The Power Of The Past...A Shoretrips Premium Shared Tour

The Power Of The Past...A Shoretrips Premium Shared Tour Photo #1 of 2 Photo copyright ShoreTrips.com.

Overview

ShoreTrips' PREMIUM shared tours allow you to have our best guides yet at a economical cost.

The amount of historical, cultural and political information of Venice can be overwhelming without a knowledgeable guide at the helm. Our local escort will help understand this fascinating city of incredible beauty.

A fantastic day awaits! We begin this tour with a skip-the-line visit inside St. Mark's Basilica, known the world over for its magnificent architecture, golden mosaics and sumptuously colored marble floors. Admire the incredible artistry and craftsmanship showcased throughout. You'll soon understand why St. Mark's was known as "Chiesa d'Oro" (Church of Gold) and learn the history and influences that have led to myriad modifications over the centuries.

Connected to St. Mark's is the Doge’s Palace, Venetian Gothic masterpiece and seat of Venetian power for over nine centuries. Your guide will discuss the political, legislative and judicial influences that led to the rise and fall of "La Serenissima" (Most Serene Venetian Republic). This massive structure and city landmark is an architectural tour de force with countless examples of the finest works of art and sculpture.

From the vast council chambers and opulently appointed apartments, we'll follow a staircase down to the Palace's interrogation rooms. A corridor brings us to the Bridge of Sighs, the most famous bridge in Venice. Constructed of white limestone, the Bridge of Sighs is considered by many to be one of the finest examples of bridge architecture in the world. Crossing the bridge, we'll find ourselves in the spartan prison cells of the "New Prison", which was designed to improve the living conditions of prisoners. We will leave it up to you to decide for yourself if it looks like much of an improvement.

- Please remember to dress properly for St. Mark's Basilica. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. Also, any size bag and/or backpacks are not allowed inside the Basilica.
- This tour departs from St. Mark's Square for all passengers (cruise ship passengers and hotel guests). Please allow about 50 minutes to get from the cruise ship pier. If you're staying at a hotel, please consult with your hotel for transfer distance. More instructions will appear on your voucher.

- This is a walking tour. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the climate.
- Minimum 2 people.
- Maximum 8 people.
- Please be on time. Shared tours will not wait for late arrivals.
- Please remember to dress properly for St. Mark's Basilica. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. Also, no bags or backpacks are allowed inside the Basilica.
- The cost of admission to the Doges' Palace is 25 Euros per person and is NOT included in the price of the tour. (Please bring proof of senior or student status for reduced pricing).
Please note: We STRONGLY recommend taking your cell phone with you on this tour.
- This excursion is available from May 1st - October 31st.
- You are purchasing a shared tour and you will be expected to maintain the pace of the group. If you use a walker, wheelchair or scooter or if you have mobility problems you will be refused service and not refunded. We suggest that you purchase a private tour for your best enjoyment.

Days offered: Wednesday, Saturday

Departures:

• 02:30 PM, duration: 2.5 hours Wednesdays and Saturdays only.