Which are the Best Churches in Venice to Visit? Here are Top 6 you Can’t Miss!
- 9 min read
Visiting Venice means discovering not only its alleys and canals, but also a unique artistic and spiritual heritage. The best churches in Venice tell stories of centuries of history, art, and faith: from the majesty of St. Mark’s Basilica to the Renaissance beauty of Santa Maria della Salute, up to the Gothic masterpieces of the Frari and Santi Giovanni e Paolo. It’s a journey through architecture, devotion, and culture in the most authentic heart of La Serenissima.
Venice St. Mark’s Square Pass: St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace & Bell Tower
1. St. Mark’s Basilica: the most famous among the best churches in Venice
History and construction of the basilica
St. Mark’s Basilica is the spiritual heart of Venice. Built in the 9th century, it soon became the symbol of the power of the Serenissima. It was erected after the desire to safeguard the relics of St. Mark the Evangelist, stolen from Alexandria, Egypt.
Its architecture combines Byzantine, Gothic, and Romanesque elements, creating a style that is truly unique in the world. It’s an essential stop for anyone wishing to explore the best churches in Venice, because it represents the perfect blend of faith and political grandeur.
What to see inside St. Mark’s Basilica
Inside, the golden mosaics cover over 8,000 square meters and depict scenes from the Bible. The Pala d’Oro, a masterpiece of Byzantine goldsmithing, is considered one of the most precious treasures in Europe.
Anyone entering the basilica is left speechless, after all, the light reflected by gold and marble turns the entire space into a heavenly vision.
All in all, St. Mark’s is not only a religious building but the beating heart of Venice’s identity.
📍 Sestiere San Marco ➔ Find out how to get there on Google Maps
Tickets for the Bell Tower and the historic gallery of St. Mark's Square
2. Church of Santa Maria della Salute: symbol of Venice’s rebirth
Origins and meaning of the vow against the plague
The Church of Santa Maria della Salute was built in the 17th century as a vow to the Virgin Mary for the end of the 1630 plague. It is one of the most beloved places by Venetians, after all, it recalls a moment of hope and rebirth after a great tragedy.
Its name, “Salute”, literally means health, evoking the healing and revival of the city.
Architecture and artworks not to be missed
Designed by Baldassarre Longhena, the church dominates the entrance of the Grand Canal with its monumental dome. Inside, you can admire masterpieces by Titian and Tintoretto.
Every November 21, thousands of worshippers cross a bridge of boats to celebrate the Festa della Salute — an event that still shows how deeply this church is rooted in Venice’s daily life.
All in all, it’s impossible to talk about the best churches in Venice without mentioning Santa Maria della Salute.
📍 Sestiere Dorsoduro ➔ Find out how to get there on Google Maps
Venice: St. Mark's Basilica + Doge's Palace + Gondola Tour
3. Abbey of San Giorgio Maggiore: Palladio’s masterpiece on the island
Palladio’s project and the view over the lagoon
Located on the island of the same name, just across from St. Mark’s Square, the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore is one of Andrea Palladio’s greatest masterpieces. It was built because of the need for a large Benedictine monastery and today represents a perfect example of Renaissance architecture.
The white façade and bell tower offer one of the most iconic views of the city, because from here you can admire the entire St. Mark’s Basin.
What to admire inside
Inside, there are two stunning paintings by Tintoretto — The Last Supper and The Gathering of the Manna — which alone are worth the visit.
In short, this church is an unmissable stop for those who wish to discover the best churches in Venice through the harmony of art and architecture.
📍 San Giorgio Island, Sestiere San Marco ➔ Find out how to get there on Google Maps
4. Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari: a Gothic jewel in the heart of Venice
The tombs of Titian and Canova
The Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, known simply as the Frari, is one of the most imposing churches in the city. Here lie the tombs of Titian and Canova, two giants of Italian art.
Its magnificence exists because of the wealth of the Republic of Venice during the Gothic period. However, what strikes visitors most is the sense of peace that pervades its interior.
The artworks that tell Venice’s history
Among its most important works stand out Titian’s Assumption of the Virgin and Canova’s funerary monument. Every detail speaks of the artistic greatness of the Serenissima.
After all, the Frari are a must-see stop for anyone wishing to experience the most authentic side of the best churches in Venice.
