Venice Prison Palace Tour - Casanova’s Cells and Torture Rooms, Priority Entry

Explore the Venetian Republic’s Prison Palace
Next to St. Mark’s Square

This product visits the Prison Palace (Palazzo delle Prigioni) of the Venetian Republic, next to the Doge’s Palace. Walk through the former courtrooms, cells and torture rooms while hearing about the prisoners’ lives and Casanova’s escape. There is an option with only the ticket and audio guide, and options that include a live guided tour (English or Italian).

Walk Through the Courtroom and Dark Cells

Step into the grand courtroom and the dark cells of the old prison beside St. Mark’s Square. Learn what prison life was like, what the prisoners ate and drank and where they slept, and see real graffiti left by the prisoners.

Hear About Casanova’s Escape and the Council of Ten

Hear about the powerful Council of Ten, made up of Venice’s top politicians, who oversaw the justice system across all Venetian territories, and about Casanova’s thrilling escape. You also encounter the myths and legends that still live within the cold walls of the prison.

Explore with a Live Guide or an Audio Guide

On the guided tour options, a guide dressed as a “Lord of the Night” leads the way. The English guided tour option lasts about 45 minutes. With the ticket-only option, you explore with an audio guide. Today the Prison Palace is home to the Artistic Circle and overlooks the Riva degli Schiavoni.

※ The way to the Bridge of Sighs and entry to the Doge’s Palace are not included.
※ This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility.