Piazza San Marco

St. Mark's Square

Grand square and gathering place, the social, religious and political center of Venice.

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Sestiere San Marco

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San Marco (3-min walk)

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What makes it special

Venice’s beating heart

Piazza San Marco is the vibrant core of Venice, always alive with a buzz of visitors drawn by its magnificient architecture, concentration of cultural sights and lively atmosphere.

Only pigeons outnumber tourists

Pigeons are a magnet for kids and Instagrammers, although the authorities aren't so happy with the damage their presence causes to the monuments.

Acqua alta (high water)

Because of its low altitude, the square is flooded several times per year, requiring visitors to traverse it on wooden footbridges.

Piazzetta San Marco

Is the branch of the square in front of Palazzo Ducale, extending towards the lagoon. It used to be the main entry to the city, from the sea.

Piazza San Marco : The extension of the square in front of Palazzo Ducale and the lagoon is called Piazzeta San Marco

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Your experience here

A truly impressive square filled with history and beauty.
If you only have time for one place in Venice, this has to be it!
Don’t end it here though — there’s much more of Venice waiting beyond the square.

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Best times to visit

As magnificent as the square is, during the day it gets flooded with visitors, which can detract from the experience.

There's constant noise, vendors pushing cheap souvenirs, crowds more focused on snapping selfies than soaking in the atmosphere, and the occasional pickpocket.

That’s why we recommend these three ideal times to visit next.

Early in the morning

Arrive early to experience the square in all its authentic glory — quiet, serene, and free from crowds.

It’s the perfect time to admire the architecture, hear the seagulls echoing over the rooftops, and watch the city slowly waking up.

If you’re enjoying the moment, stick around until the square starts to buzz — just enough to feel lively without being overwhelming.

At sunset

We're past peak time, and as the sun begins to set, its warm rays bring the mosaics on Basilica di San Marco's five portals vividly to life, casting a golden glow that feels almost magical.

It might be the perfect time to consider an evening tour of the basilica.

This after-hours experience offers a completely new perspective — and might just be the most awe-inspiring way to truly appreciate St. Mark's.

In the evening

As evening approaches, the square shifts into a mellow, relaxing mood with far fewer people.

The cafés surrounding the square begin to play orchestral music outside their entrances, making the moment feel eternal while the setting becomes timeless.

Sip a drink (albeit a pricey one) while enjoying the live performance, or simply watch from a distance — and maybe even dance a little, as if nobody’s watching.