Piazza San Marco, Venice: Address, Piazza San Marco Reviews: 4.5/5
Piazza San Marco
Piazza San Marco
4.5
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas
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About
It is said that Napoleon called San Marco "the drawing room of Europe." And it is a breathtakingly beautiful place. But the square has long been a lure for massive numbers of pigeons, drawn by the massive numbers of tourists who readily feed them. While the tourists happily post for photos amid the flock, there are concerns that the birds' presence--and what they leave behind--will damage the centuries old architecture and art work.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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from $42.58
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Top ways to experience Piazza San Marco
The area
Neighborhood: San Marco
The most famous sestiere (district) in Venice has one of the world's most famous squares, St. Mark's (Piazza San Marco). Anchored on one end by the basilica, clustered around it are restaurants, museums, shops, orchestras playing in the square, pigeons, the grand pink Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), the soaring campanile bell tower, an astrological clock tower, plus gorgeous cafes and restaurants like Florian and Quadri. Piazza San Marco is beloved by Venetians themselves. They book a table anytime, which offers a buffer from the fray. This grand outdoor drawing room attracts Venetians for a stroll too, especially late in the afternoon when the hoards of daytrippers thin out. It's simply a grand place to meet.
Best nearby
Restaurants
1,496 within 3 miles

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Pasticceria Da Bonifacio
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Osteria del Lovo
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507 ft$$ - $$$ • Italian • Seafood • Mediterranean

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Attractions
897 within 6 miles
Festa Della Sensa
16 ftCultural Events
Su e Zo Per I Ponti Di Venezia
16 ftSporting Events

Procuratie Vecchie
49
111 ftHistoric Sites • Architectural Buildings

Procuratie nuove - ex Palazzo reale
45
111 ftHistoric Sites • Architectural Buildings

Ala Napoleonica
44
114 ftArchitectural Buildings
Galerie Bordas - Venezia
126 ftArt Galleries
Statua di Orfeo di Antonio Canova
1
146 ftHistoric Sites • Monuments & Statues
Statua di Euridice di Antonio Canova
1
146 ftHistoric Sites • Monuments & Statues

Campanile di San Marco
9,171
147 ftHistoric Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Palazzo della Zecca
8
151 ftHistoric Sites • Architectural Buildings
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
37,205 reviews
Excellent
23,414
Very good
10,060
Average
2,996
Poor
508
Terrible
224
Phil Larkin
34 contributions
Apr 2022
OK, so it is going to be busy but some things you have to do! We think that the crowds are less than in previous years, probably due to COVID restrictions. So, although it was busy, it was very manageable.
Actually, my review is for gentleman( and ladies) of a certain age who may get caught short and need the loo. We could not find it even though there are many public bathrooms throughout Venice and all serviced. It is situated just off the Piazza San Marco towards the exit at Museum Correr, to the left and set back behnd the place where all the guided tours begin. It is usually between 50 cents and 2 euros depending which one you use but here it is €1.50. Perfectly usable and clean. Generally impressed given the numbers of people passing through and experiences in other cities. Well done, Venice!
Actually, my review is for gentleman( and ladies) of a certain age who may get caught short and need the loo. We could not find it even though there are many public bathrooms throughout Venice and all serviced. It is situated just off the Piazza San Marco towards the exit at Museum Correr, to the left and set back behnd the place where all the guided tours begin. It is usually between 50 cents and 2 euros depending which one you use but here it is €1.50. Perfectly usable and clean. Generally impressed given the numbers of people passing through and experiences in other cities. Well done, Venice!
Written April 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Robert O
Rotterdam, The Netherlands3,143 contributions
Sep 2021
For centuries the center of Venice, 'la piazza' as the Venetians call it, is now on the to-do list of thousands of tourists who flock to the square on a daily basis. New rules ensure that most people do not stay for a long time. It is not longer allowed to sit on steps, stairs or even the pavement. Guards are ensuring the rules are enforced. The only alternative is to move on or to get a seat on one of the (expensive) restaurant terraces. Another big difference with the past is there are no pigeons anymore, a big improvement.
It takes some time to discern the different styles of the historic buildings that line the square. The basilica completed in 1092 stands out, as well as the 98m high clocktower (a 1912 reconstruction of the original one). The administrative buildings are perhaps less interesting, but together they give the square its impressive stature. Personally I liked the gothic style Porta della Carta (1443) with its beautiful decorations.
