Excellent area to chill and do some people watching. Lots of shopping, eateries and drinks and of course gelato nearby. It is very crowded though so watch your step. read more

Cute cute touristy place!! AKA St. Mark's Square Definitely drop by and during the day and evening. During the evening, (at least when we were there) there are three live bands playing. They synchronize in a way where one band plays right after the other band stops. I will keep it short since the other Yelpers have done a great job reviewing this area. read more

This is the biggest attraction in Venice and by far attracts the most amount of tourists. Best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the afternoon or evening. You actually get to enjoy the square rather than fight through crowds of people everywhere stopping, browsing, queuing or photographing the beautiful buildings in the square. It has great view of the grand canal and Venice and a gorgeous area but unfortunately I have given up going there in the day unless we need to be there to go somewhere or take the water bus. Fabulous history and a must see but do pick your times as it can be really busy. read more

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Great location and very attentive staff. They went out of their way to find a table for us even though the place was packed. Food is decent.

Increible! No hay palabras para describir esta plaza tan maravillosa. Es el simbolo que representa Venecia y solo cuando te encuentras solo en medio de la enormidad de la plaza entiendes porque (por cierto, para poder encontrarte solo o casi aconsejo ir a las 7 de la manyana, a las 8 ya empiezan a aparecer grupos de japoneses y gente que va al trabajo, pero sigue estando bastante vacio) La Basilica es el edificio principal, y enfrente se encuentra el campanario de la Basilica. La plaza se extiende hacia el mar, y hay un paseo muy bonito hacia la izquierda que acaba en un parque. Este paseo a primera hora de la manyana es muy bonito, y te mezclas con los venecianos que van a las lanchas hacia sus lugares de trabajo, etc. read more

Piazza San Marco - Public Plazas Near Me - Venezia, VE

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The ultimate place to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the sounds and sights of Venice. Live music, huge productions (in Carnival season) and the perfect place to people watch. It's certainly expensive to sit and enjoy a drink in the sqaure, but it's wonderful to do, so make it count and order a Prosecco or a Bellini! read more

Piazza San Marco - Public Plazas Near Me - Venezia, VE

Stacks of planks scattered about the square illustrate dramatically the fate of St. Mark's Square--along with the rest of Venice--if the damages of manmade climate change are not immediately addressed. Thankfully, at no point during our visit were these walks deployed for people to tread on. The bands at night still played. The rose peddlers still peddled. Piazza San Marco is a focal point of Venice, an anchor for which most maps radiate. Upon stumbling into it, one can orientate in order to find their way back to their hotel, as it was necessary the one evening when the rails fell and we found ourselves lost in the labyrinth of the island. It took only 30 seconds to be completely soaked, aided by roads so narrow that umbrellas couldn't be properly deployed. It was a miracle my camera survived it. Thankfully, upon finding the square, we knew we were only a five-minute walk back. There's so much to see around the square, from the shops to the rotating bands, blue and green lights shooting into the night, falling back to the hands of vendors willing to sell them. From the square, you can branch off to the Campanile or the Basilica, Doge's Palace, or if you are stuck with the Globus tour, an unfortunate sales pitch by glass blowers. I didn't mind the presentation, but I felt it was sitting through an infomercial. Still, when dry, the Square is a magnificent sight, day or night--a hub for all tangents into the city. Always remember where the square is. read more

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I'll soon be returning to Venice, so my mind wandered to Piazza San Marco. I'll be there over a weekend at the end of May, so I fear it's going to be too busy to really take in the square without feeling a bit overwhelmed. As all of the other Yelpers have pointed out, this is a tourist destination. But I think, sometimes theres a reason places are so overrun, they're just that special. Have a spritz and be a part of the hustle while taking in the beautiful tower, views and Venetian shenanigans. read more

