San Giorgio Maggiore: Art, Architecture & Breathtaking Views
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape the crowds and step into a world of art, architecture, and breathtaking views on the serene island of San Giorgio Maggiore.
Leave the hustle of St. Mark’s Square behind and cross the lagoon to this hidden gem. Our journey begins with a short vaporetto ride to Palladio’s stunning church, where we’ll admire masterpieces by Tintoretto before taking an elevator to the bell tower for a spectacular 360° view of Venice.
Next, we’ll explore a temporary Murano glass exhibition in a historic setting, offering a rare chance to admire contemporary glass art.
At the end of the tour, you can return to Venice or continue to Giudecca, known for its artistic spaces and local charm.
This private tour is perfect for lovers of art, architecture, and photography, offering a peaceful and enriching Venetian experience away from the crowds.
Available options
San Giorgio Maggiore: Art, Architecture & Breathtaking Views
Pickup included
What's included
Pickup from the hotel or any other location in the historical center of Venice
Local top-rated guide (licensed tour guide - registration number 06000001)
Detailed itinerary
1
Meeting Point – Riva degli Schiavoni: We’ll meet near St. Mark’s Square, at Riva degli Schiavoni, where we’ll catch a vaporetto to the serene island of San Giorgio Maggiore.
2
San Giorgio Maggiore Church: We’ll explore the Palladian church, a true architectural masterpiece with its harmonious classical proportions, impressive facade, and magnificent interior. Inside, we’ll admire Tintoretto’s Last Supper, a dramatic and masterful interpretation of the biblical scene.
3
Bell Tower – The Best View in Venice: An elevator ride takes us to the top of the San Giorgio Maggiore bell tower, offering a breathtaking, crowd-free view over St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal, and the Venetian Lagoon. This is one of the best panoramic spots in Venice!
4
Contemporary Glass Exhibition : Our next stop is a temporary exhibition dedicated to Murano glass, set in a historical venue on the island. Discover innovative glass artworks and gain insights into the evolving craft of Venetian glassmakers.
5
Return to Venice or Continue to Giudecca: After the tour, you can return to Venice by vaporetto or, if you prefer, continue to Giudecca island for a deeper exploration of Venice’s hidden corners.
What's not included
Gratuities are at your discretion
Water Bus Tickets: ACTV water bus tickets are not included. Tickets can be purchased on-site
Ticket for the churchtower elevator (8 euro). Reductions may apply.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
ES
Important information
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Meeting point
Equestrian Monument in front of Hotel Londra Palace, walking distance from St. Mark's square
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
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