St. Mark's Clock Tower
A Renaissance masterpiece from 1499, this iconic tower boasts an astronomical clock and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Venice.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
St. Mark's Clock Tower
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Renaissance masterpiece from 1499, this iconic tower boasts an astronomical clock and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Venice.
"The clock tower offers a magical glimpse into Venetian history and spectacular views of the city."
🎟️ Official Ticket Site
Always use the official website for booking tickets to avoid third-party markups and ensure validity.
🚶♀️ Beat the Queues
Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize wait times for entry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Astronomical Clock
Clock Tower Facade
Marvel at the intricate Renaissance clockwork, featuring symbolic figures and astrological displays. A true mechanical masterpiece.
Panoramic City Views
Top of the Tower
Ascend to the top for breathtaking vistas of St. Mark's Square and the Venetian lagoon. Unforgettable photo opportunities await.
The Magi Procession
Clock Tower Facade
Witness the magical hourly procession of the Magi and the Archangel Gabriel, a unique spectacle celebrating Venice's history.
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Official Ticket Site
Always use the official website for booking tickets to avoid third-party markups and ensure validity. +1
🚶♀️ Beat the Queues
Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize wait times for entry.
📸 Capture the Details
Don't just focus on the view; zoom in on the clock's intricate details and symbolic figures for stunning photos.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Factor in time for queues, the ascent, enjoying the views, and exploring the clock's mechanisms.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Official Ticket Site
Always use the official website for booking tickets to avoid third-party markups and ensure validity. +1
🚶♀️ Beat the Queues
Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize wait times for entry.
📸 Capture the Details
Don't just focus on the view; zoom in on the clock's intricate details and symbolic figures for stunning photos.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Factor in time for queues, the ascent, enjoying the views, and exploring the clock's mechanisms.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the St. Mark's Clock Tower for its historical significance, the marvel of its astronomical clock, and the breathtaking panoramic views it offers of Venice. The hourly procession is a unique highlight. However, some find the ticket prices a bit steep and recommend booking well in advance to avoid disappointment and long queues.
"The Torre dell'Orologio or clock tower was designed in 1496, has 5 floors and 132 steps, parts with a spirral staircase. You need to book a tour to enter. I got tickets from torreorologio.visitmuve.it For timings purpose please note that you will need to collect tickets at the ticket office of the Correr Museum at the other end of the square, so arrive early to get to the ticket office and pass through security and bag check.
The guide was very good and made it very enjoyable and still informative.
Inside you can see the intricate mechanism, inspired by the Zodiac, along with wooden icons that only emerge from the clocktower twice a year. The central part of the tower has the the clock, whose face shows the phases of the moon and sun as well as the signs of the zodiac. At the top is the Lion of St. Mark and a statue of the Madonna, this is part of the famous Two Moors Bell. An added plus is the excellent views you get from the rooftop."
Paul B
"Clock tower, better than Prague's?
I believe it is more legendary than the one in Prague. For sure it is much larger and it is very iconic. One of the most famous architectural landmarks in Venice. This clock is on Piazza San Marco. The Clock tower installed in the 15th century.
There are stairs inside the building to climb it. tours must be booked in advance, and are well worth it!"
Paul Vivas
"This is one of the most famous architectural landmarks in Venice. Located in the Piazza San Marco. This building and the clock tower is from the 15th century. Stairs inside the building give you access to the terrace on the roof, passing the clock mechanism on the way. If you wanna sign up for a tour, it must be booked in advance."
Isuru Dissanayake
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Mark's Clock Tower is located in the heart of St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco), making it easily accessible on foot from most central Venice locations. If arriving by Vaporetto (water bus), the San Marco Vallaresso or San Marco Giardinetti stops are the closest.
Absolutely! It's a central landmark in St. Mark's Square, adjacent to St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, making it easy to combine visits.
The most scenic way is by Vaporetto. Lines 1 and 2 stop at San Marco. Alternatively, you can walk from Rialto Bridge, which takes about 15-20 minutes.
Venice is a car-free city. The nearest parking garages are located at Piazzale Roma or the Tronchetto island, from where you can take a Vaporetto or the People Mover to St. Mark's Square.
Water taxis are available and can drop you off at a canal near St. Mark's Square, but they are quite expensive. Land taxis can only take you as far as Piazzale Roma.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to purchase tickets for St. Mark's Clock Tower online through the official website to avoid long queues and potential sell-outs. +1
Ticket prices can vary, but booking in advance online is advised. Check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, as tickets can sell out quickly. +1
A ticket typically grants you access to climb the tower and enjoy the panoramic views of Venice. Some tickets might include access to the museum within the tower.
While the Clock Tower, Basilica, and Doge's Palace are separate attractions, it's worth checking the official tourism websites for any potential package deals or passes that might offer savings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the impressive Renaissance clockwork mechanism, historical displays about its construction and function, and of course, the ascent to the viewing platform.
The visit, including the ascent, time at the top, and descent, typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on crowd levels and how long you spend admiring the view.
The tower has an elevator, making the ascent accessible for most visitors. The climb itself is not strenuous.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, photography is generally allowed from the viewing platform, offering spectacular panoramic views of Venice.
📸 📸 Photography
The top viewing platform offers unparalleled panoramic shots of St. Mark's Square, the Basilica, and the surrounding Venetian rooftops. Don't forget to capture the clock's facade details too!
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful warm light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great views.
Generally, photography is permitted from the viewing areas. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in enclosed spaces if it's prohibited.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A zoom lens can be useful for details on the clock face or distant landmarks.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in St. Mark's Square and around historical monuments in Venice due to safety and preservation regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb to the top involves an elevator, it's a relatively quick journey. The panoramic views from the top are also a hit with younger visitors, offering a chance to spot boats and the vast expanse of the lagoon. Consider booking tickets in advance to minimize waiting times, which can be challenging with children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the golden hours for the best light, capturing the warm hues of Venice. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for the sweeping panoramas, while a telephoto lens can bring distant details into focus. Be prepared for potential crowds at the viewing platform, but patience will be rewarded with stunning shots of St. Mark's Square and beyond.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marvel of the Astronomical Clock
This intricate clockwork was a symbol of Venice's technological prowess and its connection to the cosmos during the Renaissance. The tower itself, designed by Giovanni Buono, stands as a testament to the era's architectural innovation. Visitors can marvel at the detailed craftsmanship and understand the historical significance of such a sophisticated device in its time.
Experiencing the clock's hourly show is a must-do. While the tower offers stunning city views, the true highlight for many is witnessing the mechanical figures come to life. It's a brief but captivating glimpse into the ingenuity of Venetian artisans.
Ascending for Unforgettable Views
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the square, the tower provides sweeping vistas of the Venetian rooftops, the Campanile of St. Mark's, and the shimmering waters of the Grand Canal and the Adriatic Sea. On a clear day, you can even spot the islands of the Venetian lagoon. It's an ideal spot for photographers looking to capture the essence of Venice from a bird's-eye view.
Travelers often recommend visiting during the 'golden hour', either shortly after sunrise or before sunset, to capture the magical light that bathes the city. This timing not only enhances the photographic opportunities but also often coincides with fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience at the summit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit