Venice Saint Mark's Basilica Guided Tour with Priority Access
Active
45m
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your adventure begins as you meet your knowledgeable guide near the famed Piazza San Marco, often called the "drawing room of Europe," which is the principal public square of Venice and a masterpiece of urban design.
From there, prepare to be dazzled as you step inside and behold a shimmering expanse of golden mosaics that decorate the ceilings and walls, each telling a story of the church's rich heritage.
Throughout the tour, your guide will entertain you with tales of the Basilica's past, from its humble origins as a simple chapel to its current grandeur as one of the most stunning religious sites in the world. Learn about the treasures within, including the golden altarpiece, as you explore the first floor of the Basilica. Marvel at its intricate details and exquisite beauty, which blend Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance styles in a harmonious symphony of art and architecture.
Take advantage of this opportunity to uncover the secrets of one of Venice's most precious jewels.
Available options
Guided Tour
Guided Tour<br/>Duration: 50 minutes
English Guided Tour
Service: Guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica <br/>Duration: 30 minutes<br/>Inclusions: Skip-the-line ticket for the Basilica (central interior only)
Guided tour of the Basilica (central interior only)
Small Group Tour
Small Group tour up to 15 PAX<br/>Duration: 50 minutes
Semi-private Guided Tour
Semi-private<br/>Duration: 50 minutes
What's included
Professional licensed tour guide
Panoramic views of Venice
Audio-receiver device and headphones to hear better the tour guide
Exclusive terrace access
Reserved Skip-the-line entry ticket to St. Mark's Basilica
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your adventure begins as you meet your knowledgeable guide near the famed Piazza San Marco, often called the "drawing room of Europe," which is the principal public square of Venice and a masterpiece of urban design.
2
Stop 2
Prepare to be dazzled as you step inside and behold a shimmering expanse of golden mosaics that decorate the ceilings and walls, each telling a story of the church's rich heritage.
3
From this vantage point, you'll marvel at the panoramic views of Venice, with its labyrinthine canals and iconic landmarks stretching out before you. Gaze upon the bustling Piazza San Marco below, where centuries of stories unfold against the backdrop of majestic facades.
As you explore the terrace, our knowledgeable guide will illuminate the significance of each architectural detail, from the intricate mosaics adorning the basilica's facade to the towering campanile that stands as a symbol of Venetian pride.
What's not included
Food and Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
2.5
2 reviews
5★
0
4★
0
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
3.8
20 reviews
5★
11
4★
3
3★
1
2★
0
1★
5
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tickets are nominative; bring a valid ID matching the booking name. Entry may be refused without it.
Basilica time limits apply: 20 minutes for the main area, plus 10 minutes for the Pala d’Oro. Museum and Terrace visit duration depends on the service booked.
Visitors aged 11+ (Basilica-only) or 6+ (Doge’s Palace) must book an adult ticket.
The Basilica may close or restrict access due to religious events or high tides.
From July 1, 2025: Basilica €12; Museum or Pala d’Oro €24; both €36; Campanile €18; Doge’s Palace €30; Museum Pass €40. Remaining value covers operational costs, including the audioguide and hosting or certified guiding services.
Meeting point
Meet us in St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). Walk towards Caffè Florian, the historic café on the side of the square. Our meeting point is just past it in the open square. Look for our team in purple “Crown Tours” t-shirts — easy to spot and ready to welcome you.
Important notes
Meet us in St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco).
Once you’re in the square, walk towards Caffè Florian, the famous historic café along the side of the square. Our meeting point is in the open square, just past Caffè Florian. Look for our team wearing purple “Crown Tours” t-shirts — we’ll be clearly visible and ready to welcome you.
Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Bring the valid ID used at booking; entry may be refused without it.
A dress code applies inside the Basilica: shoulders and knees must be covered.
Visitors aged 11+ (Basilica-only) or 6+ (with Doge’s Palace access) must book an adult ticket.
Basilica time limits: 20 minutes for the main area, plus 10 minutes for the Pala d’Oro. Museum and Terrace duration depends on your booked service.
All guests are subject to security checks. Large bags, food, drinks, glass items, and alcohol are not allowed. No storage is available.
Access may be limited due to religious events, high tides, or seasonal rules. Additional areas are included only if selected when booking.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
