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St. Mark's Basilica Tickets

4.3(16.1K Ratings)

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St. Mark's Basilica Tickets






From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Alain Desmarais
CA

Alain

Canada
Jun 2025
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Very knowledgeable guide, jovial and experienced, magnificent historic site, full day, disappointed with the gondola tour, too many gondolas on the canal, extreme traffic and no narrative.
Donald hawkes

Donald

Jun 2025
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Doing these tours in the evening is the best way to see these sites. The crowds were smaller and you get the light show in St Marks. When the glass mosaic tiles in the ceilings are lit up, it's breathtaking. We had a great guide who really looked after us.
Eric Lee Smith
US

Eric

United States
Jun 2025
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Our tour guide, Lorenzo, was fantastic! Extremely knowledgeable and created a setting where the history came back to life. I HIGHLY recommend booking the early morning tour before everything gets busy.
Caitlin Erbacher
AU

Caitlin

Australia
Apr 2025
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Our guide was absolutely wonderful, incredibly knowledgeable about the history of Venetian art, architecture, politics, and commerce. Tickets to both the Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica had already sold out by the time I thought to check, so I'm really glad I was able to see them this way. One tiny little thing - the meet up instructions said that the guide would be holding a particular sign, which they weren't, so I hung back for ages cause I couldn't tell which tour group was mine.
Ilka-Maria Lemke-Seeliger

Ilka-maria

May 2025
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Great experience beyond my expectation. Magnificent ceiling pictures in the Marcus duomo and great rooms in the Doge palace. Preparing with the tickets before the visit was the right thing to do.
JULIE WIGG
GB

Julie

United Kingdom
Apr 2025
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Saint Marks Basilica is absolutely stunning. I have been to Venice a few times but only for the Benalli and have never made it into this church. This time I brought my parents and we did the main sights. It was incredibly busy though, I think the guided tour groups, should be limited to small grouos once in the church. There is just not the room for them. Apart from them, it is absolutely breathtaking, the amount of workmanship and Craft that has gone into this building. Goodness knows how they keep it safe with that level of tourists every day. We did book early, which is advisable as there were no tickets available once you had arrived in Venice. The Doges Palace, had an untied ticket so we could make our own way there when we were ready which I thought was excellent. Once again, such a beautiful building, and very much worth a visit.
Raffaella Menozzi

Raffaella

Mar 2025
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Everything went very well. I was a little worried because I was not familiar with this site and had read in a review that the tickets sold were not valid. Actually just follow the directions and go to pick up the physical tickets at a store near St. Mark's where they give out tickets with a QR code that is then scanned at the turnstiles and works perfectly. The audio guide must be downloaded to your phone. The advice is to download it outside St. Mark's because inside it does not pick up and you cannot use it. Tickets are purchased for a specific time but you can actually get in the entire hour before: our tickets for example were for 10:30 and we were able to validate them as early as 9:45, unexpectedly making up some time
Nicola Perretta
GB

Nicola

United Kingdom
Mar 2025
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Easy to book and then collect the tickets in Venice. St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace were really worth the visit Just make sure the audio guides are working whilst you are collecting tickets as ours for Doge's Palace didn't work and we had to purchase one inside the palace

Top things to do in Venice

St. Mark's Basilica - Home to God & Gold

Located in the heart of St Mark’s Square, the St. Mark's Basilica stands tall as a magnificent example of Byzantine architecture. Revered as a symbol of Venice, the church is breathtaking on the inside as it is on the outside with its awe-inspiring mosaics, and priceless works of art, including the esteemed Pala d'Oro altarpiece. Find the best tickets & tour options, highlights, travel guide and insider tips to explore the best of this landmark effortlessly.

Things to know before buying St. Mark's Basilica tickets

  • Long waiting times at St. Mark's Basilica are the norm often extending to anywhere between 45 minutes to an hour even during the off-season. Plan ahead and buyskip-the-line tickets online in advance. It's a game-changer. The convenience of bypassing the queue outweighs any loss of spontaneity.