I've been to Venice three times in the last four years, and I still find lots of new little places and things to do. Take the vaporetto to have a look around the other islands and the monasteries. I'd recommend the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (especially if you can't get to New York), the Jewish Quarter, In Piazza San Marco see the Basilica di San Marco, Doge's Palace, and Torre dell'Orologio for great views at the top of the tower. You can pop in to see an intimate performance of Vivaldi (only about 100 people seating capacity so it was nice) but it performed by local upcoming musicians so don't expect the equivalent of the performances in say the Royal Albert Hall. I was very moved by the chanting on the island of San Giorgio (Sunday, 11:00) and the sung Mass at St Mark's (10.30am). Of course, a trip on a Gondala is also a must - though not cheap. The Piazza can get very busy in the summer especially when cruise liners have docked so be careful and try to get your bearings with landmarks or shops and vendors in the little streets. read more

Piazza San Marco - Public Plazas Near Me - Venezia, VE

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When visiting Venice, you have to stop by Piazza San Marco. We visited Venice during the winter, so it was definitely cold, but the sun was out, with tons of people walking around.I like it even better at night, when the square is lit up (there was a huge Christmas tree there during the holidays), the basilica is glowing and fewer people are around. You can head down towards the water to get the iconic shot of the gondolas on the canal. read more

Crowded, touristy, with beautiful sights, live music, plenty of vendors, shops, and restaurants. That's about the shortest way I can think of summing it up. It's easy to spend a full day there. Pay to go up to the top of the bell tower, walk through the Basilica, go through the museums and doge's palace, and then grab a meal at one of the overpriced restaurants so that you can enjoy the music, people watching, and seeing the architecture all around you. A place that's worth going to once. read more

Beautiful piazaa in center of Venice. It is surrounded by wonderful Renaissance architecture. During my stay, I was witness to the wonders of 2016 Venice Carnivale which captivated St Marks Square (Piazza San Marcos). It was packed with tourists and many participants of the carnival who dressed in elaborate and decorative costumes, especially the masks, This tradition goes back to the 14th century in Venice, I was fortunate with the weather that particular day because it rained the following day and flooded the streets. Had a wonderful time and will return again hopefully next year. read more

Going to Venice without stopping here is like going to Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower or San Francisco and no Golden Gate Bridge. It is an amazing place, so beautiful, but jammed with tourists. read more

We celebrated our wedding anniversary in Venice, Italy (2019) and stayed in a hotel directly behind the Piazza San Marco. In my opinion the Piazza and close surrounding area is the best area to stay in Venice. We were able to walk 3mins from hotel to the center of the Piazza and take amazing pix, purchase things from the vendors, get some amazing gelato and Italian granita water. Pictures does this area absolutely no justice, it's a place you have to see to believe. The architecture is astounding. We will return soon! We had such a great time capturing anniversary pix here. read more

What's not to love about a piazza on a sunny March day? There are some outdoor vendors hawking the usual tourist fare (masks, shirts, hoodies, etc). Several restaurants are set up with both indoor and outdoor seating. And, of course, you have the Basilica San Marco anchoring one end. Great people watching. read more

If you're in Venice and don't visit St. Marks square, then you might as well say you've never been to Venice. It is the number one square to visit with landmarks such as the Campanile, dodges palace, San Marcos Basílica, cafe Florian, and some other museums with great history. At night it can be romantic with the water nearby, moonlight, and music playing. So why not 5 stars? There are way too many peddlers trying to forcefully sell you something. I had to be quite rude on more than one occasion because they do not understand a polite "no thank you". Either way, you can't let this deter you from visiting. It's quite amazing the history and beauty of St. Marks square. read more

If going to Venice why wouldn't you just spend the day here?! You have the beautiful architecture to the views, food, ice cream, drinks, shopping, restrarants and so much more! Loved every moment here and is one of my places on my list to come back to! Nothing buy nice things to say about this place! read more

