Essential Visitor Information

Tickets & What is Included

Standard entry covers the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, the New Prisons, and the Armoury. Your ticket also includes access to the Correr Museum, National Archaeological Museum, and Monumental Rooms of the Marciana Library. Choose a fast-track digital ticket to bypass the primary ticket office queue. Special tours like the Secret Itineraries require a specific booking and offer access to restricted areas like Casanova’s cell.

Security & Bag Policy

Safety checks are mandatory for all visitors. Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas are not permitted inside the museum rooms. You must deposit these items at the free cloakroom located near the entrance before starting your tour. Small handbags and thin daypacks are usually allowed, but all items are subject to inspection by security staff. Avoid bringing bulky items to save time at the checkpoint.

Accessibility Standards

The palace is partially accessible. A dedicated lift provides access to the main floors, including the Doge's apartments and the Great Council Chamber. However, certain areas like the Bridge of Sighs, the Prisons, and the Secret Itineraries involve steep stairs and narrow passages that are not wheelchair accessible. Accessible toilets are available on-site. Contact the staff at the entrance for assistance with the lift operation.

Photography Rules

You may take photos and videos for personal, non-commercial use in most areas of the palace. The use of flash, tripods, and professional equipment is strictly prohibited to protect the artwork and maintain visitor flow. Look for specific signage in temporary exhibitions where photography might be restricted. Always remain respectful of other visitors and do not block narrow corridors or doorways while taking pictures.

Visiting with Kids

Children under 6 enter for free. Reduced price tickets are available for children aged 6 to 14. While strollers are allowed, the historic stone floors and stairs in the prison section make them difficult to maneuver. We recommend using a baby carrier for the full route. The Armoury and the Prisons are often the most engaging sections for younger visitors, featuring suits of armor and historic cells.

Dress & Comfort

Wear comfortable walking shoes; the tour route is long and involves stone surfaces. While there is no strict cathedral-style dress code, the palace is a historic government site, so respectful attire is recommended. During summer, the interior can be warm, though thick stone walls provide some natural cooling. Carry a bottle of water, but remember that drinking is only permitted in designated areas and the museum cafe.

Visit Duration

A standard self-guided tour of the Doge’s Palace typically takes between 90 minutes and 2 hours. If you plan to visit the integrated museums on St. Mark's Square (Correr, Archaeological Museum, and Marciana Library), allow at least 3 to 4 hours in total. The Secret Itineraries tour adds approximately 75 minutes to your schedule. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your booked time slot for security checks.