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Best Time to Visit Venice: Month-by-Month Guide

While it is one of the most beautiful, romantic cities in the world, Venice’s huge crowds and high prices can sometimes make visiting a little less special. What’s going on in the city and its weather also has a massive impact on people’s experience exploring La Serenissima.

As it is a must-see destination for many, Venice is often inundated with visitors – just like its streets and squares in winter when they often flood. While the canals, bridges, churches and palaces always look incredible, there are, of course, quieter, calmer times to visit. Summer now is almost too full with its scorching heat also making walking around uncomfortable.

To help you plan your trip, let’s take a look month-by-month at what to expect in the Queen of the Adriatic in terms of its climate, crowds and cultural events.

What’s the Weather Like in Venice?

Lying in Northeastern Italy in the Veneto region, Venice is built atop 118 islands in a lagoon, adjoining the Adriatic Sea. As it is surrounded by water, it is not uncommon for everywhere to flood for a few hours at high tide during the winter months. This is known as acqua alta.

Apart from this phenomenon, the city sees regular rainfall throughout the year, each month averaging between 9 and 13 days. While its winters are cold, grey and foggy, summers are hot and humid. Temperatures in July and August average around 27 to 28°C (80 to 82°F) with their highs often being unbearable.

With ample sunshine, lots of hours of daylight and warm temperatures, spring and autumn are perhaps more comfortable weatherwise. They are not as good though for sunbathing or swimming at the Lido.

Best months to visit Venice

Although July and August are the most popular months to visit due to the summer holidays, the high heat, humidity and crowds can make exploring the city unpleasant. Its main sights, squares and museums are all packed with hotel rates and airfares being more expensive.

As they are a bit calmer and cheaper but the weather is still good, both spring and autumn are great times to visit. There is still a very vibrant feel about town with numerous festivals also taking place.

Other high points of the year include both Christmastime and carnival. Around these hugely important events, thousands of people pour in, come to celebrate and partake in all the fun festivities.

Venice in January

As it lies in between Christmas and carnival and is cold, foggy and grey, January is the least popular month to visit Venice. If you don’t mind the weather, exploring the almost deserted city can be very atmospheric in the gloom. At times, you may have to make your way about raised walkways if the acqua alta floods its lower areas.

Besides benefiting from the cheaper hotel prices, there are no crowds in the alleys or at any of its attractions. Some may have reduced opening hours, however. Aside from a couple of Christmas markets that are still around the first week, there is the Feast of the Epiphany to attend. Bonfires and concerts are held while a rowing regatta races along the Grand Canal.

Venice in February

February in Venice is all about one thing: its world-famous carnival. For two weeks, colourful costume-clad partygoers wearing masks amble about the city with opulent balls, boat parades and street fairs all taking place. Prices shoot up around this time as millions of people come to enjoy the unforgettable event.

As temperatures hover around 9°C (48°F), you’ll have to wrap up warm when exploring the Floating City. While it is the driest month, the bora winds create quite a chill, coming off the cold canals. At Campo San Polo, you can even ice skate if you like! Apart from carnival, February is the off-season so there are fewer crowds and prices are cheaper.

Venice in March

As the weather starts to improve, tourists slowly start to trickle back to Venice. March is the last quiet, more affordable month before the city is overrun at Easter and in summer. With a bit more sunshine and warmth to its days, spring can be a wonderful time to visit. You’ll still need to layer up though with many sights also still closing earlier.

Other than making the most of the shorter lines and relaxed atmosphere, it’s not a bad idea to take trips to popular places like Lake Garda and Verona before they get too busy. You can also hop on a vaporetto to Murano or Burano and enjoy gondola rides about its canals. After this, the region’s boats, trains and city centers are much more crowded.

Venice in April

Once the Easter holidays arrive, the peak season starts with the number of tourists in Venice only subsiding in November. Hotel prices and airfares are much higher with queues forming outside its main attractions and museums. While there is an excited buzz about the city, its narrow alleys do start to feel a bit crowded.

Coupled with its longer, sunnier days, averages of 17°C (62°F) are great for strolling about its stunning streets and squares. Parades and concerts take place for the Feast of San Marco while its prestigious Art Biennale also begins, carrying on til the end of November. Although it is a bit wetter than the winter months, its 12 days of rain shouldn’t put much of a damper on your trip.

Venice in May

Along with April, May is one of the best months weatherwise to visit Venice. Temperatures of around 21°C (70°F) are perfect for wandering about the city before the summer heat kicks in. This is also a good time to explore some other islands and cities in Veneto before they’re completely overwhelmed.

While many museums, shops and restaurants shut for Labour Day, there are some exciting regattas to watch later on in the month. These are for both the Vogalonga – a long-running competition – and the Feast of the Ascension. Although there are loads of crowds around, prices are still more affordable than in summer.

Venice in June

With average temperatures rising to 25°C (77°F), Venice starts to feel a bit hot and stuffy, especially with the hordes of tourists thronging about its streets. The weather is finally good enough though to sunbathe and swim at the Lido. Other than all its Art Biennale exhibitions, June is the last month to catch an opera at La Fenice Theatre before the summer break.

As each day has around 16 hours of light, there is ample time in which to sightsee or sit and sip a spritz at its outdoor cafes. June is one of the rainiest months though, along with August and November. While prices are more expensive, concerts, dances and exhibitions also take place for the Feast of St. John in Bragora and Feast of San Pietro de Castro.

Venice in July

July and August are the absolute peak season in Venice when everywhere is packed and all its shops, restaurants and bars are at their busiest. You’ll have to queue at many of its main attractions and museums with the vaporetti to Murano and Burano also being full. To avoid the astronomical accommodation prices, it’s worth having a look for hotels in nearby Mestre.

The hottest and sunniest month of the year, July’s high averages of 28°C (82°F) are actually rather unpleasant. While wandering about is a hot and sticky affair, it’s the perfect weather to lounge on the beach at either the Lido or Jesolo. The city has a lovely, lively atmosphere about it with regattas and firework displays also being held for the Feast of the Redeemer.

Venice in August

While many Italians take their holidays in August, business continues as usual in Venice with most shops and restaurants remaining open. The Rialto Bridge and streets near Piazza San Marco are absolutely rammed. To escape the crowds, consider heading to less popular areas like Dorsoduro and Cannaregio.

The sweltering weather and slow-moving throngs of tourists can make sightseeing tiring and a bit frustrating. You can always cool off though at the beach or in one of its countless quiet churches. Besides the Festival of Santo Stefano’s sports competitions and dance shows, the world-renowned Venice International Film Festival starts, continuing into September.

Venice in September

Once the school holidays are over, things are finally a bit quieter, calmer and cheaper in the city – that’s not saying much though! Prices remain high and massive groups of tourists still mill about its streets. As it is a few degrees cooler, ambling around is more comfortable with the days being dry and sunny.

Aside from the International Film Festival at the Lido, there is the fascinating Regata Storica and all its historic boats to watch along the Grand Canal. The opera season also opens again at La Fenice Theatre. As the weather is still warm, you can always sunbathe and swim at its beaches. Most nearby day trip destinations will still be quite busy though.

Venice in October

As October has fewer big events going on, accommodation is finally a bit more affordable with the city being much quieter the further you stray from Piazza San Marco. For the most part, the weather is quite warm and dry, though the days are shorter. Its 5 hours of sunshine and averages of 18°C (64°F) are still lovely for sightseeing but a bit too cool for the beach.

Before things turn cold, wet and grey in November, it’s worth taking trips to historical cities like Padua, Vicenza and Verona. You also no longer have to fight for space on its vaporetti to Murano and Burano. At the end of October, thousands visit for its marathon which passes by its scenic canals over little old bridges.

Venice in November

With just 3 hours of sunshine, much more rain and temperatures of 12°C (53°F), November is well and truly the off-season in Venice. Blissfully crowd-free, its reduced hotel prices and airfares can make a trip tempting. You’ll have to pack an umbrella though and listen out for sirens signalling acqua alta’s impending arrival!

While many of its attractions have reduced opening hours and there are fewer daylight hours in which to explore, Venice looks incredible at any time of year. Traditional events such as its Feast of St. Martin and Feast of Our Lady of Health also take place. At these, you can watch religious parades and sample local delicacies. Its Art Biennale also finally comes to a close in November for the winter.

Venice in December

A bit drier and colder than November, Venice has a wonderful, relaxed feel to it in December with the Christmas holidays also bringing some festive cheer. While the chance of fog, wind and acqua alta is higher, exploring its deserted alleys is still magical if you wrap up warm.

Still very quiet in comparison with the spring, summer and autumn months, it sees a spike in visitors around Christmastime. Hotel prices of course rise around the holidays. Other than perusing its cozy markets, you can shoot about the ice rink at Campo San Polo. To welcome in the New Year, you can enjoy concerts and firework displays in Piazza San Marco or attend a special performance at La Fenice Theatre.

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The Best Time to Visit Venice

Lara D'Agostino / TripSavvy

If you're planning a trip to Venice, some times of year are definitely better than others. Weather, festivals, and, of course, the acqua alta  (high water) that Venice is so famous for should all be considered when deciding when to go to Venice.

Taking all of that into account, the best time to visit Venice is November. If you want to have the city to yourself, it's best to visit in the off-season and while you may need to pack some layers for November's chilly evenings, the city is mostly tourist-free and hotel rates are much more affordable. While high water can definitely hamper your sightseeing, know that it has been a way of life for Venetians for hundreds of years and is a unique experience to have as a tourist.

The Weather in Venice

Late spring and early summer in Venice do offer the best weather. But the city during these beautiful warm days is packed with tourists (the May 1 holiday is particularly crowded), meaning that there can be long waits to enter museums and sights. Also during this peak time, finding accommodations—budget or otherwise—can be a challenge.

Venice is similarly packed with tourists in late summer, even though the city can be oppressively hot, the canals ripe with odor, and the inevitable mosquitoes are bothersome.

The fall is a lovely time to visit Venice, but it is also when the acqua alta (flooding, or literally "high water") is more likely to occur. October through January is the typical high water season, though flooding can occur at any time during the year.

Venice's location, in northern Italy on the Adriatic Sea, means that the city has colder, longer winters. While winter can be a great time of year to visit, especially in terms of getting a bargain and avoiding crowds, it can be harsh. The winds that whip off the Adriatic and down the alleyways are bone-chilling. Luckily, winter ends on a lively note with Carnevale , or Carnival, Venice's biggest festival.

Peak Season in Venice

Venice's very busy season occurs in the summer when hotels are charging their maximum rates and tourists are packed into gondolas on the canals. Days are sunny and long, but Venice's inland location means that it can be quite hot. 

Key Events and Festivals

Venice has several big events that are worth booking a trip around. Carnevale dates usually fall in late February or early March, when tons of tourists descend on Venice for two weeks of masked and costumed revelry. Easter is also a festive time and is the start to the high season in Venice.

Every other year, in odd-numbered years, Venice hosts the Biennale for Art . This international arts showcase is a world-renowned event and takes place from the end of May to the end of November. The Biennale is a very popular event, so be prepared to find Venice more booked up than usual when it is on.

Yet another summer festival to see in Venice is the Festa del Redentore, which occurs the third weekend in July. This religious festival takes place at the Church of the Redentore, which lies on the island of Giudecca across from Saint Mark's Square . The festival is celebrated with the building of a pontoon bridge over the water, feasting, fireworks, and a gondola regatta.

March is chilly and humid, but packed full of exciting festivals and events, leading into the Holy Week and Labor Day (May 1), a national holiday. By April, the weather has warmed up a bit, yet crowds aren't too bad, making it a nice time to visit.

Events to check out:

• The Vogalonga, a world-class rowing competition featuring rowers from around the world, typically takes place in late May.
• Tourists crowd Venice during Easter. Don't miss the  Benedizione del Fuoco , when the lights at Saint Mark's Basilica are turned off and a fire is lit in the space's entrance.

Italian summer holidays kick off on August 15, but the months preceding are among Italy's best for festivals and events. 

• Every other year, Venice hosts its eponymous biennale, a months-long contemporary art extravaganza that runs through November. The entire city hosts art exhibits, installations, lectures, and happenings in venues across the city.
• In July, Venice hosts the Festa del Redentore, which marks the end of a big epidemic in 1576. During this festival, the temporary footbridge from the mainland to Giudecca Island, which is created from a connected flotilla of boats, becomes one of the most famous bridges in Venice.

