Think of Venice and the first place that comes to mind will almost certainly be St Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). People have been flocking here to eat, drink, talk, worship and trade since the 10th century, and it remains a magnet for locals and visitors alike.The richly decorated St Mark’s Basilica dominates one side of the square, facing the grand Gothic dome of the Doge’s Palace and the iconic Campanile (bell tower) rising high above the crowds. Climb to the top for wonderful views of ancient Venice spread out before you like an intricately detailed map, or stand in the square below to hear the bronze figures strike the hour on the historic Torre dell’Orologio bells.Over in the south east corner of the square you will find two columns marking the traditional entrance to the city, topped with statues of St Mark and St Theodore looking out over the Venice Lagoon. The lapping of the water is punctuated by the sound of pigeons attempting to tap unwary tourists for food, but don’t be fooled by their plaintive cooing – these days it’s forbidden to feed them here.The piazza is a lively open space all year round, although watch out for high tides during the winter months when it sometimes floods. At other times of the year, this is the place to find the café culture alive and well, although prices may be significantly higher in this tourist mecca than in less high-profile parts of the city. Nevertheless, nothing beats relaxing over a cappuccino in the shadow of some of the finest architectural landmarks in the world, or watching the sun set over the Grand Canal with a cool beer in your hand. To the locals, it’s simply El Piazza, and it’s not every day you get to live like a Venetian.
St. Mark's Square Tours and Activities
Visit St. Mark's Square
History & culture
See all 492 activitiesOpens in new tabVenetian Islands Half-Day Boat Tour: Murano, Burano & Torcello
Shopping & fashion
See all 14 activitiesOpens in new tabVenetian Islands Half-Day Boat Tour: Murano, Burano & Torcello
Classes & workshops
See all 50 activitiesOpens in new tabMurano Glass Factory Tour & Hands-On Workshop
Attractions
See all 14 activitiesOpens in new tabVenice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary
Private & custom tours
See all 248 activitiesOpens in new tabMurano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat
Reviews of St. Mark's Square
2/5 - Disappointing
Too busy - don't know how you avoid the cruise ship crowds!
Popular places to visit
St Mark's Campanile
Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views from the top of this landmark bell tower, where Galileo once made his name.
Procuratie Nuove
A historic building looming over the arcades of St. Mark’s Square, this is a necessary stop during your visit to the area.
St. Mark's Basilica
The jewel in Venice’s crown is known as the “Church of Gold” for its gilded spires that tower over St Mark’s Square.
Museo Correr
You can study the exhibits at Museo Correr, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Venice. Stroll along the marina or visit the churches in the area.
Doge's Palace
The walls of this grand palace are steeped in the history of Venice’s powerful and wealthy ruling classes.
Bridge of Sighs
Arching high over the water, linking a palace with a prison, is a spectacular bridge steeped in local legends.