You will meet the guides on the boat. The tour will begin with a historical and artistic introduction to Venice with St Mark's Square, then you will be able to see St Mark's Cathedral (exterior). The Byzantine facades of the Cathedral (one of the most magnificent in the world) will immediately draw your attention. Originally, it was built in the 9th century to hold the body of St Mark, Patron Saint of Venice. Only a few traces of the original structure remain and the present day Cathedral dates from the 12th, 14th and 15th centuries. The exterior, with its domes, pinnacles and wooden horses, contrasts with the shining golden mosaics of the interior. The tour continues with the Doge's Palace, the residence of the Dukes of Venice and seat of the Venetian government from the 9th century until the Republic fell in 1797. Although there are no longer any traces of the 9th century Byzantine structures, the Palace as we see it today, richly decorated outside and inside, dates from the 14th century and is considered by many as the finest in the world. A visit to the top of the famous Golden Staircase will enable you to admire the paintings of Tintoretto and Veronese, to walk through the Grand Council Chamber and out onto the balcony, with its fantastic view. You will walk over the famous decorated Bridge of Sighs, which leads to the prison. The bridge, known in the past as the image of the destiny that awaited the prisoners, today has more romantic connotations. Return to the boat on foot.
PLEASE NOTE
- The order of the visits can change.
- Times are approximate.
- Good walking shoes are recommended.
You will meet the guides on the boat. The tour will begin with a historical and artistic introduction to Venice with St Mark's Square, then you will be able to see St Mark's Cathedral (exterior). The Byzantine facades of the Cathedral (one of the most magnificent in the world) will immediately draw your attention. Originally, it was built in the 9th century to hold the body of St Mark, Patron Saint of Venice. Only a few traces of the original structure remain and the present day Cathedral dates from the 12th, 14th and 15th centuries. The exterior, with its domes, pinnacles and wooden horses, contrasts with the shining golden mosaics of the interior. The tour continues with the Doge's Palace, the residence of the Dukes of Venice and seat of the Venetian government from the 9th century until the Republic fell in 1797. Although there are no longer any traces of the 9th century Byzantine structures, the Palace as we see it today, richly decorated outside and inside, dates from the 14th century and is considered by many as the finest in the world. A visit to the top of the famous Golden Staircase will enable you to admire the paintings of Tintoretto and Veronese, to walk through the Grand Council Chamber and out onto the balcony, with its fantastic view. You will walk over the famous decorated Bridge of Sighs, which leads to the prison. The bridge, known in the past as the image of the destiny that awaited the prisoners, today has more romantic connotations. Return to the boat on foot.
PLEASE NOTE
- The order of the visits can change.
- Times are approximate.
- Good walking shoes are recommended.
Cruises
This shore excursion is available for one or several cruises
Christmas in Venice (port-to-port cruise)
VENICE - CHIOGGIA (or surroundings) - VENICE - Burano - Murano - VENICE
Embark on a magical cruise in the heart of Venice to celebrate Christmas. Visit Venice and its famous landmarks such as San Marco Square and the Doge's Palace. You will also have the chance to attend Christmas mass in Venice. Do not miss out on towns with unique architecture such as Padua, stretching around a charming medieval center dotted with small squares and grand palaces.
New Year in Venice (port-to-port cruise)
VENICE - CHIOGGIA (or surroundings) - VENICE - Burano - Murano - VENICE
Embark on a unique cruise in the heart of Venice to celebrate the New Year! Visit Venice and its famous landmarks such as San Marco Square and the Doge's Palace. Do not miss out on towns with unique architecture such as Padua, stretching around a charming medieval center dotted with small squares and grand palaces.