St Mark's Basilica After-Hours Tour with Optional Doge's Palace Visit

Every time I go to Italy, I see something that makes me go wow and ST Marks Basilica and Doges Palace didnt disappoint.

We met at 5:00pm and walked through St Marks Square to the Doges Palace. Our guide was informative and passionate and we learnt about the political history of Venice as well as viewing some wonderful artwork, taking in the dungeons and Bridge of Sighs.

Onto St Marks Basilica, which was closed to only a few groups. Again, the magnificent artwork was explained and we saw the crypt and the coffin which allegedly contains St Marks bones. The highlight was when the lights of the Basilica were switched off - plunging it into darkness, and then slowly switched back on to reveal the incredible mosaics that decorate the ceiling.

This is a must see tour and well worth cost.

This was a perfect tour, no lines, small group and a fantastic tour guide. It was no crowded and we could see things up close. It was the highlight of our time in Venice! Would highly recommend.

Andre was our guide and he explained all the details and historical background of Doge's palace and Saint Mark's Basilica. He kept the tour interesting and visiting these places after hours is amazing. I highly recommend this tour and our guide Andre.

Both of Basilica and Palace are main places to visit in Venice, where are always crowded. Without long standing in a waiting queue we could visit there in the small group. The silhouettes of the Venetian roof-tops or masts in sunset through the Doge's windows were fabulous. The lighted-up mosaic ceiling at the Basilica in the evening was breathtaking. It was a great experience at all. Thank you, Moses.

What a special evening. Our guide was so knowledgeable and funny. I've been to the Basilica many times, but to see it light up at night and get the special stories is unforgettable.

The after hours tour is the only way to see St Mark's. Lighting make it come alive and let's not even begin to discuss how much time was saved skipping the lines. Tour guide was incredible. It was the highlight of our trip.

Elena was a wonderful guide for our night tour and adventure through Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica.Our group practically had the place to ourselves! Elena was knowledgeable and fun! Walked through entire palace including Bridge of Sighs. Then into St. Mark's to see the golden mosaics lit up at night. Incredible, truly once lifetime experience. A wonderful tour for visit to Venice.

St. Mark's is a wonder. The ceiling mosaics are truly breathtaking. The challenge is... everyone visiting Venice wants to see St. Mark's. If you don't book ahead, you'll be spending much of your day in line, likely uncomfortable in the heat; if you do book ahead, you're still likely to be in with a lot of other people wanting to see the crown jewel of La Serenissima.With this tour, you'll be in a small group with a personal guide to give you some of the history, and you won't have to battle the crowds. Our group was probably about a dozen people, and there were three or four of the groups... which gave everyone plenty of space in a building that size.The caretakers brought up the lights to maximize the golden glow of the ceiling, as well.Definitely a good way to make the most of your time in Venice.

What a terrific experience to be able to see these two sights up close and personal without the daytime invading masses! If you are lucky enough to get Ms Susan as your guide you are in for a real treat. Her enthusiasm combined with in depth knowledge on Venetian history and the glorious artworks throughout the tour is indeed special. Treat yourself!!!

Tour guide Matteo was excellent! He provided a great deal of information over the 3+ hours but we were never bored or tired.