A line at the Doge's Palace? With this simple ticket trick, you can just walk right past it

Imagine it’s peak season in Venice, the sun is beating down on the cobblestones of St. Mark’s Square, and a line of people hundreds of meters long winds its way in front of the Doge’s Palace. Everyone is waiting patiently for their ticket—except you. While others waste their time waiting, you take a little-known shortcut that leads you directly into the Doge’s magnificent chambers in just a few minutes. And the best part: you remain completely flexible and don’t have to commit to a specific date weeks in advance. That’s how this clever ticket trick works for Venice insiders.

Pictured here is the Doge's Palace in Venice. View from the monastery church of San Giorgio

The Dilemma: Online Tickets vs. Box Office

Pictured: A line at the ticket counter for the Doge's Palace

An online ticket for the Doge's Palace costs (the same as at the venue) 35 €. However, there is one major drawback: You have to commit to a specific date and time. These tickets are non-cancellable – If there are changes to the plan, you'll lose your money.

Those who decide to stay on a whim usually pay a high price: long lines in front of the Doge's Palace.

The Doge's Palace is a must-see on any trip to Venice. But anyone who not If you want to set a specific date weeks in advance, you'll often find yourself facing a long line at the box office. But there's a simple trick you can use to skip the line and still enjoy maximum flexibility.

Tip: The „back door“ through the Museo Correr

Pictured here is the Correr Museum at the far end of St. Mark's Square.

What many visitors don't know: The admission ticket to the Doge's Palace is a Combination Ticket. It also automatically applies to:

1. The Museo Correr
2. The National Archaeological Museum
3. The Grand Halls of the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana

And here's the benefit for you: It doesn't matter at all which of these four museums you buy your ticket at.

Here's how to do it:

1. If you see a long line at the entrance to the Doge's Palace: Don't line up!
2. Instead, walk back across St. Mark's Square to the Napoleonic Wing (across from St. Mark's Basilica).
3. That's where the entrance to the Correr Museum. There are almost never any significant lines at the ticket counter there.
4. Buy your ticket for the „Museums on St. Mark’s Square“ there.
5. With your ticket in hand, simply walk back to the Doge's Palace.
6. Please use the visitor entrance there directly with existing ticket (Priority / Pre-booked).

You'll walk past the line of people who still have to pay in cash with a smile.

Conclusion

This trick combines the best of both worlds: You remain completely flexible with your time, yet you don't have to waste your precious vacation time waiting in line.