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Doge's Palace: Private Expert-Led Tour + Secret Itinerary

Step behind the velvet ropes of Venice's most powerful palace with a licensed art historian. The 'Secret Itinerary' unlocks the hidden rooms of the Inquisition, Casanova's cell, and the Bridge of Sighs — closed to general crowds.

What to expect

Your expert historian meets you at the Giants' Staircase and moves through gilded council halls lined with Tintoretto and Veronese canvases. The Secret Itinerary threads through low passageways above the Sala del Maggior Consiglio before descending into Casanova's infamous cell. The Bridge of Sighs is seen from inside — not from a gondola below — and the hush in those stone corridors is unforgettable.

Book it with
Palazzo Ducale (Musei Civici Veneziani – official)
EUR 30 standard entry; Secret Itinerary guided tour EUR 28 supplement (advance booking essential)
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Good to know

The Secret Itinerary runs at fixed times (9:55 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:35 AM); pre-book weeks ahead in summer. From Marghera, take the shuttle bus to Piazzale Roma, then Vaporetto Line 1 to San Zaccaria — allow 45 minutes. All-aboard is typically early evening, leaving ample time.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Marghera — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Costa · Costa Deliziosa
5 nights · calls at Marghera
from $700
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