!

Practical information about Doge's Palace Secret Itineraries Tour

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  • Duration: 50 minutes for an express tour & 1.5 hours for an elaborate secret & mysteries tour
  • Languages: English, Italian, French (subject to seasonal availability)
  • Accessibility: Due to narrow staircases and uneven floors, this tour is not recommended for visitors with mobility limitations, claustrophobia, vertigo, heart conditions, or expecting mothers. Children under 6 are also not permitted.
  • Booking: Advance booking is highly recommended due to limited tour availability.
  • Timings: 9:15am - 2:45pm (daily)
Plan your Doge's Palace visit

Why choose the Doge's Palace Secret Itineraries Tour?

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  • Go beyond the grand halls: Enter the secret areas of the Doge's Palace, including ​Pozzi and Piombi, hidden chambers, the torture room, and Casanova’s cell, which are not accessible with standard tickets.
  • Unearth the untold stories: Go beyond the dates and names. Your expert guide will bring the palace's hidden history alive with captivating tales of intrigue, betrayal, and the whispers of the Venetian past.
  • Witness justice, Venetian style: Understand the evolution of Venetian justice, from the halls where powerful magistrates deliberated to the instruments used to extract confessions (prepare to be surprised – it's not for the faint of heart!).
  • An intimate exploration: Enjoy a more up-close and engaging experience with smaller tour groups, allowing for personalized interactions and easier movement through narrow passages.
  • Take in the complete picture: Experience the full scope of the Doge's Palace, from its grand public halls to its concealed corners, offering a complete and immersive historical journey.
Highlights & history of Doge's Palace

Highlights covered on a Doge's Palace Secret Itineraries Tour

Casanova's cell
Torture chamber
Secret archives
Bridge of Sighs
Pozzi (The Wells)
Piombi Prisons
Hall of the Inquisitors
Hall of the Three Chiefs
Hall of the Council of Ten
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Casanova's cell

Visit the infamous cell where Giacomo Casanova, the legendary adventurer and lover, was imprisoned. Learn about his daring escape in 1756, a feat that cemented his notoriety.

Torture chamber

This somber chamber unveils the grim reality of justice in the Venetian Republic. Your guide will explain the methods used to extract confessions, offering a glimpse into a harsher side of Venetian history.

Secret archives

Explore the heart of Venetian governance. Here, crucial documents were meticulously stored, safeguarding the Republic's secrets and strategies. Imagine the weight of history held within these walls.

Bridge of Sighs

Cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs, a passage steeped in both beauty and sorrow. This bridge, not accessible with standard tickets, offered prisoners a final glimpse of freedom before their confinement.

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Pozzi (The Wells)

Descend into the chilling reality of these damp, underground cells. Imagine the harsh conditions endured by prisoners held here, often for extended periods.

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Piombi Prisons

Ascend to the palace's stifling attic, where the notorious Piombi ("Leaden") prisons awaited. The oppressive heat and cramped conditions made these lead-roofed cells a dreaded punishment. This is where Giacomo Casanova famously served his time, though his legendary escape would change his fate forever.

Hall of the Inquisitors

Shrouded in secrecy, this chamber housed the powerful Council of Ten's inquisitors. Here, they conducted investigations and interrogations, wielding immense power over Venetian society.

Hall of the Three Chiefs

This hall served as the meeting place for the Capo dei Quaranta (Heads of the Forty). These three magistrates, also referred to as the "Three Chiefs," held the highest positions in the Venetian judicial system.

Hall of the Council of Ten

Conclude your tour in the chamber where some of Venice's most critical decisions were made. The Council of Ten, wielding immense power, shaped the Republic's destiny from within these walls.

Frequently asked questions about Doge's Palace Secret Itineraries Tour

How long is the Secret Itineraries Tour and what areas does it cover?

The 1 hour 15 minutes Secret Itineraries Tour ventures into hidden chambers and passageways. We have an express tour option of 50 minutes for an efficient and equally insightful exploration of all the Doge's Palace corners. You can see the chilling Pozzi prison cells, the notorious Piombi attic prisons, and the halls of power like the Council of Ten chamber. The tour takes you through the palace's hidden depths and the Venetian Republic's intriguing history.

Do I need to book the Secret Itineraries Tour in advance?

Absolutely! Due to the limited group size and high demand, booking the ​Secret Itineraries Tour in advance is essential. Spaces fill up quickly, so it's best to secure your spot as soon as possible.

Is the tour suitable for children and are there any age restrictions?

The Secret Itineraries Tour is accessible to older children, above 6 years old, who have an interest in history. However, due to the nature of the tour, which includes visits to dark, narrow, and sometimes steep passages, it may not be appropriate for very young children.

Are there any physical requirements or accessibility considerations for the tour?

The tour involves navigating narrow passages and steep stairs, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. Unfortunately, the Secret Itineraries Tour is not wheelchair accessible. You should be prepared for some physical exertion and wear comfortable shoes.

Can I take photographs during the Secret Itineraries Tour?

Photography policies can vary, but generally, photography may be restricted in certain areas of the Secret Itineraries Tour to preserve the historical integrity and privacy of the site. It’s best to check with the tour guide.

Are there any restrooms or facilities available during the tour?

There are restrooms available within the Doge's Palace, but it's important to note that due to the nature of the Secret Itineraries Tour venturing into hidden areas, there won't be access to restrooms during the 1.5-hour tour itself. We recommend using the facilities before the tour begins.

What is the best time of day to take the Secret Itineraries Tour to avoid crowds?

While the Secret Itineraries Tour itself has a limited group size, the Doge's Palace can get crowded throughout the day, especially during peak season. Opt for a tour offered in the morning, typically before 11:00 AM. This might give you a slight edge before the crowds build up later in the day. If you're yet to plan a Venice trip, consider taking the tour during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when overall tourist numbers might be lower.

Can I combine the Secret Itineraries Tour with a visit to the public areas of the Doge's Palace?

Yes! The Secret Itineraries Tour ticket actually includes access to the Doge's Palace public areas after the guided tour. This allows you to explore the magnificent halls, courtyards, and art galleries at your own pace.

Are audio guides or personal guides available for the Secret Itineraries Tour?

The Secret Itineraries Tour is led by a professional, live guide. This ensures a more personalized and engaging experience. The guide will share historical insights, answer your questions, and bring the hidden chambers to life with captivating narratives. However, audio guides are not available for the Secret Itineraries Tour.

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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.