Venice St Marks Basilica Express: Highlights Guided Tour

Venice , Italy

Venice St Marks Basilica Express: Highlights Guided Tour

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About this experience

Step inside the heart of Venice and experience St. Mark’s Basilica like never before.
Enter a world of awe, where every mosaic, arch, and marble floor whispers the stories of Venice’s glorious past.

Marvel at the glittering Byzantine mosaics, wander beneath soaring domes, and admire intricate carvings that have inspired visitors for centuries. This isn’t just a church—it’s a living testament to the spirit and grandeur of Venice.

In just one hour, explore the Basilica’s most breathtaking highlights, from its shimmering artwork to its architectural wonders.

As a special bonus, you’ll also receive a ticket for a free demonstration at a traditional Venetian glass factory, which you can visit at your own pace after the tour—witness the incredible art of glassmaking firsthand.

Available options

French Tour

Spanish Tour

English Tour

German Tour

Italian Tour

Portuguese Tour

What's included

Glass Factory Demonstration

Skip-the-line tickets to St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark's Basilica Guided Tour

Headset to hear the guide (for guided tours with more than 7 people)

Host on-site to greet and welcome our guests

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

St. Mark’s Basilica is Venice's most iconic landmark, renowned for its stunning Byzantine architecture and breathtaking golden mosaics. Located in the heart of Piazza San Marco, this majestic church blends history, art, and religious significance. Its intricate design, awe-inspiring domes and rich history make it a must-see for anyone visiting Venice.

Stop 2

Piazza San Marco, also known as St. Mark’s Square, is the heart of Venice, a grand open space surrounded by historic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Known for its stunning architecture, lively cafes, and vibrant atmosphere, this iconic square has been the social and cultural hub of the city for centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into Venice’s rich history and charm.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks

Tips (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Visits inside Saint Mark's Basilica are limited to a maximum of 15–20 minutes, as determined by Basilica authorities.

Please note the importance of arriving on time, as each attraction operates on a strict schedule. Delays could result in missing your tour, and late arrivals cannot be accommodated.

As Saint Mark's Basilica is a religious site, all visitors are required to wear appropriate attire. Both men and women must ensure that their shoulders and knees are covered.

To ensure we can reach you with any updates to your reservation, please provide the correct telephone number, including the country code.

During the summer season, please allow up to two hours to travel from the train station to Saint Mark’s Square, as water taxis are in high demand and delays are common due to heavy crowds.

Basilica tickets are priced at €12 per person. All additional charges are considered administrative costs

The tour runs in all weather conditions. Please note that during certain times of the year, high tide may occur. In that case, raised walkways are set up to allow access and disposable shoe covers can be purchased in front of the entrance.

Meeting point

Your meeting point is under the blue Clock Tower, just by St. Mark’s Basilica and beside Bar Americano. Look out for your host holding a blue flag and wearing a yellow vest — they’ll be ready to welcome you!

Please arrive at least 10 minutes early.

Important notes

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the start time to check in.
Your host will be standing under the Column with the Winged Lion holding a blue flag with the company logo, wearing a yellow vest.

If you chose the audio guide option, please download it in advance using Wi-Fi. It works offline once installed. Headphones are not included, please bring your own. Note: the app may not work on old phones.

The visit inside St.Mark' Basilica lasts about 15-20, according to local regulations.

The price for the St.Mark's Basilica entrance is 12 EUR per person, Doge's Palace tickets are priced at €30 per adult. All additional charges are considered administrative costs.

The tour runs in all weather conditions.
Please note that during certain times of the year, high tide may occur. In that case, raised walkways are set up to allow access and disposable shoe covers can be purchased in front of the entrance.

We kindly ask you to arrive on time, as late arrivals can’t be accommodated or refunded.

For security reasons, large bags and backpacks cannot be taken inside.

Photography and video recording are not allowed inside the Basilica.

Please dress appropriately for a place of worship: shoulders and knees should be covered.

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