Exclusive Private Tour of Saint Mark's Basilica After Hours

Venice , Italy

Exclusive Private Tour of Saint Mark's Basilica After Hours

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(70 reviews)

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About this experience

The Exclusive Private Tour of Saint Mark's Basilica After Hours is an incredibly special tour of this iconic Church, after it has officially closed its doors to the general public. The crowds will have gone, and the custodians will reopen the doors exclusively for you. This privileged access tour will leave you as the only witnesses of the Golden Church of Venice in the magic of night. In your private group, a professional expert guide will lead you on an incredibly intimate journey through the magic of the Basilica as evening has fallen and it is only for your eyes to witness. In the quiet of night, its incredible splendour will shine as the thousands of square feet of golden mosaics will light up in an astounding light show. Get up close to the Pala d'Oro, and descend into the mysterious crypt. Again, only for you to see and experience! This is guaranteed to be a truly unique, dramatic, once in a life-time experience, that you will surely never forget.

Available options

Private St Mark's After Hours

Wednesday May 25th

What's included

Exclusive After Hours access to Saint Mark's Basilica

Get up close to the Pala d’Oro and descend into the crypt

Private Tour with a top levels professional expert guide

Only tour allowed in the Basilica after hours!

See a magnificent light show on the thousands of square feet of golden mosaics

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Exclusive Private Tour of Saint Mark's Basilica After Hours is an incredibly special tour of this iconic Church after it has officially closed its doors to the general public. Begin by meeting your guide in Piazza San Marco, Venice's most iconic square. Learn all about its history and architecture as you feel the quieting energy of the city as it slows and darkens into the evening hours.

Stop 2

Now, the crowds will have gone, and the custodians will reopen the Basilica's doors exclusively for you. This privileged access tour will leave you as the only witnesses of the Golden Church of Venice in the magic of night. In your private group, a professional expert guide will lead you on an incredibly intimate journey through the magic of the Basilica as evening has fallen and it is only for your eyes to witness. In the quiet of night, its incredible splendour will shine as the thousands of square feet of golden mosaics will light up in an astounding light show. Again, only for you to see. This is guaranteed to be a truly unique, dramatic, once in a life-time experience, that you will surely never forget.

An original, valid photo ID is required for entry to St. Mark's Basilica. Photocopies are not accepted.

What's not included

gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

62 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please Note: due to these unprecedented times and unexpected regulation changes, some areas may not be accessible if the venue can not guarantee social distancing for that part of the tour.

On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.

Please note that tour starting times are subject to change based on ticket availability

Backpacks and large bags are not permitted inside the Basilica.

Photography is not allowed inside the Basilica.

An original, valid photo ID is required for entry to St. Mark's Basilica. Photocopies are not accepted.

Meeting point

The meeting point is In front of Museo Correr in Piazza San Marco, right across from the Basilica of San Marco. Your guide will be holding a LivTours sign.

Important notes

An original, valid photo ID is required for entry to St. Mark's Basilica. Photocopies are not accepted.

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.

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