In fall, tourists have left, leaving the city with fewer crowds and less expensive accommodations. Still, festivals and events are in full-swing in lively Venice. Note that later in the fall, weather can be quite brisk and in November, Venice often experiences  acqua alta or flooding from high tides.

• On the first weekend of October, Venetians celebrate Festa del Mosto. On these days, locals spend time on the nearby island of Sant’Erasmo, the biggest island in the lagoon. This is where much of the area's produce is grown.
• Gondoliers race along the Grand Canal in September, as part of the Regata Storica (Historical Regatta), Venice's most exciting gondola race. There's always food, music, and lively fanfare.

Weather in Venice during the winter may not be the best, as temperatures average just 43 degrees Fahrenheit and rain is common, but there are fewer tourists since cruise season is over. Don't miss New Year's Eve in the Piazza San Marco, where there's a big group kiss followed by fireworks.

• Carnevale, Italy's version of mardi gras, takes over the city in February.
• The Christmas season truly ramps up on December 8, a national holiday.

For lower rates and minimal crowds, visit in the fall from September to November. Temperatures get colder as you get later in the season and the seasonal flooding is a possibility, but experiencing the city without hoards of tourists is worth the trade-off.

Venice is teeming with tourists all summer long, and the crowded streets, sky-high hotel rates, and muggy weather don't make for an ideal vacation. February is also a crowded time with Carnevale visitors.

The flood season—known locally as acqua alta —can happen at any time of year, but most commonly occurs from October to January.

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The Best Time to Visit Venice: The Ultimate All-Season Guide

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To truly appreciate Venice’s romantic allure , it’s crucial to plan your visit carefully. I live very close to Venice and spend time there frequently meaning that I have been there in every season.

What’s the best time to visit Venice? My favorite times to go there are in April and May and then again in September and October.

However, the best time to visit Venice can vary greatly depending on your preferences. Some prefer the bustling energy of the peak season, while others seek the tranquility of fewer crowds. Factors such as weather, hotel rates, and key events also play a significant role in determining the ideal time for your visit.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll delve into the nuances of Venice’s seasons, discuss the city’s weather patterns, highlight key events and attractions, and provide practical tips to help you plan your visit.

Want to know the worst time to visit Venice? Click here for my full article!

Understanding Venice’s Seasons

Venice, like much of Italy, experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique characteristics and charm. Understanding these seasons and their implications for travel can greatly enhance your visit to this enchanting city.

Peak Season

The peak season in Venice typically falls in the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the city is teeming with tourists from around the world, drawn by the warm weather and the vibrant atmosphere.

The city is in full swing, with all attractions open and tons of events taking place. However, be prepared for large crowds , long lines, and packed vaporetti, especially in popular spots like Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal. Also, hotel rates tend to be at their highest during this period and some people complain that it’s smelly in the summer.

You’re not too far from some gorgeous beaches , though, so if you have some extra time to spend in Venice then it’s worth it to come during this season.

The off-season in Venice is generally during the colder months, from November to February, excluding the festive Christmas period and the famous Carnevale in February . Aside from during those times, the city sees fewer tourists, resulting in smaller crowds and shorter lines at attractions.

The weather can be quite cold, and some attractions may have shorter hours or be closed entirely. However, hotel rates are generally cheaper, and you can experience a quieter, more authentic Venice.

There is still plenty of events and things to do in the off season. For instance, in January you can take in the Epiphany celebrations.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Venice occurs in the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October). These periods offer a balance between the bustling energy of the peak season and the tranquility of the off season. The weather is generally pleasant, and while there are still tourists, the crowds are less overwhelming.

Hotel rates are also more moderate compared to the peak season. The shoulder season can be an excellent time to visit Venice if you’re looking for a balance between good weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices.

Read my guide on the most romantic hotels once you’ve started planning your trip!

Peak Visitor Numbers and Tourist Seasons in Venice

Venice, the city of canals, is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year . Understanding the peak visitor numbers and tourist seasons in Venice can help you plan your trip more effectively, ensuring you get the most out of your visit.

Venice experiences its highest tourist influx during the summer months, particularly in July and August. This is considered the “peak season” when the city is bustling with tourists from around the world. The weather is warm, and all attractions are open, making it an ideal time for sightseeing. However, it’s also when Venice is most crowded, and hotel rates are at their highest.

On the other hand, the “off season” typically falls in the colder months, from late fall to early spring. During this time, the number of tourists drops significantly. While some attractions may have shorter hours, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds, and accommodations are generally cheaper.

The “ shoulder season ” falls in the transitional periods between the peak and off seasons, usually in late spring (April to June) and early fall (September and October). During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and the tourist crowds are less overwhelming than in the peak season.

However, it’s important to note that these are general trends and can vary from year to year.

Weather in Venice

Venice, the city of canals, is a marvel to behold in any season. However, the weather can significantly impact your visit, so it’s essential to know what to expect.

Average Temperatures

Venice experiences a humid subtropical climate, with cool winters and very warm summers. The average annual temperature is 18℃. The warmest month of the year is July, with an average temperature of 28℃. On the other hand, January is usually the coldest month, with an average temperature of 7℃.

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of the average temperatures:

• January: 7℃
• February: 9℃
• August: 28℃
• September: 24℃
• October: 19℃
• November: 13℃
• December: 9℃

Precipitation

Venice also sees a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year. The months with the largest precipitation are October, November, and May, with October seeing the highest average precipitation of 88mm.

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of the average precipitation:

• January: 49mm
• February: 51mm
• March: 61mm
• April: 73mm
• August: 62mm
• September: 68mm
• October: 88mm
• November: 84mm
• December: 62mm

Visiting Venice in Different Seasons

Each season in Venice offers a unique experience, with its own set of pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when visiting Venice in different seasons:

Summer (June – August)

• Long, sunny days perfect for sightseeing
• Numerous events and festivals, such as the Festa del Redentore in July
• Gondola rides and alfresco dining are particularly enjoyable in the warm weather
• High tourist season, resulting in large crowds and long lines at attractions
• High temperatures and occasional summer thunderstorms can be uncomfortable
• Hotel rates are at their peak

Fall (September – November)

• Fewer tourists, resulting in a more relaxed atmosphere
• The weather is generally pleasant, with temperatures dropping from the summer highs
• The occurrence of “acqua alta” can be an interesting experience (though it’s best to come prepared with rain boots)
• Some attractions may have shorter hours
• The weather can be unpredictable, with a higher chance of rain and acqua alta

Winter (December – February)

• The least crowded time to visit Venice
• Lower hotel rates
• Unique events like the Venice Carnival in February
• Cold winters, with temperatures often dropping below freezing
• Shorter days mean less daylight for sightseeing
• Some businesses may be closed or have reduced hours

Spring (March – May)

• Beautiful blooming flowers and pleasant weather
• Fewer crowds compared to the summer months
• The Venice Biennale starts in late May, a major contemporary art exhibition
• Spring showers are common, so it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella
• Some popular sites can start to get crowded, especially during the Easter holidays

Remember, the best time to visit Venice depends on your personal preferences and what you want to get out of your trip.

Key Events and Holidays in Venice

Venice is a city that’s rich in culture and tradition, and this is reflected in the numerous events and holidays that take place throughout the year. These events can significantly impact your visit, affecting everything from hotel rates to tourist crowds.

National Holidays in Italy

Italy celebrates several national holidays, many of which are also celebrated in Venice. These include New Year’s Day (January 1), Easter Monday (date varies), Labor Day (May 1), and Christmas Day (December 25). During these holidays, many businesses and attractions may be closed, but the city often comes alive with special events and celebrations.

Specific Events

One of the most significant events that impact the city’s crowd levels is the Carnevale di Venezia, or the Carnival of Venice. This annual festival is world-renowned and attracts visitors from all corners of the globe. The Carnevale typically takes place in February , leading up to Lent. The exact dates vary each year, but in 2023, for example, many of the Carnival events were scheduled from the 11th to the 21st of February, according to the official Venice Carnival website .

If you’re planning to visit during the Carnevale, it’s recommended to book your accommodation and tickets for events well in advance. Some of the most popular events, like the ‘Il Ballo del Doge’ or the Doge’s Ball, can sell out quickly.

Another significant event is the Festa del Redentore in July, a grand festival with fireworks and a regatta to celebrate the end of the plague in 1576.

Holy Week , leading up to Easter, is also a special time in Venice, with religious processions and services taking place throughout the city.

Christmas in Venice is a magical time, with festive decorations, special church services, and Christmas markets. The markets start popping up around the end of November and often last until into the second week of January.

Another notable event is the Vogalonga Regatta, a non-competitive rowing event that takes place in May. It’s a spectacular sight, with hundreds of boats from around the world participating.

Impact on Hotel Rates and Tourist Crowds

During these events and holidays, Venice can become particularly crowded, and hotel rates often increase due to the high demand. It’s advisable to book your accommodations well in advance if you plan to visit during these times.

For events like the Vogalonga, transportation and even the routes the gondolas can take are impacted. The Grand Canal is closed to public transportation during the Vogalonga for most of the day, for example.

Practical Tips for Visiting Venice

Visiting Venice can be an unforgettable experience, but it requires some planning and preparation. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Weather Preparedness

Venice’s weather can be quite variable, so it’s important to plan for good weather and prepare for the possibility of bad weather. Check the average temperatures and rainfall for the time of your visit and pack accordingly. Remember, even in the summer, thunderstorms can occur, and in the winter, the city can experience cold temperatures and high water levels (acqua alta). Always have a plan B for outdoor activities in case of unexpected weather changes.

Venice can be an expensive city, especially during the peak tourist season. If you’re on a tight budget , consider visiting in the off-season when hotel rates are generally cheaper. Also, keep in mind that many attractions charge admission fees, so factor these into your budget as well.

Buying one of the many passes available for things like transportation, museums , and other attractions can save you money and time. I highly recommend one and you can see the ones that should help you on your trip by clicking here.

Check out my guide on the most popular Venice Passes so you can find one that suits your needs best!

Packing Appropriately

Packing appropriately for your trip to Venice is crucial. In addition to clothing suitable for the weather, consider packing items like rain boots and a waterproof jacket, especially if you’re visiting during the acqua alta season . If you are caught by surprise by aqua alta and didn’t pack appropriately, don’t worry as many souvenir shops sell boots.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must as you’ll likely spend a lot of time on your feet exploring the city.

Check out my packing list guide for what to wear in Venice!

Day Trips and Special Events

Venice’s location in northern Italy makes it a great base for day trips to other cities and regions such as the Prosecco hills for a wine tour . Consider adding a day trip to your itinerary to explore more of Italy. Also, if you’re visiting over New Year’s Eve, you’re in for a treat. Venice hosts a spectacular fireworks display over the lagoon to ring in the new year, a truly magical experience.

Check out my article on the best day trips from Venice to help you plan your ideal trip!

Venice, with its unique charm and rich history, is a city that captivates every visitor. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets during the peak tourist season, experiencing the festive atmosphere of the Carnevale, or enjoying the quieter charm of the off-season, Venice promises an unforgettable experience.

Remember, the best time to visit Venice is the time that suits you best. So, plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with La Serenissima, the most serene city.

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Venice   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Andreas Koch | EyeEm

Best Times To Visit Venice

The best time to visit Venice is from September to November when tourists desert the city. Although the temperatures – which range from the upper 30s to mid-70s – necessitate some layers, the lowered hotel rates and the barren canals make it worth it. Winters are cold with temperatures in the 30s and 40s, while spring brings Venice's most beautiful weather. Summertime is peak season and is characterized by high hotel rates, high temperatures and – you guessed it – plenty of crowds. Although acqua alta  (high water) can occur anytime between late September and April, it's most likely to happen in November and December, so make sure to pack a pair of rain boots if you plan on traveling then. 

Weather in Venice

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Venice

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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The Best Time to Visit Venice

Italy › Venice › Best Time to Visit Venice Updated: May 4, 2022 By Santorini Dave

• Venice – Best Places to Stay
• Best Hotels in Venice
• Best Hotels for Families in Venice

When is the best time to visit Venice?

Me and my two boys in Venice on a summer visit.

My favorite time to visit Venice is during April, May, September, and October when the city is warm and dry but not too hot. I try to avoid visiting in August when the weather is hot and muggy and many Venetians leave for a month-long vacation. Winter is excellent for avoiding crowds (except during Carnival season), but it is rainy and the chance of flooding increases, though typically not enough to prevent sightseeing.

The best time to go to Venice is April, May, September, and October.

• Best Time for Sightseeing : Mid-spring, and particularly the first half of May, is the very best time to enjoy sightseeing in Venice. The cold of winter has lifted and the sun makes a daily appearance, while temperatures are comfortably warm. Tourist services are fully operational, yet you’re unlikely to run into large crowds. Unless your goal is to spend your days lying on the beach, there is really no downside to visiting in May. If going in May is not an option, the second half of September is your next best bet, with the crowds of summer beginning to thin, and temperatures cooling down some. August is arguably the worst time for sightseeing in Venice, with stifling heat and high humidity, lots of bugs and plenty of sweaty tourists to contend with. No matter what time of year you’re in Venice, visiting the most popular attractions like St. Mark’s Square, is best enjoyed during the early morning hours. Not only will you have the best chance for being at the front of the queue for places like the Basilica and the Campanile, but you can take advantage of the early morning light for especially magical photos.
• Best Time for Visiting the Rialto Markets : The Rialto Bridge, located in the oldest and most central quarter of the city, has been a bustling hub for hundreds of years. No matter what the season, the area is always filled with tourists. This is one spot where you won’t notice a significant difference in crowds between summer and winter other than the temperature. As with many other popular destinations, the best time to visit is early in the morning – before 9am, on a Friday or Saturday; the markets begin winding down after lunchtime. By going early in the morning, not only will you see the local fish and vegetable market, but you can also enjoy a fairly tranquil scene at the bridge. The Rialto Market is open Tuesday through Saturday from about 7:30 a.m. to about 1:00 p.m. On Mondays, the fruit and vegetable vendors are open, while the seafood stalls are closed.
• Best Time to Attend Carnivale : Carnivale is one of the biggest celebrations in all of Italy, but there is no place in the country that does it bigger or better than Venice. It takes place here, and many places around the world, 40 days before Easter, with a final party before Ash Wednesday and Lent. The events typically last for two to three weeks before the actual Carnival Day (Shrove Tuesday – the day before Ash Wednesday). While many events, like the opulent masquerade balls, require invitations and have very high ticket prices, many others, like the candlelit parade of boats, concerts and street performances, are free and open to the public. If you arrive into Venice mid-week during the first week, you might wonder, “why all the hype?” Other than a few low-key events and the skating rink in Campo San Polo, there’s not really a lot going on. But that’s because all of the excitement comes on the weekends, and the final weekend in particular. St. Mark’s Square is the focal point, where you’ll see the most elaborate costumes and masks. On weekdays, the area is generally still fun, and also fairly manageable – on the weekend, visitors flood in and the streets can get very crowded. Away from the costumes and all of the masks, the local areas of Venice are still relatively quiet and peaceful.
• Best Time for a Gondola Ride : Gondola rides are available throughout the year, and while anytime is a good time for this unforgettable experience, it may be most romantic in winter, early Spring, or late Autumn, with less boat traffic on the canals, the water especially tranquil and blankets available to cuddle up in and ward off the chill. It makes for a more intimate ride than a summer adventure when the waterways are packed and temperatures are sizzling. No matter what the season, the time of day you go matters too. Just about everyone plans to go at sunset or just after dusk, which means the canals will be jam-packed with gondolas. If your priority is to capture that idyllic photograph, choosing to go in the late morning or early afternoon hours may be best, as crowds will be at a minimum and you’ll have plenty of light, not to mention, it’s less expensive too.
• High Season (June through August) : Venice’s very busy high season falls in the summer. During this time of year tourists are crammed into even pricier gondolas and hotels charge their highest rates. This season also means stifling heat and pesky bugs, but if a summer vacation is a must, or if you simply enjoy the excitement of the crowds and want to take advantage of longer days with an abundance of sunshine, going to Venice during high season may be for you. Summer in Venice is more temperate than in Italy’s scorching inland cities, and as most Venetian hotels come with air-conditioning, it can be pleasant, or at a minimum tolerable.
• Shoulder Season (March through May, September through November) : Shoulder season in Venice falls in the spring and autumn months, both beautiful times of the year to be in the City of Canals. In the spring, Venice defrosts, with temperatures rising from the lower 50s in March to the lower 70s in May, and in the fall, the city begins to empty of peak summer crowds, making for a magical atmosphere, though you’re likely to need a coat as November’s temperatures range from the upper 30s to lower 50s.
• Low Season (December through February) : Winter is low season, which means none of the sweat and stress of the high tourist season, with temperatures averaging in the 30s and 40s. While this time of year certainly has its advantages, with few crowds and discounted accommodation rates, keep in mind that sights may have shorter hours – many close as early as 5pm – and there will be fewer activities available. February, during Carnevale, is the exception, when rates are high, crowds are vast and there are numerous events to take part in. This season can bring some flooding, particularly at St. Mark’s Square and along Zatteree at the southern edge of Venice, though it’s unlikely to significantly affect sightseeing plans. A number of tabacchi (tobacco shops) and a few souvenir shops sell boots that will help keep your feet dry.

Venice Weather by Month

• Venice Weather in January : Venice is at its coldest, and quietest, in January, with daytime temperatures typically hovering around 3°C and sometimes dipping below freezing, particularly at night. This is when that famous Venetian fog rolls in that gives the canals a ghostly, romantic atmosphere. Most days are partly cloudy, and you should expect to experience rain on an average of nine days in January, with about 58mm falling in total. Often, there is moderate or light rain during at least part of the day. While it’s usually not enough to keep one indoors, as it’s rather chilly, you should plan on dressing in layers, bringing a warm coat, hat, gloves and a scarf. On the plus side, the cruise ships have long departed, and you won’t have to fight crowds to see the sights. (Average Max Temperature: 6°C. Average Precipitation: 58mm.)
• Venice Weather in February : February can still be quite cold in Venice, with temperatures typically hovering around 5° to 6°C and overnight lows just a bit over freezing at 1°C. Warm clothing is a necessity as it was in January, but the days are growing longer now. Rain isn’t significant, but with the heavy fog, it will likely feel rather damp. A month earlier, there was about nine hours of sunlight, by February 1 that increases to 9 hours and 45 minutes, and by February’s end, you’ll enjoy slightly over 11 hours of light with the sun setting just before 6pm. As fog is usually quite heavy now, it can make for an especially romantic canal ride. (Average Max Temperature: 8°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)
• Venice Weather in March : Temperatures in March are becoming milder, but it’s still cool, so you’ll need to pack that hat, scarf and coat. Temperatures range from about 8°C to 12°C during the day, dipping down to 4°C at night. This month is wetter, with around 64mm of rainfall on an average of 12 days; precipitation is likely to occur as moderate rain, with occasional light rain and thunderstorms as well. A raincoat with a hood will allow you to get around comfortably. There are about 12 hours of daylight on average, with 12 hours and 46 minutes by March 31 when the sunsets just after 7:30pm. (Average Max Temperature: 12°C. Average Precipitation: 60mm.)
• Venice Weather in April : April ushers in much more pleasant weather, though it doesn’t get too warm. It’s the beginning of sunshine in Venice, with open-air cafes and lots of fabulous places to soak up the joyful atmosphere. The average high temperature has increased to 16°C and overnight lows are a rather comfortable 12°C. This month experiences about the same amount of rainfall as March, with around 64mm coming down over an average of 13 days in April, mostly as moderate rain, along with occasional thunderstorms. On most days, light clothing is appropriate, though as the weather tends to change frequently, bring along a light jacket with a hood and/or an umbrella. The days are significantly longer than they were over the winter months, with more than 14 hours of daylight and sunset at 8:17pm on April 30. (Average Max Temperature: 16°C. Average Precipitation: 60mm.)
• Venice Weather in May : May marks the official start of the tourist season, and temperatures start to rise, with sunshine brightening up the entire city. You’ll start to notice more bugs, along with bigger crowds and sweatier tourists. The average temperature is around 21°C, which means a light shirt or top and pants or shorts are typical daytime attire, though you may need a sweater in the evening with temperatures dropping to 12°C after dark. Pack a bathing suit, as it will probably be warm enough to soak up the sunshine on the beach, or to take part in watersports like jet skiing. There is typically 70mm of rainfall over 11 days in May, often coming down as moderate rain or thunderstorms. There is a significant difference in temperature from May 1 to May 31, with highs averaging around 15°C early in the month, increasing to highs of 23°C by the end of May. (Average Max Temperature: 21°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Venice Weather in June : The tourist season is now in full swing – and, so is the heat. Expect hot, sunny and long days; the longest day is June 20, which brings nearly 16 hours of sunlight. Pack your beachwear, including a bathing suit and sunscreen, along with t-shirts, shorts and capris. The average high temperature is 24°C and it doesn’t cool down much at night, with low temps average 16°C. Rain this month occurs on an average of 12 days, often as afternoon thunderstorms.
• Venice Weather in July : July is the hottest month in Venice, and the peak of the tourist season. The average high temperature is 28°C, with lows dipping only to around 18°C overnight. Pack your bathing suit so that you can cool off in the water at beaches like Lido, along with t-shirts, shorts and sandals to wear during the day and nice casual, light clothing for going out in the evening. Due to the high temperatures, and long hours of sunshine (over 15 ½ hours on July 1), be sure to bring and wear high SPF sunscreen as well as a hat. Around 63mm of rain falls on an average of 10 days in July, most of it through summer thunderstorms. (Average Max Temperature: 28°C. Average Precipitation: 63mm.)
• Venice Weather in August : August in Venice is still very warm and very busy, though the average high drops a degree to 27°C this month. At night you can expect the same, with warm, relatively pleasant evenings, and the temperature dropping to 18°C. Rain increases slightly to 70mm over nine days, mostly as thunderstorms, and there is about 14 hours of daylight, with August 31 the shortest day and the sun going down just before 8pm. August is a good time to get out on the water and go sailing or rowing, to cool off from the intense heat, but if you aren’t able to, be sure to duck under an umbrella or head inside during the hottest part of the day. (Average Max Temperature: 27°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Venice Weather in September : Temperatures are slowly beginning to drop now, reaching an average high of 24°C and a low of 15°C, while tourist crowds start to thin. During the day a short-sleeve shirt and pants or even shorts are usually adequate, though you may need a sweater if a cool breeze blows through. Rain generally isn’t significant, falling on an average of nine days in September, mostly occurring in the form of thunderstorms followed by light rain. The days are getting shorter, with a little less than 12 hours of sunlight by the month’s end. (Average Max Temperature: 24°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Venice Weather in October : It’s noticeably cooler in October, and much less busy with the tourist season having come to an end. Days are pleasant, typically around 14°C to 16°C, and after the sun goes down, you’ll likely need a sweater or jacket as the temperature drops to an average of 10°C. Expect about the same amount of rain as last month, with 70mm falling over 10 days, mostly moderate with the occasional thunderstorm. Daylight is decreasing, to just over 10 hours of sunlight on October 31 and sunset at about 5pm. (Average Max Temperature: 18°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Venice Weather in November : Weather is changing dramatically now, with high temperatures dropping to an average of 11°C and lows to 4°C. As this is one of the rainier months in Venice, rain increases particularly during the second half of the month, making the need for an umbrella and warm jacket more likely. There is a rather large difference in temperature from the beginning to the end of the month, starting out with highs around 10°C, dropping three degrees to 7°C by month’s end. Overnight, temperatures hover just a few degrees above freezing. (Average Max Temperature: 11°C. Average Precipitation: 70mm.)
• Venice Weather in December : One of the coldest months of the year in Venice, in December the average temperature typically only reaches as high as 7°C, and after dark, it often falls to right about freezing. You’ll need to bring your cold weather gear, including a warm jacket, heavy sweaters, a hat, gloves and scarves. An umbrella and waterproof shoes or boots are likely to be appreciated too. A heavy fog and mist rolls in now, creating a haunting cityscape along with a chill in the air. The days are shorter now, with the shortest day falling in mid-December bringing less than nine hours of daylight and the sun setting at 4:30pm. (Average Max Temperature: 7°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)

Venice Events and Festivals by Month

Venice events in january.

