Record visitor numbers for St. Mark's Basilica: online tickets are mandatory from July!

Record visitor numbers for St. Mark's Basilica: online tickets are mandatory from July!

From July 1, 2025, access to St. Mark's Basilica in Venice will be drastically changed. In the future, only a maximum of 500 to 600 people will be allowed to enter the impressive basilica at the same time. This is part of a measure that regulates the flow of tourists in the historic center of the city. An important step in this direction is the introduction of an online reservation and ticket requirement. Visitors can only buy their tickets online, although there will be no ticket machine available on site. The entrance fee for St. Mark's Basilica and the adjacent bell tower will rise from 6 euros to 10 euros in order to create the financial basis for the free opening of 40 churches and the restoration of holy places. Children under 10, church groups and people with disabilities enter free of charge. This reports wko.at.

Every year, St. Mark's Basilica receives around 1.8 million visitors, while the bell tower receives around 700,000 visitors. To avoid long queues, which can last up to two hours on site, tourists should consider purchasing a pass or booking a guided tour that includes entrance tickets. In addition, various ticket packages for St. Mark's Cathedral can be offered on an online portal; prices range from 20 to 120 euros, depending on the content and options. Access restrictions are also planned for specific areas, such as the Pala d’Oro.

Decrease in hotel overnight stays and increase in alternative accommodation

Last year Venice was visited by almost 5.9 million guests, an increase of 3.7 percent compared to the previous year. With a record total of 13,290,973 overnight stays, the number of overnight stays in alternative accommodation such as holiday apartments and bed & breakfasts rose by 11 percent to 6.3 million. These private accommodations have surpassed hotel overnight stays for the first time and now contribute 33 percent of total overnight stays, a significant increase compared to 2019. The months of May and November in particular showed significant increases, with an increase from 1.3 to 1.5 million overnight stays and from 800,000 to 900,000. While hotels in Venice recorded a decline of 2.9 percent, private accommodation is increasingly contributing to Venice's attractiveness as a tourist destination.

Future of tourism in Venice

Venice has introduced an entry ban for large cruise ships since August 2021 in order to reduce the burden on the city from mass tourism. In addition, from 2025 a general admission fee will be charged for day visitors. These measures are intended to ensure a balance between attracting tourists and preserving the historic structure of the city. In terms of visitor numbers, the regulations are expected to bring about a positive development both for the city and for the quality of life of its residents.

To have an unforgettable experience at St. Mark's Basilica, dress appropriately—shorts and uncovered shoulders and knees are not permitted. If you want to arrive with larger bags or backpacks, you can leave them on Calle San Basso for 2 euros. Masses are free, and the daily services in the basilica provide a special spiritual atmosphere that attracts many visitors.