Basilica San Marco, Pala D'oro, Loggia Cavalli Priority Entrance
Active
1h - 2h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Upon booking travellers will receive a confirmation (please do check your Viator/tripadvisor message section) from their designated virtual assistant who will be available 24/7 till the end of the visit.
On the day of your visit, you will be welcomed by a host holding the Golden Ticket flag in the center of St. Mark’s Square.
The host will provide you with the tickets and, if needed, assist you with the audioguide.
Available options
Basilica San Marco, Pala D'oro, Loggia Cavalli Priority Entrance
What's included
Host at the meeting point
Fast Track entrance to the Pala D'oro
Fast Track entrance to the St. Mark's Basilica.
The Dome Of Creation
Audioguide
24/7 virtual assistant
The Narthex
Fast Track entrance to the St. Mark's Museum ( Loggia Dei Cavalli )
The Marangona
The Lion of San Marco
The Tethrarcs
Detailed itinerary
1
The visit starts by crossing the threshold of Porta San Pietro (St. Peter's Door) ('Skip the Line' entrance) and, passing under the splendid Dome of Genesis, where you enter the lower part of St. Mark's Basilica.
2
On entering the church, we are almost overwhelmed by the majesty of the golden mosaics and typical Byzantine art forms that are revealed at first sight. Continuing along the route, you come to the high altar, containing the remains of St. Mark. Behind the high altar is the Pala d'Oro (Golden Pall or Cloth), the world's only intact example of large Gothic goldsmithing.
3
Finally, after walking up the striking Foresti staircase, you enter the Museum. Here you can more closely admire the mosaics, sumptuous Flemish and Medici tapestries, altar frontals, Persian rugs, and the triumphal Quadriga or four-horse carriage used for chariot racing.
To end your experience, as you exit at the Horses Loggia, you will be greeted by the enchanting view of St. Mark's Square.
What's not included
Tickets for the St. Mark's Bell Tower
In-person guide
Headphones
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Holy Place Dress-code, Shoulders and knees have to be covered to enter.
Backpacks and/or luggage exceeding the dimensions of 40 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm are not permitted. Trolleys are strictly prohibited under any circumstances. Security staff may deny entry to visitors carrying backpacks and/or luggage that do not comply with these regulations
Meeting point
On the day of your visit, you will be welcomed by a host holding the Golden Ticket flag in the center of St. Mark’s Square.
Important notes
Upon arrival on the day of your visit, a host displaying the Golden Ticket flag will greet you in the center of St. Mark’s Square.
They will hand you your tickets and offer assistance with the audioguide if required.
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