Overall a captivating experience, but take your time and do some prep work before visiting.
It takes some time to discern the different styles of the historic buildings that line the square. The basilica completed in 1092 stands out, as well as the 98m high clocktower (a 1912 reconstruction of the original one). The administrative buildings are perhaps less interesting, but together they give the square its impressive stature. Personally I liked the gothic style Porta della Carta (1443) with its beautiful decorations.
Overall a captivating experience, but take your time and do some prep work before visiting.
Written September 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Glasgow222
92 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
The star attraction of Venice. The basilica is just stunning as is the whole square. I wouldn't pay to avoid the waiting line as it moves very quickly. It's not a huge cathedral so you see everything pretty quickly but it's not to be missed. There is a no sitting rule in the square which most people completely ignore, I'm not sure why but there are signs and guards moving people on. The Palace is also a must. The tacky stalls are what need to be moved in my opinion, they seem out of place in this very special location. If possible, visit early morning or later in the afternoon. Last entry is currently 5.15pm but this will get later for July and August I'm sure. There is security at the entrance to the Basilica and dress code so be sure to cover up! Don't be tempted by food or drinks here unless you have a very big budget!!
Written June 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
David J
23 contributions
Dec 2019
A big tourist spot and a must visit if visiting Venice, stunning arcitecture we were lucky to have arrived a week before the big flooding and the weather was warm and dry.
Some expensive shops in the square and avoid the coffee shops with the orkistra playing unless you want to pay €25 +for a coffee, they do try and pull you in.. Look after your wallet And avoid con men with roses who try and hand over roses, if you take one they then pile you with more then ask you to pay for them all..... Complete con men......but enjoy the area there are some good sights in the area worth visiting.
Some expensive shops in the square and avoid the coffee shops with the orkistra playing unless you want to pay €25 +for a coffee, they do try and pull you in.. Look after your wallet And avoid con men with roses who try and hand over roses, if you take one they then pile you with more then ask you to pay for them all..... Complete con men......but enjoy the area there are some good sights in the area worth visiting.
Written January 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ryan S
Cardiff, UK164 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
The top attraction in Venice doesn’t disappoint. A fantastic piazza to see. A 1 hour and 30 mins walk from the train station so i recommend getting a vaporetto up the grand canal. Dont bother visiting the campanile, the basilica or doges palace as they were very busy, even during coronavirus. But i highly recommend coming to the piazza it is the best in italy.
Written September 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
YoYoGabba
Brisbane, Australia376 contributions
Nov 2021 • Family
The square is surrounded by amazing architecture and buildings. There is a sea of people throughout the day and at times this is overwhelming and takes away the specialness.
Many shops are at the base of the buildings that surround the square. Great to walk past and window shop.
Lovely to see that they have set up people playing the piano, violins playing classical music. Adds to the experience.
Many shops are at the base of the buildings that surround the square. Great to walk past and window shop.
Lovely to see that they have set up people playing the piano, violins playing classical music. Adds to the experience.
Written June 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
RenataLRocha
Calgary, Canada93 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
This place is magical, mind you there is a lot of tourists taking photos but throughout the day there is musicians playing classical musical and it takes you to a place that all those people around you just doesn’t matter. My favourite part is at night after 10 pm the music still playing on all the restaurants around the square but not so crowded, I called the Venice worm whole where time stops and you forget what where you supposed go. I loved!!!!
Written June 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Sarah L
London, UK2,510 contributions
Feb 2022
Everything that Venice has to offer is either in or around St. Mark's Piazza. During Carnevale, the square is filled with people in different costumes and performances. Crowds fill due to the basilica, campanile and Doge's Palace in the vicinity. A great place to people watch but not to eat at as the prices will make your eyes water.
Written February 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Yvette Diedricks
Johannesburg, South Africa56 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
I now understand why Napoleon called it “the world’s most beautiful drawing room”. The piazza is absolutely breathtaking.
I absolutely love architecture, so naturally I was filled with so many different emotions during my visit.
It was a beautiful summer afternoon. Various bands were playing live music. Patrons were indulging in good food, bubbles and aperol.
