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St. Mark's Cathedral: The Shining Golden Basilica Guided Tour

407 Reviews 4.80 out of 5 stars Based on 407 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 94% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Venice, Italy

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On average, this is booked 32 (0) days in advance.

45 to 90 minutes (approx.)
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Overview

Embark on an unforgettable guided tour to one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks: the magnificent Saint Mark’s Basilica, gracefully overlooking Saint Mark’s Square. Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll delve into the rich history of this stunning cathedral, often referred to as the Golden Basilica due to its breathtaking pure gold mosaics.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Immerse yourself in an exhilarating virtual reality experience that transports you back in time. With a VR headset, witness Piazza San Marco and its iconic monuments as they once were, envisioning the Basilica as the Doge's private chapel and the Doge's Palace transformed into a medieval fortress, much like the castles of Europe.

For a truly exclusive experience, opt for the private tour option and enjoy the luxury of a personal guide dedicated to enhancing your journey through Venice’s rich cultural tapestry.

What's Included

  • St. Mark's Basilica Terrace (if Legendary Tour Option is selected)
  • Virtual Reality Journey - Explore St. Mark's Square over the centuries
  • Audio-receiver devices are included in case of groups over 10 people.
  • Hotel pickup & DropOff
  • Pala D'Oro Visit
  • Food & Drinks
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Meeting Location

Meeting point
End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Basilica di San Marco

Amazing guided tour in the breathtaking Cathedral of St. Mark, known as the Golden Basilica, due to many mosaics realized with pure gold!An expert guide will escort you inside (skipping the line) and will explain the history, curiosities and legends about the inimitable masterpieces around you! Be stunned in front of the five-domes covered with gold and decorated by the best artists of the time.Enjoy part of explaination comfortably seated in the middle of the cathedral. A wonderful experience that makes you discover the main landmark of the Venetian history.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Piazza San Marco (Pass By)

Cross the imposing Sat. Mark's Square asnd admire the most beautiful spot of the world.
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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Due to the security reason, luggage and bags are not allowed inside the Basilica
  • On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
  • Tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of religious functions (in these cases it can be postponed the day after otherwise it will be refunded)

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the St. Mark’s Cathedral: The Shining Golden Basilica Guided Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CEST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-21441P23

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Reviews

4.80
407 reviews

Average 4.80 out of 5 stars based on 407 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
360
4 stars
23
3 stars
17
2 stars
5
1 star
2

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On average, this is booked 32 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • St. Mark's Basilica Terrace (if Legendary Tour Option is selected)
  • Virtual Reality Journey - Explore St. Mark's Square over the centuries
  • Audio-receiver devices are included in case of groups over 10 people.
  • Skip the Line Ticket to St. Mark's Cathedral
  • Venice Gallery: St. Mark's Square history dedicated circuit visit
  • Private Tour Option (if selected)
  • Shared guided tour to the St.Mark Basilica
  • Hotel pickup & DropOff
  • Pala D'Oro Visit
  • Food & Drinks

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The official St. Mark's Basilica ticket price is €12.00 per person (standard) or €24.00 with terrace access; the remaining part of the price covers assistance at the meeting point, accompanied entry with a certified guide or host, access to the Venice Gallery with a dedicated VR experience, the use of an audio guide or radio system with earphones and sales costs.
  • A valid ID document is mandatory for security checks at the entrance to the Basilica.
  • For the visit of the Basilica suitable clothing is required (no shorts).
  • Due to the security reason, luggage and bags are not allowed inside the Basilica
  • On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
  • Tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of religious functions (in these cases it can be postponed the day after otherwise it will be refunded)
  • During some days of high turnout or reasons of force majeure (for example high tide or security problems) the waiting time to access St.Mark's Basilica might be longer than expected: in this case please line up and respect the instructions provided by the guide
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

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Free Cancellation

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100% refund
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CEST).

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