10 Things to Do in Campanile di San Marco, Venice, Italy
Campanile di San Marco, or the St. Mark’s Bell Tower, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice, Italy. Located in the Piazza San Marco, it stands at a mighty 98.6 meters tall and offers stunning views of the city and its canals. Whether you’re a history buff or a sightseer, there are plenty of things to do at the Campanile di San Marco. Here are 10 of the best things to do when you visit this iconic landmark.
1. Climb the Tower
The Campanile di San Marco is open to visitors, and you can climb the stairs to the top of the tower. The climb takes about 15 minutes and is well worth the effort. From the top, you can get stunning views of the city and the lagoon. You can also look out for the four bronze horses on the roof, which were added in the early 20th century.
2. Visit the Museum
The Campanile di San Marco houses a museum on the first two levels of the tower. Here, you can learn about the history of the tower and the city of Venice. You can also explore the tower’s bell chamber, where the bells used to be rung.
3. Take in the Views
The Campanile di San Marco offers some of the best views of Venice. From the top of the tower, you can see the city’s iconic canals, churches, and palazzos. It’s also a great spot for taking photos or just admiring the city from a distance.
4. Attend a Concert
The Campanile di San Marco is home to the Venice Concert Band, which performs at the tower every Sunday. The band plays a variety of music, from classical to pop, and the concerts are free to attend.
5. Climb the Clock Tower
The Campanile di San Marco is also home to the famous Torre dell’Orologio, or Clock Tower. This is one of the oldest clocks in the world, and it’s still in working order. You can climb the stairs to the top of the tower and get a close-up view of the clock and its intricate workings.
6. Visit the Basilica
The Campanile di San Marco is located next to the Basilica di San Marco, one of the most important churches in Italy. The basilica is home to some of the most beautiful artwork and architecture in the world, and it’s a must-see for any visitor to Venice.
7. Explore the Piazza
The Campanile di San Marco is located in the Piazza San Marco, one of the most famous squares in Venice. The piazza is home to a number of historic buildings and monuments, including the Doge’s Palace and the Palazzo Ducale. It’s also a great spot for people-watching and grabbing a bite to eat.
8. Take a Gondola Ride
One of the best ways to experience Venice is by taking a gondola ride. You can take a gondola from the Piazza San Marco and explore the canals and waterways of the city. It’s a great way to get up close and personal with the city’s iconic architecture.
9. Go Shopping
The Piazza San Marco is also home to a number of shops and boutiques. You can find everything from souvenirs to designer clothing, and it’s a great spot for some retail therapy.
10. Enjoy the Nightlife
Venice is known for its vibrant nightlife, and the Piazza San Marco is the perfect place to experience it. The square is home to a number of bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
The Campanile di San Marco is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice, and there’s plenty to do when you visit. From climbing the tower to taking a gondola ride, there’s something for everyone at this iconic landmark. So the next time you’re in Venice, make sure to check out the Campanile di San Marco.