Venice, Italy is famous for its picturesque canals. The city’s magical charm is enhanced by its magnificent architecture. The beautiful churches not only serve as places of worship but also showcase Venice’s cultural heritage and historical significance.

In this blog, we’ll explore the best churches in Venice. From the grand Basilica of San Marco to the serene Santa Maria del Giglio, we have identified Venice’s must-visit churches and many hidden gems. We have also included tips to make the most of your visit and provided insights into whether purchasing a Chorus Pass is worth it for exploring Venice’s churches. Get ready to be mesmerized by the beauty and history of these stunning churches!

This website contains affiliate links that may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you.

When exploring the churches in Venice, several must-visit gems should not be missed. These churches embody Venice’s cultural and artistic prowess, making them truly worth seeing.

St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) can be found on the eastern side of St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) and is connected to the Doge’s Palace. Throughout the years, the church has gone through many changes and developments. Notably, the three visible facades were significantly modified during the thirteenth century. The church’s layout is in the form of a cross, featuring five domes and a blend of architectural styles that demonstrate the profound influence of the Eastern Mediterranean on Venice.

The Church of San Giorgio Maggiore (Chiesa di San Giorgio Maggiore), a stunning architectural masterpiece, is situated on the island of the same name in Venice. It stands tall and majestic against the city’s skyline, showcasing the exceptional architectural skills of the Venetians.

Andrea Palladio, a renowned architect, designed the church in the 16th century, seamlessly blending Renaissance and Classical styles. The church’s elegant facade boasts towering columns and graceful arches, captivating the attention of both locals and visitors.

The Church of Saint Mary of the Lily, also known as Santa Maria Zobenigo, can be found in the San Marco district. It underwent reconstruction in 966 and 1105 following fires that caused damage. The church features a solitary nave alongside three brief side chapels on each side.

This picturesque church is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and elegant interior adorned with beautiful frescoes. As you step inside, take a moment to marvel at the intricate details of the high altar and the statues of saints that adorn the space. The peaceful atmosphere invites reflection and contemplation, providing a respite from the busy Venetian streets. And if you’re lucky, don’t miss the chance to attend a musical performance in this acoustically-rich church, an unforgettable experience that adds another layer of enchantment to your visit.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, also known as the Frari, is a church in the San Polo district, designed by Jacopo Celega and Pier Paolo Celega in the Venetian Gothic style. Its construction began in 1250 and was completed in 1338, but it has been enlarged multiple times. The church underwent significant reconstruction in the late 14th and 15th centuries. Its design follows a Latin cross plan, with three naves and pointed arches supported by six columns on each side.

The Basilica of Saints John and Paul (Basilica di Santi Giovanni e Paolo), also known as San Zanipolo, is in the Castello district. It was built in the Gothic style by architect Bartolomeo Bon. The church was completed in 1343. It was later renovated and then consecrated in 1430.

The interior follows a Latin cross plan with a transept and three naves, separated by massive cylindrical columns connected by wooden tie rods.

The Basilica of Saint Mary of Health (Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute), also known as the Salute, is a Baroque-style church located at Punta della Dogana in the Dorsoduro district.

It was built between 1631 and 1687 by architect Baldassare Longhena, following a major wave of the plague from 1630 to 1631, as an offering to the city.

The church features an octagonal design with two domes and two bell towers, as well as eight radiating chapels within the interior. The dome at the entrance to the Grand Canal is a well-known symbol of the city.

The Church of Madonna dell’Orto is an Italian Gothic-style building built in the mid-14th century. The façade was constructed from 1460 to 1464. It was later restored between 1840s to 1869.

The Madonna dell’Orto is a hidden treasure in the charming Cannaregio district that offers a peaceful and calm environment. Once you enter this sanctuary of serenity, you will be surrounded by breathtaking artworks created by the renowned artist Tintoretto. The vibrant colors and stunning details of these masterpieces will surely leave you mesmerized.

The Chiesa di San Rocco, located in the San Polo district, was originally built in 1489 and completed in 1597 in Renaissance style. The facade was added between 1765 and 1769, and the building was renovated from 1726 to 1732 by Giovanni Scalfarotto.

The Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as Il Redentore, is an architectural masterpiece designed by Andrea Palladio in the Renaissance style. The construction of this church took place between 1577 and 1592.

The church is on the island of Giudecca in the Dorsoduro district. It was built as a gesture of gratitude following a severe plague outbreak that claimed the lives of 46,000 Venetians between 1575 and 1576. It features a single nave and three chapels on each side, making it a remarkable landmark.

The architect responsible for designing the Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli was Pietro Lombardo. It was constructed in the Renaissance style between 1481 and 1489. The structure underwent restoration between 1990 and 1997.

The Church of Santa Maria Formosa, also known as The Church of the Purification of Mary, is in the Castello district.

