Visiting Venice is not complete without a look at the impressive Basilica of San Marco. This world-famous church attracts millions of tourists every year, and for good reason. But is it really worth spending your time there during your city break? In this blog we give you all the information you need, and we also share our own experience as well as practical tips.
History of the Basilica of San Marco
The Basilica of St. Mark has a rich and fascinating history. The first version of the basilica was built in the year 828 specifically to preserve the relics of St. Mark. These relics were brought to Venice from Alexandria. In the centuries that followed, the church was rebuilt, expanded and richly decorated several times.
Starting in the 11th century, the basilica took its current form, with influences from Byzantine, Roman and Gothic styles. The result? A unique and enchanting blend of architecture you won’t see anywhere else in Europe.
What is there to see in the Basilica of San Marco?
The Basilica of San Marco is a work of art in itself from the outside, but inside it is even more impressive. What can you admire during your visit?
1. Golden Mosaics: The interior is decorated with more than 8,000 square meters of mosaics. These tell stories from the Bible and sparkle in golden light.
2. Pala d’Oro: An altarpiece of pure gold, inlaid with precious stones. It is one of the finest examples of medieval goldsmithing.
3. The balcony with a view: From the balcony you have a wonderful view of St. Mark’s Square.
4. The bronze horses: These horses once stood on the roof of the basilica and can now be admired inside. They are originally from Constantinople.
5. The Museum of San Marco: Here you will learn about the history of the basilica and see special artifacts.
Visiting the Basilica of San Marco feels like a journey through time. Everywhere you look, you see details, symbolism and stories from a distant past.
When is the best time to visit St. Mark's Basilica?
The Basilica of San Marco can be visited year-round, but it is often crowded. The best time to go is early in the morning or just in the late afternoon. Try to avoid weekends and holidays if you want to skip the biggest crowds.
The summer months tend to be very hot and crowded. Preferably choose spring or fall – April, May, September or October.
Tickets for Basilica of San Marco
Admission to the basilica itself is free, but you pay a small fee for some parts, such as the Pala d’Oro, the museum and the balcony. It’s best to book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
If you are planning a trip to Venice and would like to visit a number of attractions, such as St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and take a Gondola ride, consider buying the Venice Pass. With this all-in-one entrance ticket, you can save a lot of money on your entrance fee. Learn more about this handy tourist pass at the link below.
St. Mark’s Basilica is right in the heart of Venice, on the famous St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). This square is the beating heart of the city and is surrounded by impressive buildings such as the Doge’s Palace and the Campanile (bell tower). You don’t have to look far – the basilica stands out immediately with its golden domes and richly decorated facade.
How to get to the Basilica of San Marco?
Since Venice is car-free, you’ll mostly get around on foot or by vaporetto (water cab). Coming from the train station (Venezia Santa Lucia)? Then take vaporetto line 1 in the direction of San Marco. Get off at the San Marco – Vallaresso stop. From there it is just a few minutes walk to the Basilica of San Marco.
Prefer to hike? You can. It’s about a 30-minute walk from the station, and you’ll already see much of the city along the way.
Our opinion on visiting the Basilica of San Marco
During our visit to the Basilica of San Marco, what struck us most was the combination of architecture and details. The building is large and richly decorated, but it is mainly the mosaics and use of color that impress.
We found the balcony a nice extra, mainly because of the view of the square and the chance to see the facade up close. It was a bit crowded, but with a little patience you can see everything just fine. All in all, well worth it if you are in Venice.
Edward and Raziye
Authors Cities To Travel
Our 5 tips for visiting St. Mark's Basilica
Based on our experience, we share 5 practical tips for visiting St. Mark’s Basilica:
1. Arrive early: The earlier you get there, the quieter it is. That way you can enjoy the basilica in peace.
2. Dress appropriately: It’s a religious place, so cover your shoulders and knees.
3. Buy tickets online: This avoids long waits and ensures you have access to all sections.
4. Notice the details in the ceiling: The mosaics above your head are easy to miss if you walk through them too quickly. Take time to look up from time to time.
Read about the artworks in advance: If you know what to look for, you’ll get much more out of your visit.
Special offers for a city break in Venice
If you are going on a city trip to Venice and would like to visit a number of sights and attractions, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.
Basilica of San Marco: is it worth a visit?