  • San Marco Basilica's history, from stolen relics to centuries of legacies, is one gripping tale. Consider aguided tour for an insightful visit, where you can spend more time at the site and learn fascinating stories and lesser-known secrets of this sensational monument from the experts.

  • Be aware that there are additional fees for specific areas within the basilica, such as:
  • Pala d’Oro (€6-8): One of the major highlights of the Basilica is its stunning golden altarpiece behind the main altar. Considered one of the most refined and accomplished works of Byzantine craftsmanship.
  • Treasury (€3-5): Housing religious relics, manuscripts, and precious metals, offering insights into the cultural and religious heritage of Venice and the Basilica.
  • Museum (€7-10, usually included in our Basilica tickets, Terrace optional): Witness history in the sculptures, mosaics, and artworks showcasing the artistic and architectural evolution of St. Mark's Basilica over the centuries.

  • TheSt. Mark's Bell Tower (costs extra €12-15) is one of Venice's beloved and most sold-out highlights, owing to its mesmerizing views. Don't let the climb deter you, there's an elevator for your convenience. The extra Euros seems well worth it for this unique experience. It is closed in adverse weather conditions like strong winds, fog, intense cold, etc.

  • Children under 6 years can enter the Basilica for free.

  • St. Mark's Basilica closes during Sunday morning mass, reopening at 2pm for tourists. Entry is free during mass. The Museum is accessible from 9:30am to 2pm. The tickets are timed so choose wisely; early hours are less crowded. Bright lights illuminate the golden mosaics from 11:30am to 12:30pm for optimal viewing.

  • During busy hours, visiting time inside the Basilica might be limited to around ten minutes, while during low or mid-seasons, you have the freedom to explore for as long as you like.

Which St. Mark's Basilica ticket is best for you?

St Marks Basilica Skip the line Tickets

If you're short on time

Go for: Skip-the-line access
Duration: Flexible

  • Speedy access to St. Mark's Basilica, bypassing queues, enabling efficient exploration without delays.
  • With optional upgrade to access Pala D'Oro and an audio guide, you get a rich understanding of the basilica's significance, enhancing your visit despite time constraints.

Recommended tickets:

  • St. Mark's Basilica Skip-the-Line Tickets
St Marks Basilica Guided Tours

If you wish to explore in-depth

Go for: Guided tours
Duration: Flexible

  • The guides reveal the fascinating history & often-overlooked mysteries of St. Mark's Basilica, explaining the meaning behind its detailed mosaics, sculptures, and artwork.
  • With combined options like the one including the Doge's Palace, you'll enjoy a thorough exploration of Venice's cultural treasures and a deeper connection to the city's heritage.

Recommended tours:

  • Guided Tour of St. Marks Basilica with Priority Entry
  • Absolute Venice - Doge's Palace, St Mark's Basilica & More with Priority Access
St Marks Basilica Exclusive Access

If you want exclusive access

Go for: After hour tours
Duration: 1 hr. 30 min. - 3 hr.

  • Presents a special chance to visit St. Mark's Basilica after regular hours, giving a peaceful and private experience without crowds.
  • Enjoy an expert-led tour by a local English-speaking guide, complete with a headset for detailed insights into the basilica's history and art.

Recommended tickets:

  • St. Mark's Basilica Night Tour with Optional Doge's Palace
St. Mark's Basilica with Gondola Ride

If you're on a budget

Go for: Combo tickets
Duration: 2 hours

  • Choosing the combo ticket enables budget-conscious travelers to save by bundling attractions together, with several seasonal discounts as an added bonus.
  • Pair a basilica tour with another must-do Venetian experience- a guided gondola ride, ensuring memorable experiences without overspending.

Recommended tickets:

Exploring St. Mark's Basilica

St Marks Basilica - Pala d'Oro
St Marks Basilica - St. Mark's Museum
St. Mark’s Campanile
St Marks Basilica - The Treasury
St Marks Basilica - Tomb of St. Mark
St Marks Basilica - The Domes
Gold Mosaics
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Pala d'Oro

The Pala d’Oro is an exquisite structure made of Byzantine enamel. It is globally recognized to be one of the most sophisticated and accomplished works with both of its sides decked with thousands of jewels and pearls.

