Tucked away in the heart of Venice, the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is a hidden architectural gem that is as enchanting as the city itself. This remarkable structure, with its rare blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Byzantine styles, stands as a testament to Venice's rich architectural heritage.

The 15th-century palace's most striking feature is its spiraling staircase, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo. On the second floor, you'll find the Tintoretto Room – a gallery of rare paintings and portraits – but the true reward lies at the top, where a breathtaking panorama of the city's terracotta rooftops and twisting waterways awaits.

Here's all you need to know about visiting Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, one of the most mesmerizing and popular attractions in Venice.

How much are Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo tickets priced?

Entrance to the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo costs €9 per person for general admission adult tickets. Seniors aged 65+, as well as students 12-26 with a valid ID are eligible for discounted entry tickets, costing €7.20 per person. These prices do not include the €2.20 booking fee.

Guests under 12 can visit for free (up to a maximum of 2 kids aged 0-11 per paying adult).

Are there any discounted tickets?

Seniors who are aged 65+ as well as students 12-26 with valid ID can purchase discounted tickets for €7.20 per person, which is a 20% discount. In addition, guests under the age of 12 can visit for free so long as they are accompanied by a paying adult.

Is it possible to visit the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo for free?

You can view the famous spiral staircase for free from street level. However, if you want to go up the stairs to see the Tintoretto Room and soak up the view, you have to pay the entrance fee.

Should I book in advance?

Yes, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance, particularly if you are planning to visit during peak times like summer.

This allows you to avoid the queues and make sure that your preferred time slot is available. When you book online, you can choose your timeslot — usually 11:30 AM or 3 PM.

What are the most popular Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo tours?

Unless you are taking part in a Venice walking tour that includes multiple stops around town, the only tour of Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is the regular entrance ticket.

The standard entry option grants you access to the spiral staircase, the Tintoretto Room and the viewpoint at the top. This tour is self-guided, but the on-site staff are always happy to answer questions.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo and other attractions?

There are currently no combination tours that grant direct access to the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo as well as other attractions.

You can join one of the many Venice walking tours that will take you past the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo as part of a larger itinerary of city sightseeing. You will still get to see the building and hear all about its fascinating history, but you will not be able to go inside.

What will you see at Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo?

From the outside, the main attraction at Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo (which directly translates to the Staircase of the Snail Shell) is its unique facade with five tiers of arches adjacent to the iconic spiral staircase.

The external beauty continues inside, where you will find the famous Tintoretto Room. Sitting on the building's second floor, the room sports a collection of Venetian sculptures and paintings dating back to the 16th-18th centuries. The highlights include a sketch by Jacopo Tintoretto, a portrait by Francesco Guardi and a sculpture by Jacopo Sansovino

Then, when you reach the top of the 80-step staircase, you'll be treated to a lookout over the roofs of the city from about 28 meters above the ground.

Where is the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo located? How do I get there?

The Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is located in the San Marco district of Venice, just a few minutes walk from Saint Mark's Basilica and Square.

It's just a 7-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge or a 9-minute walk from the Accademia Bridge – two places easily accessible by water taxi.

What are the opening times?

The Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is open to the public from 10 AM to 5:30 PM every day of the week, with the last access at 5 PM.

When is the best time for a visit to the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo?

Venice is most crowded in summer, between June and September. If you are visiting during these months, the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo may be crowded with visitors, so it is recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid the rush.

Which other attractions can be visited in Venice?

Travel tips

Even though it's free to admire the beautiful Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo from the outside, it's still worth it to get a ticket to ascend the staircase.
While you're in the area, make some time to check out Acqua Alta, arguably the world's most unorthodox bookstore.
Book your entry ticket online and in advance. This way, you can guarantee admission at your preferred timeslot and save yourself the hassle of waiting in line.
Don't forget to bring a camera with you! This is one place where you'll want to document your visit, as the palace offers beautiful views of Venice from the top.
Wear comfortable shoes, since there are around 80 steps up to the terrace.

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo: Tickets and Tours