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Venice Doge's Palace Secret Passages

Uncover the hidden history of the Venetian Empire on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Doge’s Palace, exploring secret archives, private offices, torture chambers, attic passages, and top-security prison cells.

No trip to Venice is complete without diving into its extraordinary past as the world’s oldest republic—and there’s no better place to do that than the Doge’s Palace. This exclusive, small-group tour takes you far beyond the typical visitor experience. With a local art historian as your guide, you'll step behind locked doors to explore secret archives, hidden council chambers, torture rooms, and the attic prison where Casanova was held—and famously escaped.

Limited to just 20 guests, this special-access tour reveals a side of Palazzo Ducale even most Venetians have never seen. Learn how Venice’s powerful rulers governed from the shadows, using surveillance and secrecy to maintain control. You’ll hear gripping tales of scandal, politics, and escape as you walk the same hidden corridors once used by spies and senators.

Along the way, enjoy skip-the-line access to the palace’s grander rooms too—opulent ballrooms, vast audience halls, and private apartments adorned with masterpieces by Veronese and Tintoretto. Your journey ends with a walk across the legendary Bridge of Sighs into the New Prisons.

After saying goodbye to your guide in St. Mark’s Square, continue your adventure at Ca’ Rezzonico, Casanova’s former residence and now a museum of 18th-century Venetian life. Entry is included, giving you the chance to explore one of the city’s most magnificent Baroque palaces at your own pace. It’s the perfect finale to your deep dive into the secrets of Venice.

Experience Includes

  • Special access to the Doge’s Palace Secret itineraries
  • Skip-the-line Doge's Palace tickets
  • Expert Walks of Italy tour guide
  • Small group of maximum 20 pax
  • Ca'Rezzonico tickets (self-guided visit)
    • BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE - flexibility to cancel your tickets with a full refund*

    Experience Excludes

  • Hotel Pick-Up / Drop-Off
    • Gratuities

    Departure location

    52 Piazza San Marco, Museo Correr

    Duration

    Approx 2 hours

    Terms & Conditions

  • This tour is in English.
  • This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
  • Guests should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity, including standing for extended periods and climbing stairs, which may not be suitable for travelers with certain health conditions or mobility limitations.
  • Due to Doge's Palace regulations, children under the age of 6 are not permitted inside the secret itineraries and therefore cannot take this tour.
  • All guests (including children) must bring ID on the day of their tour.
  • Backpacks are prohibited inside the Doge's palace. Free storage is available but please note you must return to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour.
  • This tour is not suitable for people who are claustrophobic.
  • No refund will be provided if high tide prevents certain parts of the tour, but adjustments to the route will be made for client safety and comfort.
  • If access is restricted due to private events inside the Doge's Palace, we cannot be held responsible. This is a situation beyond our control. No refund will be issued.
  • Please note that the museum is closed on Tuesday; on these days, you will receive the ticket for the next days
    • *Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 3 calendar days before departure.