The pigeons kept the staff on their toes🤣🤣🤣
We took a water bus to other nearby locations. It was an experience on its own.
Venice would not be Venice without the Gondola. The gondola is an elegant vessel that allows you breathtaking views along narrow channels on shallow water♥️
I absolutely love architecture, so naturally I was filled with so many different emotions during my visit.
It was a beautiful summer afternoon. Various bands were playing live music. Patrons were indulging in good food, bubbles and aperol.
The pigeons kept the staff on their toes🤣🤣🤣
We took a water bus to other nearby locations. It was an experience on its own.
Venice would not be Venice without the Gondola. The gondola is an elegant vessel that allows you breathtaking views along narrow channels on shallow water♥️
Written June 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Wally J
Charleston, SC30 contributions
Dec 2019
We were here in December during the highest predicted tides for month. Many had told us to cancel our trip but we did not encounter any flooding in the city even though it rained the entire time. We even got to see snow flurries. We had a wonderful uncrowded visit the pigeons were not even out on the day we visited. Just beware of when southerly winds and astronomical tides are predicted to co occur. In summary it probably floods less than Charleston SC.
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
justjanica
Tigard, OR9 contributions
I heard that musicians play in the square at night. Does that always happen, or only on some nights? How can I find out more?
Glasgow222
92 contributions
We were treated to the most incredible cello music one afternoon, the man was so good he almost moved me to tears. There are a lot of buskers around Venice and they seem to be top notch. I've only ever known of organised music in the square very occasionally in the evening and it does get very quiet once the basilica and palace close. Venice has a tourist office but it is the kind of place you want to just wander and see what you find.
Hi,I’m planing to go to Venecia next week,I would like to know if still flooding
Sue
Bournemouth, UK224 contributions
I agree I would reschedule if possible. Stunning in the dry sunshine. Would not be the same in the cold, wet and damp. Save your money and visit in better times. Pop along to Lake Garda too. Stunning towns surround - especially the north.
Lisa B
Los Angeles, CA7 contributions
Hi there,
I am staying in St Marks square for New Years 2019. Do I need to buy tickets at all for the Square or is it open to the public? Can anyone recommend places to eat after the fireworks?
GrahamWalters
Andover, UK16 contributions
The square itself is open to the public, but there are charges for St Marks Tower, and the Doges palace which is 25euro pp
Expect to pay over 20euro for a coffee in the square, beyond the square is cheaper [but not much]
Fabio V
Vercelli, Italy100 contributions
Vorrei dei consigli su cosa vedere a Venezia in una gita di un giorno. Partendo da Piazzale Roma, quali linee utilizzare con il vaporetto e cosa andare a vedere.
C.T
189 contributions
Come hanno già consigliato evita i mezzi pubblici,sicuramente c'è fila da fare e tempo prezioso sprecato,riguardo le cose da vedere dipende dai gusti,se ti piacciono i musei devi sceglierne al massimo 2, perché per entrare sicuramente c'è fila,ed è già tanto se riesci a vederne 2, oppure girare per i vicoli,fino ad arrivare a Piazza San Marco,basta seguire le indicazioni. Se arrivi dalla stazione o da piazzale Roma,ti do alcuni consigli: 1 utilizza i bagni pubblici (tutti rigorosamente a pagamento )che sono in zona perché una volta entrato nel labirinto dei vicoli veneziani,di bagni neanche l'ombra,e tieni presente che il tragitto stazione- piazzale Roma a piedi circa 30-40 circa minuti solo andata, 2 portati bottigliette acqua sufficienti alle tue esigenze se non vuoi spendere un patrimonio, fontane pubbliche inesistenti, 3 occhio ai borseggiatori, 4 scarpe comodissime,durante il tragitto abbiamo trovato solo, casualmente, una piccola area di sosta con 3 panchine ,e con un po' di fortuna siamo riusciti a sederci per mangiare un panino.....dopo questa esperienza ho capito perché i turisti arrivati in Piazza San Marco bivaccano sui gradini della Piazza,mangiando e bevendo,utilizzando questo bellissimo posto come una grande area ristoro con le conseguenze negative ben note a tutti.Venezia è bella,ma bisogna fornire maggiori sevizi di qualità ai turisti e a questo aggiungere più controlli.
