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Doge's Palace

The pink Gothic palace of the Venetian rulers - a lace-like facade of the lagoon, opulent halls of power and the Bridge of Sighs to the prisons.

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Doge's Palace

Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.

UNESCO World Heritage

Typepalace
WhereVeneto
Nearest cityVenice
Best seasonApril to June and September to October
Time to allowTwo to three hours
Getting thereOn St Mark's Square in Venice; vaporetto or walk
EntryCharged

The Doge's Palace was the seat of power of the Venetian Republic, a pink and white Gothic confection whose lace-like arcaded facade rises above the lagoon beside St Mark's. Within lie opulent halls hung with masterpieces by Tintoretto and Veronese, the chambers where the Republic was governed, and the Bridge of Sighs leading to the grim prisons.

What you actually see

  • The Gothic facade - the pink lace-like frontage above the lagoon.
  • The grand halls - the opulent council chambers hung with great paintings.
  • The Bridge of Sighs - the enclosed bridge to the prisons.
  • The prisons - the cells across the bridge, from which Casanova escaped.

When to go

Spring and autumn for milder weather; book a timed ticket ahead, as it is busy. The Secret Itineraries tour of the hidden passages and prisons is a highlight for those who book it.

Honest expectations

It is very popular, so book ahead and expect crowds in the grand halls. The Bridge of Sighs is glimpsed briefly from inside and mobbed from outside. The Secret Itineraries tour, booked separately, gives a richer, quieter experience.

Nearby

St Mark's Basilica and Square are alongside; the Grand Canal and Rialto are nearby.

What to pack for Doge's Palace

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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