It was designed by Mauro Codussi in the Renaissance style and completed in 1492. The church’s façade facing the canal was finished in 1542 in the Baroque style, while the Baroque-style façade facing the square was completed in 1604.

The interior follows a Latin cross layout with a nave and two aisles. The dome was reconstructed following an earthquake in 1688.

The Chiesa di San Giorgio dei Greci, located in the Castello district, was built in the Renaissance style by Sante Lombardo from 1539 to 1573.

San Francesco della Vigna was built in the Gothic and Renaissance styles between 1534 and 1554 by architect Jacopo Sansovino. The facade was completed in 1564 by Andrea Palladio.

The Church of Santa Maria dei Carmini, also known as Santa Maria del Carmelo or I Carmini, is in the Dorsoduro district. It was built in the 14th century in the Gothic style. Architect Giuseppe Sardi designed the bell tower.

Chiesa dei Santi Geremia e Lucia was designed by Architect Carlo Corbellini designed in the Neoclassical style. The church in the Cannaregio district was built between 1753 and 1861.

The Chiesa di San Simeon Piccolo is located in the Santa Croce district. The church was rebuilt in the neoclassical style between 1718 and 1738 by architect Giovanni Antonio Scalfarotto.

The Church of San Sebastiano, built by architect Antonio Abbondi in the Renaissance style, is located in the Dorsoduro district and was constructed between 1506 and 1548.

The Church of St. Stephen, located at the end of Campo Santo Stefano in the San Marco district, was built in the 13th century, rebuilt in the 14th century, and renovated in the 15th century in the Italian Gothic style.

The Church of San Polo (Chiesa di San Polo or Chiesa Rettoriale di San Polo) is in the San Polo neighborhood. It was originally built in the 15th century in the Gothic style and was reconstructed in the neo-Classical style in 1804 by Davide Rossi.

The south doorway, which is thought to be from the original church, is still present. The detached bell tower was constructed in 1362.

The church is home to significant artworks by Venetian artists Tintoretto and Tiepolo.

The Basilica of San Pietro di Castello built between 1596 and 1619, is an exemplary Renaissance structure designed by architects Mauro Codussi and Andrea Palladio. Situated in the Castello district, the church boasts a Latin cross layout, which includes three naves separated by three arches each, with the dome located at the intersection with the transept.

The Chiesa di San Pantaleone Martire, also known as San Pantalon, is a Baroque church in the Dorsoduro district. It was rebuilt between 1684 and 1704 by architect Francesco Comin.

The Church of San Zaccaria, a grand 15th-century former monastic church, is dedicated to St. Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist.

The Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli di Cristo was originally built in the 7th century. It was reconstructed in the Early Renaissance style in 1575.

The Cappella Cornaro was built by architect Mauro Codussi in the 1490s.

The Church of Santa Maria del Rosario, also known as I Gesuati, was constructed between 1724 and 1736 in the Baroque style by architect Giorgio Massari.

Situated in the Dorsoduro district, the building’s striking features include a unique façade, dome, and two short onion-shaped bell towers that make it easily recognizable from a distance.

The Chiesa di San Giovanni Crisostomo, located in Cannaregio, was rebuilt by Mauro Codussi in the Renaissance style between 1497 and 1525, after the original church was destroyed by fire in 1475. The bell tower was added in the late 16th century.

The Church of San Stae is located in the Santa Croce district. The Baroque-style church was built by Domenico Rossi and completed in 1708. Its interior features a single nave with a vaulted ceiling.

The Church of Saint Job (Chiesa dei Santi Giobbe e Bernardino) in the Cannaregio district was built between 1450 and 1493. It was designed by architects Antonio Gambello and Pietro Lombardo in the Renaissance style.

The Chiesa di San Giacomo dall’Orio, located in the Santa Croce district, was originally built in the 9th century. It was rebuilt in 1225 and renovated in 1532 in the Romanesque style.

The San Bartolomeo Church, located in the San Marco district., was originally built in 830; it was renovated in 1170 and rebuilt in the 18th century. The bell tower, designed by Giovanni Scalfarotto, was built between 1747 and 1754.

The Chiesa di San Gallo, located in the San Marco district, was built in 1581 and enlarged in 1703.

Chiesa di San Giuseppe, also known as Sant’Isepo, is a Renaissance church in Castello. Construction began in 1512, and the walls were completed by 1525. The church was consecrated in 1543.

The Church of San Giovanni Elemosinario (Chiesa di San Giovanni Elemosinario) is a Renaissance-style church in the San Polo district. The church was originally built before 1071 but was destroyed by fire in 1514. The reconstruction was completed in 1531.

San Trovaso is a beautiful church located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood of Venice, Italy. The church has a rich history dating back to at least 1028 and was rebuilt in 1584, with the architect believed to be Francesco Smeraldi. It was finally consecrated in 1637 and is dedicated to Saints Gervasius and Protasius.

