Known as the historical and commercial heart of Venice, the San Marco neighborhood is a must when you’re visiting Venice. With famous museums and elegant churches calling this neighborhood home as well as shops with Venetian glass made by prominent glass masters and designer clothing lining the winding streets, San Marco is truly a shining beacon of Venice. Your vacation simply would be complete without a trip to the San Marco neighborhood!
Top Attractions in San Marco neighborhood, Venice
Basilica Di San Marco
What’s the main site to see while in the San Marco neighborhood? The Basilica Di San Marco also known as Saint Marks’ Basilica! As the religious center of the city, this monument is a testament to the power of God and the power of Venice. Known as the Golden Church, this marvel of elegance and beauty bursts with riches brought by merchants from the Orient and is adorned with rare marble and gold leaf mosaics. Even if you are not a religious individual, this grand basilica is worth visiting!
Campanile
As you stroll around San Marco, you may notice Venice’s famous leaning clock tower. Built in the 9th century and rebuilt in the early 20th century, this gravity-defying tower offers breathtaking views of the city and even the alps. If you’re looking for a fun little adventure that involves defying gravity and offers a view you’ll never see staying on the ground, then start the climb to the top of Campanile!
Doge’s Palace:
If you want to get a glimpse of how Venice’s powerful doges lived dating back all the way to the 10th century, then plan on visiting the Palazzo Ducale, also known as Doge’s Palace. With its pink and white marble and loggias with famous statues decorating all around the majestic building, you will feel the power and grandeur of Venice. Take a walk around this enormous palace and experience the life and opulence of Venice’s powerful leaders while admiring famous paintings and frescoes adorning the walls.
Where to eat in San Marco, Venice
Ristorante Quadri
Location: Piazza San Marco, 121, Venice.
Opening Hours: 12:30-2:30PM;7:30-10:30PM – Closed on Monday
If you’re looking to treat yourself while you’re on holiday in Venice than this Michelin starred restaurant is the place for you! You will get a taste of just how grand Venetian buildings were while having a unique Italian meal. Although the restaurant has contemporary dishes, all of their inspiration comes from the city and history of Venice, making it so unique. Painted wooden beams and chandeliers will glimmer above you while you’re trying the contemporary dishes. This glitzy restaurant also boasts an amazing view of Piazza San Marco, one of the most amazing views in Venice. Great location and great food? I’ll book the reservation now!
Bistrot de Venise
Location: Calle dei Fabbri, 4685, Venice.
Opening Hours: Everyday 12-3PM ; 7PM-12AM
Send your taste buds back in time when you eat at this marvelous Italian bistro. This elegant restaurant uses traditional recipes dating back to the Renaissance from the very kitchen of chef Bartolomeo Scappi, you’ll dine like the renaissance elite did.So if you want to not only see the history of Venice but also to taste it, then give your taste buds a whole new adventure with a meal from Bistrot de Venise.
Rosa Salva
Location: Sestiere di S. Marco, 950, Venice.
Opening Hours: 8AM-8PM; Closed on Sunday
Are you feeling a little bit jet lagged an lacking the motivation to get up out of your bed? Would an aromatic cappuccino and fleshly baked pastries from a traditional bakery? Rosa Salva is the place for you! The bakery is full of delicious warm pastries including the traditional Venetian pastries, mix that with a hot Italian coffee and it will definietly brighten your entire day!
Nightlife in San Marco
Vino Vino
Location: Ponte delle Veste, 2007A, Venice.
Opening Hours: Every day 11:30AM-11:30PM
If the name didn’t give it away, this little treasure in a popular wine bar located near the Venice Opera House. It is a perfect place to get to know the locals and even hear fascinating stories about Venice’s history and legends while you enjoy high-quality wine. And if you get a little hungry after chatting with the locals for a while, you can order delectable tapas and fish specialties.
Harry’s Bar
Location: Calle Vallaresso, 1323, Venice.
Opening Hours: Every Day 10:30AM-11PM
If you’re looking for a cocktail bar then this is the one for you! In 1930 Harry’s Bar opened and has been visited by many famous celebrities including George Clooney, Ernest Hemingway and Woody Allen. The bar is located right beside San Marco’s bay where you can have an amazing view while sipping on your cocktail. You can have a mix of different cocktails including the cocktail they are most famous for, The Bellini!
Where to stay in San Marco neighborhood
Locanda Orseolo Venezia
Location: Corte Zorzi, San Marco 1083
We all know one of the best parts of traveling is discovering hidden gems, so why shouldn’t you aim for that when looking for a place to stay? Well, look no further! Your hidden gem has been discovered and goes by the name Locanda Orseolo. Come and stay in a 1,000-year-old house that boasts the historically unique ambiance of Venetian design with the beautiful music of Vivaldi accompanying your every meal. Be welcomed by a superb staff that will provide your every need and ensure your stay is nothing less than magical. I suggest you go ahead and discover this hidden gem for yourself.
Residenza Corte Antica
Location: S. Marco, 2876, Venice
Let’s take a second and talk about the location of the charming B&B. Located right near the Grand Canal and steps away from famous sites like the opera house La Fenice and Piazza San Marco, I don’t know about you, but that is definitely not an upsetting area to stay at. Not to mention, you’ll be staying in an ancient Venetian house that oozes elegance, tranquility, and comfort. Unbeatable location, luxurious accommodations, and every amenity you could possibly need?
Corte di Gabriela
Location: Calle Avvocati, 3836, Venice.
Are you in the mood to spoil yourself during your Venetian getaway? Then I suggest you live out your Venetian fairytale at the popular 4-star hotel, Corte di Gabriela. Live like royalty in this modernized 19th-century palace that provides for your every need no matter how outrageous. Sleep in peaceful silence and wake up to the smell of coffee and pastries knowing you are only steps away from the Rialto and Palazzo Grassi. Go ahead, spoil yourself, you deserve it.