I just used the website www.alata.it to make reservations to get into St. Mark's Basillica for my upcoming trip to Venice. But the site said the visit lasts only 10 minutes! How is it possible to see the whole magnificent structure in 10 minutes? Is this just the time of the tour and then after that we are on our own to look around? Thanks in advance.

From the FAQ of that website:

"This time is sufficient to visit the building and allows to reduce the wait for those that have to get in."

I just took a look at their web site and saw that the visit and the booking is free. How can you go wrong? No one can kick you out of a church. Take the 10 minute tour and then wander off on your own.

Yes the website is very unclear about exactly what happens after the 10 minutes. I would assume that you just proceed along your way after the 10 minute tour. I agree, since it's free, I really can't go wrong. But I was just wondering if anyone out there has first hand experience with this? Thanks!

When we were there last summer we used the website for the free reservations and were delighted they helped us avoid the long entrance line. Once inside no one bothered us to hurry at all. In fact, we sat out on the upstairs balcony overlooking the square for at least half an hour enjoying the view.

KathrynT: thanks! That is great to hear! I am so looking forward to seeing the basilica. We leave for Italy in less than 4 weeks!

I don't recall needing to make a reservation to visit St. Mark's. We just walked in. We did pay (tiny amount) to go up to the roof to see the horsemen and the views.