San Giorgio Maggiore Tours and Activities

San Giorgio Maggiore showing heritage architecture
Church of San Giorgio Maggiore which includes island views, religious elements and a ferry
Church of San Giorgio Maggiore which includes heritage architecture, religious elements and a bay or harbour
San Giorgio Maggiore
Church of San Giorgio Maggiore featuring a marina, religious aspects and a church or cathedral


Rising from the Grand Canal is an island boasting a famous church and monastery, and a bell tower that delivers dizzying views across the city.

As you cross the rushing water of the Grand Canal the mighty San Giorgio Maggiore will begin to rise before you. On this Venetian island stands a huge church, with gardens behind it and a small marina to its side. All visitors to Venice can look across the water and see the church’s façade in the distance, but take the time to visit for a truly unique experience.

The San Giorgio Monastery and the Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore were established over a thousand years ago and remain active today. Explore the serene interior of the church, which was designed in the 16th century by the great Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio. The rooms of the basilica and monastery are full of history and fine artworks, such as Adoration of the Shepherds by Jacopo Bassano and Tintoretto’s final painting, Deposition. Visit the monastery library to browse a historic collection of books.

Look for the enormous Campanile (bell tower) that reaches up towards the sky behind the huge dome of the basilica. The bell tower matches the one in the St. Mark’s Square in the city center and is just as spectacular but with fewer queues. Climb the tower to find a breathtaking view. Enjoy the 360-degree views of Venice, the Adriatic Sea and, when clouds are few, even a view of the Alps. The tower features an elevator for those unable to make the strenuous climb to its top.

Fanning out from the central basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore are the buildings of the monastery. Stay a night in one of the monastery’s guest rooms for a truly Venetian experience. Enjoy some peace and quiet after the last day visitors leave the monastery as you get in touch with the island’s unique traditions. The Benedictine monks here have been welcoming visitors since the 10th century.

Attend a performance at the amphitheater known as Teatro Verde (Green Theater) for a complete experience of San Giorgio Maggiore.

Get to the island by crossing the water on a small ferry called a “vaporetto,” or a water taxi.

Plan a trip to see San Giorgio Maggiore

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Splendid Venice – Starhotels Collezione

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Top San Giorgio Maggiore Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Hotel Cavalletto e Doge Orseolo

Hotel Cavalletto e Doge Orseolo

4 out of 5
Piazza San Marco 1107, Calle del Cavalletto, Venice, VE
Hotel Cavalletto e Doge Orseolo
The St. Regis Venice

The St. Regis Venice

5 out of 5
Campo Barozzi, San Marco 2159, Venice, VE
The St. Regis Venice
Splendid Venice – Starhotels Collezione

Splendid Venice – Starhotels Collezione

4 out of 5
San Marco Mercerie 760, Venice, VE
Splendid Venice – Starhotels Collezione
The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice

The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice

5 out of 5
Campo Santa Maria Del Giglio O Zobenigo, Venice, VE
The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice
Hampton By Hilton Venice Isola Nuova

Hampton By Hilton Venice Isola Nuova

3 out of 5
Isola Nova del Tronchetto 17, Venice, VE
Hampton By Hilton Venice Isola Nuova
Unahotels Ala Venezia - Adults Only

Unahotels Ala Venezia - Adults Only

3.5 out of 5
San Marco 2494, Campo Santa Maria Del Giglio, Venice, VE
Unahotels Ala Venezia - Adults Only
Royal San Marco Hotel

Royal San Marco Hotel

4 out of 5
San Marco Calle dei Fabbri, Venice, VE
Royal San Marco Hotel
Hotel Rialto

Hotel Rialto

4 out of 5
San Marco 5149 Ponte Di Rialto, Venice, VE
Hotel Rialto
Hotel Montecarlo

Hotel Montecarlo

3 out of 5
Calle Specchieri 463 San Marco, Venice, VE
Hotel Montecarlo
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Things to do near San Giorgio Maggiore

When visiting San Giorgio Maggiore, be sure to explore its stunning attractions, including the iconic Basilica di San Giorgio Maggiore, which offers breathtaking views of Venice. You can also enjoy leisurely shopping in nearby boutiques and markets, soaking in the local culture. Don't miss the chance to experience the picturesque surroundings and vibrant atmosphere that this beautiful island has to offer.

Shopping

In San Giorgio Maggiore, visit Rialto Market for local produce and souvenirs, only 1.4km away. T Fondaco Dei Tedeschi, 1.3km away, offers a mix of shopping and entertainment. For unique gifts, check out Libreria Acqua Alta, just 1.1km away.

Recreation

San Giuliano Park, a scenic recreation area 8.0km from San Giorgio Maggiore, offers a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation. For family fun, visit Marina di Venezia, an aquatic centre also 8.0km away. Enjoy a musical experience at Vivaldi Church, just 644m away, brimming with entertainment vibes.

Adventure

Experience thrills at Caribe Bay Jesolo, a vibrant waterpark 20.9km from San Giorgio Maggiore, perfect for family fun and adventure. For cycling enthusiasts, the E4 - Il GiraSile biking trail, located 16.1km away, offers scenic outdoor vibes and a chance to explore the beautiful Italian countryside.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Giorgio Maggiore by visiting Teatro Malibran and Piccolo Teatro Delle Melodie Veneziane for captivating performances. For a closer option, Teatro Verde offers a delightful atmosphere. Enjoy the blend of culture, romance, and family-friendly entertainment just a stone's throw away!

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near San Giorgio Maggiore

San Giorgio Maggiore offers a delightful blend of culture and history, featuring the renowned Church of San Giorgio Maggiore and its iconic architecture. Visitors can explore art museums, historic palaces, and take in the scenic views of Venice Island. For those seeking both outdoor experiences and cultural immersion, this charming locale is a must-visit, perfect for discovering the rich heritage of Venetian churches and landmarks.

  • St. Mark's Square: A bustling hub of Venetian culture, St. Mark's Square is adorned with stunning architecture, including the iconic Basilica di San Marco. Here, you can soak up the lively atmosphere filled with street performers and cafes while enjoying a coffee under the sun.
  • Rialto Bridge: This historic bridge is not only a marvel of engineering but also a vibrant marketplace. Stroll across its arches for picturesque views of the Grand Canal and explore the surrounding shops that offer local crafts and delicacies.
  • Grand Canal: The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal is lined with magnificent palaces and picturesque scenery. Take a vaporetto ride for a romantic experience, watching the friendly locals and tourists alike as you glide along the water.

Best time to go to San Giorgio Maggiore

The best time to visit San Giorgio Maggiore can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around San Giorgio Maggiore falls in July and August. August has average visitor numbers and sunny weather. The coolest average temperature around San Giorgio Maggiore falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February44.1°F (6.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
June72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July75.9°F (24.4°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
August75.9°F (24.4°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
September69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Giorgio Maggiore

To save money on your trip to San Giorgio Maggiore, visit during the off-peak months of January, February, or November for the best hotel rates. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, and consider last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the priciest. Use public transport wisely, and take advantage of walking to explore the area. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package for extra savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around San Giorgio Maggiore are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around San Giorgio Maggiore is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around San Giorgio Maggiore is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around San Giorgio Maggiore is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently on offer. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at San Giorgio Maggiore with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.