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For a first timer in Italy, I was in awe at every building I encountered. The intricate details that made up the structure on the outside and even more so inside just blew me away. As I entered the alleyway that would eventually lead me to this square, I didn't really know what to expect. As soon as I arrived, I was amazed at how grand it was. There I was, right smack in the center of the square, doing a 360 trying to take it all in. I mean everything was beautiful. The marble decoration, the great arches, the Romanesque carvings, the magnificent clock tower....really, am I in a dream? I'm usually disgusted by pigeons, they're everywhere here in SF, but I didn't even mind the gazillion flying rats around me as I stood there posing for pictures; they added to the experience. I recommend going there either really early or late. You'll avoid the tourists taking up the best spots for pictures. Go when the sun is setting. Such a gorgeous view to see from the square. Just amazing. Beautiful. I can't describe it. You just need to experience it. read more

Piazza San Marco - Jaw dropping - Public Plazas Near Me - Venezia, VE

VENICE, ITALY! This is the prime landmark in Venice full of tourists. There's a lot of restaurants and shopping opportunities in this area. The Grand Canal is a short walk away. You can walk around this area and see canals and old, winding streets. There is powerful energy! read more

When in Venice, Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square) is probably the main attraction that most tourists check out. It is home to many attractions: - Basilica di San Marco (St. Mark's Basilica) - Campanile di San Marco (Bell Tower) - Torre dell'Orologio (Clock Tower) - Palazzo Ducale (The Doge's Palace) - Rialto Bridge, which is towards the North - Gondola boats, which is towards the South Stand in the middle of the square and take in all of Venice. Breathe in the air, enjoy the sun, listen to the sounds. After you've enjoyed a couple moments, watch all the annoying pigeons roaming around in the square. In the past, feeding the pigeons had been restricted to St. Mark's Square, but I believe it is now prohibited from feeding pigeons in all of Venice. After you're done enjoying the sights, you can grab coffee and dessert at Caffe Florian, Italy's oldest cafe, opened in 1720. Their products can be quite pricey, so you can do like many others, and just take photos of the many different elegantly styled rooms. Then you can bring lunch from another shop and sit on one of the steps along the shopping corridor, as you enjoy listening to the live band. read more

We had the pleasure of visiting Venice a few years ago. Unfortunately, we stayed longer than a day. It is spectacular to see for a day or so but you quickly tire of the place. It like dating a super model. Gorgeous to look at but that's all there is. Everything is overpriced, geared toward ripping off tourists. $2 to use the bathroom, $25 ice cream sundaes, $20 cocktails in Piazza San Marco. Dueling bands in tuxedos just scream, "sit here so we can rip you off". By far, our least favorite stop in all of Italy. read more

Seriously it is just like the movies. It, just like everything in Venice, is a little decrepid but that just adds to the charm and originality. You will never find a place like this in the WORLD. Ever. Advice, get a bottle of cheap lambrusco and drink it in the streets or while sitting down over the edge of a canal letting your feet hang over the edge and look at stuff while staying still. Nothing in this city ever stays still. Ever. Its pretty amazing. Oh, yeah then go get gelato. Ciao read more

This is the place to visit in Venice. The Venetian Hotel and Casino is modeled after this in Las Vegas and Macao. The square is pretty huge highlighted by the Basilica and the Campanile which overlooks the city square. Buy tickets online to visit both. It gets crowded daily from pretty much sunrise to sundown. My kids had a blast just chasing the pigeons around the huge city square, the heart of Venice. There are a ton of gelato places and good shopping for souvenirs and designer brands near the city square. read more

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Love Piazza San Marco. I've Traveled Extensively In Italy And This Is My Favorite Place In ALL Of Italy. Stunningly Beautiful. read more

Piazza San Marco - Favorite Place In All Of Italy. Love Enjoying A Cocktail or Cappuccino while Listening To The Live Orchestra And Taking In The View/Vibe. - Public Plazas Near Me - Venezia, VE

