Skip the Line: Best of Venice Walking Tour with St Mark's Basilica

Get an insider’s perspective on the architectural wonders and historical legends of Venice. Meet your local guide near St. Mark’s Square for an introduction to the cultural and political forces that made Venice a medieval maritime force. Walk around the square as you learn the layout and history of highlights including the Doge’s Palace and the iconic bell tower.

Stop in front of St. Mark’s Basilica to appreciate its ornate, Italo-Byzantine exterior. Skip the long line and head straight inside and marvel at the cathedral’s soaring domed ceiling and ornate altars. Nearly every surface glitters with the work of generations of Venetian goldsmiths, and even the marble floors are works of art, with intricate inlaid mosaics.

Next, wander along Venice’s narrow canals and through picturesque squares to admire hidden gems like Santa Maria Formosa church, Calle Paradiso or San Zulian. Ogle the Gothic and Renaissance architecture of some of the city’s lesser-known palaces and learn about the daily lives of Venetian nobility. Explore the off-the-beaten track Castello district and Hidden Venice known only to the locals

Your tour concludes in St Mark's Square—an ideal spot to admire the wares of local artisans, grab an authentic bite at a local café, or continue exploring the city on your own.

Please note: St. Mark’s Basilica is occasionally closed to the public due to flooding or special events.

• Get an insider’s perspective on the architectural wonders and historical legends of Venice. Meet your local guide near St. Mark’s Square for an introduction to the cultural and political forces that made Venice a medieval maritime force. Walk around the square as you learn the layout and history of highlights including the Doge’s Palace and the iconic bell tower. Stop in front of St. Mark’s Basilica to appreciate its ornate, Italo-Byzantine exterior. Skip the long line and head straight inside and marvel at the cathedral’s soaring domed ceiling and ornate altars. Nearly every surface glitters with the work of generations of Venetian goldsmiths, and even the marble floors are works of art, with intricate inlaid mosaics. Next, wander along Venice’s narrow canals and through picturesque squares to admire hidden gems like Santa Maria Formosa church, Calle Paradiso or San Zulian. Ogle the Gothic and Renaissance architecture of some of the city’s lesser-known palaces and learn about the daily lives of Venetian nobility. Explore the off-the-beaten track Castello district and Hidden Venice known only to the locals Your tour concludes in St Mark's Square—an ideal spot to admire the wares of local artisans, grab an authentic bite at a local café, or continue exploring the city on your own. Please note: St. Mark’s Basilica is occasionally closed to the public due to flooding or special events.

Skip the line at St Mark’s Basilica and explore St Mark’s Square and lesser-known Venice on this 2-hour walking tour. Stroll around St Mark’s Square as your guide explains its buildings and Venice’s history as a major maritime power during medieval times. Bypass the queues at St Mark’s Basilica to ogle its incredible interior and delve into the quieter, less-visited side of Hidden Venice. Walk along small canals past palaces, squares and bridges and learn about daily life in the city past and present.

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
Tour operates rain or shine
At certain times it may not be possible to enter to St Mark's Basilica due to religious functions taking place. These closures are beyond our control so no refunds or discounts will be issued
Large bags are not allowed into St Mark's Basilica
In case of high water, St Mark’s Basilica Skip the line entrance will remain closed
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
Near public transportation
To ensure safety and well-being of our guests the itinerary of the tour has been amended to follow the Covid-19 guidelines. Visits to St Mark's Basilica may be subject to restrictions. Depending on the situation on the day of the tour the itinerary may be amended to offer you the best experience possible.
Guaranteed skip-the-line entrance to St Mark's Basilica is compulsory from April to October due to high number of visitors. St Mark’s Basilica does not offer a fast entry service to anyone in other periods considered off peak season. No refund is due when skip-the-line reservation isn't required.
Most travelers can participate
Beginning Friday 6 August 2021 and until further notice, access to museums, galleries and all related tourist venues as well as indoor bars and restaurants, will be permitted only to those in possession of a Green COVID-19 Certification (Green Pass or equivalent certificate). Please remember to also bring your ID or passport to confirm your identity. This doesn’t apply to children less than 12 years old.
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers