Saint Mark's Basilica

Enter your dates to find available activities
All categories
Attraction tickets
Tours
Activities
Rentals

Top pick


Saint Mark's Basilica: Tours & Tickets

See all tours & things to do in Saint Mark's Basilica

5 historical facts about Saint Mark's Basilica

Venice's most famous church is more a testament to the city's Medieval wealth and power than the teachings of Christ. Its history, however, might just be even more spectacular than its architecture! Here are five fun facts dug up from its colorful past.

  • It was built for the bones of Mark the Evangelist

    1. It was built for the bones of Mark the Evangelist

    The original church was built circa 832 to harbor the relics of Saint Mark, which were supposedly stolen from Alexandria by Venetian merchants!

  • The original was burned down to assassinate a Doge

    2. The original was burned down to assassinate a Doge

    The Doge (leader) of Venice, Pietro IV Candiano, was so unpopular by 976 that his constituents locked him in Saint Mark's and burned it to the ground!

  • Its nickname is the "Chiesa d'Oro"

    3. Its nickname is the "Chiesa d'Oro"

    Hardly a symbol of Christian humility, the cathedral's opulent mosaics gave rise to a nickname that has lasted since its 9th century construction – The Church of Gold!

  • It's decorated partly by the spoils of war

    4. It's decorated partly by the spoils of war

    The 4th Crusade didn't go quite as planned! Rather than reach Jerusalum, the Venetians instead pillaged Constantinople and stole many artifacts to adorn their cathedral.

  • Its mosaics cover approximately 8000 m²

    5. Its mosaics cover approximately 8000 m²

    But, unfortunately, only about a third is original! Though once maintained by a workshop of skilled mosaicists, much was simply replaced in cheap 19th-century restoration attempts.

Planning Your Visit

  • What are the opening times?

    The Basilica's opening hours are from 9:45AM to 5:00PM, and on Sundays and holidays between 2:00PM and 4:00PM or 5:00PM depending on the season. Entrance to the Basilica is free, but visiting the museum, treasury, or Pala d'Oro requires paying for tickets.

  • What to wear?

    Whether you're booking a tour or intend to visit Saint Mark's Basilica alone, be sure to dress appropriately for a place of worship! A general rule of thumb is to keep arms and legs covered (and no flip-flops!). Also note that bringing luggage in is forbidden, as is filming or taking photographs inside.

Good to know

  • When should I visit?
    9:45AM to 5:00PM, Sundays and Holidays 2:00PM to 4:00PM or 5:00PM, depending on season.
  • Is it expensive?
    The Basilica is free, but the museum, treasury and Pala d'Oro require admission fees.
  • Will I need a guide?
    It will definitely help. Might be worth it to check out our best-selling tours.
  • How to get there
    This attraction is within walking distance from most hotels in city center!
  • Additional information
    Bringing in luggage, filming or taking photographs inside is strictly forbidden. | It's best to keep your arms and legs covered, and no flip-flops!

What people are saying about Saint Mark's Basilica

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 15,213 reviews

This is an excellent tour to have an overall introduction to Murano, Burano, and Torcello, without diving too deep into the details of each island. Perfect if you have never visited them and want to get an idea, less suitable if you want to gain in-depth knowledge about them. We were a small group, so the company booked a taxi, which was an absolute treat. Great first time to the Lagoon Islands, our favourite was Burano (we got covid masks with handmade lace! So stylish). Live demonstrations of glass blowing and lace making are included. The guide was approachable and knowledgeable, keeping us on time without making us feel rushed.

From Venice: Murano, Torcello & Burano Boat Trip with Guide Reviewed by Giovanni, 11/4/2020

Stefano is a terrific guide! He explained the history and architecture relating to St. Mark’s Bacilica and Doge’s Palace in an easy to understand manner and with a strong knowledge foundation. His background as an architect added another positive dimension. The 3 hour tour went quickly. We highly recommend taking it.

Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access Tour Reviewed by Laura, 10/24/2020

This tour is a definite recommendation, a must-do for everyone interested in Venice's history. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, with an in-depth response for everyone extra question we had and brought across the information in a way that was engaging and fun to listen to.

Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access Tour Reviewed by Enya, 10/29/2020

The guide was friendly, well informed and organized. This tour is amazing for people who want to be advised in historical facts about the buildings and life of the people of Venice.

St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace Fast Track Tour Reviewed by Hannes, 10/16/2020

Great experience. Very knowledgeable and engaging Guide. We were a small group of 6 so felt very personal. Seamless and quick entry to all sites. Would highly recommend.

Venice: Doge's Palace & St Mark's Basilica Fast-Track Tour Reviewed by catherine, 10/5/2020

Top destinations

Popular on GetYourGuide

Popular Attractions