Venice is a beautiful city located in the northeastern part of Italy. It is known for its beautiful canals, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Venice is the Piazza San Marco. It is the main public square in the city and is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful cafes, and lively atmosphere. In this blog post, we will provide a guide for travelers visiting Piazza San Marco.
Outdoor activities
When it comes to outdoor activities in Piazza San Marco, there's no shortage of options. From taking a gondola ride along the canals to exploring the nearby islands, there's something for every type of traveler.
Take a Gondola Ride
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Venice is taking a gondola ride. A gondola is a traditional Venetian boat that is used to navigate the city’s canals. These boats are typically operated by a gondolier, who uses a single oar to maneuver the boat. Taking a gondola ride is a great way to explore the city’s canals and admire its stunning architecture. You can take a gondola ride from Piazza San Marco and explore the narrow canals of Venice.
Visit the Giardini Pubblici
The Giardini Pubblici is a beautiful public garden located near Piazza San Marco. This garden is a great place to relax and enjoy nature while in Venice. The garden is home to a variety of plant species and features beautiful fountains and statues. You can take a stroll through the garden and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It’s a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Must See Places
There's so much to see in Piazza San Marco that it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, we've got you covered with our top two must-see places in the area.
St. Mark’s Basilica
St. Mark’s Basilica is a stunning cathedral located in Piazza San Marco. This cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice and is known for its beautiful mosaics and stunning architecture. The cathedral was built in the 11th century and features a variety of different architectural styles. It is also home to a variety of art and artifacts, including the famous Pala d’Oro altar.
Doge’s Palace
Doge’s Palace is a stunning palace located near Piazza San Marco. This palace was once the residence of the Doge of Venice, who was the city’s chief magistrate. Today, the palace is a museum and features a variety of art and artifacts from Venice’s rich history. The palace is known for its stunning architecture and features a variety of different architectural styles, including Gothic and Renaissance.
Unusual Tip
This unusual tip wil surely make your trip to Piazza San Marco even more memorable. Trust us, it's worth checking out!
Visit the Libreria Acqua Alta
The Libreria Acqua Alta is a unique bookstore located near Piazza San Marco. This bookstore is known for its unique design and is home to a variety of different books, including rare and antique books. The bookstore is located in a building that has been flooded several times, and as a result, the books are stored in bathtubs, gondolas, and other unusual containers to protect them from water damage. The bookstore is a great place to explore and is a must-visit for book lovers.
Hidden Wonders
Here are two top places from Atlas Obscura travel guide that you might want to visit while in Venice.
The Catacombs of San Zaccaria
Located beneath the Church of San Zaccaria, the catacombs are a fascinating underground labyrinth filled with macabre frescoes, ancient tombs, and eerie crypts. Visitors can explore this hauntingly beautiful site to see a unique side of Venetian history and architecture.
The Ponte dei Sospiri
Also known as the “Bridge of Sighs,” this stunning bridge connects the Doge’s Palace to the prison. It is said that prisoners would sigh as they crossed the bridge on their way to their cells, giving the bridge its name. Today, visitors can cross the bridge and see stunning views of the city, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Venice.
Accommodation Suggestions
Whether you're looking for luxury or budget-friendly accommodations, Piazza San Marco has plenty of options to choose from. In this section, we'll highlight four different accommodation options to suit various budgets.
Luxury:
Located just a short distance from Piazza San Marco, Hotel Danieli is a luxurious 5-star hotel that offers stunning views of the city and the Grand Canal. The hotel features beautifully decorated rooms and suites, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Venice, and a private water taxi service. Prices for rooms at Hotel Danieli start at around €400 per night.
Mid-range:
Hotel Antiche Figure is a charming mid-range hotel located near the Santa Lucia train station and just a short distance from Piazza San Marco. The hotel features spacious and comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast buffet, and
Budget:
Located just a few minutes’ walk from Piazza San Marco, Hotel La Fenice et des Artistes is a budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a great location. The hotel features a cozy bar, a charming courtyard, and a breakfast room that serves a continental breakfast. Prices for rooms at Hotel La Fenice et des Artistes start at around €70 per night.
Hostel:
For budget-conscious travelers, Generator Venice is a great option for affordable accommodations. Located just a short walk from Piazza San Marco, this hostel offers both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations. The hostel features a bar, a restaurant, and a shared lounge area. Prices for dormitory-style accommodations at Generator Venice start at around €20 per night, while private rooms start at around €80 per night.
In conclusion, Piazza San Marco is a must-visit destination for travelers in Venice. Whether you want to explore the city’s canals, visit stunning cathedrals, or relax in a beautiful garden, there is something for everyone in Piazza San Marco. Be sure to take a gondola ride, visit St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, and explore the Libreria Acqua Alta for an unforgettable experience in Venice.
