The Doge’s Palace in Venice is a treasure trove of history, culture and charm, but to visit each of its rooms with the attention it deserves, a week would not be enough. Here are some tips for making the most of your visit to one of Venice’s most iconic places.
The inner courtyard
Once you pass the ticket office, you will be greeted by a majestic inner courtyard, with the magnificent Scala dei Giganti and two large statues representing Mars and Neptune, sculpted by Sansovino.
The Golden Staircase
This staircase will leave you open-mouthed, with its stucco and gilding accompanying the visitor to the Doge’s Apartments and then to the government rooms.
The Hall of the Maggior Consiglio
Surely the most famous room of all, especially for Tintoretto’s Paradise, 25 metres wide and 7 metres high — a colossal work that takes your breath away.
Bridge of Sighs
To reach the Prigioni Nuove building, one crosses the famous Bridge of Sighs, a two-lane fortified passageway built in the early 1600s.
