How to Plan Your Venice St Marks Basilica Tour

Venice is known for its magnificent architecture and art, and the St Mark’s Basilica is one of the iconic landmarks that you wouldn’t want to miss. The Basilica stands at the eastern end of Piazza San Marco, and it is a must-visit destination for tourists looking to explore the beauty that Venice has to offer.In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your Venice St Marks Basilica tour.

Overview of the Tour

The St Mark’s Basilica Tour is a 2-hour guided tour of one of Venice’s most famous landmarks. You’ll skip the line and gain admission to the treasury museum of St Mark’s Basilica, the Pala d’Oro, and explore the magnificent basilica without the hassle of waiting in long queues.

What’s Included in the Tour

The St Mark’s Basilica Tour includes the following:

• Official certified guide
• Radio system to hear the guide
• Skip the Line access to the Basilica
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Entrance tickets to the attractions not mentioned in inclusions
• Transportation to/from attractions

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the St Marks Basilica tour is the Columns of San Marco at Piazzetta S. Marco, Venice. Please be present in front of the columns of San Marco in Piazza San Marco to meet your guide.

Highlights of the Tour

The St Mark’s Basilica Tour promises to be an enlightening experience for visitors. You’ll be able to:

Skip the Line

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Venice, the waiting lines to enter the St Mark’s Basilica can be quite long. With this tour, you’ll be able to skip the line and gain access to the basilica without any hassle.

Gain an In-Depth Understanding of the Basilica

The tour guide will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the history and architecture of the basilica. You’ll learn about the elaborate mosaics, the Byzantine design, and the significance of the religious artifacts visible in the basilica.

Museum of St Marks and Pala d’Oro

You’ll also have access to the museum of St Marks and Palazzo D’Oro, where you can admire the breathtaking Byzantine and Gothic art collection.

Enjoy Clear Commentary with Provided Headsets

The provided headsets help you listen to your guide’s commentary while still enjoying 360 views inside the magnificent basilica without any interference.

How to Book the Tour

To book the St Mark’s Basilica tour, please visit the Viatour booking page here. You can also call the Viatour Customer Service team for assistance in making your reservation.

Conclusion

Visiting St Mark’s Basilica is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Venice. With this tour, you’ll get the opportunity to skip the line, gain access to the museum and palace, and fully explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of the basilica. Book the tour today, and experience the magnificence of St Mark’s Basilica first-hand!

The Most Frequently Asked Questions about Venice

Venice is an enchanting city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it’s not surprising that travelers have many questions about the city. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about Venice.

1. Where is Venice?

Venice is located in northern Italy, on the Adriatic Sea. It is the capital of the Veneto region and is situated on a group of 118 small islands that are separated by canals and linked by bridges.

2. How do I get to Venice?

There are several ways to get to Venice, including:- By plane: Venice Marco Polo Airport is the nearest airport, located about 8 miles from the city center. The airport is serviced by many major airlines, and there are shuttle buses and water taxis available to transport you to the city.- By train: The Venice Santa Lucia train station is located in the center of the city and is serviced by trains from all over Europe.- By car: It’s not recommended to drive into Venice as the city is mostly car-free. However, you can drive to the nearby Piazzale Roma parking lot and take a water taxi or walk to the city center.

3. What is the best time to visit Venice?

The best time to visit Venice is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds than during the summer months. However, keep in mind that Venice is a popular tourist destination year-round, so expect crowds regardless of when you visit.

4. What are the top attractions in Venice?

Venice has no shortage of attractions, but some of the top ones include:- St. Mark’s Basilica: One of the most famous and stunning churches in Venice, St. Mark’s Basilica features beautiful mosaics and intricate architecture.- The Grand Canal: Venice’s main waterway, the Grand Canal is lined with beautiful buildings and is the perfect place for a gondola ride.- Doge’s Palace: A stunning palace located in St. Mark’s Square that was once the center of Venetian government.- Rialto Bridge: An iconic bridge that spans the Grand Canal and is a popular spot for photos.

5. What is a gondola ride and how much does it cost?

A gondola ride is a popular activity in Venice that allows you to see the city’s canals from the water. Gondola rides typically last for 30-45 minutes and cost around €80-€120, depending on the time of day and the number of passengers.

