Top 8 Activities To Do In San Marco - 2024

Standing in Piazza San Marco Venice feels like stepping into a living museum. Napoleon once called it "The Drawing Room of Europe," and after countless visits guiding tourists through this magnificent square, I couldn't agree more.

As Venice's most famous gathering place, Saint Mark's Square Venice captures everything magical about this floating city. From the golden mosaics of St. Mark's Basilica to the historic Doge's Palace, this square packs more must-see attractions than any other spot in Venice.

We at VeniceXplorer have helped thousands of visitors navigate these iconic sights. Whether you're planning one day in Venice or a longer stay, our curated guide covers the top 8 things to do in this remarkable square, complete with insider tips, best viewing spots, and practical information about tickets and timing.

1. Visit St. Mark's Basilica's Golden Interior

When we first step into St. Mark's Basilica, the sheer magnificence of over 8,000 square meters of golden mosaics takes our breath away and we've witnessed countless visitors stand in awe of this architectural masterpiece.

St. Mark's Basilica History and Architecture

Originally built in the 9th century, the current basilica dates from 1063-1094, showcasing an impressive blend of Byzantine and Gothic styles. The structure features five magnificent domes, with the outer cupolas cleverly designed to appear taller through an ingenious architectural trick - they're actually hollow wooden frames covered in lead, floating above the inner cupolas.

What makes this basilica truly unique is its modest height compared to other European cathedrals. We find this architectural choice fascinating, as it was influenced by Venice's unique foundation on water and the original dock that once reflected the basilica's facade.

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Best Time to Visit St. Mark's Basilica

The most spectacular time to visit is during the illumination of the mosaics, which occurs from 11:30 AM to 12:45 PM on weekdays. We've found that early morning visits, around 8:00 AM, offer the most peaceful experience before the crowds arrive.

Pro Tips from VeniceXplorer:

• Dress appropriately: Shoulders and knees must be covered
• Visit on weekdays to avoid cruise ship crowds
• Book skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid queues that can extend up to an hour
• Plan for at least 45 minutes to explore, though during peak times, visits might be limited to 10 minutes

The basilica's interior showcases an intricate play of light and gold, where thousands of glass tesserae create a mesmerizing effect. The most fascinating aspect is how the artisans used different angles of inclination when setting the gold and silver foils into the glass, creating a dynamic interplay with light.

2. Explore the Magnificent Doge's Palace

Looking across from St. Mark's Basilica, we at veniceXplorer are always struck by the magnificent Doge's Palace, which historian Luigi Serra called "the most gorgeous residence of a ruler ever planned by the human mind".

Doge's Palace Historical Significance

As Venice's premier tour guides, we've witnessed countless visitors marvel at this symbol of Venetian power. From the 1200s to the 1600s, Venice dominated Mediterranean trade, and this palace served as both the residence of the Doge and the beating heart of the republic. The first doge began his rule in 697, establishing a tradition of leadership that would continue through a complex election process using secret ballots.

Doge's Palace Tour Highlights

Our favorite highlights include:

• The Golden Staircase (Scala d'Oro): A masterpiece that visitors would climb to reach the upper floors
• The Great Council Chamber: An impressive room spanning 53 meters long and 25 meters wide, capable of seating 2,000 people
• The Giants' Staircase: Where the doge made ceremonial appearances

The palace's three-sided complex showcases stunning architectural features, including an arched white stone colonnade at ground level and a loggia crowned with gothic tracery. The artistic treasures within include works by renowned masters like Jacopo Tintoretto, Paolo Veronese, and Giovanni Bellini.

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Pro Tips from VeniceXplorer:

• Visit early morning or evening to avoid crowds
• Book skip-the-line tickets to save 30-60 minutes during peak season
• Allow 1.5-2 hours for a comprehensive visit 

The palace is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (November-March) and 9:00 AM to 19:00 PM (April-October), with last admission one hour before closing.

3. Climb the Campanile for Panoramic Views

Rising majestically above Piazza San Marco, we at VeniceXplorer consider the Campanile one of Venice's most commanding landmarks. At 98.6 meters (323 feet), it's the tallest structure in Venice, affectionately known as "el paròn de casa" (the master of the house).