• New Year’s Day – New Year’s Day is a national holiday in Italy, and in Venice, most attractions, including museums as well as shops, restaurants and other services are closed. Many Venetians celebrate the start of the new year by taking a morning dip in the chilly waters from the beach on the Lido.
• Ephiphany/La Befana – This national holiday held annually on January 6, marks the 12th day of Christmas and is one on which Italian children wake up to toys and candy in their shoes, celebrating the arrival of La Befana, a good witch. In Venice, it’s also celebrated with a regatta known as La Regatta delle Befane, which features men dressed up like the witch who race boats in the Grand Canal.
• Festival of Saint Anthony (The Feast Day of Saint Anthony Abbott) – This Italian holiday held on January 16 and 17 in Venice, celebrates the patron saint of butchers, domestic animals, gravediggers and basket makers. In Venice, it traditionally marks the start of the Carnevale season. The tradition of the festival begins with a bonfire outside of two churches near the square, and is followed by a mass on the morning of the 17th. At the conclusion of mass, visitors can observe the release of balloons in the piazza which represent blessings for all children and animals.
• Post-holiday Sales – A state-mandated sale period begins in January and lasts for six to eight weeks. While the date varies each year, the sales usually begin early in the month, after La Befana, and are known for offering some very good bargains, often with discounts of 25 to 35 percent or even more. Look for signs in shop windows reading SALDI, which means “sales.”

Venice Events in February

• Carnevale di Venezia – Carnivale is celebrated across Italy, but Venice is known for throwing one of the biggest parties of all. Here, the entire city center is transformed into a living theater set for two entire weeks or more, following a tradition that originated back in 1162. It involves tens of thousands of costumed participants who attend masquerade balls and take part in activities like street performances, juggling, and a nonstop program of historical plays in the central Piazza San Marco. The “grand finale” includes a candlelit, silent water parade where hundreds of gondolas float along the Canal Grande. Travelers from across the globe crowd into the city to enjoy the parades on land and in the canals, food fairs, children’s carnivals and many other activities. It takes place 40 days before Easter, with a final party before Ash Wednesday and Lent. The events typically last for two to three weeks before the actual carnival day, the day before Ash Wednesday, which changes every year according to when Easter falls.
• Valentine’s Day – Surprisingly, it’s only been in recent years that Italy has started to celebrate the feast day of Saint Valentine, or Festa di San Valentino, with love letters, hearts, and candlelight dinners. You can celebrate by taking a gondola ride and kissing under the famous Bridge of Sights, enjoying two-for-one admission at some of Venice’s museums or toasting to your love with a drink at an outside table in Saint Mark’s Square after dark.

Venice Events in March

• Festa della Donna – Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8 throughout Italy, honoring mothers, and all women. On this day, men bring flowers, usually yellow mimosas, to the women in their lives, and restaurants offer special meals honoring women. If you plan to dine out on this day, reservations are recommended. Watch for concerts and local events that will be held around Venice and other cities through Italy.
• Festa di San Giuseppe – This is Father’s Day in Italy. The Feast Day of Saint Joseph includes the tradition of children giving gifts to their fathers, and zeppole (a fried dough similar to a doughnut) is consumed.
• Holy Week and Easter – Holy Week, or Easter Week, may be in March or April. It always begins on Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter. This is a very busy time in Venice, with tourists crowding the city rather than locals. Because it’s a long weekend, many Italians take the opportunity to get out of town, heading to the countryside, the sea, or the mountains. Visitors can enjoy pageants, classical music concerts and Easter services during this time. Most major sights and museums will be open on Easter Sunday and Monday, though many shops and restaurants will be closed.

Venice Events in April

• Settimana della Cultura – The Week of Culture is typically held in mid-April, though the exact dates aren’t usually released until just before the event. During this time, many national museums and sites offer free admission. Some museums in Venice that participate include the Accademia, the Ca d’Oro and the Archeological Museum, among many others.
• Festa di San Marco and Liberation Day – Held annually on April 25, this busy day on the Venetian calendar is an important religious observation of the city’s beloved patron, Saint Mark. He’s feted on this day with a gondoliers’ regatta that includes commemorations of the saint who died on April 25, 68 AD at Saint Mark’s Basilica, and festivities in Saint Mark’s Square. Tradition also includes men giving their wives or girlfriends the “bocolo,” the bloom of the red rose. The day also marks the anniversary that Italy was liberated at the end of the Second World War.

Venice Events in May

• Labor Day and the Festa della Sparesca – International Workers’ Day, or Labour Day, is a national holiday held on May 1 each year. Many Venetians leave town for the long weekend, while those who stay can witness the gondolier regatta known as Festa della Sparesca held at Cavallino in the lagoon.
• Festa della Sensa – The Festa della Sensa is an ancient celebration commemorating Venice’s relationship to the sea. It takes place on the first Sunday after Ascension Day (40 days after Easter). Festivities include a magnificent procession at sea, with colorful parade boats from all the rowing associations in Venice following the Serenissima which carries the mayor and the patriarch.
• Vogalonga – Held the weekend following the Sensa festival, Volalonga is a thrilling rowing race that includes as many as 3,000 participants. The 32-kilometer course runs from San Marco Basin to the island of Burano and returns through the Grand Canal, concluding at the Punta della Dogana. This is a fantastic event to watch, with the suffocating motorized boat traffic ceasing, and the water is left to the oars.

Venice Events in June

• Festa della Repubblica – Republic Day is a national holiday held on June 2 each year. It is similar to Independence Day in other countries, and celebrates the nation becoming a Republic in 1946. Though many businesses, including museums and restaurants, will be closed, there are almost always some eateries open that cater to the countless visitors that flood the city during high season. Keep an eye out for posters announcing special festivities and concerts throughout town.
• La Biennale – This month-long contemporary arts extravaganza beings in June every other year during odd-number years, and runs through November. Sixty days after Easter, Corpus Domini, honoring the Holy Eucharist, is celebrated by Catholics. In Venice, this day typically features a long procession in and around St. Mark’s Square. It’s believed to be the oldest of its kind in the country, dating back to 1317.
• Palio of the Four Ancient Maritime Republics – This boat race rife with medieval pageantry is hosted in Venice every four years. The traditional regatta shifts between Pisa, Genoa, Amalfi and Venice. Prior to the race is a parade, with participants donning medieval dress and marching through the streets.

Venice Events in July

• Festa del Redentore – July’s biggest event is the Festa del Redentore, or Festival of the Redeemer, which marks the end of an epidemic in 1576. It is accompanied by fireworks and a rowing competition, while the footbridge from the mainland to Giudecca, which is created from a connected flotilla of boats, becomes one of Venice’s most famous bridges. The unique event is renowned throughout the country, with boat parades and elaborate Venetian-style dinner hosted at numerous restaurants before the big pyrotechnic show begins. Dinner reservations must be made well in advance as seats are limited.
• Arena di Campo San Polo – This open-air cinema begins in late July and runs through the end of August. It features the largest screen in Venice and includes films that are generally reruns of the previous season’s blockbusters, but there are also a number of premieres as well. Most are in Italian, or dubbed into Italian, although six films in the original English language version are typically also featured.

Venice Events in August

• La Biennale di Venezia – The Venice Biennial is considered one of the most important art extravaganzas in the world. Held every other year during odd-number years, it runs throughout the month of August and includes the International Art Exhibition, International Film Festival and International Architecture Exhibition as well as the Festival of Contemporary Music and International Theatre Festival.
• Ferragosto – The traditional beginning of the summer holidays for most Italians, Ferragosto, held on August 15, falls on the religious holiday of Assumption. It marks the time when local Venetians head out of town, to the beach or mountains, to escape the heat and mosquitoes that summer brings. While some businesses will be closed, many stay open, catering to tourists. Fireworks are a very big part of Ferragosto across the country, including in Venice.
• Venice Film Festival – The Venice Film Festival is an annual internationally known film festival on Venice Lido that brings out a bevy of stars who grace Venice’s gondolas and red carpets.
• Outdoor Concerts and Movies – Several squares around Venice host outdoor movies and concerts throughout the month of August, including Campo San Polo. Look for the posters with information about the events.

Venice Events in September

• Regata Storica di Venezia – Venice’s Historic Regatta is one of the most spectacular events in Venice, and the most important event on the rowing calendar, highlighting the city’s reliance on boating and waterways. Taking place on the first Sunday of September annually, it is made up of four different races and involves many different types of boats, including the gondola. Teas of gondoliers, some decked out in costume, race a course along the Grand Canal. The event is accompanied with much fanfare, food and music.
• Festival of the Triumph of the Cross – September 14 is a holy day marked annually with a procession at the church and grand school (Scuola Grande) of San Giovanni Evangelista in the Sestiere di San Polo.

Venice Events in October

• Opera Season at La Fenice – Venice’s famous opera house is an unforgettable place to see an opera, and is highly recommended, even for non-opera fans.
• Venice Marathon – Every fourth Sunday in October, this internationally recognized race begins on the mainland and finishes in St. Mark’s Square.
• Halloween – Although Halloween isn’t an Italian holiday, it’s become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly among young adults. Many of the shop windows feature Halloween décor, and nightclubs, bars and restaurants on the Lido host Halloween costume parties.

Venice Events in November

• All Saints Day – November 1 is a public holiday. This is a time when Italians remember their deceased loved ones by visiting cemeteries and graves. In Venice, families traditionally crossed a pontoon bridge to the island cemetery of San Michele, placing flowers on the graves of their saintly or secular relatives. Today, they make the trip by vaporetto or water taxi, though the idea is the same, honoring the dead and keeping in touch with the loved ones they expect to see in the hereafter.
• Festa di San Martino – On November 11 each year, kids armed with their mothers’ pots and spoons raise a ruckus around Venice, chanting the saint’s praises and demanding trick-or-treat-style tokens in return for taking the noise elsewhere.
• Festa della Salute – The festival of La Salute is held annually on November 21. The day commemorates the plague that decimated much of the city’s population, when one-third of Venetians died from a plague that occurred in the early 17th century. Celebrants give thanks at the church of the Madonna della Salute in the Dorsoduro sesteire, which was built by survivors. City workers lay a footbridge built on pontoon boats across the Grand Canal which leads from the San Marco quarter to the steps of the church where the main doors are opened, as they are just once a year and have been for nearly four centuries, to receive the masses for mass.

Venice Events in December

• Hanukkah – Venice celebrates Hanukkah in the Ghetto, which is the Jewish area of Venice that was the first segregated Jewish community in Europe. If you visit, you can witness the lighting of the Menorah, sample kosher food finds and enjoy a variety of Hanukkah festivities.
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception – On December 8, Catholic faithful celebrate the day of the Virgin Mary’s conception of Jesus. This is a national holiday which means many businesses may be closed.
• Christmas Markets – From mid-December through mid-January, the festive Christmas market in Campo Santo Stefano is filled with stalls selling beautiful Venetian handicrafts, including nativities, children’s toys, and delectable seasonal treats. Live music is also part of the festivities.
• Christmas Eve/Christmas Day – Venetians celebrate Christmas Eve with a multi-course fish dinner, and many follow the meal with a midnight Mass at Saint Mark’s Basilica with services in Italian, English, French and German. Everyone is invited, and although it technically starts at 11:30pm, you’ll need to get there a few hours before to reserve a seat. On Christmas Day, everything will be closed. Venetians celebrate over a large lunch with family and opening presents. You can follow them later to a free concert held at 4pm at the Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari church.
• Festa di San Silvestro/New Year’s Eve – December 31st in Venice, and throughout Italy, is celebrated with plenty of fanfare. You’ll find parties throughout the city, and in Piazza San Marco, hundreds of visitors fill the square to enjoy fireworks, toasts, music and a midnight kiss.
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About Santorini Dave

We will be in Italy in late March of this year. We will be arriving in Milan on March 30. We were planning to visit Venice on March 31 (Saturday) however Easter this year is on April 1. Trying to determine when would be the best day to visit Venice Saturday or Sunday? We don’t celebrate Easter, however, we would like to go on a day in which shops will be open and we can get the best out of our day trip. What would be your suggestion?

Saturday will be slightly less busy than Easter Sunday but both will be very busy. (And Easter Monday busier still.) Most shops and restaurants in Venice will be open during Easter but still might be some surprisings.

Hello. Any recommendation for a good restaurant with a scenic view in Venice? (Visiting in November.) Thank you Dalia

Terrazza Danieli has great food and view.

I’ve been wanting to visit Venice for as long as I can remember. If you had a favorite month – or even a favorite week to visit Venice what would it be? Looking for good weather that’s great for walking. Smaller crowds would also be nice (though not as important as good weather.) I’ll be there with my husband and we both love food. Is there an area of Venice that is good for excellent food and true Italian food? – would love to avoid the tourist spots, but perhaps everywhere is touristy. Advice and recommendations appreciated.

