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Loved by 48 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Katarzyna Zielińska

Katarzyna

Jan 2026

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We are very happy with our ticket purchase. Everything went smoothly and we didn't have to wait in line. We also received additional tickets to other museums. I recommend it.
Nini tavkhelidze
GE

Nini

Georgia
Jan 2026

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On the first day we entered Venice and saw the Doges Palace, we realized that we had to see it. When we entered, I was immediately amazed. The building was beautiful, the details were amazing, and the ceiling was the most impressive, which was wonderfully painted. Thank you for this pleasure.
Sarah Valerie Sidbeck
PT

Sarah

Portugal
Jan 2026

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Our tour guide, Marina, was incredible! Her knowledge was matched only by her kindness and friendliness. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone coming to Venice!
FORESTIER STEPHANE
FR

Forestier

France
Oct 2025

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Our guide was very informative and kind. Lots of details given, both historically and artistically. We recommend this tour.
John Remond
US

John

United States
Jan 2026

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We purchased the 48 hour pass and it was the best purchase we made in Venice! We used it from the train station to a stop close to our hotel so we didn't have to drag our luggage, even though we packed light, half way across Venice. We also used the pass, after spending hours in the Basilica & Doge's Palace, for relaxing tour...I mean ride to Murano...it was a great day but it wasn't over...then we used the pass for a ride to the Rialto Bridge. I don't know if you are counting, but we got our $$ worth in the first 24 hours!
Nadia Maria Magnaguagno

Nadia

Jan 2026

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+1 more

I executed the ticket online and after printing the tickets I went to the ticket machine to type in the code, I was issued two tickets valid for 48 h for two people. With those tickets we traveled on the vaporettos far and wide visiting all of Venice without any problem of queues at the counters and schedules. Excellent choice
Belhachemi Dimitri
FR

Belhachemi

France
Oct 2025

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+2 more

It was great, we were able to see a lot of Venice, a very profitable ticket at €25 a day, I recommend it.
JOHN E ANTONITIS
US

John

United States
Feb 2026
Terrific service from start to finish. Kept us informed on specifics throughout our trip which eliminated any worries about pur pick-up at the end of pur visit. Boat arrived as scheduled. Got to airport in plenty time to check-in

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Top things to do in Venice

The Doge's Palace Prisons: A dark chapter of Venetian justice

Doge's Palace, a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture, served as the residence of the Doge and the seat of the Venetian government. Within its grand walls lies a chilling secret: its notorious network of prisons. From the oppressive dampness of the Pozzi (Wells) and scorching heat of the Piombi (Leads) to the later New Prisons, these unforgiving cells housed inmates of all ranks, each enduring a unique kind of torment. Exploring these prisons gives you a different perspective into Venice’s past, beyond its celebrated art and architecture.

How to access the prisons?

Your regular entry ticket includes access across the Bridge of Sighs to the New Prisons. Opt for the Secret Itineraries Tour to access exclusive areas such as the Piombi and Pozzi, investigators’ offices, and private meeting rooms. It is a more in-depth and engaging tour option with a thematic focus on unique stories and legends of the palace.

Why visit the Venice Prisons?

Doge’s Palace Prisons
  • Step back into a time capsule: The Doge's Palace prisons aren't sterile exhibits; they're a portal to the past. Exploring them allows you to experience, firsthand, a tangible piece of Venetian history.
  • See the other side of Venice: Venice's image is often painted with strokes of romance and artistic beauty. The prisons reveal a different side, a place of harsh justice and human suffering, giving a nuanced view of the Venetian Republic.
  • Learn about the lives of famous prisoners: From Giacomo Casanova to Giuseppe Garibaldi, the prison housed numerous famous inmates. Imagine the desperation in the engravings left by prisoners in the Pozzi. The Secret Itineraries Tour vividly recounts these tales of intrigue, despair, and daring escapes, such as Casanova's.
  • A place of reflection: The Doge's Palace prisons aren't just about chills and thrills. Confronting the harsh realities of Venetian justice prompts you to consider the evolution of punishment and the importance of a fair legal system.
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Your Doge's Palace Prisons tickets explained

