St. Mark’s Square, also known as Piazza San Marco, is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. It dates back to the 9th century and has been the political and religious center of Venice for centuries. The square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Campanile.
St. Mark’s Basilica Hosted Entrance Tickets
Book now with code EARLY and save 20%—offer available for a limited time.
Skip the Line. Skip the Stress. Step Into Venice’s Most Stunning Landmark!
Why waste time in line when you could be gazing up at 85,000 square feet of shimmering gold mosaics? St. Mark’s Basilica isn’t just a church—it’s Venice’s most jaw-dropping masterpiece, and now you can experience it hassle-free.
With skip-the-line access, you’ll walk right in—no waiting, no stress. Pop in your audioguide and uncover hidden details, wild legends, and secrets most visitors miss.
Want more? Upgrade your ticket for an up-close look at the dazzling golden altarpiece or climb to the terrace for breathtaking views over St. Mark’s Square.
This isn’t just another tourist stop—it’s your VIP pass to Venice’s most awe-inspiring landmark. Ready to step inside?
Let’s make it happen!
Our St. Mark’s Basilica Ticket Includes:
- Skip-the-Line Entry to St. Mark’s Basilica
- Optional Upgrade to Pala d’Oro Access
- Optional Upgrade to Basilica Terrace for Panoramic Views
- Digital audioguide app for flexible, self-paced exploration
- Meeting point assistance for a smooth start
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AudioDigital audioguide is available in English, French, Italian and German
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TourExplore St. Mark's Basilica at your own pace
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AboutCrown Tours assistance at the meeting point
What You Will See
Discover the hidden gems and fascinating history behind every sparkling detail St. Mark’s Basilica has to offer, all at your own pace.
GREAT FOR THESE TRAVELERS
Whether you’re drawn to Venice for its rich history, stunning art, or architectural wonders, this tour offers a deeper understanding of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
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What Our Customers Say
Authentic stories, expertly guided by Europe’s most trusted tour operator.
As a leading tour operator in Europe, our commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in everything we do, from selecting passionate guides to crafting detailed itineraries that showcase the best of each destination. We make booking straightforward and direct, ensuring you get great value and a seamless experience, guaranteed. At Crown Tours, we don’t just visit places — we tell stories, sharing the rich histories and cultures along the way. Join us to Explore, Discover, and Dream.
About The Trip
FAQs
St. Mark’s Square is best known for its historical significance, architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. It’s home to iconic landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Clock Tower. The square is also famous for its cafés, especially Caffè Florian, which is one of the oldest coffeehouses in the world.
St. Mark’s Square features several notable statues, including the Statue of St. Theodore and the Winged Lion of St. Mark. These statues represent the patron saints of Venice and are situated atop two columns at the entrance to the square.
St. Mark’s Basilica is best known for its stunning architecture and opulent interior. It is renowned for its golden mosaics that cover the walls and ceilings, its intricate marble floors, and the Pala d’Oro, a golden altarpiece adorned with precious gems.
The best time to purchase your St. Mark’s Basilica ticket is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months.
St. Mark’s Basilica is located in St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), which is the main public square in Venice. It is easily accessible by foot or by water transportation.
While it is not mandatory to have a guide inside St. Mark’s Basilica, having one can greatly enhance your experience. A guide can provide valuable insights into the history, architecture and art within the basilica. If you prefer, you can also tour at your own pace with our audioguide and St. Mark’s Basilica tickets to skip the line.
The best time of day to visit St. Mark’s Basilica is either early in the morning when it first opens or later in the afternoon. These times tend to be less crowded, allowing you to enjoy the basilica with fewer people around.
Photography is not allowed inside St. Mark’s Basilica to preserve the artworks and maintain a respectful environment. However, you can take photos in St. Mark’s Square and from the exterior of the basilica. The piazza offers numerous picturesque spots for capturing the basilica’s stunning façade.
There is generally no strict time limit for how long you can stay inside St. Mark’s Basilica. However, during peak times and high tide, there may be restrictions to manage the flow of visitors.