Thank you, Stefani

I’d go for late September-October as crowds drop a lot once school in Europe has gone back. October can be warm and sunny with beautiful light – but naturally these days the old weather patterns vary a bit so there’s never a guarantee. However to be honest, Venice is a special experience in whatever conditions. Mid winter in the fog can be very romantic! For food I’d recommend the Cannaregio district with its many neighbourhood eateries. If you’re interested in local food be adventurous and ask the waiter for suggestions and what’s in season. Avoid restaurants that offer a set tourist menu. Venice is touristy but a lot of people live there too and they need to go out to dinner too so it is possible to have a good authentic meal.

Any preference between traveling to Venice in early June or late September (crowds, hotel rates, weather)? Also, how far in advance would you book hotels for a June or September visit? And how far in advance should we book our train tickets from Rome to Venice? Thank you, Shawn

Early June can be hot (though these days weather forecasts are hit and miss) while late September tends to be more comfortable in terms of temperatures. Both will be fairly crowded but that’s Venice. (The quiet time is midwinter). Both periods are pretty well high season in terms of hotel rates though advance booking can often get you a good deal. Train tickets can be booked up to 3 months ahead on Trenitalia.com but tickets can also be purchased at the train station. Trains to Rome are plentiful so booking more than a day in advance isn’t necessary (though you may not get your choice of departure at the last minute).

Hope this is helpful.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide

Best Times to Visit Venice

If you’re considering a trip to Venice, you might wonder when to visit. The answer, of course, depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to experience the city’s busiest and most vibrant, you’ll want to come during peak season. But be warned: Venice can be incredibly crowded during this time. If you’re looking for a more relaxed vacation, shoulder season or even off-season may be a better bet. Keep reading to learn more about the different factors that can affect your decision on when to visit Venice.

Venice’s Weather by Month

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The National Centers for Environmental Information (NOAA) reports that Venice’s climate has typically ranged from a freezing 30°F (-1C ) to a comfortable 86° F (30C) over the past several years.

Remember that these are only monthly average temperatures; hotter or colder days could happen during the month.

For example, although the monthly average temperature for Venice in July is 86° F, don’t be fooled into thinking the temperature remains consistent the whole month. You will likely experience some days above 90 degrees and others in the 70s.

Similarly, in colder months, don’t expect the temperature to always stay cold; you may find yourself suddenly surprised by warmer conditions than anticipated.

For those who prefer a moderate climate, rejoice! Venice is an excellent place for you. Every time I’ve been to this beautiful city, it has provided me with an ideal temperature – never too hot or cool. I find Venice’s average temperatures to be a great mid-point.

When it comes to weather, though, rain, wind, and humidity will all contribute to the perceived temperature. Make sure you have at least one outfit for each occasion.

(March-May and September-November)

Experience the beauty of Venice during its shoulder season and reap the rewards! Prices for hotels and flights are substantially lower than during peak season, helping you explore the city on a budget.

Furthermore, you can explore Venice and everything it has to offer with significantly fewer crowds. Despite a potential dip in average temperature or an unforeseen shower, visiting Venice in shoulder season is undoubtedly worth it.

Shoulder season in Venice generally runs from mid-March to early May (spring) and late September to November (autumn).

If you visit Venice in the spring, you’ll be treated to warming temperatures and longer days. The downside is that it can still be chilly, so pack a light jacket or sweater.

Autumn is also a beautiful time to visit Venice. The weather is cool but not cold. Just be prepared for some rain.

(Late May-August)

Peak season (or high season) in Venice runs from late May to August when the average temperature is warmest, and the city experiences the least rain. This is the most popular time to visit Venice, so expect high prices and large crowds.

Book your hotel and flights well in advance if you plan a trip to Venice during the high season. Prices will be increased during this time of year, and accommodation may fill up quickly. We recommend booking a place in the Cannaregio district as hotel rates are often the most affordable and the district is quiet (i.e., further from the touristy sections).

On the plus side, there’s a lot to do in Venice’s high tourist season: outdoor cafes, restaurants with outdoor seating, gondola rides, festivals, famous Venetian churches to explore, and more.

While they’ll be very crowded during peak season, you should visit Burano, Murano, Lido, and Torcello. We wrote guides on the Best Things to Do In Burano , the Top Things to Do in Murano , and the Best Things to Do in Torcello .

Plus, have you really been to Venice if you didn’t go during the hustle and bustle of tourist season?

(December-February)

Winter is Venice’s low season and the best time to visit if you don’t mind the cold and like to explore places without crowds. From December through February, temperatures are at their lowest. However, I can assure you that Venice still has plenty of activities during this time.

The first time I took a tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace was in January 2018, and it was fantastic. Low crowds meant I got to interact with our guide, ask questions, and request to visit certain areas of the museums.

The canals may be a bit chilly, but with fewer crowds in the city, you’ll get to explore more at a slower pace and take in all the details that Venice has to offer. Plus, there’s nothing like walking through Saint Mark’s Square uninterrupted and alone.

The one exception to the low season is Venice’s carnival. Thousands gather to participate in parades, parties, and other unique festivities – like wearing traditional masks and garb. Read our guide to the Venice Carnival – including tips on food, parades, and the history of this event.

Events and Holidays in Venice

New Year’s Day concert at Teatro La Fenice. You’re in for a treat if you don’t know anything about La Fenice. It made our list of the top 10 things to do in Venice . This majestic opera house, renowned for featuring some of the greatest singers and composers from Italy and Europe, is one of the most revered venues in the world. Boasting a storied history, it has held countless performances that have captivated audiences for centuries.

Carnevale – Now a national holiday, this is the most significant event in Venice and one of the largest in Italy. Throughout February and March, you’ll find an abundance of revelry and traditional masks everywhere you turn. As part of this festival, visitors can partake in parades, parties, fireworks shows, concerts, food markets, and more! If you want to learn more, we wrote an in-depth guide to Carnival in Venice . Keep in mind that hotel rates are at their highest during carnival.

Su e zo per i ponti (“Up and Down the Bridges”) – a non-competitive walk that starts in the Piazza San Marco, in front of the Doge’s Palace, and follows designated routes throughout the city that leads walkers through calli (streets), campi (squares) and ponti (bridges).

Celebrated annually on April 25th, St. Mark’s Day honors Venice’s beloved patron saint, Mark the Evangelist. Popularly known as the Feast of Saint Mark or Rosebud Festival, it is a day cherished by Venetians and Sardinians.

Biennale di Venezia (“Venice Biennale”) – an art exhibition that has been held since 1895 and showcases modern and contemporary works of art and architecture from the best international talent. The year’s focus rotates annually between art and architecture (hence the name biennial).

Vogalonga – an event where Venetians and visitors participate in rowing races throughout the canals of Venice in protest of wave damage caused by motor boats and lagoon degeneration. Venetians are not alone in this plight; people from all corners of the globe have come to offer their support and bring enlightenment.

Salone Nautico – Venice’s primary boat show. Held at the Arsenale of Venice, it features a wide variety of luxury yachts, super yachts, sailboats, and some of the world’s most impressive vessels.

Festa de San Pietro de Casteo – The first of the summer holidays is a a festival celebrating the end of June and the arrival of summer. This event is a feast for the Saints Peter and Paul, who are venerated in the basilica of San Pietro. It celebrates Venetian culture and features musical shows, games, and food festivals.

Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare (“Palio of the Historical Maritime Republics”) – a historical re-enactment aimed at recalling the rivalry of the most famous Italian maritime republics: the republics of Amalfi, Pisa, Genoa, and Venice. Four rowing crews representing each republic compete against each other to bring honor to their city.

Festa del Redentore – a religious holiday in which Venetians commemorate the end of a terrible plague in 1576, which killed 50,000 people, and ended the lives of several prominent figures, including renaissance painter Titian.

This celebration features fireworks and boat parades throughout Venice’s canals every year. The highlight is visiting Il Redentore church, one of the oldest and most beautiful cathedrals in Venice , designed by famed architect Andrea Palladio to commemorate the end of the plague.

Ferragosto – A traditional Italian holiday that started with Feriae Augusti, commemorating Emperor Augustus’ decision to designate the 1st of August as a day of rest for those who had worked tirelessly in the agricultural sector.

Venice Film Festival – Hosted at the Venice Biennale on Lido Island , this event is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. It features screenings of over 100 international films and documentaries each year, as well as awards ceremonies and special events.

Regata Storica – a traditional boat race that takes place on the Grand Canal and is intended to evoke Venice’s maritime history. The Regata Storica features elaborately decorated boats and pageantry.

Venice Marathon – held annually since 1986; this course starts in Stra and passes through Mestre, Parco San Giuliano, and Ponte della Libertà before ending at Riva dei Sette Martiri in Venice.

Festa della Madonna della Salute – a religious event that commemorates the end of the Great Plague in 1630. During this day, Venetians and tourists gather at this beautiful Venice cathedral to pay homage to the Virgin Mary and give thanks for her protection.

Christmas – the highlights are the markets around the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco. Find traditional dishes, fireworks, and novena scenes that rival those in Rome. Expect smaller crowds at Christmas but larger crowds the closer you get to New Year’s Eve. The same applies to hotel rates: they’re cheaper before Christmas and more expensive near New Year’s.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of a vacation in Venice can vary widely depending on the time of year, activities, and accommodation. Generally speaking, prices range from €50 to €200 per day for budget travelers. Prices can go up significantly for those looking for more luxurious accommodations or experiences (like guided tours or visiting neighboring islands Murano , Torcello, and Burano ).

The cheapest month to go to Venice is usually December or January, when the city has fewer tourists and accommodation prices are lower. February is also more affordable, but prices will increase the closer you are to Venice’s carnival.

If you’re looking to visit Venice on a budget, try to travel during the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) or the low season (December-February) when average temperatures drop. Be sure to bring warm clothes.

It really depends on what you’d like to do during your stay in Venice, but you should budget for anywhere between €150 to €200 per day. This includes hotel accommodations, food, transportation, and recreational activities.

For budget-conscious travelers, the best location to stay in Venice is Cannaregio . It’s a beautiful and very old section of the city that doesn’t generate as much foot traffic, so hotels are the cheapest in this area. It’s also home to some of the best restaurants in Venice .

If you want to be right where the tourist sites are, you should try to book a hotel in San Marco or San Polo. These locations are home to the most significant sites in Venice (Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and Saint Mark’s Basilica).

Regardless of where you choose to stay, Venice is a very small city , and it only takes around one hour to walk from one end to the other. So you’ll always be within walking distance of something fun to do and see (read our guide on the 10 best things to do in Venice ).

Tired of walking? Explore our guide to using the Venetian Water Taxi and Vaporetto system .

We recommend a minimum of two days to visit Venice. This will give you enough time to see the major sites and explore a few side streets. However, if you have more time, we recommend extending your stay for at least three days. Then you can spend more time exploring churches, museums, and neighboring islands Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

Yes, most locals in Venice are very familiar with English, and you should be able to communicate easily. However, learning a few polite phrases in Italian (like ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’) is always good practice to show respect for the culture.

Venice’s famous acqua alta (high water) usually occurs in late autumn and winter. The highest tides are usually seen in December, January, and February. While the city doesn’t flood like it used to, thanks to the new MOSE barrier system, check the tide forecast before planning your trip. If it does flood for some reason, souvenir shops sell boots (at a premium).

Venice’s ‘rainy season’ runs from March through November, but the most rainfall is in May and June. If you plan to visit during this time, bring a lightweight raincoat or umbrella!

Ultimately, the best time to visit Venice depends on your goals and budget. Shoulder season provides a more low-key atmosphere and is usually less expensive than peak season. For those looking for an authentic Venetian experience, the off-season is ideal as there will be fewer tourists around, although you’ll face cold winters. High season is Venice at its peak, with plenty to do, beautiful weather, and other tourists.

No matter when you decide to visit, Venice is sure to be a magical destination. With its charming canals, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why so many travelers flock here year after year. Bon voyage!

Have you been to Venice? What do you consider the best time to visit? Let us know in the comments below!

About Todd O'Rourke

Todd is an award-winning writer and filmmaker who co-founded Compass and Pine with his dog Leg. Together, they have traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, with their base of operations in Philadelphia.

He started Compass and Pine after living in Vicenza, Italy for three years and falling deeply in love with the country, the people, and, of course, the food.

His favorite city is Florence, Italy, and his favorite National Park is Olympic in Washington.

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When is the best time to visit venice, italy.

Planning a trip to Venice, Italy ? One of the most important things to consider is the timing of your visit. Venice is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture, but it can get extremely crowded and very expensive during peak tourist season, which feels almost like it’s year-round these days.