ExperienceNew Prisons accessPiombi & Pozzi accessWhy buy?Starting price

€30

€56

€57

Venice Prisons in a nutshell

Doge’s Palace Prison Timings
  • Structure and layout: The prisons were integrated into the palace’s complex structure. The notorious Pozzi (Wells) were located on the ground floor, while the Piombi (Leads) occupied the attic. The New Prisons, built later to accommodate more inmates, are accessible via the iconic Bridge of Sighs.
  • Timings: Same as Doge's palace opening hours. Although, there are certain time slots for Doge’s Palace Prisons & Secret Itineraries Tour for an optimal experience.
  • Duration: 50 mins - 1 hour 15 mins
  • Historical context: Functioned as part of the Venetian Republic's justice system (14th - 19th century). They housed inmates ranging from political prisoners to those guilty of severe crimes.
Check Doge's Palace operating hours

The infamous Prisons of Doge's Palace, Venice

The Pozzi (Wells)

  • Location: On the ground floor of Doge's Palace.
    These cells were extremely cramped, dark, and damp, with ceilings so low that prisoners couldn't stand upright.
  • Conditions: Known for their inhumane conditions, which often led to disease and insanity among inmates.
  • Notable features: The walls of the Pozzi still has some graffiti and artwork etched by the prisoners, some even creating artistic works like the Virgin and Child scene. It reflects the psychological state of prisoners.

The Piombi (Leads)

  • Location: In the attic of Doge's Palace
    Cells situated under a lead roof (also where they derived the name Piombi from) resulting in extreme temperatures— scorching in the summer and freezing in the winter. They housed inmates awaiting trial or those of noble birth.
  • Conditions: While a bit brighter than the Pozzi due to roof windows, they were still suffocating and uncomfortable. Some privileges for prisoners included receiving food and items from outside.
  • Notable inmate: Giacomo Casanova, the famous libertine and writer, was imprisoned here and famously escaped by drilling a hole in the ceiling.

The New Prisons

  • Location: Accessible via the Bridge of Sighs, adjacent to Doge's Palace.
    These prisons were built to address overcrowding and the harsh conditions of the older prisons. This two-story building held up to 400 inmates and featured a central courtyard.
  • Conditions: It was designed with natural light and ventilation, supporting a more humane environment for prisoners.
  • Historical significance: One of the earliest purpose-built prison structures in Europe, designed by Antonio Rusconi in 1563 and completed by Antonio da Ponte.
Crossing the Bridge of Sighs

Venetian justice and torture

The Doge's Palace wasn't just a hub of Venetian politics; it also housed a ruthless justice system with torture as a chilling instrument.

Venetian justice system

  • Trials likely took place within the Doge's Palace, with the austere Upper Chancery Hall serving as a venue for discussions and analyses of cases.
  • Anonymous accusations, submitted through "lion's mouth" mailboxes, could initiate legal proceedings.
  • The Council of Ten, a much-feared body, likely played a significant role in Venetian justice, possibly overseeing trials or investigations.

Torture methods

  • A dedicated "Torment Chamber" existed within the Doge's Palace, specifically designed to inflict pain. The screams from chambers were deliberately audible to other prisoners, likely to instill fear and pressure confessions. It wasn't just about obtaining information but also about psychological intimidation.
  • The "rope method" involved excruciatingly tight binding of a prisoner's hands followed by suspension, likely causing immense physical strain.
  • "Drop torture" involved immobilizing a prisoner and relentlessly dripping water on their forehead, causing sleep deprivation and mental anguish.

Frequently asked questions about Venice Prisons

You can access the New Prisons connected to the Doge's Palace on your own with a regular admission ticket. However, access to historic Pozzi and Piombi prisons is only possible via the Secret Itineraries tours.

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Secret Itineraries Tour

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