Step into the iconic St. Mark's Square, the pulsating heart of Venice that has beckoned travelers from across the globe for centuries. This historic square, also known as Piazza San Marco, stands as a testament to the grandeur and splendor of the Venetian Republic. As you set foot on the smooth cobblestones, you'll find yourself surrounded by architectural marvels, such as the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica and the soaring Campanile, which offers breathtaking city views. Allow the opulent Doge's Palace to transport you back in time to the days of Venetian nobility, while the adjacent Procuratie buildings whisper tales of bustling markets and vibrant social gatherings.
St. Marks Square in a Nutshell
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested Duration: | 1-2 hours |
| ☀️ Best Time to Visit: | Early morning/ late evening |
| 🎟️ St Mark's Square Ticket: | €30 |
| 💜 St Mark's Square + Combo: | €89 |
Must-see at the St Mark's Square
- Architecture of St. Mark's Basilica
- Panoramic views from the top of the Bell Tower
- Venetian gothic charm of Doge's Palace
Getting There
Piazza San Marco
Venice - Italy
Get Directions
Opening Hours
St. Mark's Basilica: 9:45 am-5 pm (Sundays and holidays 2 pm-4 pm)
Doge's Palace: 8:30 am-7 pm (varies on some days)
Campanile di San Marco: 9 am-8 pm (varies on some days)
Why is St Mark's Square worth visiting?
- St. Mark's Square offers stunning views of historic Venetian architecture, including the impressive St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace.
- The square boasts numerous masterpieces in architecture and artwork such as golden mosaics, intricately designed Gothic colonnades, and the impressive Campanile Tower.
- St. Mark's Square is the cultural epicenter of Venice, where art and music enthusiasts gather for extravagant celebrations and Carnivals.
- Taking a gondola ride is an unmissable experience to enhance your visit to the square, especially at night when St. Mark's Basilica is lit up beautifully.
- Famous for cafes like Caffe Florian, the square offers traditional Venetian bites like Cicchetti (small plates), delicious coffee, and Aperol spritz to savor the flavors of the city.
Recommended St Mark's Square Tickets
Depending on the kind of experience you seek and time in hand, you can choose from a variety of St Mark's Square tickets.
St Mark's Square History
St.Mark’s Square dates back to the 9th century and is believed to have originally served as a small dock for trade ships. Over the centuries, St. Mark's Square became the focal point of the city, hosting various cultural, political, and social events.
In the Middle Ages, the square served as Venice's main center of trade and commerce. During this time, it was also used as a political platform and was the site of public meetings and gatherings.
In the Renaissance era, St. Mark's Square became a bustling hub of cultural activity, with music, art, and literature flourishing. The great Venetian adventurer, Marco Polo, entertained his audience with his tales of adventure in the square.
During the Napoleonic era, St. Mark's Square saw extensive renovations and was transformed into a grand public space.Today, the Square remains a major tourist attraction due to its beautiful architecture, including the impressive St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. The square is also known for its popular cafes, which offer some of the best coffee and pastries in Venice.
St Mark's Square Architecture
St. Mark's Square in Venice is a fascinating example of Byzantine architecture that has undergone multiple transformations over the past centuries. The square is dominated by the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica, which boasts a unique blend of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance influences. Built-in the 11th century, the basilica has a striking layout of five domes and five portals that create an impressive sight. The captivating facade features a mix of intricate mosaics, marble columns, and bronze statues.
One of the lesser-known features of the square is the Procuratie Vecchie and Nuove, two double-decker arcades that flank the basilica and form a U-shape around the Piazza. The arcades were designed by the famous architect Jacopo Sansovino in the 16th century and have exquisite details such as arches, balconies, and columns.
Another highlight of the square is the Clock Tower, or Torre dell'Orologio, which dates back to the 15th century and has a unique mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements. The clock face features astrological symbols and the works of the clockmakers themselves, while a pair of giant bronze moors strike the hours with their hammers.
Highlights of St Mark's Square
1Basilica di San Marco
Located at the eastern end of the Square, this awe-inspiring Byzantine cathedral is an absolute must-see. Immerse yourself in its grandeur as you marvel at the intricate golden mosaics that adorn its walls and gaze up at the mesmerizing multi-domed roof. The Basilica di San Marco is a testament to the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Venice.
2Doge's Palace
Step into the opulent rooms of Doge's Palace and transport yourself back in time to the era of the Venetian Republic ruling class. Explore the lavish halls and chambers that once hosted political affairs and lavish gatherings. As you traverse the palace, don't miss the iconic Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the old prison. Take a moment to contemplate the bittersweet history and stories that echo through its corridors.
3Campanile di San Marco
Step into the opulent rooms of Doge's Palace and transport yourself back in time to the era of the Venetian Republic ruling class. Explore the lavish halls and chambers that once hosted political affairs and lavish gatherings. As you traverse the palace, don't miss the iconic Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the old prison. Take a moment to contemplate the bittersweet history and stories that echo through its corridors.
4Museo Correr
History buffs will find their paradise in the Museo Correr, a museum that beautifully showcases the art, culture, and history of Venice. Explore the neoclassical rooms that house an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and historic artifacts. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Venetian heritage as you uncover the stories behind these magnificent works of art.
