Piazza San Marco travel guide

Piazza San Marco, often known in English as St. Mark's Square, is the principal public square of Venice, Italy.

The history of this iconic square dates back to the 9th century when it was developed as a small area in front of the original St. Mark’s Basilica. It was extended to its current form in 1177 when the Rio Batario, which had confined it on one side, and a dock, which had isolated the Doge's Palace from the square, were filled in.

Throughout the centuries, Piazza San Marco has been the center of history and life in Venice. It has seen political demonstrations, open-air performances, and countless carnival festivities.

The square is surrounded by noteworthy structures such as the ornate St. Mark's Basilica, the imposing Doge's Palace, and the iconic Clock Tower. These architectural marvels reflect the square's role as the heart of the Venetian Republic’s power and its enduring place in the city's cultural and social life.

Located in San Marco, the iconic St. Mark's Square is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Venice or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Italy.

Venice is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Venice offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Rialto Bridge, Doge's Palace, Saint Mark's Basilica, Bridge of Sighs, and Teatro La Fenice.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Venice has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Venice - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

St. Mark's Square is located in Venice, Italy, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Venice Marco Polo Airport is approximately 4.96 miles (7.98 km) away from Venice. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where St. Mark's Square is located.

If you’re already in Venice, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the square. The exact address of the attraction is P. Za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy, Italy.

You can also rent a car and drive to St. Mark's Square. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore St. Mark's Square and other top attractions in Venice at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at St. Mark's Square!

No visit to Venice is complete without a trip to St. Mark's Square, one of the most iconic attractions in Italy drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique square, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to St. Mark's Square starting from 8.56 EUR below.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Venice and top attractions like St. Mark's Square with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore St. Mark's Square and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Venice, Italy, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind square in Italy.

Discovering Italy's captivating landscapes and the iconic St. Mark's Square becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 9 reputable rental car companies near Venice Marco Polo Airport and the city of Venice, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Italy's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Venice and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, Viaggiare currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 8.98 EUR per day or 62.83 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Via Orlanda 216, 30173 in Venice, this rental option ensures you can explore Italy's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Venice by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning St. Mark's Square just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Venice.

Discover the best hotels for visiting St. Mark's Square below.

Venice offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Venice, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Rialto Bridge, Doge's Palace, and Saint Mark's Basilica.

Rialto Bridge is a bucket-list stone bridge and top attraction in Venice, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 141,666 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Rialto Bridge is Sestiere San Polo, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Venice is Doge's Palace. This is just like Rialto Bridge, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 24,775 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this palace is P. Za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy.

Saint Mark's Basilica is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Venice. This cathedral and top attraction in Venice has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,439 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Saint Mark's Basilica creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of P. Za San Marco, 328, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Venice below.