This walking tour will whisk you away from the beaten path and into the treasure-filled pockets of the Castello area. A qualified guide will lead you through the hidden squares, winding canals and historical buildings to discover hidden "campi" and churches in the less crowded area behind San Marco. The tour starts with a historical introduction to St. Marks’s Square and its architectural delights, allowing you to discover the history of the majestic St. Mark’s Basilica, the illustrious Doge’s Palace - once the seat of the power of the Republic of Venice - and the extraordinary, renaissance clock tower. Leaving the square, you will be guided into the residential Castello area, allowing you to discover this part of Venice in all of its elegance, following through its labyrinth of narrow alleys - “calli” -, many bridges, winding canals and wide picturesque squares - “campi”. Discover campo Santa Maria Formosa and campo San Giovanni & Paolo with its Basilica, the place where the doges of Venice were buried. The former residence of Marco Polo, probably the most famous Venetian merchant, and the Malibran theatre are also part of the itinerary. Throughout the tour, our local guide will provide you with historical facts, point out architectural places of interest, and share fascinating anecdotes on how Venice has developed over the ages, and how Venetians live today. At the end of your walking tour, you'll be led back to Saint Mark's Square passing through the Mercerie, the shopping connection street between Rialto and San Marco. Duration 90 minutes.