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The Piazza San Marco has shops, basilica San Marco, palazzo ducale, restaurants and the piers. You can walk there from Piazza Roma it's approximately 45 minutes to an hour. You can also take a water taxi. You can also pick up a gondola here. The structure is absolutely magnificent all stone all history it's where all of the history of Venice began. read more

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If you're in Venice, you definitely have to check it out. Take the #2 river bus from the train station to St. Marco. read more

Piazza San Marco - Jumped San Marco Square! - Public Plazas Near Me - Venezia, VE

One of a Kind This is the only piazza in Venice, and it has been the heart of this city for century. Doge's Palace can be found here, Basilica di San Marco can be found here, and throngs of tourists can be found here. If you have come to Venice, it is likely this is near the top of your list. It is definitely worth fighting through the sea of people for this experience, but do yourself a favor and spend some time away from the center of the action. You will find that Venice is more than just a forest of selfie sticks and street vendors. read more

I can make you mine, taste your lips of wine Anytime night or day Only trouble is, gee whiz I'm dreamin' my life away - Lyrics by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant 1958 (Made famous by The Everly Brothers) I had no expectations or preconceived notions of Piazza San Marco prior to my arrival. I wasn't influenced by the multiple photographs, movies or chatter and I never contemplated what it was like to stand among the birds, gondoliers soliciting tourists for romantic canal rides, and the cafe patrons listening to the sounds of symphonies. Ive had multiple daliences with my first urban lover, New York City. She's hip, she's trendy, she is the epitome of American life gone wild. Compared to other cities around the world, she's a young, untamed and ambitious lady of the night. But then I met San Marco. I wasn't looking to be swept off my feet like this; our eyes met and I was helplessly in love. He's simple yet sophisticated, he's grounded and he's stylish while remaining humble. San Marco is a skilled lover and is a romantic at heart. During the day, I was smitten, by night I was enamored. The birds of San Marco seem to whisper his secrets, while the bricks of the piazza tell the tale of days gone by. The instruments sing sweet songs while the coffee is served by fellas in white jackets. The water glistens as the ripples of the water attempt to dethrone San Marco. The low level murmur of a multicultural conversation, the clinking of cups, the water breaking against shore and the sounds of a piano being tuned are a melodious combination emanating from his core. Now we are separated by 4,000 miles of land and sea. Long distance relationships rarely work, but I can dream about what might have been... Ti Amo, San Marco. read more

The Piazza San Marco is the main public square in Venice, and it's unique in that it offers two completely different experiences depending on the time of day. During the day time, the crowd at times could rival that of Times Square, and you'll be marching shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers just trying to move through its halls. People are walking in and out of the boutique shops as large tributaries of tourists flow in and out of the square. The Campanile and the Basilica di San Marco have people hurriedly snapping pictures and lining up. In one corner you'll have an unobstructed view of the majestic Grand Canal that serves as the heartbeat of Venezia. It's a lovely sight filled with the joyous sounds. During the evenings, Piazza San Marco is simply unforgettable. After dinner in any one of its fine restaurant choices, you walk out and into a transformed plaza. The buildings are poetically lit in a soft white, and a few of the restaurants have provided orchestras and jazz bands just outside their doors, serenading the crowd as they usher in the evening. The bulk of the tourists are gone; the middle of the square has emptied. You'll find yourself naturally gravitating toward one of the few visitor congregations who are too enchanted by the bands to walk away. The bands play some tunes that really hit heavily with their listeners as people enjoy cocktails and coffees under the breeze. You might find an old couple next to you dancing their hearts out, reliving their first dance from forty years ago. You might find kids running in circles around their parents, excitedly playing tag while one by one they realize just how special a soundtrack and backdrop this is for such a common children's game. Street merchants politely approach passersby to sell light-up toys that are tossed 30 feet into the air, and as these toys come down you could swear they were phosphorescent jellyfish descending from the skies. Words are worth very little in describing a moment in time. A picture is worth a thousand of them, but it's still not enough. You've got to go and stand there. Just stand, watch and listen. read more