Fabio V
Vercelli, Italy100 contributions
Faremo una gita di una giornata a Venezia. Arriveremo a Piazzale Roma con l'autobus. Mi interesserebbe vedere la basilica di San Marco e la basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. Volevo sapere se c'è il biglietto salta-fila per la basilica di San Marco. Ci sono musei a pagamento? Si può usare il vaporetto per raggiungere le due basiliche? Quali linee bisogna prendere? E' meglio il biglietto giornaliero?
Marco T
6 contributions
Non si pagano, per San Marco nel week end potresti fare un po di coda. Musei a pagamento consiglio palazzo ducale. Quanto al vaporetto calcola che ogni corsa costa 7 euro e vale 70 minuti. Quindi consiglierei l'andata in vaporetto facendo il giro per il Canal grande(esiste anche quello per giudecca molto meno scenografico) fermandosi alla fermata prima della Madonna della salute , visitare la chiesa e poi proseguire per San Marco. Ritorno a piedi che poi è la cosa che ti godi di più. Passeggiare per venezia è bellissimo, perdersi a venezia ancora meglio
joyce g
St. Petersburg, FL3 contributions
I’m taking my grad daughter there fir only one day as we return from a cruise. We leave Marco Polo airport at 6:00 AM so I need to know how long it takes to get from hotel to airport and a Goodman to get there.
missamorgan10
Caerphilly County, UK371 contributions
We travels from the airport to our hotel on the grand canal and it took 55 minutes . Our hotel was a 15mins walk from saint Marco square. We were central to saint Marco. Hope this helps.
Grannypammy
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK6 contributions
We will be calling into Venice in April, my husband is in a wheelchair, how accessible is Venice. Would we be better booking a local guide
mother123458
Ottawa, Canada70 contributions
I think maybe is better to hire a local guide or going in a gondola to many places. Some places are difficult to go in a wheelchair.
Jayne M
Douglas, UK11 contributions
Hi heading there march 11th for 4 nights 5 days. We haven’t booked any excursions or anything or even transfers. Breakfast is included and we’re staying near st marks square. Do you think 1.500euros would be enough for excursions, meals, drinks and transfers? Thanks
Michael Lodey-Young
Stoke-on-Trent, UK59 contributions
Hi we stayed only 5 mins walk from St Marks square and we had a fantastic time the only thing we didn't do was a gondola ride as we had more fun trying all the back streets. We had amazing food and only spent about £450 in total including going up the tower, the palace and church.
Jayne M
Douglas, UK11 contributions
Cheapest transfer from airport to st marks square please?
karl gasparini
Calgary, Canada53 contributions
Take a bus to the train station, then there is a water bus just outside the entrance to the station.
Frequently Asked Questions about Piazza San Marco
- Piazza San Marco admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost $42.85, while a popular guided tour starts around $6.99 per person. See all 355 Piazza San Marco tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- Piazza San Marco can be crowded, so we recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. See all 355 Piazza San Marco tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Piazza San Marco:
- Skip the Line: Doge's Palace Ticket & Guide Book (From $42.85)
- Legendary Venice St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge's Palace (From $91.28)
- Murano, Burano and Torcello Half-Day Sightseeing Tour (From $26.85)
- Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride (From $48.33)
- St. Mark's Basilica Skip-the-Line Guided Tour - T3 (From $41.88)
- Hotels near Piazza San Marco:
- (0.01 mi) CASA CORTE DELLE ANCORE
- (0.03 mi) Saint Mark's Basilica At 200 Meters
- (0.03 mi) Best Windows
- (0.03 mi) Fenice Apartments In Venice - Not Just A Stay
- (0.04 mi) Appartamenti A San Marco
- Restaurants near Piazza San Marco:
- (0.00 mi) Guna Restaurant
- (0.01 mi) Caffe Aurora
- (0.01 mi) Ristorante Quadri
- (0.01 mi) Grancaffe Quadri
- (0.02 mi) Caffe Lavena
- Attractions near Piazza San Marco:
- (0.01 mi) Russian Guide in Venice Lucia Gogu
- (0.01 mi) Venice Revisited
- (0.02 mi) San Marco 4995
- (0.02 mi) Procuratie Vecchie
- (0.02 mi) Procuratie nuove - ex Palazzo reale