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Explore the Doge's Palace in Venice with the Venice City Pass: History, Grandeur, and Culture at the Heart of the Lagoon City

Outside view of the palazzo ducale in Venice at the St Mark's Square Inner yard of the palazzo ducale with stairs in Venice at the St Mark's Square Pillars inside the palazzo ducale in Venice at the St Mark's Square

Your ticket to Doge's Palace is free when using the Venice City Pass and you save € 19.

With its gothic architecture and being the former residence of Venetian dukes, Doge’s Palace is one of the most visited sights in Venice. After serving as a place for the government and justice department of the Venetian Republic and being destroyed multiple times, Doge’s Palace is now an exhibition about the history of Venice’s maritime republic.After viewing the apartments of the palace, its government rooms, and much more, you will get a larger glimpse into the former culture and politics of Venice.

History of the Doge's Palace

From its origins in the 9th century to Napoleon's conquest

The Doge's Palace, also known as the Palazzo Ducale, is an impressive building in Venice, Italy, that played a significant role in the history of the city and the Republic of Venice.

The original Doge's Palace was built in the 9th century after the residents of Venice fled from invasion attempts by mainland invaders. This building initially served as the residence of the Doge, the head of the Republic of Venice. The present-day Doge's Palace was constructed in the 14th and 15th centuries and predominantly showcases Gothic architecture. The palace's facade is an outstanding example of Gothic craftsmanship in Venice. Numerous prominent artists like Tintoretto and Veronese were commissioned to create paintings and decorations within the palace.

The Doge's Palace was not only the residence of the Doge but also the political center of the Republic of Venice. Important political decisions were made here, and the palace served as the seat of government and the Great Council. The palace also housed the judicial apparatus, where court proceedings took place and punishments were handed out. The famous Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri) connects the Doge's Palace to the prisons, making it a symbol of justice in Venice.

The Doge's Palace is distinguished by its impressive facade, the large courtyard (Cortile), magnificent halls such as the Great Council Hall (Sala del Maggior Consiglio) and the Golden Hall (Sala del Collegio), as well as the impressive Golden Staircase (Scala d'Oro).

In the 18th century, the Republic of Venice lost political power and influence. In 1797, the city was conquered by Napoleon, and the Republic of Venice ceased to exist. The Doge's Palace was subsequently used for various purposes.

Today, the Doge's Palace is one of the key attractions in Venice and a symbol of the former power and splendor of the Republic of Venice. With the Venice City Pass, you can visit the palace and experience its impressive architecture, as well as the rich history and art of Venice.      

 

Highlights of your visit to the Doge's Palace

  • Great Council Hall (Sala del Maggior Consiglio): This impressive hall is one of the largest in Europe and a highlight of the Doge's Palace. It is splendidly decorated and once housed the Great Council, the highest governing body of the Republic of Venice.
  • Golden Hall (Sala del Collegio): The Golden Hall served as a reception hall for high-ranking visitors and is renowned for its opulent decorations. Here, you can also find the famous painting "Paradise" by Tintoretto.
  • Golden Staircase (Scala d'Oro): This elaborate staircase is a masterpiece of Venetian Renaissance architecture and connects the ground floor area with the upper floors of the palace.
  • Doge's Apartments (Appartamento del Doge): Here, visitors can explore the private rooms of the Doge, including bedrooms and private reception areas. These rooms are adorned with artworks and precious furniture.
  • Rooms of Political Institutions: Visitors can also explore the rooms where political institutions such as the Great Council and the Council of Ten convened. These include the Senate Hall and the Council of Ten chamber.

 

Opening Hours

Daily

From November 1 to March 31: 9.00 - 18.00 (last admission: 17.00)

From April 1 to October 31: 9.00 - 19.00 (last admission: 18.00)

During the period April to October we recommend to visit the Doge’s Palace from 16:30 and during the period November – March from 15:30.

 

Reservation of your ticket

The entrance ticket for the Doge's Palace is included in the Venice City Pass.

It is not necessary to reserve your ticket. Show your Venice City Pass at the ticket office and get free admission.

 

Terms of use

  • Accessibility: The elevator provides barrier-free access to most areas of the Doge's Palace. The secret passages, prison cells, and the armory are not accessible due to their historical construction.
  • Wardrobe: A cloakroom is available for safely storing personal belongings.
  • Audio Guides: Visitors can use audio guides to access information and explanations about the history and attractions of the Doge's Palace.
  • Baby Relaxation Area: There is an area designated as a nursing area with changing tables and relaxation facilities for parents with babies.

 

 

How to get there

You can easily reach the Doge's Palace by waterbus (Vaporetto).

From Piazzale Roma:

Line 1, stop at Vallaresso or San Zaccaria
Line 2, stop at Giardinetti
Line 5.1 or Line 4.1, stop at San Zaccaria

From Venice Santa Lucia Train Station: 

Line 1, stop at Vallaresso or San Zaccaria
Line 2, stop at Giardinetti
Line 5.1 or Line 4.1, stop at San Zaccaria

From Lido di Venezia:

Line 1, stop at Vallaresso or San Zaccaria
Line 5.2, stop at San Zaccaria

 

Address of Doge´s Palace

Address:
San Marco, 1 30124 Venice Italy

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