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St. Mark's Museum

The museum showcases several objects and artifacts that are historically related to the heritage of St. Mark's Basilica. The collection includes an incredible curation of liturgies, Persian carpets, broken fragments of mosaic, golden tesserae, 78 bones of different Saints, and many other relics.

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St. Mark’s Campanile

A 99-meter bell tower located in Piazza San Marco, is an iconic symbol of Venice. With a simple structure featuring a square shaft made of fluted brick, it culminates in a pyramidal spire. You can buy lift tickets for panoramic views of Venice and its lagoons from the top.

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The Treasury

The treasury at St. Mark's Basilica houses of the most special collections of Byzantine portable objects. You will find reliquaries, liturgical vessels, and vestments used during religious ceremonies, many of them Constantinople.

Tomb of St. Mark

The putative corpse of St Mark is held at St. Mark's Basilica. The corpse was stolen and smuggled all the way from Egypt, by Venetian merchants. The main intention of constructing the basilica was to serve as a tomb for St Mark.

The Domes

St. Mark's Basilica has 5 cupolas — the Narthex, the Western dome, the Central dome, the Northern dome, and the Southern dome —all decked with golden mosaics that depict scenes from the Bible. The best place to view these domes is from the galleries near the museum.

Gold Mosaics

Real gold adorns the mosaics, outlining biblical scenes and historical events, creating a warm glow that illuminates the entire Basilica when sunlight filters through.

Plan your visit to St. Mark's Basilica

St Marks Basilica - Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday: 9.30am to 5:15pm
Last Entry: 4:45pm
Sunday: 2pm to 5.15pm, with the exception of Museum – Loggia dei Cavalli, which can be visited between 9:30am to 2pm.

Mass times

Daily: 8am to 7:30pm

Best time to visit

The best times to visit St. Mark's Basilica are early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Try visiting right after opening or closer to closing time for a quieter experience. Weekdays may be less busy than weekends or peak seasons like summer.