Campanile History and Facts

The bell tower's story spans over a millennium, beginning in the 9th century as a watchtower to protect Venice's harbor. After several reconstructions due to fires and lightning strikes, the tower dramatically collapsed in 1902. We find it remarkable that the city rebuilt it exactly as it was, completing the reconstruction in 1912.

The tower's distinctive features include:

• A golden weathervane in the form of Archangel Gabriel at its peak
• Five historic bells, each serving a unique purpose during the Republic of Venice
• A simple square brick shaft, 12 meters wide on each side

Campanile Viewing Experience

From our experience guiding visitors, the panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking. On clear days, you can see:

• The entire Venetian lagoon
• Distant islands like Murano and Giudecca
• The majestic Alps on the horizon 

The viewing deck offers a complete 360-degree perspective, and there's no time limit for visitors to enjoy the spectacular views. We especially appreciate that modern elevators, installed in 1962, whisk visitors to the top in just 30 seconds.

Campanile Opening Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:

• Daily: 9:30 AM - 9:15 PM
• Last admission: 8:45 PM 

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Pro Tips from VeniceXplorer:

• Book skip-the-line access to avoid queues that can be particularly long in peak season
• Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions
• Be prepared for closure during adverse weather conditions 

A fascinating historical note: in 1609, Galileo Galilei used this very tower to demonstrate his telescope to the Doge. Today, we recommend timing your visit during spring for optimal viewing conditions with clear skies.

4. Discover the Bridge of Sighs

Walking through Piazza San Marco, we at VeniceXplorer often pause to admire the elegant Bridge of Sighs, an iconic symbol that perfectly captures both Venice's romantic present and its mysterious past.

Bridge of Sighs Historical Background

This architectural masterpiece, completed in 1614, stands as a testament to Venetian engineering and artistry. Built by Antonio Contino, nephew of the Rialto Bridge's architect, the bridge spans 11 meters across the Rio di Palazzo. What fascinates us most is its dual nature - while today it's considered one of Venice's most romantic spots, it originally served a much grimmer purpose, connecting the Doge's Palace to the New Prison.

The bridge's name, Ponte dei Sospiri, comes from the sighs of prisoners catching their final glimpse of Venice through its small, barred windows before imprisonment. The structure itself is a masterpiece of white Istrian limestone, featuring ornate decorations including 20 mask heads on its bottom arch.

Bridge of Sighs Viewing Points

From our years of guiding visitors through Venice, we've identified the best vantage points:

• Ponte della Paglia: The most accessible viewpoint, located right next to St. Mark's Square
• Ponte de Canonica: Our preferred spot for photographers, offering fewer crowds and stunning lagoon backdrop views 

During peak season, expect to share these viewing spots with fellow admirers - the bridge receives over 12 million visitors annually.

Bridge of Sighs Photography Tips

As Venice's experienced guides, we recommend these photography timelines:

Optimal Photography Hours:

• Early Morning: 8:30-11:00 AM
• Evening Golden Hour: 6:00-8:00 PM

For the perfect shot, we suggest visiting about an hour before sunset. The soft light during this time beautifully illuminates the white limestone, creating stunning photographs. For a truly unique perspective, consider a gondola ride underneath - though at €80 for a 30-minute daytime ride or €100 for a 40-minute evening journey, it's a premium experience - Our recommendation about Gondola rides HERE

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Pro Tips from VeniceXplorer:

• Visit during low season (avoiding June-August) for clearer shots
• Position yourself on Ponte della Paglia where backlighting perfectly illuminates the bridge
• Frame your shot to include the traditional gondolas passing beneath

For our visitors interested in crossing the bridge, access is available through the Doge's Palace tours. As your guides at VeniceXplorer, we can help arrange these visits, including the fascinating Secret Itineraries tour that provides exclusive access to areas normally closed to the public.

5. Experience Caffe Florian's Historic Ambiance

Nestled beneath the historic arcades of Piazza San Marco, we at VeniceXplorer consider Caffè Florian a living museum of Venetian culture. As Italy's oldest café in continuous operation since 1720, this elegant establishment has witnessed over three centuries of Venice's history.