To make the most of your trip, it’s important to know when is the best time to visit Venice . Your number one priority should always be avoiding crowds, no matter what your main reason is for visiting the city. This is because over-tourism is a major problem there and as responsible travelers, we all have an obligation to lessen the burden (or not go at all!). I’m assuming that last bit isn’t going to happen.

» Here is our 2-week Italy itinerary to help you plan your trip around Italy’s top cities . We also have a travel guide for Venice , a 3-day Rome itinerary , things to see in Florence , foodie things to do in Bologna , and a guide to the top landmarks in Italy . Learn about renting a car in Italy . Be sure to check out our 2-week Europe Itinerary .

If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather, consider visiting in the fall or winter. From October to November, tourists start to leave the city, and you can enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of Venice without feeling overwhelmed. If you prefer warmer weather and longer days, plan your trip for the spring months, March to April, though be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.

I would say to avoid the summer altogether. It can get amazingly hot in Venice and there’s generally not good air conditioning. Winter can get fairly cold, but if you don’t mind that and the fact that some things are closed in winter, it’s the best time to avoid crowds (except between Christmas and New Year).

Table of Contents

Understanding Venice’s Seasons

Venice is a city that is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Understanding the seasons in Venice can help you plan your trip accordingly.

Spring in Venice

Spring in Venice, from March to May, is characterized by beautiful sunny days and temperatures that may be warm. You can also experience some temperatures dropping, rainy and windy days. But that’s all part of spring weather. The average temperatures range from 54°F to 68°F (12°C to 20°C). You’ll find fewer crowds during this season, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s attractions.

Summer in Venice

Summer, from June to September, is the hottest time of the year. The average temperature is around 84°F (29°C), though it can get as high as 100°F (38°C), and humidity is high. You can expect sunny days with occasional thunderstorms. The city is bustling with tourists during this season, so be prepared for crowds. If you don’t mind the heat and crowds, summer is a great time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.

See our Europe summer packing list to know what to bring on your trip.

Fall in Venice

Fall, from October to November, is a great time to visit Venice. The temperatures are pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. The average temperatures range from 50° F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C). You can also experience some rainfall during this season, but it’s not as frequent as in the spring. You can enjoy the beautiful colors of the leaves changing in the parks and gardens.

Winter in Venice

Winter, from December to February, is the coldest time of the year. The average temperature is around 40°F (4°C), and it can get below freezing at night. You can expect some foggy days during this season. The city is less crowded during this season, and you can enjoy the beautiful Christmas decorations and markets.

Venice’s Tourist Seasons

Venice is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy , and as such, it has its own tourist season. Knowing when to visit Venice can help you avoid crowds, save money, and have a more enjoyable experience. Here are the two main tourist seasons in Venice:

Peak Tourist Season

The peak tourist season in Venice runs from April to October, with July and August being the busiest months. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the city is bustling with tourists from all over the world. If you visit Venice during the peak season, you can expect long lines, crowded streets, and high prices for hotels and restaurants.

Off-Season in Venice

The off-season in Venice runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is cooler , and there are fewer tourists in the city. If you visit Venice during the off-season, you can expect to find lower hotel rates, shorter lines, and a more relaxed atmosphere. However, you should be prepared for colder weather, especially in December and January.

Many tourists desert the city during the off-season, so you can have the city to yourself. If you want to experience the famous Carnival of Venice , which takes place in February, you should plan to visit during the off-season. The carnival is one of the most popular events in Venice, and it attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Venice’s Key Events and Festivals

If you’re planning to visit Venice, Italy, you might want to consider attending one of its key events and festivals. These events offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Here are some of the most popular festivals to look out for:

Carnival of Venice

The Carnival of Venice is one of the most famous festivals in the world, attracting thousands of visitors every year. It usually takes place in February, just before the start of Lent. During the carnival, people dress up in elaborate costumes and masks and parade through the streets of Venice. There are also plenty of events, such as concerts, parties, and masquerade balls, taking place throughout the city.

Festa del Redentore

The Festa del Redentore is a religious festival that takes place on the third Sunday of July. It commemorates the end of the plague that ravaged Venice in 1576. During the festival, a temporary bridge is built across the Giudecca Canal, and people cross it to reach the Church of the Redeemer. There are also fireworks displays and boat races taking place throughout the weekend.

Historical Regatta

The Historical Regatta is a boat race that takes place on the first Sunday of September. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious events in Venice, dating back to the 13th century. During the regatta, boats of all shapes and sizes, each with its own team of rowers, compete against each other. There are also plenty of other events taking place throughout the day, including a parade of historical boats and a fireworks display.

Festa della Madonna della Salute

The Festa della Madonna della Salute is a religious festival that takes place on November 21st. It commemorates the end of the plague that ravaged Venice in 1630. During the festival, people walk across a temporary bridge to reach the Church of the Madonna della Salute. There are also plenty of other events taking place throughout the day, including a boat procession and a fireworks display.

Climate and Weather Conditions

When planning a visit to Venice, it is important to consider the climate and weather conditions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Venice has a subtropical climate with cold winters, warm springs, brisk falls, and hot, steamy summers. The atmosphere is always humid, given that the city is built on a shallow lagoon.

Rain in Venice

Venice experiences high levels of rainfall throughout the year, with November being the wettest month. Visitors should be prepared for rain during their trip, especially during the fall and winter months. It is recommended to bring rain boots and an umbrella to stay dry. Additionally, high water (acqua alta) can occur during periods of heavy rain, causing flooding in the city.

Hot Weather

Summers in Venice can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the upper 80s Fahrenheit. July is typically the hottest month with high humidity levels. Visitors should dress comfortably and bring sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun.

Cold Weather

Winters in Venice can be cold and damp, with temperatures ranging from the upper 30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit. January and February are the coldest months, with occasional light frosts and fog. Visitors should bring warm clothing and dress in layers to stay comfortable. When the bora wind blows, the air feels colder than it actually is because of the wind chill.

Accommodations in Venice

When planning your trip to Venice, finding the right accommodations is key to a comfortable and enjoyable stay. There are many options available, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.

Peak Season Hotel Rates

If you plan to visit Venice during the peak season, which runs from April to October, you can expect to pay higher hotel rates. During this time, the city is bustling with tourists and hotel rooms can be in high demand. It is recommended to book your accommodations well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Luxury hotels in Venice can cost upwards of €500 per night during peak season, while mid-range hotels can cost around €200-300 per night. Budget-friendly options such as hostels and guesthouses can be found for as low as €30-50 per night.

Off-Season Hotel Rates

If you are looking to save money on accommodations, consider visiting Venice during the off-season, which runs from November to March. During this time, hotel rates are generally lower and there are fewer crowds.

Luxury hotels in Venice can cost around €200-300 per night during the off-season, while mid-range hotels can cost around €100-200 per night. Budget-friendly options such as hostels and guesthouses can be found for as low as €20-30 per night.

Preparation Tips for Venice

When planning a trip to Venice, there are several things to consider to make the most of your visit. Here are some preparation tips to help you have an enjoyable experience:

Choose the Right Time to Visit

The best time to visit Venice is during the winter months between November and February when tourist numbers are low, and the city is less crowded. The temperatures can be chilly, but you can stay warm by wearing layers and comfortable boots. If you prefer a warmer climate, the best time to visit is between April and June or September and October when the weather is temperate.

Plan Your Itinerary

Venice has many attractions, and it’s essential to plan your itinerary in advance to avoid missing out on the must-see sights. Some of the top attractions include St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace , the Rialto Bridge, and the Grand Canal. If you’re interested in contemporary art, visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection , and if you love music, attend a concert at the famous La Fenice Opera House .

Consider a Day Trip to the Lagoon Islands

If you have extra time in Venice, consider taking a day trip to the nearby lagoon islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Murano is known for its glassmaking, Burano for its colorful houses and lace-making, and Torcello for its ancient cathedral.

Be Aware of the Opening Hours

Most of the museums and attractions in Venice close on Mondays, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Also, keep in mind that some attractions have different opening hours during the winter months.

Save Your Energy

Venice is a city of canals, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. To save energy, wear comfortable shoes and avoid carrying heavy bags. You can also take a vaporetto (waterbus) to get around the city.

Dress Appropriately

Venice is a city of fashion, and you’ll want to dress appropriately. Avoid wearing shorts and flip-flops, and instead, opt for smart casual attire. If you’re planning to visit religious sites such as St. Mark’s Basilica, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit venice to avoid flooding.

Venice is known for its high water or “acqua alta” that can flood the city, especially during the winter months. The best time to avoid flooding is during the summer months, from June to August when the tides are lower. However, keep in mind that these months are also the busiest and most expensive times to visit Venice.

How many days do I need to visit Venice?

To fully experience Venice, it is recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in the city. This will give you enough time to explore the famous landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, take a gondola ride through the canals, and wander through the charming streets and bridges of Venice. However, if you have more time, you can also explore the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

What is the most crowded month in Venice?

The most crowded month in Venice is August, when many Europeans are on vacation and the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the time when many festivals take place, such as the famous Venice Film Festival. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to visit Venice during the shoulder season, from April to May or September to October, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are smaller.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

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Top 20 Things to Do in Naples, Italy: Must-See Attractions

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Venice?

Home > Blog > When is the Best Time to Visit Venice?

Venice attracts countless visitors every year with its unique architecture and fascinating historical legacy. It’s one of the best places to see in Italy, with so many wonderful things to do and mesmerizing experiences at your fingertips. However, deciding when to visit this Mediterranean gem can be quite challenging. 

All travelers have different preferences, so what one might consider the best time to visit Venice would be the worst time for someone else. To help you decide, we’ve created a comprehensive guide for the best time to visit Venice. We provide details about each season, with an overview of the different months, as well as the weather and events that you can expect while visiting. 

So if you’re planning a trip to Venice and can’t decide when to go, read on to discover what the different seasons of Venice can offer.

The Best Time to Visit Venice

Before we dive into the different traveling seasons of Venice, we thought it would be helpful to start this guide with the overall best time to visit . Spring and late summer are largely considered the best times to visit Venice. This is due to the pleasant weather and reduced number of tourists, which makes the city much more enjoyable. 

If you want to have the best time in Venice , then the months of March to May and September to October are when you should visit. You can enjoy the highlights of the city in uninterrupted bliss and you’ll still have plenty of sun. 

If you would like a more detailed review of the best time of year to visit Venice, you can find a helpful breakdown of each season below.

The Shoulder Season in Venice

The shoulder season in Venice takes place from March to May and is widely regarded as one of the best times to visit the astounding city. Spring is in full swing, with flowers bursting into bloom and the city awakens from its wintry slumber. This is one of the best times to visit Venice for a more relaxed trip where you can avoid the crowds and have many of the top attractions all to yourself.  

Venice in March

March brings the first signs of spring in Venice, the weather is much milder and many establishments begin to prepare for the busy summer season. With fewer crowds, this is one of the best times to visit the museums in Venice like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell’Accademia . There are fewer visitors in March, meaning you can explore the top attractions in Venice at a more leisurely pace.  

Venice in April

Much like March, April in Venice is still relatively quiet. However, it’s one of the best times to visit Venice for a relaxed vacation. Parks and gardens in Venice like Giardini Papadopoli are in full bloom, with aromatic flowers adding a splash of color to the city. 

Venice in May

Late spring is one of the best times to visit Venice if you want to avoid the peak summer season. The weather is much more comfortable in May , allowing you to enjoy the lush Mediterranean climate. Plus, with Venetian summer just around the corner, the streets and canals will feel much more lively than in previous months.  

The Weather in Venice in the Shoulder Season

The weather in Venice during the shoulder season is quite mild but gradually warms up by late May. Average highs in Venice during this season range from 55°F to 72°F, making it a good time to venture outdoors and see the sights. Venice does experience some rain in spring, approximately 5-8 days depending on when you visit, so be sure to pack an umbrella or rain jacket.  The milder weather makes the shoulder season in Venice a great time for walking tours of the city . The days are also longer than in winter, giving you ample time to enjoy the sunshine and wander along the crisp canals.

Events in Venice in the Shoulder Season

The shoulder season brings some of the best events and festivals to Venice, making it a dynamic time of year to visit the City of Canals. With Easter celebrations and a fabulous cultural exhibition, it’s a great time to visit Venice to experience local traditions and culture. 

Easter  

Easter in Venice is characterized by religious traditions and cultural celebrations. You will see various religious processions complete with traditional attire in neighborhoods across Venice, giving the city a unique spiritual charm. You can also attend vibrant Easter markets as well as special Easter Mass services, like the one held in St. Mark’s Basilica . 

