St. Mark’s Basilica, also known as Basilica di San Marco, is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice, Italy. The Basilica is known for its stunning Byzantine architecture, gold mosaics, and priceless artwork. It is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Venice. However, like many popular tourist attractions, St. Mark’s Basilica can get very crowded, and it is essential to plan your visit in advance. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about St. Mark’s Basilica tickets.
Ticket Types and Prices
There are different types of tickets available for St. Mark’s Basilica, depending on what you want to see and do.
Basic Entrance Ticket
The basic entrance ticket allows you to enter the Basilica and walk around the main areas of the church. This ticket costs 3 euros per person, and it is available at the entrance of the Basilica.
St. Mark’s Museum and Treasury Ticket
The St. Mark’s Museum and Treasury ticket allows you to visit the Museum and Treasury inside the Basilica. The Museum contains a vast collection of Byzantine art, while the Treasury houses many precious objects, including the famous Pala d’Oro. This ticket costs 5 euros per person and can be purchased at the entrance of the Basilica.
St. Mark’s Basilica and Terrace Ticket
The St. Mark’s Basilica and Terrace ticket allows you to visit the Basilica, the Museum, the Treasury, and the Terrace. The Terrace is a stunning balcony that offers a breathtaking view of St. Mark’s Square and the surrounding area. This ticket costs 10 euros per person, and it can be purchased at the entrance of the Basilica.
Secret Itineraries Tour
The Secret Itineraries Tour is a guided tour that takes you behind the scenes of St. Mark’s Basilica. You will have access to the areas of the Basilica that are not open to the public, including the upper galleries and the Crypt. This tour costs 20 euros per person, and it must be booked in advance.
How to Book St. Mark’s Basilica Tickets
It is highly recommended to book your St. Mark’s Basilica tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season. There are several ways to book your tickets:
Online
You can book your St. Mark’s Basilica tickets online through the official website of the Basilica. This is the easiest and most convenient way to book your tickets. You can choose the type of ticket you want, select the date and time of your visit, and pay online. You will receive a confirmation email with your e-ticket, which you must bring with you on the day of your visit.
Tour Companies
There are many tour companies that offer St. Mark’s Basilica tours that include skip-the-line access to the Basilica. This is a great option if you want to learn more about the history and art of the Basilica. You can book these tours online or through your hotel.
Onsite
If you prefer not to book your tickets in advance, you can buy them at the entrance of the Basilica. However, be prepared to wait in line, especially during peak tourist season.
Tips for Visiting St. Mark’s Basilica
Dress Code
St. Mark’s Basilica is a religious site, and visitors are expected to dress modestly. This means that shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing are not allowed. It is also recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as the Basilica has uneven floors.
Tickets
Visitors to St. Mark’s Basilica can enter for free, but there are long queues for entry, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid the long wait, it is advisable to purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance. These tickets can be bought online, at the official website of the Basilica, or from authorized vendors.
Security
As with many popular tourist destinations, security measures are in place at St. Mark’s Basilica. Visitors are required to pass through metal detectors and their bags are scanned before entry. Large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the Basilica, so it is recommended to travel light.
Guided Tours
Guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the history and art of St. Mark’s Basilica. These tours are conducted by licensed guides who provide valuable insights into the architecture, artwork, and religious significance of the Basilica.
In conclusion, visiting St. Mark’s Basilica can be a wonderful experience, but it is important to follow the rules and regulations in order to maintain the sanctity of the Basilica. Dressing modestly, buying skip-the-line tickets, respecting the artwork and the environment, and following the closing times are important aspects to keep in mind
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