Bird's-eye View from San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice, Italy

Stand at Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square) and peer across the turquoise waters. A bell tower stands tall, just behind a white church. Remember the quest? Always seek a place that offers a new vantage point, preferably with a bird's-eye view of the city. There is no better way to know a city. On top of the Campanile di San Marco (bell tower at St. Mark's Square) you get to see this gorgeous view of these structures on a lone island. However, at the bell tower from San Giorgio Maggiore, you get to see the view of San Marco, and that's the grand prize. The Church of San Giorgio Maggiore is a 16th century Benedictine church that sits on its own island, aptly named San Giorgio Maggiore. Art fans can see some works by Tintoretto before heading up the bell tower. Atop the tower, the wind blows ever so gently and you get a true 360 view of Venice.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Travel
Vaporetto stop is San Giorgio Maggiore.
Coordinates: 45.4294° N, 12.3432° E

Cost & Admission
Admission to church is free.
Belltower (includes elevator ride) is €6 for adults and €64 reduced rate.

Hours
May to September, 9:30 am - 6:30 pm
October to April, 9:30 am - Dusk
*Hours may differ on Sundays and during religious functions.

Food
Nearby, not particularly on this island.

Activities
Walking, seeing a church, seeing the view.
*Bonus, Bird's-eye view!

Tips
If there is a place to donate, do so. I usually donate and light a candle. The Belltower is a must. The cost is so minimal for such a beautiful view of the city.