Venice St. Mark's Basilica Private Guided Catholic Tour

Venice , Italy

Venice St. Mark's Basilica Private Guided Catholic Tour

Active

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private tour will take you on a discovery of St. Mark's Basilica, one of Venice's most sacred and famous sites. Accompanied by an experienced Catholic guide, you will explore the thousand-year history of this splendid building, marvelling at its artistic and religious treasures. A unique experience that combines art, faith and tradition in one of the most powerful symbols of Christianity.

Available options

Venice St. Mark's Basilica Private Guided Catholic Tour

What's included

Tickets

Experienced Catholic Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The tour will begin with a visit to St. Mark's Basilica, one of the most famous churches in the world, known for its golden mosaics and majestic Byzantine architecture. You will learn about the history of St. Mark, the patron saint of Venice, whose relic is kept in the high altar. Your knowledgeable Catholic guide will tell you why the Basilica came into being as a symbol of the power of the Republic of Venice and explain the details of the famous mosaics , which tell biblical stories and sacred legends. The beauty of the floors and domes, covered with gold and precious stones, will leave you breathless, creating an atmosphere of sacredness and awe.

Stop 2

You will continue the tour by descending into the Crypt of the Basilica, an underground place that exudes a special aura of mystery and sacredness. The crypt, built to house the relics of saints and to serve as a place of prayer and meditation, is rich in Christian symbolism. Your Catholic guide will take you through the rooms that were once reserved for monks and priests, revealing fascinating stories about religious life in Venice in centuries past. You will also discover the tombs of the ancient doges, historic governors of the city, who are buried here alongside saints. The unique and silent atmosphere of the crypt will allow you to reflect on the depth of Christian faith in Venetian history.

Stop 3

Finally, the tour focuses on the St. Mark's Altarpiece, a unique work of art depicting the patron saint with a beauty that transcends time. You will also explore the Treasury of the Basilica, a collection of sacred relics, liturgical vestments and precious objects that were kept and venerated inside the Basilica. Your guide will tell you how these relics were brought to Venice from distant lands, such as Constantinople, and how they helped strengthen the devotion of Venetians over the centuries. Every corner of the Basilica, from the Golden Pall to the Museum, is a testament to the deep spirituality that has permeated the life of this extraordinary city.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting for you in front of the Basilica with a sign with your name on it.

About Venice

Venice is a unique and enchanting city built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Known for its canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for its rich history, art, and culture. The city offers a romantic and timeless atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions

St. Mark's Basilica

A stunning Byzantine cathedral known for its opulent design, golden mosaics, and historical significance. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free entry, €3 for museum and treasury

Doge's Palace

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Doge's Palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government. It offers a glimpse into the city's political and cultural history.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €25 for standard ticket, €30 for Secret Itineraries Tour

Rialto Bridge

The oldest and most famous of Venice's four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city.

Architecture 30 minutes Free

Grand Canal

The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal is lined with beautiful palaces, churches, and historic buildings. A vaporetto ride along the canal offers stunning views.

Nature/Scenic 30-60 minutes €7.50 for a vaporetto ticket

Murano

An island famous for its glass-making tradition. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique glass souvenirs.

Cultural/Historical Half-day Free to explore, €10 for museum

Burano

A colorful island known for its lace-making tradition and picturesque houses. Burano is a charming and photogenic destination.

Cultural/Scenic Half-day Free to explore, €5 for lace museum

Must-Try Local Dishes

Risotto al Nero di Seppia

A risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a distinctive black color and rich, briny flavor.

Main Course Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.

Sarde in Saor

Sweet and sour sardines marinated with onions, raisins, pine nuts, and vinegar.

Appetizer Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.

Bigoli in Salsa

Pasta with a sauce made from anchovies, onions, and breadcrumbs.

Main Course Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.

Frito Misto

A mix of fried seafood and vegetables, including shrimp, squid, and zucchini.

Appetizer Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians.

Popular Activities

Kayaking in the canals Cycling on Lido di Venezia Hiking in the Venetian Lagoon Sunbathing on Lido di Venezia Enjoying a gondola ride Visiting a spa or wellness center Attending a concert or opera Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. The city is vibrant with events and festivals, and the temperatures are comfortable for exploring.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken in local areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Venice is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, and acqua alta (high water) events can disrupt travel plans.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Use official taxis and ticket vendors
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Venice Marco Polo Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Santa Lucia Railway Station

By bus

Piazzale Roma

Getting around

Public transport

The vaporetto is the main public transport system in Venice. It operates on fixed routes and is the most convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps

Rentals

Neighborhoods

San Marco Dorsoduro Cannaregio Castello

Day trips

Burano and Murano

10-45 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day

Visit the colorful island of Burano and the glass-making island of Murano for a unique and picturesque day trip.

Lido di Venezia

20 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day

A long, narrow island between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, known for its beaches, the Venice Film Festival, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Padua (Padova)

40 km (25 miles) • Half-day to full day

A charming city known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and the famous Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto.

Festivals

Venice Carnival • February or March (dates vary) Venice Film Festival • Late August to early September Festa del Redentore • Third weekend of July

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more authentic experience
Try local specialties and dishes, and ask locals for recommendations
Use a map or GPS to navigate the intricate streets and canals, as Venice can be easy to get lost in
Be prepared for acqua alta (high water) events, especially from October to January, and check forecasts and plan accordingly