Saint Mark's Basilica

Saint Mark's Basilica

Crafted from many different styles of architecture, today its opulence shines from nearly every corner – from the four bronze horses that guard the entrance to thousands of square feet of mosaics to the Pala d'Oro. If you look closely at the church's center gable, you can see a statue of St. Mark along with Venice's emblem: a lion with wings.  

Many consider the basilica to be a must-see attraction while in Venice. Others said that though the lines to enter tend to get long, they move pretty quickly. To avoid the perpetual crowds, heed the advice of past travelers and plan to arrive right when the church opens.