Ca Rezonico, the Doge’s Palace and St. Marks Basilica

Detailed Itinerary:

For this 5 hour excursion, you’ll take a motor boat from your ship and enjoy a scenic ride to one of Venice’s most popular attractions: St. Mark’s Square (or Piazza San Marco, as the Venetians call it). Recognized as one of the most beautiful piazzas in the world, St. Mark’s Square is also perhaps the most famous. You’ll find the square alive with activity, street performers, merchants, tourists and business people. The first stop on your tour will be the Doge’s Palace, which was constructed in the 13th century. The Palace is located right on the square, so the walk is short, but exciting. The Palace was more than just the home of the city’s ruler, it also served as the seat of government for centuries. The Bridge of Sighs connects the Palace directly to the city’s old dungeons. The next stop on your tour will be St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the most magnificent sights in Venice. Here, you’ll witness the influence of Byzantium on Venice’s architecture, with the Basilica’s golden domes and stunning mosaics. The tour will take you into the Basilica, where you can bask in the incredible beauty of the architecture and decoration before moving on to the next stop of the tour. After leaving the Basilica, you’ll journey to the beautiful Ca’ Rezzonico, a perfect example of the luxurious living that once marked the residential district along the city’s Grand Canal. Built in 1756, this Palazzo that once housed the powerful and famous (including poet Robert Browning and even the Pope) is now a museum. You will have time to explore the Ca’ Rezzonico, the Long Gallery and the rest of the attractions before heading back to your ship.