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The ultimate guide to visit Doge’s Palace | Essential information & insider tips

Doge’s Palace | Visitor Information at a Glance

Doge’s Palace
  • What are Doge's Palace opening hours?
    Doge's Palace is typically open from 9am to 7pm, with the last entrance allowed at 6pm.
  • Where is Doge's Palace located?
    Doge's Palace stands on St. Mark's Square. The official address is P.za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy.
  • How many entrances does Doge's Palace have?
    Doge's Palace primarily has one main entrance, which is the main access point for visitors.
  • How many visitors does Doge's Palace see per year?
    The Doge's Palace attracts over 1 million visitors annually.

What are the Doge's Palace opening hours?

Doge's Palace Opening Hours

General timings: Daily from 9am - 7pm
Last entry: 6pm

Special evening timings (From 1 May to 30 September 2024):
Every Friday and Saturday: 9am - 11pm
Last Admission: 10pm
Closed on: 25 December and 1 January

Checkout Doge's Palace complete schedule

What's the best time to visit Doge's Palace?

The best time to visit the Doge's Palace is during the shoulder season between April and May or September and October. The weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower compared to the peak season. 5-6 hours of daylight allow you to take in the sights of stunning architecture in its prime.

Summers are the peak season for Doge’s tours. And it's every bit lovely! But plan in advance and get the skip-the-line tickets or guided tours to move beyond the big crowds. If you are just someone who enjoys solitude and peace in art and history a little too much, you should come either early morning or late evening. Also, plan on weekdays, if you can.

Where is Doge’s Palace located?

Address: P.za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Doge's Palace nestles in Venice's heart, northern Italy, specifically in the Piazza San Marco, which is the central public square of the city. The palace is at the eastern end of the Piazza, adjacent to the famous St. Mark's Basilica.

Nearest airport: Venice Airport (​About 1 hour away)

How to reach Doge's Palace?

  • By vaporetto (Water bus): Take Vaporetto lines 1, 2, 5.1, 4.1 or 5.2
    Closest stop: San Zaccaria stop, ​3-min away
  • By train: If you're arriving in Venice by train, take a Vaporetto from Santa Lucia Railway Station to San Zaccaria.
    Closest station: Santa Lucia Railway Station, ​22-min away
  • By private water taxi: For a luxurious experience, consider a water taxi dropping you directly at the Doge's Palace's private pier (be aware of the higher cost).

If you're travelling by car, you'll need to park outside Venice's historic center and take public transportation to reach the Doge's Palace:

  • Parking Garages: Tronchetto Parking Garage or Garage San Marco (also known as Piazzale Roma) are popular options.
  • Parking in Mestre: Consider parking on the mainland in Mestre and taking a train or bus to Venice.

Tip: While arriving by car might seem convenient, navigating parking and public transportation can be time-consuming. Consider the ease and charm of a direct Vaporetto ride from the beginning of your trip.

Know before you go to Doge's Palace

https://cdn-imgix.headout.com/media/images/93215229eeac45064643477a4dda8f80-GuidedTourofDoge-sPalace3.jpg
  • Plan ahead by booking online: Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid long lines. Skip-the-line tickets are the most popular among visitors to ensure breezy, last-minute access.
  • Join a guided tours: Upgrade to a fun ​guided tour that includes priority access. These tours often have reserved entry times, ensuring a smoother experience.
  • Early bird approach: Arrive at the Doge's Palace early in the morning, especially during opening hours. This strategy often helps you beat the crowds and avoid lengthy queues.
  • Enjoy combo ticket convenience: Explore combo tickets for Doge's Palace and other attractions like St. Mark's Basilica, which often include skip-the-line privileges for a smoother experience.
Book skip-the-line Doge's Palace tickets
Entrance to Doge Palce
  • Main entrance: The main entrance to Doge's Palace is located at the Porta della Carta, a Gothic gateway that opens onto ​St. Mark's Square. It is marked by a large portico with arches and is adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings. It makes for a grand and historic entry point for visitors.
  • Waterfront side entrance: Facing the Venetian lagoon, this entrance was historically used by the Doge and for deliveries. Today, it is reserved for private events and special tours.
  • Bridge of Sighs: The ​bridge connected the palace to the ​New Prison and was used for prisoners. It is not accessible to the public.
Features & location of Doge's Palace entrance
Restrooms
  • Information desk
  • Cloakroom
  • Restrooms
  • Museum app for audio guide
  • Bookshop
  • Cafeteria
  • Elevators
  • Baby pit stop
wheelchair
  • While the main entrance (Porta del Frumento) has a slightly raised step, staff are available to assist or direct visitors to a nearby accessible entrance.
  • A wheelchair ramp is available inside the palace to help navigate many areas.
  • An elevator provides access to most floors within the Doge's Palace, enabling visitors with disabilities to explore a significant portion of the palace.
  • Many hallways and courtyards offer ample space for maneuvering wheelchairs or other mobility aids.
  • While most public areas are accessible, some historical spaces might have narrow passageways or stairs, posing challenges for wheelchair users. The Bridge of Sighs and Prisons are not accessible.
  • There are accessible restrooms on the first floor for visitor convenience.
  • The palace has a hearing loop system in place to assist visitors with hearing impairments.
exhibition

