St Mark's Square, the Basilica and the Doge's Palace

The heart of Venice is undeniably grand: the great square, the golden domes of St Mark's Basilica, and the Doge's Palace next door with its prison cells and the Bridge of Sighs. The square itself is free to enjoy, and best at sunrise before the crowds arrive. The Basilica and Palace charge entry, and the queues can be brutal in season, so a timed or skip-the-line ticket is worth it to protect your day. We'll tell you what's worth paying for inside and what you can admire for free.