Secrets of Venice: A Backstage Tour

Today you will discover the magic of Venice on foot, starting in St. Mark’s Square where your guide will tell stories of the medieval Doge’s palace, the clock and bell towers, and the Bridge of Sighs. St Mark’s, the imposing Byzantine basilica, is known all over the world and is next on your tour, where you’ll be able to admire its kaleidoscopic gilded mosaics and shiny treasures. You will then reach the Doge’s Palace, which is one of the greatest masterpieces of Gothic architecture, where works by some of the greatest Italian artists such as Titian, Tintoretto and Guardi are preserved. Continue wandering with your guide to the Prisons, connected to the Doge’s Palace through the famous Bridge of Sighs, which was one of the toughest places to serve your guilt. When legs are weary and stomachs are grumbling, wave goodbye to your expert guide and wind your way through the city’s streets until you find a tasty spot for lunch. Enjoy exploring for the rest of the day before settling down for a delicious bowl of Venice’s signature pasta in an anchovy sauce, followed by a mouth-watering scoop of gelato.

You can spend this morning doing a little self-exploring, but if you’re stuck with what to do, our Concierge is on hand to make some sterling suggestions. Perhaps hop aboard a classic Venetian gondola and be serenaded around the maze of waterways, or venture to the fish market of Rialto where you can learn about the very biggest catches. In the evening, you will be heading to La Fenice theatre to enjoy a beautiful performance. Built in the 18th century, the theatre has a swirling rococo ceiling, creating one of the brightest rooms in the world. An Evening at La Fenice is an opportunity to sit back, grab your opera glasses and immerse yourselves into the land of opera featuring the work of some of the greatest composers including Rossini, Bellini, Donizetti and Verdi. When the performance comes to an end, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars for one final Italian evening.