The Duellist

Master the 6 tools you need to survive a sword fight. Step into the elegant world of 17th-century rapier fencing.

Weekend sessions fill quickly — book early to secure your preferred time

Only 50% deposit to book · Free cancellation up to 48 hours

Duration
1-2 hours
Group Size
2-20 people
Age
14+
From
$35/person
Rating
4.9 (500+ reviews)
Perfect for:
Date Nights Friend Groups Movie Lovers Birthdays

The rapier was the weapon of the musketeer and the Renaissance noble—and the swashbucklers of Hollywood.

In this experience, you'll learn the elegant Italian tradition of rapier fencing. You'll explore our museum's collection of dueling swords, learn authentic techniques from historical fight manuals, and finish with a duel against a partner using protective gear and blunt training swords.

Historical techniques from Renaissance manuscripts — not stage fighting
Rapier fencing at Academie Duello

See the Action

Watch how our expert coaches guide you through the elegant art of the rapier duel. Real techniques, real history, real excitement.

Rapier duel at Academie Duello
Group fencing lesson
Rapier thrust technique

The Experience

The art of the duel

1

Posture & Footwork

The elegant foundation of Renaissance swordsmanship

2

Attack & Defense

Thrusts, parries, and the art of the counterattack

3

Measure & Timing

Control distance and choose your moment to strike

4

The Duel

Put your skills to the test in a controlled bout

Pricing

1-2 people $100 + tax
3-6 people $40 + tax/person
7+ people $35 + tax/person

All sessions are 1 hour. Add extra hours at the same rate.

What's Included

  • Expert coaching throughout your entire session
  • All equipment provided (rapiers, protective masks, gloves)
  • Access to our museum collection of dueling swords
  • Authentic Renaissance techniques from historical manuals
  • Duel opportunity with protective gear and blunt swords

Only 50% deposit to book · Free cancellation up to 48 hours

What Guests Say

"
Felt like a real Renaissance swashbuckler! The instructors taught us authentic techniques and by the end we were actually dueling each other. Such a unique experience.
— Chris M. (Date Night)
"
The Princess Bride is my favorite movie, so this was a dream come true. The instructors even knew all the quotes! Prepare to die, indeed.
— Michael K. (Movie Fan)
"
Way more engaging than I expected. Learning the footwork and timing was like learning to dance with swords. My friends and I had an amazing time.
— Sarah B. (Girls' Night Out)
"
Our bachelorette party did this instead of the usual bar crawl and everyone LOVED it. So much more memorable and we have great photos!
— Emily S. (Bachelorette Party)
"
The instructors broke down the techniques so well that even I was doing respectable lunges by the end. Felt like Inigo Montoya!
— James L. (Movie Fan)
"
Perfect date night activity! Learning to fence with rapiers was romantic and exciting. We're hooked and thinking about taking regular classes now.
— Nicole R. (Date Night)
"
Brought my teenage daughter and she loved every minute. The instructors were encouraging and made her feel like a real swashbuckler.
— Patricia M. (Family Outing)
"
The historical background they provide really adds to the experience. You feel like you're learning something meaningful, not just playing with swords.
— Tom K. (History Buff)

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Give the Gift of the Duel

Perfect for the movie lover, history buff, or anyone who's ever imagined themselves in a swashbuckling adventure. Gift certificates never expire and can be used for any session.

Buy a Gift Certificate

Common Questions

Not at all! We use blunted training rapiers and full protective equipment. Our instructors are trained in safety protocols, and we've taught thousands of beginners without incident.

It's related but different. Olympic fencing evolved from historical swordsmanship but has become an athletic sport. We teach the historical Italian tradition—more martial art than sport.

Comfortable clothes that allow you to move and lunge. Long pants are recommended. Closed-toe shoes required. We provide all fencing equipment.

No! Rapier fencing is about finesse and technique, not strength or endurance. We'll adjust the pace to your comfort level.

Ready to Duel?

Book your Duellist adventure today. Channel your inner swashbuckler with elegant Renaissance swordsmanship.

Book Now