Caffe Florian's Rich Heritage

Originally named "Alla Venezia Trionfante" (Triumphant Venice), the café quickly became known as Florian's after its founder, Floriano Francesconi. What fascinates us most is its role in Venetian society - it was the only coffee house that allowed women, attracting notable figures like Casanova. The café's illustrious guest list includes Lord Byron, Marcel Proust, and Charles Dickens.

The interior showcases six magnificently adorned halls, each telling its own story through ornate chandeliers, gilded mirrors, and marble tabletops. The walls feature stunning 19th-century paintings and intricate wood paneling, creating an atmosphere that transports visitors back to Venice's golden age.

Caffe Florian Menu Highlights

We recommend trying their signature Florian coffee, expertly prepared with espresso, cream, and chocolate. Their menu extends beyond coffee to include:

• Traditional Venetian pastries and cornetti
• Elegant tea service with fine selections
• Light meals including tramezzini and panini
• Artisanal desserts and ice cream

Caffe Florian Prices and Tips

As your Venice guides, we believe transparency about pricing helps set proper expectations:

• Espresso at the bar: €6.50
• Cappuccino: €10.50
• Traditional tea service: €35
• Sandwiches: €11.50-18

Pro Tips from VeniceXplorer:

• Visit during early morning to avoid crowds and orchestra charges
• Consider standing at the bar for reduced prices.
• The orchestra typically plays in the evening, adding a €10 music charge.
• Choose between the elegant indoor rooms or outdoor seating under the arcades 

The experience at Florian isn't just about coffee - it's about immersing yourself in what Venetians call "andemo da Florian" (let's meet at Florian's), a tradition that's continued for almost three centuries. While prices might seem steep, remember you're paying for more than just refreshments - you're participating in a living piece of Venetian history.

6. Marvel at Torre dell'Orologio

At the heart of Piazza San Marco Venice stands the magnificent Torre dell'Orologio, a masterpiece of early Renaissance engineering that we at VeniceXplorer never tire of showcasing to our visitors. This remarkable timekeeper has been Venice's official chronometer since 1858.

Clock Tower Architecture

The tower's design, attributed to Mauro Codussi, represents the perfect blend of function and artistry. Built between 1496 and 1499, the structure rises through five distinct sections, each telling its own story. The tower's most striking feature is its astronomical clock face, displaying an intricate system of concentric dials in blue and gold.

Key architectural elements include:

• The two-story monumental rounded archway leading to Merceria
• The great clock face with zodiac signs dating from the 1490s
• The famous bronze Moors who strike the hours, cast in 1494
• The original bell, signed by Simeone Campanato from the Arsenal in 1497 

Clock Tower Guided Tours

We're particularly excited to offer intimate guided tours of this remarkable structure. Tours are limited to 12 people maximum and last approximately 50 minutes. During the tour, visitors climb through five fascinating levels, each revealing different aspects of this mechanical marvel.

The highlight of our tour is the spectacular rooftop terrace, where guests can get close to the famous Moors and enjoy breathtaking views of Venice and its lagoon. Until 1999, a clockmaker and his family actually lived inside the tower to maintain the mechanism.

Clock Tower Visiting Information

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Tours are available in three languages:

• English: Monday through Sunday at various times
• Italian: Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
• French: Select days throughout the week

Pro Tips from VeniceXplorer:

• Book in advance through our website as spaces are limited
• Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time
• Note that children under 6 are not permitted
• The tour involves steep, narrow stairs and isn't recommended for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia 

Your ticket includes complimentary access to the Museo Correr, making it an excellent value for exploring more of Piazza San Marco's treasures.

7. Visit Museo Correr

We're excited to introduce you to the treasure trove that is Museo Correr, housed in the magnificent Napoleonic Wing of Piazza San Marco Venice. Named after Teodoro Correr, a passionate Venetian nobleman who donated his extensive collection to the city in 1830, this museum offers a fascinating journey through Venice's rich history.