Chiesa di San Marcuola, located in the Cannaregio district, was designed by Giorgio Massari in the Italian Baroque style. It was built between 1730 and 1736. However, the facade remains unfinished.

When exploring the churches in Venice, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind for a smooth and respectful visit. By following these tips, you can make the most out of your visit to the churches in Venice and fully immerse yourself in their beauty and significance.

Check the opening hours and days of each church as they may vary. It would be disappointing to arrive at a beautiful church only to find it closed. Also, check for special events or religious ceremonies that may impact visiting hours.

Make sure to follow the rules and regulations provided by the church authorities. This includes appropriate dress code and behavior inside the church premises. Keep in mind that photography may be restricted in certain areas, so it’s essential to respect any signage prohibiting it.

The Chorus Pass provides access to multiple churches for a discounted price. With 16 participating churches, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of architectural styles and historical significance.

• • Full Chorus Pass: €14
  • Chorus Pass Reduced: €10 ( students up to 25 years old, with identity card )
  • Chorus Pass Family: €28 ( 2 adults + children up to 18 years old )

Entry to the following are included with the Pass:

• • Chiesa di Santa Maria del Giglio
  • Chiesa di Santo Stefano
  • Chiesa di Santa Maria Formosa
  • Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli
  • Chiesa di San Giovanni Elemosinario
  • Chiesa di San Polo
  • Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
  • Chiesa di San Giacomo dall’Orio
  • Chiesa di San Stae
  • Chiesa di Sant’Alvise
  • Chiesa della Madonna dell’Orto
  • Chiesa di San Pietro di Castello
  • Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore
  • Chiesa di Santa Maria del Rosario (Gesuati)
  • Chiesa di San Sebastiano
  • Chiesa di San Giobbe

Tickets can be purchased through the online ticket office. Tickets must be collected within three months of purchase at one of the church ticket offices. Otherwise, the voucher will become invalid.

Passes are valid for one year from the ticket’s collection date. Tickets can be collected at church ticket offices. You will need to present your purchase confirmation email containing your booking code to collect your tickets.

The entrance fee to a single church is €3.50. If you plan to visit more than four (4) churches, you will save money with the Chorus Pass.

With discounted access to multiple churches, the Chorus Pass offers convenience and flexibility. By purchasing the pass, you also contribute to preserving and restoring Venetian churches. Consider your itinerary to determine if it’s cost-effective for you.

The most famous church in Venice is St. Mark’s Basilica, also known as Basilica di San Marco. This iconic church is located in St. Mark’s Square and is known for its stunning Byzantine architecture, intricate mosaics, and rich history. It has been a symbol of Venice for centuries and attracts visitors from around the world.

The churches in Venice are known for their unique architecture, rich history, and stunning artwork. One of the special features of Venetian churches is their use of Byzantine and Gothic architectural styles, which give them a distinct and majestic appearance. Many of these churches also have elaborate facades and ornate interiors, adorned with beautiful mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures created by renowned artists.

Another special aspect of Venetian churches is their historical significance. Some of the churches in Venice date back to the Byzantine era, while others were built during the Renaissance period. These churches have witnessed centuries of religious ceremonies, cultural events, and community gatherings, making them important landmarks that reflect the city’s vibrant history.

Additionally, some Venetian churches house valuable relics and artifacts. For example, St. Mark’s Basilica is famous for its treasury which contains precious items such as the Pala d’Oro (Golden Altarpiece) and relics attributed to St. Mark himself.

Overall, the churches of Venice offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and provide a serene space for reflection and worship.

There are well over 100 churches in Venice. In fact, Venice is known for its beautiful churches and has a rich religious history. It is home to many stunning churches, including the famous St. Mark’s Basilica and the Santa Maria della Salute.

Yes, most of the churches in Venice are free to visit. Visitors can explore these architectural masterpieces, appreciate the artwork, and soak in the spiritual ambiance without any entrance fee. However, some churches may have separate areas or chapels that require a small fee or donation for access. This helps to maintain and preserve these historical treasures for future generations to enjoy.

When visiting churches in Venice, it is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully. While there may not be strict rules against wearing shorts, it is generally considered appropriate to wear clothing that covers the knees and shoulders. This shows respect for the religious significance of the churches and ensures a comfortable experience for all visitors. It is always a good idea to carry a shawl or scarf to cover up if needed.

There are many great places to stay in Venice. For the best experience, we recommend staying near St. Marks Square (the castle marker on the map below). It’s the epicenter of Venice, with great cafes and bars for people-watching and the stunning Cathedral as a backdrop.

Here’s an interactive map with hotel and apartment options that can be filtered to meet your needs. Select your travel dates to get specific availability and prices.

Book your stay now!