Visiting Venice is not complete without a look at the impressive Basilica of San Marco. This world-famous church attracts millions of tourists every year, and for good reason. But is it really worth spending your time there during your city break? In this blog we give you all the information you need, and we also share our own experience as well as practical tips.
History of the Basilica of San Marco
The Basilica of St. Mark has a rich and fascinating history. The first version of the basilica was built in the year 828 specifically to preserve the relics of St. Mark. These relics were brought to Venice from Alexandria. In the centuries that followed, the church was rebuilt, expanded and richly decorated several times.
Starting in the 11th century, the basilica took its current form, with influences from Byzantine, Roman and Gothic styles. The result? A unique and enchanting blend of architecture you won’t see anywhere else in Europe.
What is there to see in the Basilica of San Marco?
The Basilica of San Marco is a work of art in itself from the outside, but inside it is even more impressive. What can you admire during your visit?
1. Golden Mosaics: The interior is decorated with more than 8,000 square meters of mosaics. These tell stories from the Bible and sparkle in golden light.
2. Pala d’Oro: An altarpiece of pure gold, inlaid with precious stones. It is one of the finest examples of medieval goldsmithing.
3. The balcony with a view: From the balcony you have a wonderful view of St. Mark’s Square.
4. The bronze horses: These horses once stood on the roof of the basilica and can now be admired inside. They are originally from Constantinople.
5. The Museum of San Marco: Here you will learn about the history of the basilica and see special artifacts.
Visiting the Basilica of San Marco feels like a journey through time. Everywhere you look, you see details, symbolism and stories from a distant past.
When is the best time to visit St. Mark's Basilica?
The Basilica of San Marco can be visited year-round, but it is often crowded. The best time to go is early in the morning or just in the late afternoon. Try to avoid weekends and holidays if you want to skip the biggest crowds.
The summer months tend to be very hot and crowded. Preferably choose spring or fall – April, May, September or October.
Tickets for Basilica of San Marco
Admission to the basilica itself is free, but you pay a small fee for some parts, such as the Pala d’Oro, the museum and the balcony. It’s best to book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
Cheap to the best sights in Venice
If you are planning a trip to Venice and would like to visit a number of attractions, such as St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and take a Gondola ride, consider buying the Venice Pass. With this all-in-one entrance ticket, you can save a lot of money on your entrance fee. Learn more about this handy tourist pass at the link below.
Where is the Basilica of San Marco located?
St. Mark’s Basilica is right in the heart of Venice, on the famous St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). This square is the beating heart of the city and is surrounded by impressive buildings such as the Doge’s Palace and the Campanile (bell tower). You don’t have to look far – the basilica stands out immediately with its golden domes and richly decorated facade.
How to get to the Basilica of San Marco?
Since Venice is car-free, you’ll mostly get around on foot or by vaporetto (water cab). Coming from the train station (Venezia Santa Lucia)? Then take vaporetto line 1 in the direction of San Marco. Get off at the San Marco – Vallaresso stop. From there it is just a few minutes walk to the Basilica of San Marco.
Prefer to hike? You can. It’s about a 30-minute walk from the station, and you’ll already see much of the city along the way.
Our opinion on visiting the Basilica of San Marco
During our visit to the Basilica of San Marco, what struck us most was the combination of architecture and details. The building is large and richly decorated, but it is mainly the mosaics and use of color that impress.
We found the balcony a nice extra, mainly because of the view of the square and the chance to see the facade up close. It was a bit crowded, but with a little patience you can see everything just fine. All in all, well worth it if you are in Venice.
Edward and Raziye
Authors Cities To Travel
Our 5 tips for visiting St. Mark's Basilica
Based on our experience, we share 5 practical tips for visiting St. Mark’s Basilica:
1. Arrive early: The earlier you get there, the quieter it is. That way you can enjoy the basilica in peace.
2. Dress appropriately: It’s a religious place, so cover your shoulders and knees.
3. Buy tickets online: This avoids long waits and ensures you have access to all sections.
4. Notice the details in the ceiling: The mosaics above your head are easy to miss if you walk through them too quickly. Take time to look up from time to time.
Read about the artworks in advance: If you know what to look for, you’ll get much more out of your visit.
Special offers for a city break in Venice
If you are going on a city trip to Venice and would like to visit a number of sights and attractions, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.
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