Step inside the twin jewels of La Serenissima with a private expert guide — no queues, no crowds. The gilded halls of the Doge's Palace and the mosaic-encrusted Basilica reveal Venice's imperial soul in intimate detail.
What to expect
Your expert docent meets you dockside or at a central Venice meeting point and whisks you past standard queues directly into the Doge's Palace. You'll access the 'Secret Itineraries' rooms — the torture chambers, the Piombi prison where Casanova was held — before crossing the Bridge of Sighs. The Basilica visit follows, guided through its five Byzantine domes and the Pala d'Oro golden altarpiece. The pace is entirely yours, with deep historical storytelling throughout.
Good to know
Pre-booking is essential — skip-the-line slots sell out weeks ahead, especially May–September. The boat transfer from Chioggia to Venice takes approx. 1.5–2 hrs by public vaporetto or 45 min by private water taxi; factor this into your all-aboard time. Wear modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) for basilica entry.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Chioggia — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.