6. What should I eat in Venice?

Venice has a unique cuisine that includes seafood, pasta, and traditional Venetian dishes. Some popular dishes include:- Sarde in Saor: A sweet and sour sardine dish that features onions, raisins, and pine nuts.- Risotto al nero di seppia: A squid ink risotto that is a popular Venetian dish.- Cicchetti: Small bites of food (similar to tapas) that are typically served in bars and wine shops.

7. Is Venice sinking?

Yes, Venice is sinking. The city has been sinking for centuries due to natural subsidence, and rising sea levels caused by climate change are exacerbating the problem. However, there are many ongoing projects to protect the city and mitigate the effects of sinking.

8. Is Venice expensive?

Venice can be an expensive city, especially if you are a tourist. However, there are ways to save money, such as avoiding restaurants in touristy areas and opting for more affordable accommodations outside the city center.

9. Are there any festivals or events in Venice?

Yes, Venice is famous for its festivals and events, including:- Carnevale di Venezia: A two-week-long festival that takes place in February and features elaborate masks, costumes, and parades.- Venice Biennale: An international art exhibition that takes place every two years in various locations around the city.- Festa della Sensa: A traditional festival that takes place in May and commemorates Venice’s marriage to the sea.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Venice?

If you are a citizen of a country in the European Union or the Schengen area, you do not need a visa to visit Venice. However, if you are from a country outside of these areas, you may need a visa. Check with the Italian embassy in your country to find out more.

Conclusion

Venice is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Venice or are a seasoned visitor, we hope this blog post has answered some of your most frequently asked questions about the city. Remember to take in the unique atmosphere, eat some delicious Venetian cuisine, and enjoy all the city has to offer.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Venice

Venice is one of the most iconic cities in the world, full of history, culture, and stunning architecture. As a tourist, it can be tough to know where to start exploring this beautiful city. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this guide, we’ll give you a step-by-step breakdown of how to make the most of your time in Venice.

1. Take a Gondola ride

One of the best ways to experience Venice is through its world-famous canals. Take a gondola ride to see the city from a completely different perspective. You’ll glide past historic buildings and under iconic bridges while your gondolier serenades you with traditional songs. It’s a romantic and unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.

2. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. This stunning cathedral is a testament to the city’s rich history and is an architectural marvel. The stunning Byzantine design, intricate mosaics, and beautiful artwork are worth taking the time to appreciate. You can also climb up to the terrace for an unforgettable view of the Piazza San Marco.

3. Explore the Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace is another must-visit attraction in Venice. This impressive palace was once the home of the Doge, the ruler of the Venetian Republic. The palace is full of stunning artwork, including works by Tintoretto and Veronese. The highlight of the palace is the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the Prigioni Nuove (New Prison).

4. Take a walking tour of Venice

Venice is a city that’s best explored on foot. Take a walking tour to see the city’s hidden gems and learn more about its fascinating history. Many tours are available, including food tours, ghost tours, and historical tours.

5. Visit the Rialto Market

The Rialto Market is Venice’s oldest and most famous market. This bustling market is full of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. It’s the perfect place to try some authentic Venetian cuisine and maybe pick up some local souvenirs.

6. Watch a glass-blowing demonstration on Murano

Murano is a small island located just a short boat ride from Venice. It’s known for its exquisite glassblowing and is home to many glassmaking factories. Take a trip to Murano to watch a glassblowing demonstration and learn about this unique art form.

7. Take a day trip to the nearby islands

Venice is surrounded by beautiful islands, each with its own unique charm. Take a day trip to Burano, famous for its colorful houses, or Torcello, where you can visit a beautiful ancient cathedral.

8. Attend a performance at La Fenice

La Fenice is Venice’s famous opera house and is one of the most important cultural institutions in Italy. Attending a performance at La Fenice is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a must-do for any culture lover.

Conclusion

Venice is an enchanting city with so much to see and do. By following this guide, you’ll be able to experience the best that Venice has to offer. From taking a gondola ride to exploring the Doge’s Palace, there’s something for everyone in this magical city. So, book your trip to Venice today and start exploring!