Venice: St. Mark Basilica (lights on) vs. Secret Itineraries Tour?

Only you can make that call. You might think about whether beauty or stories are more appealing to you. I've done both, and can't imagine skipping the beauty of San Marco for Secret Itineraries. But again, it depends on your interests. One thing to consider is that the upper prison area in Doge's Palace was really hot in mid October, so plan on being very toasty in August. In fact, the guide mentioned that sometimes they can't even go there during summer, because it gets so hot. (although I also remember what it was like in Madison in August, so you may be more used to it than I am)

Secret Itineraries tour is very good...but nearly good enough to skip San Marco and lights. It's a no-brainer.

Sherry brings up a very good point. Much of the tour is in the very low ceilinged rooms right under the metal roof. I took the tour in February and it was bitterly cold. There is neither heating nor air conditioning in that part of the building. Being there in August would really give you a good idea of how miserable life in the Middle Ages could be. The tour is interesting, but the floodlit mosaics are superb. I'd skip the Doge tour to spend an hour with the wonderful mosaics. If you choose the Doge tour, be sure to have a bottle of water and a fan with you.

I need help too-first time in Venice for husband & I-only there 2 days (arrive early am 9/17 and leave mid am 9/19-so not much time. What are these tours you are discussing? Private companies? Any tips would be appreciated.
Thanks, Holly

Thanks everyone. I think I am going to skip the Dodge's SI Tour and go to St. Mark between 11:30 and 12:30 pm. If you don't mind... a second question... do you guys think I should I do the 11 am tour or the 12:15 pm tour (and get there before to see the mosaics by my self)? Holly. I found both of these tours through the Museum and Basilica websites: - Dodge's SI Tour
- St. Mark