Saint Mark’s Basilica Hosted Skip-the-Line Entry with Audioguide
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Begin your visit in the world-famous St. Mark’s Square, the lively heart of Venice for centuries. From here, your host will welcome you and provide access to the Basilica along with a curated audioguide app to accompany your experience.
Step inside Saint Mark’s Basilica and explore at your own pace with the audioguide. Marvel at the golden mosaics that cover its domes and walls, each one telling stories of Venice’s faith, culture, and history. Learn how this sacred space grew from a private chapel into one of the most iconic symbols of the city, blending Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance artistry.
With the audioguide’s insightful narration, you will uncover fascinating legends and details that bring the Basilica to life without the need for a live guide. Choose the option that suits your interest best, whether it is a visit to the Basilica’s main area, access to the Loggia dei Cavalli Terrace, entry to the Museum, or the full experience including the Pala d’Oro.
Available options
Basilica & Terrace Audio Tour
Description: Hosted entry to St. Mark’s Basilica with access to the Museum and Loggia dei Cavalli Terrace with a curated audio tour<br/>Duration: 50 minutes<br/>Exclusion: Pala d'Oro is not included in this option.
Saint Mark’s Basilica Hosted Skip-the-Line Entry with Audioguide
Description: Hosted Entrance and Audio Tour Visit inside St. Mark’s Basilica<br/>Duration: 25 minutes<br/>Exclusions: Terrace, Museum and Pala d'Oro are not included in this option.
What's included
Curated audioguide accessible through a smartphone app
Free Wi-Fi available before the tour begins
On-site staff assistance at the meeting point
Audio Tour of the Museum, Terrace and Pala d'Oro (if the option is selected)
Skip-the-line Hosted entry to Saint Mark’s Basilica
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start your experience in the lively heart of Venice, St. Mark’s Square. This world-famous piazza is surrounded by beautiful architecture and centuries of history. Your guide will introduce the stories, traditions, and events that have shaped this iconic gathering place.
2
Your guide will explain the meaning behind the artwork and share how the church became a powerful symbol of Venice’s past. Learn about remarkable features such as the golden altarpiece and discover details that most visitors overlook.
What's not included
Food and Drinks
Headphones
Live Guide
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tickets are issued under the name provided at booking. This must match the valid photo ID shown at entry. If the names do not match, entry can be refused.
For Saint Mark's Basilica admission, anyone aged 11 and above requires an adult ticket.
Skip-the-line tickets do not bypass the security screening. During busy periods, waiting times may still occur.
As an active place of worship, the Basilica may close or limit access without warning due to religious ceremonies, high tide, or crowd management.
A strict dress code is in place for Saint Mark’s Basilica. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
From 1 July 2025, Basilica-only entry will cost €12. Optional upgrades: Museum or Pala d’Oro €24; Museum and Pala d’Oro €36; Campanile €18; Doge’s Palace €30; Extended Museum Pass €40. The remaining portion of the ticket price supports operational services such as audioguides, on-site hosts, or certified guides with audio equipment.
Meeting point
Meet us in St. Mark’s Square near Caffè Florian. Just steps away, you’ll see the Leo Pizzo jewelry store. Our team will be in front of the arches outside Leo Pizzo, wearing purple t-shirts, ready to welcome you.
Important notes
Meet us in St. Mark’s Square near Caffè Florian. Just steps away, you’ll see the Leo Pizzo jewelry store. Our team will be in front of the arches outside Leo Pizzo, wearing purple t-shirts, ready to welcome you.
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
