Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What makes this Doge's Palace night tour different from a daytime visit?

Accepted Answer

The Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica are two of the most visited sites in Venice. During the day, both are crowded. On this tour, you enter after closing time, with near-private access. In the Doge's Palace, groups are staggered so you rarely see another visitor. Inside the Basilica, just four groups are allowed at any one time—in a space that holds thousands during the day.

Question 2

Will we really be alone inside?

Accepted Answer

Nearly. In the Doge's Palace, your group enters with a gap of 10 to 15 minutes between groups, so for most rooms you'll have the space to yourself. In St. Mark's Basilica, a maximum of four small groups may be inside at the same time, but in a building of that scale, it feels close to private.

Question 3

When you enter the Basilica, the lights are off. You'll be seated in the near-dark. Over the course of about ten minutes, the lighting is brought up section by section, gradually illuminating 86,100 square feet of gold mosaic above and around you.

Accepted Answer

When you enter the Basilica, the lights are off. You'll be seated in the near-dark. Over the course of about ten minutes, the lighting is brought up section by section, gradually illuminating 86,100 square feet of gold mosaic above and around you.

Question 4

Is there a break between the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There's typically a 30-minute break between the two visits, enough time to stretch your legs or grab a drink in St. Mark's Square. On some dates, the break may be longer depending on ticketing. If that's the case, we'll let you know in advance so you can plan your time.

Question 5

How does the price compare to visiting after hours on your own?

Accepted Answer

A private after-hours slot at these sites would cost thousands of euros. This tour gives you the same access by bringing together a small group, making an experience that would otherwise be reserved for private events or very high-budget bookings accessible at a fraction of the cost.

Question 6

Do I need to bring ID?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All guests must provide their full name at booking, matching their ID or passport exactly. If security at St. Mark's Basilica checks ID at the door, they will refuse entry if the name doesn't match. Name changes cannot be made after booking.

Question 7

Is there a dress code?

Accepted Answer

Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter St. Mark's Basilica. This applies even during evening visits. Your guide will remind you, but plan accordingly. Venice evenings can be cool, so a jacket or shawl will serve double duty.

Question 8

Is this tour suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

Children are welcome and those under 2 join free. The Basilica light reveal tends to captivate younger visitors. The tour is 3.5 hours with a break in the middle, so factor in your child's energy-level.

Question 9

Is this tour accessible for guests with mobility needs?

Accepted Answer

St. Mark's Basilica is accessible on request with advance notice. The Doge's Palace involves stairs and is not wheelchair accessible on the evening tour route. If you have specific concerns, reach out to our Guest Experience team and they'll advise on the best option.

Question 10

What if there's a private event or religious service at one of the sites?

Accepted Answer

On rare occasions, one of the sites may be unavailable for private or institutional events. If this affects your tour, we'll notify you in advance and work with you on alternatives.

Question 11

What’s the cancellation policy for this tour?

Accepted Answer

This experience is refundable up to 3 days before your tour.

Alone in St. Mark's & Doge's Palace

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The Doge's Palace: the rooms, the frescoes, and no one else

St. Mark's Basilica: the lights come on

Postcards from Venice

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