Explore San Marco, Venice
Venice, Italy
A Quick Guide to Exploring the San Marco Area of Venice
San Marco – Basilica, Palaces, Music and Art
San Marco is the heart of Venice, a place where the major attractions are. San Marco is a sestiere (or district) that receives the most visitors, has some of the top Venice hotels and is the busiest part of Venice.
San Marco Restaurants
There’s a great number of well-reviewed San Marco restaurants (with a variety of price points) including Bistrot de Venise a Michelin recommended restaurant that serves everything from Oysters to Cavier – along with some traditional and modern Venetian dishes; Ai Mercanti – an upmarket Osteria whose menu includes cod, quail and beefburgers and Trattoria Al Gazzettino known for its traditional Italian/Venetian hearty Italian fare.
Bars
The well known bars in San Marco include the world-famous historic cafes described on our page here. Also try the Jazzy St Regis Arts bar with its terrace overlooking the Grand Canal and the beautiful Nolinski cocktail Library bar. There’s even a pub in Venice, the Devil’s Forest Pub in northern San Marco, close to the Rialto Bridge.
San Marco – things to do, sights to see
Most of the major attractions are detailed on our San Marco page. The Basilica of San Marco, Doge’s Palace, Piazza San Marco, Historic Cafes, St Mark’s Campanile (bell tower) and the clock tower of San Marco.
St Mark’s Basilica – the famous church of gold ➤
The historic Basilica of San Marco became Venice cathedral in 1807
The stunning Doge’s Palace ➤
A major landmark in Venice, Palace of the rulers of Venice. Read more…
St Mark’s Bell Tower ➤
With its view over St Mark’s Square a great pace to visit Read more…
Historic Cafes: Caffè Florian, Caffè Quadri & more ➤
Serving people since the 17th century, a place to see and been seen in. Read more…
San Marco where to stay
A great selection of hotels is available in San Marco including the following:
Hotel Gritti Palace, Venice
Five star luxury on the Grand Canal dating from 1475. The choice of film stars. Exclusive and wonderful. View hotel ➤
Palazzo Keller Hotel
Beautiful four star hotel located near La Fenice opera house with a garden, bar and more. View hotel ➤
Hotel Al Codega
A five minute walk from St Mark’s Square, this four star hotel has many good reviews and is decorated in a Venetian style View hotel ➤
Hotel Flora
Three star hotel in a 17th century building. This one’s a personal recommendation. Great location and friendly service. View hotel ➤
Useful San Marco & Venice Information
Tickets & Tours
➤ Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Ticket
➤ Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica Tour (skip-the-line)
➤ Interpreti Veneziani Concert at Church of San Vidal
➤ Marco Polo Airport Water Taxi Transfer









