My wife and I will be visiting for 4 days at the end of August. We are thinking about touring St. Marks Basilica and the Doges palace by using the headphones provided at each site. We are also thinking of getting “Skip the Line” tickets for each before we leave. What is your opinion on this approach?
Neal
St. Marks Basilica does not have an audio tour
You would have to download Ricks on Google Play
Definitely get the skip the line tickets for both. We visited 2 weeks ago and it was so easy. We did not wait at all outside in the heat. I was amazed at all of the people who were standing in line waiting to get into the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s. Remember to dress appropriately for St. Mark’s. There was a guard checking clothing and if you were not dressed properly you were directed to a booth where you had to buy a paper cover up for 2 Euros.
You need tickets to go into St Mark's Cathedral?
No, the Basilica is free but you can book a timed entry ticket for 3 euros so you won’t have to wait in the always very long line
On the free "Rick Steves Audio Europe" app (for your phone, of course), there is a free, down-loadable Walking Tour of St. Mark's Basilica. I've used it and it's great. 48" long. Download this (and others of Venice, etc.) before you leave home, take your earpods and you can use it at your own pace at the Basilica.
I would recommend the "Secret Itineraries" tour of the Doge's Palace. You skip the line, get an interesting behind the scenes tour, then all the time you want in the Doge's Palace. Book it on line.
The Secret Itineraries tour is wonderful, but do be aware that in August it will be quite hot when you're up between the ceiling and the roof.
Thank you to everyone who left me hints and ideas. We have already downloaded Rick’s audio tours and we will consider all the suggestions. Thanks again!
Neal
We are coming on a cruise ship and only have half an afternoon and the next day. We are planning on booking Dodges and St Marks but how do we get from the cruise ship to St Marks? What is suggested for the half day we have when we arrive? Thank you all!
Travel from the cruise port to St. Mark’s by vaporetto. These boats are the equivalent of buses in other cities and are the best way to cover longer distances. You will want to wander on foot and explore the narrow streets and many bridges and canals.
