Saint Mark's Basilica and Guided City Walking Tour in Venice
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Skip-the-line access to Saint Mark’s Basilica and a guided walk through Venice’s most iconic and hidden spots.
Discover golden mosaics, rare Byzantine art, and centuries of history with an expert guide. From Marco Polo’s neighborhood to the majestic squares of Venice, enjoy a perfect balance of culture, art, and storytelling—without the hassle.
Available options
English Guided Tour
St Mark's Church Tour at 10:45: The Saint Marks Basilica tour takes place at 10:45am after the walking tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a walking tour from 09:00 to 10:30, followed by a visit to the St Marks Basilica at 10:45.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the St Marks tour
French Guided Tour
St Mark's Church Tour at 10:45: The Saint Marks Basilica tour takes place at 10:45am after the walking tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a walking tour from 09:00 to 10:30, followed by a visit to the St Marks Basilica at 10:45.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the St Marks tour
Spanish Guided Tour
St Mark's Church Tour at 10:45: The Saint Marks Basilica tour takes place at 10:45am after the walking tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a walking tour from 09:00 to 10:30, followed by a visit to the St Marks Basilica at 10:45.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the St Marks tour
German Guided Tour
St Mark's Church Tour at 10:45: The Saint Marks Basilica tour takes place at 10:45am after the walking tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a walking tour from 09:00 to 10:30, followed by a visit to the St Marks Basilica at 10:45.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the St Marks tour
What's included
Official certified guide
City Guided Tour
Radio system to hear the guide
Tickets to the Museum of St Mark's Bascilica
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your journey in Venice’s iconic Piazza San Marco, where your expert guide will reveal the secrets behind Saint Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Bell Tower, and the majestic Procuratie.
Stroll through centuries of history as you visit Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo—Venice’s “Pantheon”—and admire the Gothic grandeur of the Great School of Charity. Pass by the area once home to Marco Polo, and follow the tales of his adventurous legacy.
Conclude the walking portion of your tour along the vibrant Mercerie, Venice’s historic shopping street, as it guides you back toward San Marco.
This part of the tour strikes a perfect balance between history, architecture, and local insight, ideal for discovering Venice beyond the postcard.
2
Walk your way to the entrance of the Cathedral and skip the line into Saint Mark’s Basilica—Venice’s golden crown. Inside this breathtaking masterpiece of Byzantine art, your professional guide will explain the meaning behind the shimmering gold mosaics, marble inlays, and richly decorated floors.
You'll marvel at biblical scenes from the Old Testament as you stand beneath the glittering domes of the basilica’s atrium. Learn the history and unique details of this ancient spiritual center as the guide unveils the secrets of its creation.
The tour ends at the museum, with the option to explore further at your own pace. It’s a hassle-free, non-overwhelming visit offering a perfect blend of art, faith, and Venetian splendor.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transportation to/from attractions
Food and drinks
Entrance tickets to the attractions not mentioned in inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Unfortunately, wheelchairs and strollers cannot be accommodated on this tour. All customers must be able to autonomously walk, climb and get off the steps.
Photography is not allowed only inside the Cathedral.
The tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of religious functions (in these cases it can be rearranged or refunded).
Please wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved.
Please wear clothes that cover your shoulders and are knee-length to access St Mark’s Basilica, otherwise you might not be allowed in.
For security reasons sacks, bags or knapsacks are not allowed inside the Basilica.
The storage service is free of charge but please allow sufficient time to do so.
This tour does not include entrance to the main sites and will completely take place outside (only external comments of the various sites will be provided)
Please note that the tour requires a minimum number of two guests to run.
Please note that if you arrive after the tour start time you will not be able to join and will not be refunded or have your tour rescheduled.
Subject to favourable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund..
There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements, in the event of this occurring you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
Please note that the 09:00 AM tour includes the guided city walking tour. The Saint Marks Basilica guided tour will take place at 10:45 AM from the same meeting point. Make sure to return to the meeting location on time for the Saint Marks Basilica tour
All customers must be able to autonomously walk, climb and get off the steps.
Meeting point
Please meet your guide in front of the wooden souvenir kiosk, just behind the Correr Museum in Piazza San Marco, next to the entrance to the post office.
Important notes
The entrance tickets will be delivered by the guide or our representative at the meeting point prior to the start of the tour.
Please follow the instructions to the meeting point as on the voucher.
Please note that the 09:00 AM tour includes the guided city walking tour. The Saint Marks Basilica guided tour will take place at 10:45 AM from the same meeting point. Make sure to return to the meeting location on time for the Saint Marks Basilica tour
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
$164
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