St. Mark's Basilica opening hours
St Marks Basilica - Location

Address: Basilica di San Marco, San Marco, 328, 30124 Venice
Find on maps

Getting there

  • By vaporetto: Lines available: 1, 5.1 (direct), 2 (direct)
    Closest stop: S. Marco-San Zaccaria "F"
  • By train: Take a train to Santa Lucia Station, vaporetto available from the train station.
  • By bus: ATVO (fastest), ACTV Route 5
    Closest stop: Piazzale Roma
  • By car: Access through Piazzale Roma
    Parking: Available at Municipal Garage, Garage San Marco, Tronchetto, or mainland parking in Mestre/Marghera
  • By ship: Closest stops - S. Basilio (Zattere), Maritime Station, Riva dei Sette Martiri (Castello district)
Directions to St. Mark's Basilica
St Marks Basilica - Entrances
  • Door of Saint Clement: The main entrance of the Basilica, known for its Romanesque portal and often crowded with tourists.
  • Door of Flowers: Situated on the northern side, adorned with a lovely Romanesque bas-relief of the Nativity scene, mainly used for prayers, masses and services, typically less crowded.
  • Door of Saint Peter: Second door to the left of the main entrance, offers expedited access for skip-the-line ticket holders with shorter queues.
Which St. Mark's Basilica entrance to use?
St Marks Basilica - Facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Luggage storage
  • Gift shops
  • Audio guides
  • Information desks
  • Accessibility - wheelchair access, stairlift & lift, contact points for visitors with special needs
Plan your visit to St. Mark's Basilica
St. Mark's Basilica Rules
  • Wear appropriate attire: no shorts, skirts above the knee, sleeveless tops, or hats for men.
  • No photography or videography is allowed inside St. Mark's Basilica. Some areas might allow it without flash, but for the most part it's forbidden.
  • Maintain quiet, respectful conduct. Avoid loud noise or disruptive behavior.
  • No backpacks allowed inside; free lockers at Ateneo San Basso, to the right of the basilica.
  • Eating and drinking are prohibited inside the basilica.
  • Expect security screenings similar to airports.
  • Some sections may be closed during certain times or events.
Strict dress code at St. Mark's Basilica
St Marks Basilica - Eat
  • Osteria Enoteca Ai Artisti: This cozy ​osteria offers traditional Venetian cuisine and a wide selection of wines.
  • Trattoria da Remigio: A rustic and casual ​trattoria with outdoor seating, serving hearty and flavorful seafood dishes.
  • Al Nono Risorto: A ​family-run restaurant known for its delicious pizza and pasta dishes.
  • Bacaro Quebrado: A small and charming ​bar offering traditional cicchetti (small plates) and local wine.
  • Al Timon: Located in a quiet canal, this ​hidden gem serves fresh and delicious seafood dishes.
St Marks Basilica - Stay
  • Budget
    Hotel Le Isole (​350 m), Hotel Casa Linger (​850 m), Hotel Iris Venice (​1.3 km)
  • Mid-Range
    Hotel Bonvecchiati (​400 m), Hotel Al Codega (​450 m), Hotel Flora (​550 m)
  • Luxury
    Hotel Danieli (​300 m), The Gritti Palace (​700 m)
St Marks Basilica - Stay
  • Avoid midday visits in high season due to heavy crowd density, despite the impressive appearance of the gilded mosaics at that hour.
  • St. Mark's Basilica comprises multiple sections, including the basilica itself, the bell tower, a museum, and the Balcony of Horses. Allocate enough time to explore each area thoroughly or prioritize based on your interests.
  • Nearby streets offer more reasonably priced dining options than the restaurants around the square. Do grab a drink or brunch at the historic Caffe Florian or lunch at Ai Do Leoni.
  • St. Mark's Square has long struggled with the massive flock of pigeons. Feeding pigeons is prohibited, and violating this rule may result in a fine of up to €200.
  • St. Mark’s Square is infamous for scamsters. Watch out for suspicious offers and keep your belonging near and dear.
More insider tips

Beyond St. Mark's Basilica

Doge's Palace

Doge’s Palace

Erstwhile place of residence of the Doges’ of Venice, the highest authority in the Republic of Venice for over a thousand years, the Doge’s Palace has been a public museum since 1923.

Book Doge's Palace tickets
Museo Correr

Museo Correr

One of the 11 civic museums in Venice, the Museo Correr houses valuable works of art from various eras, such as rare manuscripts from the 17th century, portraits of Venetian aristocrats, and topographical maps of 15th-century explorers.

Book Correr Museum tickets
St. Mark's Basilica- Gondola ride

Venice Gondola

Experience Venice's romantic charm on a gondola ride, guided by skilled gondoliers through the city's iconic canals. It's more than sightseeing; it's a journey into the city's history, passing ancient bridges and majestic palazzos.

Book your Venice Gondola ride

Frequently asked questions about St. Mark's Basilica tickets

How much does a St. Mark's Basilica ticket cost?

The cost of tickets varies depending on the type of ticket and tour. Your basic ​skip-the-line entry tickets start from €9, while ​guided tours can cost upwards of €32.

How to book tickets to the St. Mark's Basilica tickets?

You have the option to book St. Mark's Basilica tickets online or get them at the venue. Booking online offers benefits like choosing your preferred experience, avoiding queues, and potential discounts. Some online tickets also provide combined access to other attractions like the Doge's Palace for a complete experience.

Do I need tickets to visit St. Mark's Basilica?

Yes, to visit St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, tickets are required. It's a popular attraction, and having tickets beforehand is advisable to skip the lines, especially if you have limited time in Venice. You can get St. Mark’s Basilica skip-the-line tickets and tours in advance to avoid waiting in line on-site.

Why should I book St. Mark's Basilica tickets online?

There are several benefits to booking tickets online.