📍 Sestiere San Polo ➔ Find out how to get there on Google Maps
Tickets for the Bell Tower and the historic gallery of St. Mark's Square
5. Basilica of Saints John and Paul: the “Church of the Doges” of Venice
History and role in the city
The Church of Saints John and Paul, known in Venetian as Zanipolo, is one of the largest and most important churches in the city. It was built in the 14th century due to the expansion of the Dominicans, who wished for a place of worship worthy of their influence.
It is called the “Church of the Doges” because it houses the tombs of twenty-five Venetian doges.
All in all, Saints John and Paul is a place that unites spirituality and historical memory.
Artworks and architectural highlights
The Gothic interior is majestic and filled with marble funerary monuments. The altarpieces by Giovanni Bellini and Veronese add extraordinary artistic value.
Anyone visiting it will understand why it is considered one of the best churches in Venice, not only for its beauty but also for its historical significance.
📍 Sestiere Castello ➔ Find out how to get there on Google Maps
6. Parish Church of San Moisè: baroque elegance in the heart of Venice
Architecture and monumental decorations
Located just a few steps from St. Mark’s Square, the Church of San Moisè is famous for its extravagant baroque façade, a true triumph of sculptures and decorations. It was rebuilt in the 17th century because of the will of noble families who wanted to display their wealth.
However, despite its decorative excess, the interior is surprisingly harmonious and preserves artworks of great value.
What makes it special among the best churches in Venice
This church perfectly embodies the Venetian baroque taste, because it combines theatricality and devotion.
Many tourists encounter it by chance while walking between St. Mark’s and La Fenice Theatre, discovering a hidden gem that truly deserves more attention.
All in all, San Moisè further enriches the heritage of the best churches in Venice, offering a unique visual experience.
📍 Sestiere San Marco ➔ Find out how to get there on Google Maps
Venice: St. Mark's Basilica + Doge's Palace + Gondola Tour
Why visit the churches of Venice
The best churches in Venice represent a unique heritage in the world. By visiting them, one can understand why this city has always been loved by travelers of every era — because here every stone tells a story, and every church preserves a soul.
Those who visit Venice and stop only at its canals, however, will never truly grasp its depth.
In short, the best churches in Venice offer an experience that unites beauty, culture, and spirituality in a way that only this city can provide.
Venice St. Mark’s Square Pass: St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace & Bell Tower
How to dress to enter churches in Venice
Visiting the best churches in Venice requires not only cultural curiosity but also respect for sacred places. In Italy, clothing inside churches follows specific rules, because every religious building is considered a place of devotion before being a tourist destination.
The general advice is to opt for modest clothing: shoulders and knees covered, comfortable yet discreet shoes, no hats inside, and attention to noise. After all, being prepared with a suitable outfit allows you to enter any sacred place without issues — from the most famous basilicas to the hidden oratories.
In short, by following these simple rules of behavior, visitors can fully enjoy the spiritual and artistic experience offered by the best churches in Venice, in full respect of their history and religious meaning.
If you have doubts, check out St Mark’s Basilica dress code: rules, tips, what to wear and solutions if you don’t have the right clothing
Tickets for the Bell Tower and the historic gallery of St. Mark's Square
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Churches of Venice
Which are the most beautiful churches to visit in Venice?
The most famous are St. Mark’s Basilica, Santa Maria della Salute, San Giorgio Maggiore, and the Frari.
What is the most important church in Venice?
St. Mark’s Basilica, because it is the religious and political symbol of the city.
What is the main church of Venice?
Again, St. Mark’s Basilica, which serves as the seat of the Patriarchate of Venice.
What is the most beautiful place in Venice?
Many visitors believe that St. Mark’s Square, with the basilica and the bell tower, is the most beautiful spot in the city.
What is the oldest church in Venice?
It is believed to be San Giacomo di Rialto, built around the year 421.
What is the most beautiful church in the world?
Many consider St. Mark’s Basilica among the most spectacular churches in the world.
How many churches are there in Venice?
There are over 120 churches, many of which can be visited and are filled with artworks and history.
Who owns St. Mark’s Basilica?
The basilica is owned by the Italian State, but it is entrusted to the Patriarchate of Venice for use.