With a tour behind the curtain of the Doge’s Palace, explore the clandestine world of the old Venetian Republic. Join a friendly guide, waltz past the long lines outside, and tiptoe through the hidden corridors and secret rooms usually off-limits to tourists.

You will be able to hear real stories of deception, political subterfuge, and cruelty worthy of a Shakespearean tragedy, and browse some of Venice's most stunning Renaissance masterpieces in magnificent council chambers. As you venture behind the scenes of the Doge’s palace and into its concealed world of political intrigue and dark secrets, hear your footsteps pitter-patter through narrow hidden passages.

Clamber into cramped attic prison cells, and hear the true story of Casanova's famous escape. Visit the secret archive room and learn about the elaborate system that kept clerks from learning the secrets of the Republic.

Shuffle into the stomach-churning torture chamber, and learn all about the inventive interrogation methods the Doge's secret police used to extract information and squeals from suspected enemies.

Head through the secret access door to the council room that's ingeniously disguised as a wardrobe, and marvel at the best of Venice's Renaissance artworks from masters such as Veronese, Titian, Tintoretto, Palladio, and others.

Additional Information

• Tour duration: 1 Hr 25 Mins
• Minimum age: 6 years
• Tour can't accommodate wheelchairs, strollers, or baby carriages
• Tour ends inside the Doge's Palace
• Comfortable shoes are recommended
• Photography is prohibited inside the Doge's Palace

Operating Hours

Tour departs at 08:30 hrs & 09:00 hrs. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of the tour, as the tour starts on time.

What You Get

Includes

• Fast-track entrance to the Doge's Palace
• Guided tour of the Chamber of the Secret Chancellery, the Torture Chamber, Casanova's Cell, the Chamber of the Inquisitors and the Chamber of the Three Head Magistrates
• Expert, English-speaking guide
• Small group of max. 25 visitors
• Audio headsets, so you can always hear your guide
• Visit to The New Prisons (no guide)

Excludes

• Personal expenses
• Food & drinks
• Optional activity fees
• Gratuities (optional)

How to Use

• Kindly display printed or mobile voucher to the City Wonders coordinator, wearing blue City Wonders polo shirt or jacket, at the meeting point, at the foot of Ponte della Paglia, just in front of the Doge’s Palace, facing the lagoon

Terms and Conditions

Important Notes:

• You can present a printed or mobile copy of the voucher/ticket for this activity
• The voucher/ticket is accepted only at authorised redemption points
• The voucher/ticket is valid only on the date and time specified
• The voucher/ticket cannot be exchanged for cash or used on more than one occasion unless otherwise stated
• Any alteration(s) on the e-ticket/e-voucher will not be accepted by Travel Recommends and the appointed merchant
• In the event of late comers/no shows, it would be considered cancellation and no refund will be given

Cancellation Policy:

• No refunds will be entertained for cancellations

Upon purchase of the ticket, you will receive an email confirmation with e-ticket/e-voucher within two days. Tours and tickets are subjected to availability and are not confirmed until a second confirmation email is received.