I'm scheduled to be on the Rick Steve's Italy Trip that starts May 30th, the Itinerary states that we will see St. Marks as part of the tour but that we can see the Doge's Palace on our free time. Is there any way to get tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in a long line due to the crowds from the cruise ships?
Yes, you can book online at http://palazzoducale.visitmuve.it/en/home/. Or, if there is a line at the Doge's Palace, Rick's guidebook has long suggested buying the combo ticket across the square at the Correr Museum.
Thanks, Laura!
Or book the Secret Itineraries Tour (which I enjoyed very much).
How many days/nights will you be in Venice and what other sights will you see?