Title: The Worlds of Marco Polo: The Journey of a 13th-Century Venetian Merchant
Dates: April 6 to September 29, 2024
Location: Doge’s Palace, Venice – Doge’s Apartments
Curators: Giovanni Curatola and Chiara Squarcina
Timings: 9am – 7pm (last entrance at 6pm), every day during the exhibition period.
Overview: Celebrates Marco Polo, renowned for his travels to the Far East and his detailed accounts in "Il Milione". Explores Venice's mercantile prowess, Marco Polo's encounters with diverse cultures, and the enduring significance of the Silk Roads. Features maps, ceramics, porcelain, fabrics, metals, coins, manuscripts, and more from Italian and international museum collections.

events

Guests at the Palace - Canaletto

  • Artist: Antonio Canal, known as Canaletto
  • Dates: From 27 March to 21 July, 2024
  • Location: Sala del Magistrato alle Leggi, Palazzo Ducale, Venice
  • Description: Featuring Canaletto's masterpiece "The Pier towards Riva degli Schiavoni with the Column of Saint Mark" (1735-1740). This exhibition celebrates Venice's cultural and historical significance in Europe through detailed architectural perspectives and luminous atmospheric effects.
guide dog
  • No food or drinks allowed inside the palace.
  • Smoking is prohibited inside the palace.
  • Visitors should not touch the exhibits or artwork on display.
  • Photography is allowed but without flash, tripods or selfie sticks.
  • Large bags or luggage are not allowed inside the palace and must be stored in the cloakroom.
  • Visitors are required to follow the designated route and not stray from it.
  • No pets are allowed inside the palace, except for guide dogs for the visually impaired.
  • Dress modestly and respectfully, avoiding revealing clothing.
  • Be respectful of other visitors and keep noise levels to a minimum.
Tips
  • Allocate at least 2-3 hours. Rushing through these opulent halls is a disservice to their grandeur. Savor the architecture, artwork, and whispers of Venetian history.
  • Enhance your visit with the official app. Access audio guides, maps, and highlights to navigate efficiently and uncover hidden details.
  • Cap off your visit with a ​gondola ride. It's a perfect way to unwind, experience Venice's canals, and add a romantic touch to your day.
  • Print a copy of your e-ticket in case internet connectivity weakens or slows download. A physical copy ensures a smooth entry process.
  • Research the palace layout and prioritize the areas that most interest you. The opulent Golden Staircase, the Hall of the Great Council, and the Armoury are some highlights not to miss.
  • Book the "​Bridge of Sighs, wander through chilling prisons, and delve into hidden chambers, inaccessible with regular tickets.
Dine
  • Café Ristòart: A cute cafe located inside Doge's Palace where you can purchase snacks and beverages. Perfect for taking a quick break on your Doge's Palace exploration.
  • Caffe Chioggia: Located at a short walk from Doge’s Palace, the ​Caffe Chioggia is a great stop to dine while enjoying some good music and great vibes. 
  • Bar Mio: Sit, sip, and chill at the buzzing ​Bar Mio, just 500 m away from the Doge’s Palace. 
  • Pasticceria Da Bonifacio: Make sure to stop by ​Da Bonifacio if you’re a coffee person. Located just 220 m away from the palace. 
  • Al Chianti: The lovely restaurant has been serving some of Venice’s best pizzas over the years.​ Al Chianti is 290 m away from the Doge’s Palace.
Family in a hotel room
  • Budget:
    Alloggi Barbaria (​1.1 km), Locanda Cavanella (​0.3 km), Hotel ai do Mori (​0.2 km)
  • Mid-range:
    Hotel Concordia (​0.2 km), Hotel Dona Palace (​0.3 km),  Hotel Le Isole (​0.2 km)
  • Luxury:
    Aqua Palace Hotel (​0.5 km), Londra Palace Venezia (​0.2 km), Ca' Maria Adele (​0.7 km)
St. Mark's Basilica
  • St. Mark's Basilica: This stunning Byzantine ​church is the most famous landmark in Venice. It features a golden dome, mosaics, and a wealth of art and treasures.
  • St. Mark's Square: This lively ​square is the heart of Venice. It's a great place to people-watch, enjoy a coffee, or take a gondola ride.
  • Campanile di San Marco: This tall ​bell tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Venice. You can climb to the top for stunning views of the city.
  • Rialto Bridge: This is the oldest and most famous bridge in Venice. It's a great place to take photos and admire the views of the Grand Canal.
  • Grand Canal: The Grand Canal is the main waterway in Venice. You can take a gondola ride or a vaporetto (water bus) along the canal to see the city's most famous sights.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Doge's Palace