The center of attraction in Venice! Pigeons are everywhere and they won't leave you alone if you keep feeding them. It's very interesting navigating those quaint narrow sidewalks and bridges near the square. It's very humid there in the summer months and there are mosquitos. It's better to come in the spring or fall. read more

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a must have beeing in venice, full of people by day and half of them by night, best time is close to sun down, you can listen to the Mixture of voices and languages of the people, the music of the restaurants, and the cooing of the doves read more

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Not a fan of the pigeons - but no visit to Venice is complete without some serious tourist watching (Germans, Argetines, USA, French - everybody!) on the Piazza San Marco. Skip the kitschy T-shirt stalls and wander a few bridges over abd lose yourself in this remarkable city of canals. Cover your head!!!!! read more

Love, tourists, and street vendors. What more could one ask for in Venice? Oh, I remember... Picture this, it's a cold, cold night in the heart of Tourist-Venice, and you hear a couple straight up fighting and cursing at each other in the middle of the square after the dueling orchestras have finished their heated musical battle of who can play the Four Seasons better. Unfortunately, we missed the show, but we didn't miss the post-game fireworks. All of a sudden in the shadow of Saint Macro's Church, the problems of the day trying to figure out the water bus schedule and missing parts of the itinerary didn't seem so bad. My proverbial hat goes off to you, Mr. "I don't want you all up in my F***'ing face" and Mrs. "Go enjoy the city yourself then!". read more

Besides Rialto Bridge, which is down the list for me, the Piazza San Marco is THE place to see when in Venice. The churches, the doge's palace, the library, the live music which always seems to be playing... It's an experience that is beautiful by day with the amazing blue skies, and at night once all of the people go away. The piazza itself is huge, and it's quite magical at twilight. Just sit and take it in. read more

The Piazza San Marco, was vibrant and beautiful. We frequented it on our brief trip to Venice. There is great people watching. During the day it was almost always busy. Of course, the Basilica di San Marco is beautiful, capping one end of the plaza. You can turn the corner and see the Grand Canal. The architecture is wonderful. At times the sheer amount of people can be overwhelming, but I still found it worth it to visit. This is where you can see the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), the Clock Tower (Telle dell'Orologio), the Bell Tower (Campanile di San Marco), and as previously mentioned St. Mark's Basilica. Go visit, and drink it all in. read more

It's one of those wow moments when you walk into the square for the first time. In every direction there is another building that looks amazing and makes you stop and pull out your camera. Beware though it can get very very very busy, so prepare to queue and to have to plough your way though hordes of other tourists. My suggestion would be to stop somewhere and watch the world go by. There is people from every part of the globe in Venice taking in the sites and it is cool just to watch them go about their business. If your really brave get you picture with loads of pigeons. They were very friendly when I tried it! This is the town square of town squares. You will be pushed to find one more impressive in another city. It is a must see if you are visiting Venice. read more

One of the most spectacular places in the world. Yes, it is touristy but a must see and should be on your "bucket list." read more

Piazza San Marco - Public Plazas Near Me - Venezia, VE

Beautiful piazza and Basilica. Many shops, restaurants and pigeons. The basilica is undergoing restoration so park of it was covered which took away from its beauty. Great place to sit and people watch within the square. Great opportunity for amazing pictures in this square. read more

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Go really early in the morning (before 7:30am) or late at night (after 9pm) to avoid the masses of tourists this spot attracts. Late at night they have music in the piazza, it's very romantic. Definitely bring your sweetheart, grab a chair and an espresso and enjoy Venice the way it's meant to be seen! read more

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If you are visiting Florence this is a must! All the shops are there and I totally recommend the food down by here. You can't go wrong and if you're into shopping brand names they are all down here, it is a little walk but must tey read more