Campanile di San Marco: A Historical Gem in Venice

Overview

The Campanile di San Marco, a remarkable bell tower located in the heart of Venice, boasts an intriguing past that dates back to its original construction as a lighthouse and watchtower in the 9th century. Over the centuries, the structure has undergone numerous transformations, falling victim to earthquakes and rebuilding efforts, eventually reopening in 1912 to resemble its 1513 iteration. Standing nearly 100 meters tall, this square brick monument features five distinctive bells, each with a unique purpose: from announcing the Senate to marking the workday rhythm. Visitors can ascend to the observatory for panoramic views of the city and marvel at its architectural details, including the gold-leaf spire and the distinguished Sansovino Loggia adorned with exquisite marble reliefs. The Campanile di San Marco embodies a blend of history, artistry, and breathtaking vistas, ranking it among Venice's must-visit attractions.

Photo of Campanile di San Marco
Photo of Campanile di San Marco
Photo of Campanile di San Marco
Opening hours
  • Sunday 09:30 - 20:45
  • Monday 09:30 - 20:45
  • Tuesday 09:30 - 20:45
  • Wednesday 09:30 - 20:45
  • Thursday 09:30 - 20:45
  • Friday 09:30 - 20:45
  • Saturday 09:30 - 20:45

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • AddressP.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
  • Phone+39 041 270 8311

Reviews

Alessandro Rizzo
Italy
5
I couldn't book DFC properly, so I chose an alternative. Surprisingly, the view here was so breathtaking that I didn't understand why it isn't highly recommended as the top choice. I suggest going up about 30 minutes before sunset to catch the sunset view. Unlike Paris, Venice lacks decorative lighting at night, so it isn’t particularly known for its nightscape. However, the panoramic view is refreshing and stunning. There is an elevator, but it accommodates a limited number of people. Instead of waiting in line, it’s wiser to pay an extra €2 for a reservation to save time. Be prepared, as it might get crowded coming back down, so plan your time accordingly.
Luca Rossi
Italy
5
Visiting St. Mark’s Campanile is essential when in Venice! We went on a Saturday and thankfully the line was quite short—only 15 minutes, which is a breeze compared to peak times. The elevator, accommodating up to nine people, efficiently transports you to the top. The view from up there is absolutely breathtaking, providing a panoramic look at all of Venice. This is my fifth visit, and it never fails to impress me! Whether you are exploring for yourself or bringing friends and family to experience Venice’s beauty from above, it is always worth it. If you're short on time and can only do one thing, this should be your choice. Highly recommend!
Matteo Bianchi
Italy
5
Going up the tower is a fabulous experience with a truly stunning view across the city from all directions. The space at the top is a bit tight, and with renovations happening, it has a construction site vibe, but the view is simply amazing. We didn’t wait in line for more than 20 minutes, even during sunset, but I recommend booking in advance during peak season.
Alessandra Verdi
Italy
5
The best views of Venice are from above! 🔝 We didn’t buy our tickets in advance, but thankfully the line wasn’t bad. I recommend purchasing tickets early, especially if you’re visiting during high season. We were in Venice at the end of May. It gets crowded at the top, but they control the number of people going up.
Giovanni Esposito
Italy
5
I purchased the skip-the-line tickets online, and it was worth the extra cost. Despite a long line to enter, I walked straight onto the elevator without any wait. The view of Venice is beautiful, and you only need about 10 minutes up there to fully appreciate it.