Skip-the-Line St. Mark's Basilica Tour & Gondola Ride

Got 90 minutes to spare? See the most famous sights in Venice, both on land and water!

Travel Flexibly

· 1.50h · Venice, Italy

Skip-the-Line St. Mark's Basilica Tour & Gondola Ride

Finally, a tour for people who like beautiful things, but don't want to wait three hours to see them. Skip the long lines at St. Mark's Basilica with reserved access tickets and see the breathtaking gold mosaics that cover the interior. Hear stories of Byzantine history from your local guide, like how the missing foot of the famous "Four Tetrarchs'" statue was found in Istanbul! Who stole from who? Then, step aboard a traditional Venetian gondola and glide through the canals of this iconic city.

What You Get With This Tour

Expert English-speaking guide
Skip-the-line tickets to St. Mark's Basilica
Gondola Ride
Audio Headsets
Max group size of 20
Hotel Pickup/Drop Off
Gratuities
Doge's Palace

Tour Itinerary

1

Meet Your Guide & St. Mark's Square
Your tour begins in St. Mark's Square, the bustling epicenter of Venice. You'll meet your expert local guide and learn about the city's rich history and political importance.
2

St. Mark's Basilica
Using your skip-the-line tickets, you'll bypass the long lines and follow your guide directly through security into the basilica. Inside, you will marvel at the breathtaking, gold-adorned interior as your guide unveils the secrets of St. Mark's Basilica's Byzantine mosaics.
3

The Canals
After exploring the basilica, you will follow your guide for a short walk to the pier. Here, you'll get ready to step aboard a classic Venetian gondola to begin your journey on the water.
4

The Gondola Ride
Drift through the city's serene waterways on a peaceful gondola ride. This unique journey will take you past historic buildings and beneath ancient bridges, offering a new perspective of Venice's timeless beauty.

Additional Information

St. Mark's Basilica and Gondola Ride Full Tour Description

Your 1.5-hour tour includes:

Expert, English-speaking Tour Guide
Skip-the line entry and guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica
Gondola Ride through Venice Canals
Audio Headsets
Max group size of 20

Please note that a dress code is required to enter. St. Mark's Basilica. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may be refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.

Meet Your Guide

Meet for your tour in the heart of Venice. Find your guide in Saint Mark’s Square near the waterfront by the two large columns. They will be waiting for you under the column with the winged lion on top.

Saint Mark’s Basilica

Begin your journey at one of Venice’s most renowned landmarks. With skip-the-line access, you’ll avoid long lines and step directly into St. Mark's Basilica's breathtaking interior. Discover the intricate mosaics, unique Byzantine architecture, and fascinating history that have made this cathedral a cultural and architectural icon. Your expert, local guide will highlight the stories, design details, and historical treasures that define the Basilica as a world renowned destination.

A Classic Venetian Gondola Ride

Then, step aboard a gondola to experience Venice from its waterways. As you float beneath arched bridges and alongside historic buildings, you’ll gain a new perspective on the city. A gondola ride takes you away from the crowded busy streets to and into Venice's quiet canals, offering a peaceful glimpse into daily life in the city.

Please note it is possible this tour may run in reverse. Whether your tour begins with St. Mark's Basilica or a gondola ride, this tour is designed to offer a complete and memorable introduction to Venice's history, culture, and atmosphere.