Find some of the best views of the Venice skyline, and a fine collection of paintings, at this Benedictine church, across St. Mark’s Basin.
The Church of San Giorgio Maggiore is on an island in St Mark’s Basin, across from St. Mark’s Square. On the island you will see one of the best views of Venice and a stunning example of Renaissance architecture.
The church was designed by the famous Italian architect Andrea Palladio. Completed in 1610, the design is a classic example of Renaissance architecture, with a marble, two-tiered façade and high, symmetrical columns. Inside, light pours through the windows to illuminate the high arches and simple arrangement of white and terra-cotta colored tiles. The windows are modeled on those found in many Roman bathhouses.
Admire the paintings that adorn the walls of the church and its various chapels. Among the most well-known of these are Adoration of the Shepherds by Jacopo Bassano and The Last Supper and Shower of Manna from Heaven by Tintoretto.
For stunning views, take the elevator up the campanile (bell tower). Use this unique vantage point to take some photos of the beautiful, ancient city that is Venice. The 360-degree view takes in the impressive buildings just across the bay in St. Mark’s Square, including St. Mark’s Basilica and its tall bell tower, and Doge’s Palace.
Before you leave, look along the side of the church. The little harbor here makes a pretty scene.
To get to the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, take Line 2 of the vaporette (water bus) from the San Zaccaria dock, a short walk east of St. Mark’s Square. The journey takes you straight across the bay and only takes a few minutes. Allow around 45 minutes to see everything. The church is open every day and you can attend mass on Sundays. Admission into the church is free but there is a small fee to enter the bell tower.