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St Mark’s Basilica

  • Venice, Veneto, Italy

Last updated: 29 March, 2024

Surely the most exquisite place of worship in Italy, St Mark’s is a cathedral built to satisfy the wildest dreams of the Doges.

Built in the 11th century to house the alleged remains of St Mark, its Byzantine mosaics, Gothic carvings and sumptuous treasures were accumulated during many centuries of Venetian trading and looting.

From the Pala d’Oro (jewel-encrusted altarpiece, made in Costantinopoli in 976) to its wealth of sculptures and magnificent bronze horses rearing over the piazza, its OTT opulence, both inside and out, it is a testament to La Serenissima’s power and might.

Don’t miss

Zip up in the lift to the top of the 99-metre campanile, or bell tower (separate ticket, open daily year round) for views that take in the whole city, its lagoon and, on a clear day, the distant Dolomite mountains.

Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Who to go with: organised tours

13

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Venice

Delve into Venetian history on a tour showcasing the city's most iconic structures—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—as an expert guide sheds light on the stories behind both iconic attractions. Skip the line into the legendary St. Mark's Basilica, where you’ll wander through the mosaic-clad interior and even step onto the balcony overlooking Piazza San Marco—reserved for only a select few! Then, continue to the Doge's Palace and step into the political heart of a powerful empire.

Price €98

Min age 0

Rating 4.67 / 5 [4614 ratings]

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  • Venice

If it’s your first time in Venice, see all the highlights of this magical city on a combination walking including St Mark's Basilica and a boat tour on the Grand Canal. From Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) to the Rialto Bridge, your informative guide will offer historical perspectives on this fascinating medieval city. Plus, you'll skip the long lines at St Mark's Basilica – there’s no need to waste time waiting in lines when you're on vacation!

Price €391

Min age 0

Rating 4.16 / 5 [3364 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Venice

Our Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica tour is perfect for visitors with only a limited time in Venice, who want to get a true taste of the city. In just a few hours we take you to the most famous sites of the city, seeing the Rialto Bridge and venturing inside St, Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.

Price €89

Min age 0

Rating 4.40 / 5 [1340 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Venice

Explore St Mark’s Basilica without the crowds on an after-hours tour, and enjoy an optional visit to Doge's Palace (if selected at the time of booking). Inside St Mark’s Basilica, admire treasured mosaics and a Byzantine altarpiece, and then follow your guide into the crypt where St Mark himself is believed to rest. Upgrade for late access to the Doge’s Palace by selecting the upgrade option at time of booking. With this option learn about the Higher Council Hall, the Doge's apartments, and the Bridge of Sighs as you explore. Please note that there may be a break of up to 1 hour between your Doge’s Palace tour and your exclusive After Hour Visit, due to temporary earlier closing time at the Doge’s Palace. Your guide in this case will provide bar/restaurant recommendations

Price €83

Min age 0

Rating 4.70 / 5 [1253 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Venice

Join a small group guided tour for a more personalized and interactive experience. Benefit from pre-reserved tickets to make the most of your valuable vacation time. See the major highlights of the city St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace in one 3-hour tour. Explore Venice and its major monuments with an expert local guide with insider knowledge. Leave your tour and guide with enough knowledge to enrich the rest of your visit to this unique Italian city.

Price €78

Min age 0

Rating 4.58 / 5 [658 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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