St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace all grew up together the ninth century onwards. Once, it was only a little square and chapel! Throw in a canal and a dock, some important government buildings, incredible architecture (the National Library of St. Mark's; the Museum of Archaeology, the Correr Museum, Procuratie Nuovo, Procuratie Vecchie, and others), and voila! – You’ve got Venice’s only official Piazza! There’s a Piazetta San Marco too, which has the columns of San Marco and San Theodoro. The piazza was upto 18th century used as a criminal execution ground.

One thing you can’t escape from in and around the piazza are the pigeons. They’re a squatter population that’s been here forever, and have done much damage to the buildings nearby with their droppings; and despite all efforts to eradicate them, persist as stubbornly as only a pigeon can. Feeding them is banned.

There’s not much to do aside from the people watching and enjoying the sights. Don’t buy food from the cafes; they’re ridiculously expensive. Expect a massive crowd all the time.

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• Don’t feed the pigeons.
• Have food and coffee at some other place.

• Vaporetti: From Piazzale Roma- Line 1, Vallaresso or San Zaccaria stop; Line 2 Giardinetti stop; Line 5.1 or Line 4.1, San Zaccaria stop.
• From Santa Lucia Railway Station- Line 1, Vallaresso or San Zaccaria stop; Line 2 Giardinetti stop; Line 5.1 or Line 4.1, San Zaccaria stop.
• From Lido di Venezia- Line 1, Vallaresso or San Zaccaria stop; Line 5.2, San Zaccaria stop.

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in Venice before you plan your trip.

Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in Venice and book an accommodation of your choice.