  • Skip the lines: Especially during peak seasons, the basilica can attract long queues. Booking tickets online allows you to bypass these lines and save time during your visit.
    - Guaranteed entry: Walk-in tickets may not be available, particularly during busy periods. Booking online ensures your entry to the basilica is secured.
  • Choose from various options: Online booking enables you to select the type of experience that suits you best, whether it's a guided tour or a combo ticket for access to other attractions in Venice.
  • Discounts & offers: Online bookings often come with exclusive discounts and special offers that may not be available at the ticket office.
  • Customer service: With online booking, you have access to 24/7 customer service via phone, email, or chat, allowing you to address any concerns promptly.
Are there skip-the-line entry tickets to the Basilica?

Yes, there are ​skip-the-line entry tickets available for St. Mark's Basilica. These tickets allow visitors to bypass the long queues at the entrance and gain direct access to the basilica, saving valuable time during their visit. Here are some of our popular options, some with multilingual tours:
Skip-the-Line Tickets to St. Mark's Basilica
Skip-the-Line Tickets to St. Mark's Basilica with Audio Guide
Combo (Save 5%): St. Mark’s Basilica + St. Mark’s Bell Tower Tickets

Are guided tours available at the St. Mark's Basilica?

Yes, ​guided tours are available at St. Mark's Basilica. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the basilica. Guided tours offer a more immersive experience and allow visitors to learn about the various aspects of this iconic landmark. You can extend the tour to other Venetian attractions with combo options:
Guided Tour of St. Marks Basilica with Priority Entry
St. Mark's Basilica Guided Tour with Gondola Ride
Absolute Venice - Doge's Palace, St Mark's Basilica & More with Priority Access

What is the cancellation policy for St. Mark's Basilica tickets?

The cancellation policy for St. Mark's Basilica tickets may vary depending on where you purchase them. It's essential to review the terms and conditions before buying to understand the cancellation policy.

Can I get a discount on St. Mark's Basilica tickets?

Discounted tickets may be available depending upon seasonal offers or promotions. Entry is free for children under 6 years. Check with the ticket at the time of checkout for details.

What are some of the highlights of St. Mark's Basilica?

Highlights of St. Mark's Basilica include the Pala d'Oro, the Treasury, the crypt, the transept chapels, and the magnificent domes.

Is there recommended route for a self guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica?

The best route to follow would start at the atrium. Start from atop and climb up the stairs to the Loggia – Museo di San Marco (San Marco Museum). After exploring the museum, make your way down and amble through the Treasury, to view the Pala d’Oro and sarcophagus of St. Mark. After this, follow the north aisle and exit the church. Once you’re outside, spend some time looking at the extraordinary exterior facades of St. Mark’s Basilica.

What are the timings of St. Mark's Basilica?

The ​opening hours of St. Mark's Basilica are from 9:30am to 5:15pm, daily, except on Sundays, when the St.Mark's Museum is open from 9:30am; the Basilica only opens at 2pm.

How long do you need to spend at St. Mark's Basilica?

You will need at least one hour to the basilica. Visitors can spend longer if they wish to fully appreciate the details and history.

Where is St. Mark's Basilica located?

St. Mark's Basilica is ​located in the St. Mark's Square, the official address is P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy.

Is photography permitted inside St. Mark’s Basilica?

Unfortunately, no. Photography and filming is strictly prohibited inside the Basilica .

Is St. Mark's Basilica wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the basilica is accessible to visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair users.

Can I visit St. Mark's Basilica with kids?

Yes, you can certainly visit St. Mark's Basilica with kids. However, there are a few things to consider to ensure that the visit is enjoyable for both you and your children:
Prepare them: Explain what to expect, dress code, and why the basilica is significant.
Choose quiet times: Visit early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds.
Engage them: Point out interesting details, use kid-friendly guides, and encourage questions.
Take breaks: Prevent fatigue by resting and hydrating periodically.
Be respectful: Remind them to be quiet, not touch artwork, and follow rules.
Make it fun: Turn it into a scavenger hunt to find specific artwork or architectural features, history trivia game, or rewarding them with a treat afterward.

Is it worth visiting St. Mark's Basilica?

Yes, St. Mark's Basilica is a must-visit attraction thanks to its historical significance, stunning architecture, and impressive artwork.

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History of St. Mark's Basilica

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.