Venice Biennale 

Another spectacular event in Venice is the Venice Biennale , one of the most important international cultural exhibitions in the world. The exhibition has an extensive history and alternates between art and architecture, with the art exhibition taking place in even-numbered years and the architecture exhibition taking place in odd-numbered ones. It typically starts in May and runs till November, with a packed schedule of events and talks that will inspire any creatives who attend. 

The Peak Season in Venice

While it may not be for everyone, summer in Venice is a great time to visit for an Italian vacation. The city truly comes to life, with a variety of things to do and events to attend. That said, it is also the most popular time to visit Venice and temperatures can get scorching hot, so be prepared for big crowds and sweltering sunshine. 

Venice in Jun e

Summer in Venice kicks off in June and the city begins to swell with tourists. However, this adds to the atmosphere of the canal city, with many annual events and festivals taking place. Venice in June is a great time to visit if you want to experience the peak summer ambiance without as many crowds. 

Venice in July

July is the busiest time of year in Venice and is the peak tourist season. You can expect the main attractions in Venice to be very crowded but there will be a spirited sense of excitement in the air. The warm weather also makes it one of the best times to visit Venice for outdoor activities, like visiting the stunning islands of Venice . 

Venice in August

Similar to July, August in Venice is the high tourist season, with thronging crowds and soaring temperatures. Popular attractions in Venice, especially in and around St. Mark’s Square, can be crowded but with nearly 14 hours of daylight, you’ll have plenty of time for sightseeing. The streets of Venice feel very vibrant in August, with cultural and musical performances taking place across the city and bringing a sense of joy to the floating city. 

The Weather in Venice in the Peak Season

The weather in Venice in summer is perfect for those looking to enjoy warm Adriatic temperatures. Average highs in Venice range from 79°F to 84°F, with warmer temperatures expected in late July and August. The long days are filled with sunshine and the vibrant energy of summer makes the tourist crowds much more bearable. 

Summer is the perfect time to tour the Venetian Islands of Burano and Murano. These islands are famous for their charming architecture which encompasses all colors of the rainbow. It’s also a great way to get out of the bustling city and experience the unique artisanal traditions of the islands. 

Events in Venice in the Peak Season

There aren’t as many summer events in Venice compared to other Italian destinations, but there is one that stands out. The Festa del Redentore is a highly anticipated event with deep historical roots in Venice.  It allows visitors to experience local traditions and heritage all while enjoying the delightful weather and exciting atmosphere of summer in Venice. 

Festa del Redentore

One of the most significant events in Venice, the Festa del Redentore celebrates the end of the plague that ravaged Venice in the 16th century. It takes place on the third Sunday of July and is marked by a fabulous fireworks display. There is also a procession of colorful boats and a pontoon bridge is erected across the Giudecca Canal . 

The entire city bursts into life during the festivities, with religious processions and colorful decorations adorning the historic buildings. If you plan on attending this miraculous event, be sure to arrive at the canal early to secure a good viewing spot. You may also want to book your accommodation well in advance as the event is very popular and draws in countless visitors.

The Off-Peak Season in Venice

Often considered the second shoulder season in Venice, Autumn is the off-peak season. The summer rush winds down and cobbled streets are less busy. However, there is still great weather and excellent opportunities which makes it one of the best times to visit for those looking for a more laid-back vacation. 

Venice in September

As Summer ends, September sees the tourist crowds thinning out but the delightful weather of previous months remains. With this in mind, September is the best time of year to visit Venice if you want to avoid large crowds but still have high temperatures. It’s the perfect time to enjoy a gondola ride through Venice’s waterways and immerse yourself in the city’s innate beauty. 

Venice in October

October is the perfect time to visit Venice if you want to experience a different side of the city. As the leaves begin to fade to rusty shades of red and orange, the streets become enchanting and reminiscent of a fairytale. With far fewer tourists than the peak summer months, this is a great time to visit Venice on a romantic Italian break where you can spend quality time with your loved one. 

Venice in November

November brings an end to the Off-Peak season in Venice, with hardly any tourists and many establishments starting to close for the low season. There is also a much higher chance of rain and flooding which can make November in Venice quite dreary. However, if you don’t mind wet weather this is one of the most serene times of the year to visit Venice as you will have most of the major sights all to yourself. 

The Weather in Venice in the Off-Peak Season

The Off-Peak season in Venice is much cooler than the scorching summer months. Average daily highs can range from 66°F to 77°F, meaning you still have lovely weather for your vacation. It’s a much more peaceful time and great for travelers looking for a slow-paced escape. 

Venice experiences some rain in the Off-Peak season, around 5 – 6 days depending on which month you visit. However, you can still enjoy the very best of Venice’s cultural offerings. You can explore the top historical sights without any crowds and delight in seasonal delicacies like pumpkin risotto and fresh seafood.

Events in Venice in the Off-Peak Season

While the Off-Peak Season in Venice is quieter, there are some fantastic events you can attend which will make your trip truly memorable. From thrilling boat races to feast celebrations, the Fall months are the perfect time to visit Venice to experience local customs and festivals. 

Regata Storica

This historic boat race is held in September and is one of the most important events in the Venice calendar. The Regata Storica is believed to date back to the 13th century and is held on the first Sunday of September. The event opens with a colorful boat parade and a pageant of themed boats before the races begin, showcasing the different boats and styles of Venetian rowing. 

Festa della Salute  

Like the Festa del Redonte, the Festa della Salute commemorates the plague which devastated Venice in the 16th century. The day is dedicated to giving thanks and includes a spirited procession to the Church of Santa Maria della Salute . It is held annually on November 21st and includes prayers and a mass as well as the lighting of votive candles.

The Low Season in Venice 

Winter is the low season in Venice, with hardly any crowds and much colder weather. This might not appeal to everyone but this is also when you can find some of the cheapest flights and accommodation for a Venice trip. So if you’re looking to enjoy this Italian gem on a budget, the low season is a great time to go to Venice. 

Venice in December

December is the beginning of winter in Venice as well as the start of the low season. There will be fewer tourists during this period, but the city will still feel festive despite the chill in the air. The streets are adorned with charming decorations and dazzling lights, which create an enchanting atmosphere.  

Venice in January

With the festivities of Christmas coming to a close, January is a very quiet month in Venice. While it is one of the coldest months of the year, you can still visit many of the city’s main attractions like Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Basilica which are open year-round. Venice will feel less vibrant in January, but it’s a great place to visit in Italy if you’re looking to escape from the winter blues. 

Venice in February

While February is still part of the low season, it brings a unique charm to Venice. Carnival festivities take place across the month, with locals dressing in elaborate costumes and intricate masks. If you want to visit Venice at its most fantastical, then February is the best time to go. 

The Weather in Venice in the Low Season

This is the coldest time of year and the rainy season in Venice. Temperatures drop to average highs of 46°F to 48°F and lows of 34°F are common, so you’ll want to pack plenty of layers and a warm coat. There is a chance of frost in January and the month experiences an average of 1.2 days of snowfall. 

The Low Season is also when you are likely to experience Acqua Alta , the Venice Floods. For a few days in the year, the water level of the Venice canals rises and parts of the city become partially flooded. It is a completely natural phenomenon but it could impact your visit, so be sure to plan some indoor activities for your trip.

Events in Venice in the Low Season

While there aren’t many tourists in Venice in winter, there are some major events which bring in visitors and locals. These events paint the city in a festive light and can make the somber winter days much more exciting. So while it may not be the most popular time to visit Venice, you won’t be short of festivals to attend. 

Of course, we couldn’t talk about winter in Venice and not mention Christmas. Venice is a great place to spend the festive season, with spirited Christmas markets and a joyous atmosphere. Piazza San Marco is decorated with elaborate lights and you can take refuge from the cold in a cozy cafe where you can take in the charming winter ambiance.  

Carnival 

One of the biggest events in Venice takes place in February, the Venice Carnival . Famous for its elaborate historical costumes and detailed masks, the festivities last for weeks and include balls, parties and parades. You can hire a costume and take part in the celebrations which will make you feel like you have stepped into the past as you enjoy the colorful traditions of Venice.

Overall, Venice promises to please you no matter what time of year you choose to visit. The Shoulder and Off-Peak seasons offer some of the best weather whilst having fewer crowds, which is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Venice at its best. However, the summer brings radiant temperatures to Venice, ideal for those seeking fun in the sun. 

You can also visit in the low season, where cheaper prices and fewer tourists make it an ideal winter escape. Plus with events like the Venice Carnival, you are certain to have the adventure of a lifetime. 

So whether you want to visit during the mild March evenings or spend a sunny summer sojourn in Venice, there is a ‘best time to visit’ for every traveler. 

Thinking about visiting Venice sometime soon? Get in touch with Italy4Real to start planning your vibrant Venice vacation and create a custom tour of this Mediterranean marvel.

About the Author

Rem Malloy started Italy4real back in 1995 with his mother, Deborah de Maio.

He specialises in Italian tours as well as customised tours to France, England, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Greece and Spain. He was also featured in the Travel Channel show Mysteries at The Museum in 2016.

Rem has family in Italy and his mothers home town is Cava di Terrani, near the Amalfi Coast. The family has a street named after them in Sorrento, Via Luigi de Maio; a relative who was mayor of Sorrento.

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The best time to visit venice italy: what to expect in each season.

The best time to visit Venice, Italy: an overview of the weather in Venice in each season and tips to plan your Venice trip at best.

Venice can be visited all year round, however, there is no doubt that some seasons are better than others.

The things to consider when planning a trip to Venice are the weather, the crowds and the carnival, a huge yearly event that alters significantly the number of visitors, the atmosphere in the city, and the prices!

These are our top tips for picking the best time for visiting Venice Italy.

If you are visiting Venice as part of a longer Italy itinerary , then I recommend you also check out our guide to the best time to visit Italy here .

Table of Contents

What is the best time to visit Venice?

Venice is located in the North East of Italy, in the Adriatic sea.

The city is connected to the mainland by a bridge (arriving in the city by train makes quite an impression!) and literally sits in water.

Venice’s foundations reach deep down under the sea and the houses spring up like waterborne flowers.

The water nature of this city has strong impacts on the daily life of inhabitants and has consequences on the Venice weather system.

At a glance, the best time to visit Venice is:

• Go to Venice in winter if : you want to avoid the crowds and don’t mind layering up
• Visit Venice in February if : you want to experience the carnival and don’t mind the cold
• Go to Venice in spring if : you want to see the city at its very best
• Visit Venice in summer if : you are in the nearby region and feel like a day of city exploration, don’t mind the heat and the mosquitoes (aka: try not to go to Venice in summer!)

The best time to visit Venice: Venice by season

Venice in winter.

Winter in Venice is cold and the humidity, especially in the evening, can make it bitter.

The average temperature in Venice in winter ranged between 3/8C – 37/46F.

Our last time in Venice was in December and we were grateful for our woolly hats, scarves and gloves – they may not have looked stylish, but they were a lifesaver!

You can find our packing list for Italy in winter here.

If you can only visit in winter, however, don’t despair as there are good points about it too!

First, you can be in luck and get some beautiful bright days.

Secondly, the streets are much quieter and you can easily find yourself away from the crowds, something that gets increasingly difficult as the high season approaches.

Also, Venice has a rich and beautiful coffee culture and winter is the perfect season to enjoy the warm interiors of his cafes and ‘bacari’ (tapas bars).

The food to order in this season is hot chocolate (a local specialty) and if you like wine there is no better time than this to enjoy some of the gorgeous reds that come from the local Veneto wineries.

You can read here >>> our guide to visiting Venice in winter

Acqua alta: high tide days in Venice

In winter Venice is subject to the peculiar event that is ‘high water’.

Depending on the sea movements and the wind, on some days Venice gets flooded and the roads get covered in water.

When the high water hits you cannot ignore it: it raises up a good few centimetres (every few years, over 1 meter), floods streets and ground floors and affects all daily activities, especially if you are not used to it.

We didn’t experience acqua alta while there but chatted with the locals about it and discovered how they cope.

When the high tide hits, the city lays out a series of boardwalks for people to walk on (water is so high you cannot just walk through it in normal shoes) and shoe covers and wellington boot sellers pop up at every corner so you can buy the necessary gear.

Locals see high water as a pain and indeed you need to adjust your plans should you be there when it happens, but they also said that tourists love the magical light and atmosphere that the high water brings.

If you are prepared, this even can turn into a highlight of a winter trip to Venice!

