One of Venice's largest churches, the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, stands somewhat drowned in the midst of the tangle of narrow canals of the central San Paolo district. Compared to the Byzantine St Mark's, the 1250 building is dark almost mystical, but different nonetheless and therefore definitely worth a visit.

Cheapest accommodation in Venice (Booking.com)

The most important Catholic church in Venice is the Basilica Minor, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

The resting place of Venetian celebrities

The massive Gothic church attracts visitors in particular to its richly decorated interior, which boasts paintings and murals by famous Italian artists from Titian to Bellini to Paolo Veneziano.

An important part of the basilica is the repository of the remains of many famous Venetian personalities. For example, the composer Claudio Monteverdi, the painter Titian, the sculptor Canova and one of the most important Venetian Doges, Francesco Foscari, found their final resting place in this basilica.

Admission and opening hours

For the tourist public, the Basilica is open on weekdays from 9:00-19:30, on Saturdays until 18:00 on Sundays and on Christian holidays only from 13:00-18:00.

The entrance fee is just 5 eur, which makes a visit to the basilica with its world-renowned works of art really worth it. Students with a valid ISIC card pay only 2 eur and seniors over 65 pay 3 eur.

The tower, which is the second tallest in Venice, is currently impossible to climb.

Official website: basilicadeifrari.it

Accommodation around the Basilica

The Basilica de Frari stands in the middle of the historic centre of Venice on Campo de Frari and if you are looking for accommodation right in the centre, then the area around the Basilica is the place to be. Take a look at these great-rated accommodations in the immediate vicinity:

Ca' Badoer Frari - private apartment right on the square in front of the Basilica
Grifoni Boutique Hotel - a quiet little boutique hotel about 100 metres from the Basilica