Museo Correr Collections

The museum's collections span multiple centuries and showcase Venice's evolution from a maritime republic to a cultural powerhouse. In the first floor's 20 rooms, we explore exhibits that brilliantly illustrate Venetian life and culture during the Republic's political grandeur . Among the most remarkable collections is:

• An extraordinary set of Venetian coins dating from 820 to 1797
• Rare navigational instruments and models of Venetian ships
• The famous bird's-eye view of Venice by Jacopo de' Barbari, dated "MD" 

Museo Correr Exhibition Highlights

On the second floor, we guide visitors through an outstanding art collection covering the earliest days of Venetian painting to the 16th century. Notable masterpieces include:

• Flemish paintings acquired during Venice's strong trade relations with Northern Europe
• The Adoration of the Magi by Pieter Brueghel the Younger, featuring intricate details visible only with a magnifying glass
• Works from the Ferrara School that significantly influenced Venetian artists 

Museo Correr Practical Information

Opening Hours:

• April 1 - October 31: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM (last entry 6:00 PM) 38
• November 1 - March 31: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM) 38

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we recommend visiting early morning to avoid crowds. Your ticket includes access to the National Archeological Museum and Marciana National Library, making it an excellent value for exploring multiple attractions in Piazza San Marco Venice.

Pro Tips from VeniceXplorer:

• Book tickets through our website to secure the best rates
• Allow at least 2 hours to fully appreciate the collections
• Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience
• Don't miss the Royal Rooms, which require a specialized guide (maximum 10 people per group)

8. Photograph the Square's Famous Pigeons

The iconic pigeons of Piazza San Marco have been an integral part of Venice's charm for centuries, becoming what we at VeniceXplorer consider one of the square's most photographed attractions. These Columba livia domestica have long been known as some of the tamest birds around, offering visitors a rare opportunity to connect with wildlife in an urban setting.

Best Photo Spots

While photographing these feathered residents, we've identified prime locations around the square:

• In front of St. Mark's Basilica, where pigeons often perch along the ornate facade
• Near the waterfront area called Riva degli Schiavoni, which offers stunning backdrops
• Around the historic lamp posts and columns, where pigeons frequently gather 

Important Note: While photographing, remember that feeding the pigeons is now prohibited. This regulation aims to protect Venice's precious monuments, as cleaning and repairing damage caused by pigeons previously cost each Venetian taxpayer 275 euros annually.

Photography Tips

For capturing the perfect shot, we recommend:

• Camera Settings:
  • Fast shutter speed to freeze birds in motion
  • Wide-angle lens for context shots
  • Medium aperture (f/8-f/11) for adequate depth of field

The key is capturing the natural interaction between these birds and the square's architecture. We've observed them perched along roofs, atop columns, and around the stained-glass windows of the Basilica, creating compelling compositional opportunities.

Best Times for Photography

Based on our extensive experience guiding photographers through Venice, here's when to capture the best shots:

Time of Day	Advantages	Lighting Conditions
Early Morning (Sunrise)	Fewer tourists, best light	Soft, diffused light
Golden Hour (Sunset)	Dramatic lighting, active birds	Warm, golden tones

 

The absence of crowds during early morning hours creates a more relaxed environment for photography, allowing you to focus on composition and timing. The gentle morning light is particularly flattering for capturing details and expressions.

We've found that visiting during these "weird photography hours" - around sunrise and sunset - offers the most rewarding experiences. The sun rising over the canal creates magical lighting conditions, especially as it emerges from behind the cathedral later in the morning.

Remember that Venice welcomes over a million tourists monthly, so timing is crucial for capturing unobstructed shots. While the days of creating "pigeon jackets" - a once-popular social media pose with birds perched all over visitors - are gone, these resilient creatures still add character and life to your photographs of this historic square.

Our recommended Photography tour in Venice

Conclusion

Piazza San Marco, the heart of Venice, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and beauty. From marveling at the intricate mosaics of St. Mark's Basilica to enjoying the serene charm of the Campanile’s panoramic views, each activity reveals the square's unique allure. Whether you're indulging in authentic Italian coffee at historic cafes or exploring the secrets of the Doge’s Palace, Piazza San Marco promises unforgettable experiences.

Make your journey even more seamless by using our interactive map of Venice, designed to guide you effortlessly through the city's iconic landmarks and hidden gems. And don't forget to purchase your tickets directly from our website for exclusive deals and easy access to Venice’s top attractions.

Start planning your adventure today and experience the timeless charm of Piazza San Marco with us!