4The Clock Tower
Take a moment to admire the intricate details of the Clock Tower, an architectural gem nestled in St. Mark's Square. Watch with wonder as the two clock faces move in opposite directions, marking the passage of time in a truly captivating manner. Let the charm and craftsmanship of this timepiece transport you to a bygone era.
Best Time to Visit St Mark's Square
The best time to visit St. Mark's Square in Venice is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). The weather is pleasant and crowds are less overwhelming than during the summer months, which sees an influx of tourists. We suggest arriving early in the morning to avoid crowds as well. Keep in mind that prices may be higher during peak season so plan accordingly. Overall, with its stunning architecture and charm, a visit to St. Mark's is a must.
St Mark's Square Opening Hours
- Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
- St. Mark's Basilica: 9:45 am-5 pm (Sundays and holidays 2 pm-4 pm)
- Doge's Palace: 8:30 am-7 pm
- Campanile di San Marco: 9 am-8 pm
Getting There
Vaporetto
You can catch a vaporetto from any of the numerous stops along the Grand Canal and enjoy the scenic ride to the square. Line 1 and 2 both stop at St. Mark's Square, and the journey takes around 20 minutes.
Water Taxi
For a luxurious travel experience, take a water taxi to the square. There are several taxi stands throughout the city, and they offer a quick and comfortable ride to your destination. However, they are quite expensive.
Bus
If you are traveling from the mainland, taking a bus to Piazzale Roma and then a Vaporetto to St. Mark's Square is a viable option.
Train
The closest train station to the city center is Santa Lucia, and from there, you can take a Vaporetto or a water taxi to St. Mark's Square.
Insider Tips to Visit St Mark's Square
- Avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June-August) as crowds can be overwhelmin
- Experience the square at night when it is less crowded and beautifully lit
- Visit the Basilica di San Marco early in the morning to beat the queues and see the mosaics up close.
- Take a stroll down the quieter side streets to escape the crowds and discover hidden gems.
- Visit during the Carnival of Venice for an extra special experience with elaborate costumes and festivities.
- Check out the clock tower's mechanical figures which come to life every hour on the hour.
Restaurants Near St Mark's Square
Just a stone's throw from St. Mark's Square is Trattoria alla Madonna. Known for their seafood, the restaurant offers fresh and delicious dishes such as squid ink risotto and black cuttlefish soup. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a must-visit.
Distance:120m
For an authentic taste of Venetian cuisine, Osteria da Carla is the place to go. Their signature dish, the sarde in saor, is a delicious mix of sardines, onions, and raisins. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a casual meal.
Distance:220m
A bit further away from St. Mark's Square, Al Paradiso Perduto is worth the walk. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere with live music performances. The seafood dishes, like the grilled squid, are a must-try. The extensive wine list is also a plus.
Distance:900 m
Places to Stay Near St Mark's Square
Luxury Stays
Economy Stays
Things to Do Near St Mark's Square
Step into the past at the magnificent Doge's Palace, once the residence of Venice's rulers. Immerse yourself in the opulence of its architecture and marvel at the intricate artwork that adorns its halls. Be sure to walk across the famous Bridge of Sighs, a poignant symbol of Venice's history. Get a skip-the-line ticket for Doge Palace to have a hassle-free experience
Distance: 0.1 km
The Rialto Bridge is an architectural masterpiece, featuring a graceful curve, stone balustrades, and rows of shops that line the sides of the bridge. The shops have been a part of the bridge's charm since its earliest days and have traditionally housed various merchants, including jewelers, souvenir shops, and art dealers. Today, the shops continue to attract tourists seeking unique Venetian souvenirs and local crafts.
Distance:1.3 km
Embark on a unique adventure by gliding down the majestic Grand Canal. Whether by gondola or water taxi, this enchanting journey offers a different perspective of Venice's architectural splendor. Admire the stunning facades of historic buildings that line the waterway and immerse yourself in the charm of Venetian life.
Distance: 0.5 km
Prepare to be awe-struck by the Basilica di San Marco, an architectural marvel that stands as the epitome of Byzantine grandeur. Discover the intricate details of its design and be captivated by the golden mosaics that adorn its ceilings and walls, narrating stories of Venice's rich history.
Distance: 0.1 km
Explore the world of modern art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed within an elegant 18th-century palace along the Grand Canal. Delight in the works of renowned artists such as Picasso and Pollock, as well as other significant figures in the art world. Allow yourself to be inspired by the thought-provoking exhibits and immerse yourself in the creativity that flourishes within these walls.
Distance:1.8 km
FAQs
St Mark’s Square is known for its beautiful architecture, historical significance, and for being the main public square in Venice.
You can easily spend 3-4 few hours exploring the square.
No, the square itself is free to visit, but some of the attractions around it may require an entrance fee.
The St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace and the Campanile (bell tower) are popular attractions to visit in the square.
Early morning or late evening when it's less crowded, or during the Venice Carnival in February/March for a unique experience.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the square, except for service a
Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees when entering churches or other religious sites.
You can walk from most parts of the city or take a water taxi or ferry to the closest drop-off point to the square.