What is the best time of day to visit Doge's Palace to avoid crowds?

The ​best time to visit Doge's Palace to avoid crowds is early in the morning when it first opens or later in the afternoon. Weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to be less crowded than weekends. Visiting during the off-peak season, such as late fall or early spring, can also help you avoid the busiest times.

What is the best way to get to Doge's Palace?

The most convenient way to ​get to Doge's Palace is by taking a vaporetto (water bus). From the Santa Lucia Railway Station or Piazzale Roma, take Vaporetto lines 1, 2, 4.1, or 5.1 to the "San Zaccaria" stop, which is a short walk from the palace. Alternatively, you can enjoy a gondola ride from Ponte di Rialto, which takes about 20 minutes and offers a unique view of Venice.

How much time should I plan to spend exploring Doge's Palace and its various sections?

You should plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours exploring Doge's Palace to fully appreciate its art, architecture, and historical significance. This allows enough time to visit the main rooms, such as the Great Council Hall, the Doge's apartments, and the ​prison cells connected by the ​Bridge of Sighs (accessible via ​Secret Itineraries Tour only). If you're taking a guided tour or exploring in-depth, you may want to allocate additional time.

Can I enter Doge's Palace once I exit?

Generally, re-entry to Doge's Palace with the same ​ticket is not allowed. Once you exit, your visit is considered concluded.

How many entrances are there at Doge's Palace?

Doge's Palace primarily has one main ​entrance for visitors, the Porta del Frumento, which faces the waterfront Riva degli Schiavoni. There is also a historical waterfront side entrance, which is now used for private events and special tours.

Is there a dress code to be followed at Doge's Palace?

While there isn't a strict dress code, it's advisable to dress comfortably and respectfully when visiting Doge's Palace. Avoid swimwear, excessively revealing clothing, or items with offensive slogans.

Is photography permitted inside Doge's Palace?

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside most areas of Doge's Palace. However, please be mindful of restrictions on the use of flash photography, especially in rooms with sensitive artworks.

Can I visit the Doge's Palace with the kids?

Yes, you can visit the Doge's Palace with the kids. Prams and strollers are typically allowed inside Doge's Palace, but it's recommended to check with the palace staff for any specific guidelines.

Can I buy food and drinks at Doge's Palace?

Yes, you can buy food and drinks at Doge's Palace. There is a cafe inside the palace called Café Ristòart where you can purchase snacks and beverages

What kind of guided tours are available at Doge's Palace, and how do they enhance the visit?

The Doge's Palace offers various ​guided tours to suit your interests and time. Combo tours, like "​Venice Icons," let you conquer both St. Mark's and the Doge's Palace with skip-the-line access. ​Standard Doge's Palace tours provide in-depth historical insights. For a unique perspective, explore hidden areas like the Bridge of Sighs with the "​Secret Itineraries Tour." If you're in Venice for a short time, "​Venice in a DayBy choosing the right guided tour for your interests and time constraints, you can transform your Doge's Palace visit from a walk-through to an enriching and memorable experience.

Is the Bridge of Sighs accessible from inside the Doge's Palace, and what can I expect to see?

Yes, the ​Bridge of Sighs is accessible from ​inside Doge's Palace. As part of your tour, you can walk through the bridge, which connects the palace to the New Prison. Expect to see the enclosed passageway with its iconic windows, offering views of the Venetian lagoon. Historically, prisoners crossed the bridge on their way to incarceration, giving it its poignant name. The views from the bridge provide a unique perspective of Venice and are an essential part of the palace's tour.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair into Doge's Palace?

Yes, you can bring a stroller or wheelchair into Doge's Palace. The palace is equipped with accessibility features, including a wheelchair ramp and an elevator providing access to most floors. However, some areas, such as certain historical sections like armory, prisons, hidden chambers or staircases, may be challenging to navigate with a stroller or wheelchair.

More reads

Interior of the Doge's palace

Inside

Sculpture in the Doge's Palace

History

Girl in front of Doge Palace

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