Must-see points of interest inside St. Mark’s Basilica include the golden mosaics, the Pala d’Oro (golden altarpiece), the high altar, and the treasury. Don’t miss the chance to admire the intricate details of the marble floors and the stunning architecture of the basilica’s domes and arches.
No, large bags, backpacks and luggage are not allowed inside St. Mark’s Basilica. There are storage facilities nearby where you can leave your belongings before entering the basilica.
Yes, you can purchase tickets on the day of your visit. However, it is recommended to book in advance to secure your spot and avoid long wait times, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Yes, food and drinks are not allowed inside St. Mark’s Basilica. It is important to respect the sacredness of the site and refrain from eating or drinking inside the basilica.
You will meet your host near Piazza San Marco. The exact meeting point and additional details will be provided in your booking confirmation. Our Crown Tours staff will ensure you receive your ticket and that you have everything you need to start your self-paced tour with our audioguide.
St. Mark’s Basilica requires modest clothing. All visitors must ensure knees, midriff, cleavage and shoulders are covered at all times.
There are thorough security screenings for entry. During the high season, the waiting time in the security check lines may be extended.
The basilica is subject to closure without prior notice due to exceptional religious events.
Tours will continue rain or shine. Our guides will ensure you have an enjoyable experience no matter the forecast.
The tour involves moderate walking, stairs and uneven surfaces, which may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Yes, the tour is suitable for children and families. The engaging stories and breathtaking sights make it an educational and memorable experience for most, and is suited best for children aged six and older.
The audioguide available in English, French, Italian and German.
This activity includes a digital audio guide, and our hosts will provide instructions on downloading it at the meeting point. We recommend bringing your own headphones and ensuring your phone is fully charged to fully immerse yourself in the site’s history and enhance your experience.
Itinerary
For this self-guided activity, you’ll immerse yourself in the majesty of the basilica’s mosaics, architecture, and rich history during every step of your 0.8-kilometer/half-mile journey. Here’s everything you need to know!
Meet at Piazzetta S. Marco - 30100 Venice
Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before your start time. Our Coordinator will be wearing a purple Crown Tours t-shirt/jacket and will be waiting for you under the column with the marble statue of the lion with wings on top. Kindly note that latecomers are not guaranteed access to the tour.
Enter St. Mark’s Basilica
Skip the long lines and enter the Basilica with your pre-booked ticket. Your audioguide will be ready to guide you through the history and hidden treasures of this breathtaking landmark.
Start with the central nave, where the glimmering mosaics tell the story of the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. The light reflecting off the golden tiles creates an ethereal glow that is unforgettable.
The Central Dome
Be sure to check out the Central Dome, where Christ Pantocrator is depicted surrounded by angels and saints. The mosaics and intricate carvings will leave you speechless.
For an extra touch of magic, upgrade your ticket to access Pala d’Oro and/or the Terrace
Want the full experience? Choose our upgraded ticket options to get an up-close look at the famous Pala d’Oro (a golden altarpiece dripping in gemstones), or climb to the terrace for unbeatable views over St. Mark’s Square.
Special Notes
What to bring:
All visitors must present the exact official ID used at the time of booking when entering.
This activity includes a digital audio guide, and our hosts will provide instructions on downloading it at the meeting point. We recommend bringing your own headphones and ensuring your phone is fully charged to fully immerse yourself in the site’s history and enhance your experience.
Attire Recommendations: St. Mark’s Basilica requires modest clothing. All visitors must ensure knees, midriff, cleavage, and shoulders are covered at all times.
Bag Restrictions: No large backpacks or luggage are allowed.
Camera/Photography Restrictions: Photography is not allowed inside St. Mark’s Basilica.
Skip-the-line tickets: Do not include security check lines. During the high season, the waiting time may be extended.
Closures: The basilica is subject to closure without prior notice due to exceptional religious events.
Age and Mobility Recommendations: Suitable for children aged 6 and above. The tour involves light walking, and while the terrain is mostly flat, it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. Kindly note that the basilica has stairs that may be difficult to climb for people with mobility impairment.
Cancellation Policy: Guests may cancel their tickets up to 24 hours prior to their visit for free.