St Mark's Square
This is the heart of must see Venice; St Mark's Square, or Piazza San
Marco as it is known in Italian, has been the centre point of Venetian
life for close on a thousand years.
A splendid square indeed; in summer it is so full of light and color that the buildings themselves seem to shimmer and float above it all...beautiful!
San Marco is the most expensive part of Venice but there's some good news, you can stay just around the corner at the great value and superb Hotel Opera. One of the very few hotels in Venice I recommend with confidence. These are the others!
Arriving in St Mark's Square by boat
In this one square you will find most of the great sights of Venice – ranging from the famous Basilica
through to the bell tower. Despite often being overcrowded St Mark’s Square is truly a magnificent place.
If you can find a Venetian in the piazza they will gladly tell you that this is the most beautiful piazza in the entire world and they aren’t far wrong. It is also strangely enough the only piazza in Venice – all the others are called campi.
The History of the Square
The square dates back to 828 but it was in the twelfth century that
the square became recognizably the square of today. Thanks to the fall
of Constantinople marble suddenly became available on a massive scale
and the rulers of Venice went absolutely crazy with it.
It's great that they did, the result is an immensely beautiful
space full of light and color. Even at the height of summer I manage to
ignore the tourists and transport myself back in time. It is actually
easy to do, the scale of this piazza makes the tourists seem quite
insignificant.
Changes were made over the following centuries with the addition
of various buildings, new paving and statues but the enchanting nature
of the Piazza has never been lost.
Tips and Suggestions
Don’t buy anything to eat or drink anywhere near here unless money is no concern for you. Yes, the atmosphere is incredible but even a beer is
likely to cost you close on ten Euros. If money is no object then try the Café Florian - its expensive but it is an important part of Venice's history so supporting that is worthwhile.
My advice is to enjoy the atmosphere, visit all there is to visit and then go to one of the
places in our
Venice Italy Restaurant Guide
for lunch or dinner.
If you would like to avoid the long lines getting into any of the buildings on the piazza
then this just might be the solution.
Visiting Venice during the summer months and staying in Venice?
Visit early - just before dawn is best. The experience of watching the morning light slowly illuminate the piazza is something you'll always remember. Often, there are only a handful of people around and the oppressive heat of summer is yet to settle on the city
You'll Enjoy These...
It is so easy to get ripped off in the shops around St Marks Square, therefore this Murano glass buying guide is essential reading...
Ever considered visiting Venice Italy? Here is the final temptation you need. Tell me you don't want to pack after seeing this!
Easter in Venice is wonderful, there's a special feeling in the air and Easter is still celebrated in the traditional way. Be a part of it - click for more.
Looking for the best books about Venice Italy? Whether it is food, travel or history we may just have the answer for you..
Venice in photos takes you on a visual journey through one of the loveliest cities on earth. An absolutely stunning experience.
The best of Venice - 6 experiences you simply must have if you are visiting Venice. Here is the list...
Why visit Venice and the Veneto? This is the Italy of the imagination...except it's real. This is the Italy you've seen in the movies....but you're the star. Organize your trip in 12 photos...
Visiting Venice? Want to explore a little of the wonderful Veneto region in which Venice is located? Then our Veneto & Venice Itinerary is just what you need.
Looking for a flight to Venice or Verona? Our guide is essential reading. From anywhere in Europe or the USA we have your best options.
Shopping in Venice is wonderful but you can get lost in a maze of souvenir shops. You'll avoid that if you know where to go. Discover the best shopping...
Venetian art is world famous and Venice has inspired artists for centuries. I have longed to be able to offer contemporary art that continues that tradition...
A guide to the climate in Venice Italy, advice on the best time to visit Venice and when not to visit, detailed weather forecasts and much more.
If the hustle and bustle of the usual Venice attractions gets a little much the southern lagoon is a good place to escape to for a few days.
Looking for a good value hotel in Venice? We discovered a fantastic one this summer; great value and right by the Rialto Bridge
There's so much to see in Venice Italy that you can become overwhelmed. Before you despair, here is the list of the 6 sights you absolutely must see...
The ItalyMammaMia Blog shares news, beautiful Italian places, recipes and travel advice. We've videos and essential information for planning your next trip to Italy.
San Giorgio Maggiore is one of the loveliest Venice tourist attractions. Looking across from San Marco the island of San Giorgio is a splendid sight indeed.
The best of all the luxury hotels in Venice Italy? Read my insider’s guide and discover the answer. ...
A collection of good photos of Venice and Verona. I hope you enjoy this album featuring the most beautiful city on earth.
Castello in Venice is a get away from the theme park feel of St. Marks Square. In some ways this is small town Italy, old ladies gossiping in the squares and...
Of the many lovely Venice Churches this is one that should be added to your must see list when in Venice. Home to everything Venice - visit us now
Arriving by train via Verona, in the early morning we spent the entire day in Venice escaping into the whimsical magic of Venice. It didn’t take us long to get lost in Venice’s many twist and turns...
San Giacomo in Venice is a little known church - just the type of place I love. Our site is full of such places...
The Map Venice Italy page contains all the maps you will ever need of Venice and Verona Italy.
Which are the best three and four star hotels in Venice Italy? These are my picks. I include only hotels which I can recommend with confidence.
Please Book with Us...
Maria here, if you enjoy my site I'd love your support.
Simply book your next trip anywhere (not only to Italy) with the search box below or with any of the hotel links on the website.
I promise you'll get the best deal on accommodation available and the income we receive helps us to remain independent and to keep bringing you the best of Italy.
Booking.com
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.