Need to know : in 2019, Venice experienced an exceptionally high and disruptive high tide. While this is not the norm and should not discouragne you from visiting Venice in winter, I do recommend checking the weather forecast for the days of your stay in Venice closer to the time, so you can plan accordingly.

Venice in February

February is the month of the carnival and Venice gets flooded (no pun intended) with tourists from all over the world.

Prices soar and crowds feel the streets – only visit during the carnival to experience the carnival itself or you will get frustrated.

If visiting Venice during the carnival, make sure you book hotels and popular attractions well in advance.

Venice weather in spring

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Venice.

Between March and June , the weather gets steadily warmer and drier and, outside of the Easter weekend, the crowds are usually manageable.

The average temperature in Venice in spring is between 12/20C – 54/68F

Expect evenings to still get chilly at the start of the season and layer up.

Spring is the best time to visit Venice if you want to go sightseeing and add a trip to nearby islands of Murano and Burano famous, respectively, for workshops making stunning artisan glass (Murano) and artisan lace production (Burano)

We found spring to be the best time for visiting Venice with kids too, thanks to the mild temperatures.

Find out what to pack for the season with our essential packing list for Italy in spring. 

Venice in summer

Summer is a tricky time for visiting Venice.

The humid heat can easily get overwhelming especially since Venice has few green spaces and this makes the perfect breeding environment for one of the most annoying pests: mosquitoes.

They are fierce in Venice and while they do not carry diseases as such, it is awful to have them munching on you day and night.

If you visit Venice in summer, make sure you choose a hotel with air conditioning as this is the best weapon to keep them at bay at least while you sleep.

Find out what to pack for the hot summer months in our summer packing list for Italy

The average temperature in Venice in summer is 20/23C – 68/73F.

Venice in the fall

Weather is unpredictable in Venice in the fall.

The temperature starts to drop at this time of the year and while you may get some days with stellar sunshine and temperatures close to 20C, rain is also possible.

However, this is not a bad time to visit Venice.

In autumn, the crowds are less intense in Venice and there are some nice local festivities that are worth experiencing such as   San Martino   (November) which has a wonderful local feel.

You can find our packing list for Italy in autumn here.

The average temperature in Venice in autumn is 20/8C – 68/46F

I hope you found this overview of the weather in Venice useful and it helped us decide on the best time to visit Venice. Safe travels!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

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The best months to go to Venice, Italy

Venice is one of the most touristic cities in the world, so finding that sweet spot of when to schedule your trip is key to making it a successful one. We understand that the question of “when is the best time of year to visit Venice” may be very subjective since each traveler has her own unique taste. 

Even though I may prefer visiting the city when it is empty, other people may be happy to face the crowds if that means having nicer weather. This is why we have split this guide according to different travel styles. Navigate below to  discover the best months to go to Venice  according to your preferences.

Best time of year to visit Venice for solo travellers

Most solo travelers may travel alone, but end up meeting other like-minded people along the way to travel together. If that is your case, you would want to go to Venice when it isn’t completely empty and when social events are blooming. So the best month for your visit would be  June.

June is the month when the summer temperatures are already approaching and the summer travelers are starting to come. If you visit Venice in early June, you will find significantly fewer crowds than in the months of July and August, which makes it easier to visit the main attractions in the city.

When to visit Venice as a couple

If you are looking for a romantic escapade in the City of Canals, we recommend the month of  October .

October is a relatively quiet month in Venice regarding tourism. The summer tourist crowds have already dissipated as the temperature starts to drop with the start of autumn. However, this is still quite a pleasant time of the year regarding temperature – you will need a jacket for going out in the evening but will be able to enjoy the days well.

Best time of the year to visit Venice with the family

When traveling with small kids, avoiding crowds is a must. For this reason, specifically, the best months to visit Venice as a family are  April or May.

Spring is a lovely season to be in Venice, when the green starts coming back to life, slowly bringing along the hustle in the canals. These are quieter months, without any typically big events happening in the city.

When to visit Venice with friends

I need to be honest here and say that I think Venice is an amazing place to visit with friends at any time of the year because you will always have incredible food and nice local bars open, whether it is winter or summer. However, during the warmer months, you will definitely have more options for leisure activities to choose from.

With that being said, if you and your friends intend to visit the city, go out, meet people, etc – we recommend going in the warmer months of May or June. If you and your friends are having this trip to reconnect and enjoy each other’s company while exploring the city, it may pay off to travel to Venice during the low season in Winter.  February  for instance may be a very good option, with very short lines on most of the attractions.

Cheapest month to visit Venice for budget travellers

Without a shred of a doubt, the cheapest time to visit Venice is during the  low season, from December to February  (except Carnival). This is the only time of the year when the accommodation prices drop, which makes the trip much easier on your wallet. Flight prices are often cheaper around this time of year also, especially if you will be getting a short flight within Europe to get to Venice.

Pro tip:  If you have the flexibility, check for last-minute accommodation options. Many hotels and hosts give extra discounts for rooms booked for the upcoming days. This year we ended up staying at a 4-star hotel very close to San Marco for only 50€ a night, whether, in summer, the same room would cost 250€.

Best months to visit Venice for party seekers

Venice isn’t your typical party destination. You won’t find many clubs around, as easily as you would in other European destinations. On the other hand, it has a blooming scene of amazing local bars, and this is where I recommend you focus if you like to experience Venice by night as locals do. 

The best months to visit Venice if you are looking to go out are  June and September.  These are months when the weather is quite warm and pleasant to be outside and has still quite some movement to ignite social events. This is also the period when Venice gets busy with students as the university semester finishes/starts.

Pro tip:  Our favorite neighborhoods for going out to local bars are Cannaregio and Dorsoduro.

The best time to visit Venice for long-time stays

As being a digital nomad becomes more and more popular, the search for long-time stays continuously increases. Venice isn’t a cheap destination so it is usually not the first choice for people who will be staying for a month or more. However, it is a place many people dream about, and only by having an extended stay, you will be able to really feel what life in Venice is like for a local.

If you intend on spending one month or more in Venice, we recommend  arriving in mid-September  and extending your stay throughout the following months, for as long as you wish. The end of summer and the start of autumn is an amazing time of the year to be in Venice as you will be able to experience the city getting quieter as time passes. By arriving in September, you will catch a glimpse of what the city feels like during the high touristic season, and observe the change in the atmosphere as the tourist groups start to decrease day by day.

When to avoid visiting Venice?

We recommend  avoiding Venice in the months of July and August , which is when the peak of the high season happens. During these months, most locals flee the city to enjoy the summer vacation somewhere else. Meanwhile, the crowds of tourists keep on coming, making for huge lines at all the attractions and also when walking around the alleys of the center.

Besides the crowds, another reason why we recommend avoiding Venice during the peak summer months is the weather. August is an especially hot and wet month, which doesn’t make for very pleasant weather if you will be all day outside, walking up and down narrow alleys with few options for refreshment.

When is the acqua alta in Venice?

The acqua alta is what the locals call the flood that happens almost annually in Venice. Even though it can happen at any time of the year, it is  most common between October and January , when the city typically gets heavier rainfall.

This being said, you shouldn’t fear the acqua alta as your tourism will most likely not be affected. Venice has experienced floods for centuries and it is very well prepared for it. Life goes on without much interference during the high water season, as the city workers build passages and bridges for people to walk in the most affected areas. You will also see that many people use wellies to not get their feet wet – you will easily find them for sale in local stores if the acqua alta happens.

Important events to have in mind when visiting Venice

Like any other important city, Venice has a busy calendar when it comes to social events. Here is a summary of the most important dates and holidays to have in mind when planning your trip to Venice:

February/March – Carnival

Venice hosts one of the most famous Carnavales in the world, which always happens 40 days before Easter. The city gets very busy throughout one whole week, where you will see many people dressed up in the streets and many social events happening.

May to November – The Biennale

Every two years, in odd-numbered years, Venice hosts the Bienalle for Art. It is an international event that brings together pieces from world-renowned artists, attracting thousands of visitors that come to see the installations scattered around the city.

May – Vogalonga

Usually happening in late May, the Vogalonga is a famous rowing competition that brings together rowers for the whole world. Rowing is a highly esteemed sport in Venice (for obvious reasons) and if you are a sports enthusiast, this is a very interesting event to attend.

July – Festa del Redentore

Happening on the third weekend of July, the Festa del Redentore (in English, the Feast of the Redeemer) is a religious festival that happens at the Church of the Redentore, located in Giudecca. This festival is very unique because the city builds a floating bridge connecting San Marco to Giudecca. The festival is celebrated with fireworks and a gondola regatta.

September – Regata Storica

The Regata Storica, which translates into Historic Regatta, is a very popular event amongst Venetians. As the name suggests, this race has been happening since the 13th century in the Venetian Lagoon. Before the actual race, there is a parade and many social events happening at this time.

Continue reading about how to organize your trip to Venice:

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Venice

Best Day Trips from Venice by Train

Perfect Day Trip to Chioggia

Can You Walk Everywhere in Venice?

If you are still looking for tours and inspiration on what to do in Venice, check out a few options below:

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Italy, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

• Flights : Get affordable flights to Italy on  Skyscanner.com . 
• Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  VisitorsCoverage  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
• Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
• Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
• Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.
• SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

Fernanda is the Brazilian half of Mauka. Originally from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Fernanda is also part Italian. After having lived in several countries such as the Netherlands and the UK, she ended up moving to Slovenia with Edo. Traveling is her biggest passion and she is always looking for new places to explore - be it on another continent or a hidden hike close to home.

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14 tips to make the best of your first trip to Venice Italy

Venice, Italy is your next destination, but you have no clue what to expect. Are we right?

If you are looking for tips for your first trip to Venice, you’re in the right place!

Our tips will help you to get the most out of your first trip to Venice and to fully enjoy the city.

Naturally, our Venice tips are valuable and can be helpful even if you have visited before!

Venice Tip #1 - When to go to Venice Italy

When choosing the best time to visit Venice Italy, there are 3 factors to consider:

• The weather
• Eventual events to attend

Avoiding the crowds:

To avoid crowds in Venice it is best to avoid weekends, late Spring and Summer, and Carnival.

These are, in fact, the busiest times in Venice.

However, keep in mind that tourism in Venice doesn’t really have an offseason.

What kind of weather to expect:

The weather in Venice is usually humid. As a consequence, perceived temperatures are generally more intense than one would expect.

In other words, hot days feel hotter and cold days feel colder than one would think by looking at the reported lowest and highest temperatures.

You can check out our article for a full breakdown of the weather in Venice throughout the year .

Events to attend:

Finally, also Events can be an important factor when deciding when to visit Venice.

The most famous events are Venice Carnival and the Art and Architecture  Biennale .

Other events of interest could be:

• Festa di San Marco e del Bocolo
• Festa della Sensa
• Regata Storica
• Festa della Salute

You can find a full list of events on the city’s official website .

Venice Tip #2 - Best places where to stay in Venice

For the best experience of Venice, we strongly recommend you to stay within the historical city of Venice.

In other words, chose to stay on the “island” rather than on the “mainland”.

Doing so allows one to enjoy the city also before and after day-trippers have come and gone: in the morning and at night you will have the feeling that you have the city all to yourself!

Venice historical center is made of 6 districts: Castello, Cannaregio, Santa Croce, Dorsoduro, San Marco, San Polo.

The last 2 are the most touristy and crowded ones. Therefore, we would recommend you to stay in one of the other 4 districts for a more authentic experience.

You can learn more about the districts of Venice and everything you need to navigate the city, here.

Venice Tip #3 - Don't fear to get lost, explore.

A crucial tip for your first trip to Venice, Italy is to lose yourself.

Yes, forget about maps and the GPS on your phone!

Leave your hotel room or apartment and just walk in whichever direction you feel like going.

Losing oneself is the best way to discover and appreciate the stunning beauty of the tiny alleys and narrow canals which make the fabric of Venice.

Also, it makes for great photo opportunities and allows you to discover more of Venice and feel the Venetian atmosphere.

And don’t worry about your whereabouts: Venice is safe.

When we say that Venice is safe, we mean it is really, really, really safe.

So, take the chance to explore the city in depth alone or take part in a tour around Venice with us to make the best out of your visit!

Want more tips, tools and stories from Venice, Italy?

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Venice Tip #4 - Get on a boat to see Venice Italy from the water!

Venice was built surrounded by water and designed to be admired from the water.

Indeed, the façades of the most beautiful Venetian Palazzi can be seen only from the water.

Even the Doge’s Palace , the most important and spectacular building in Venice, was built to be admired first of all from the water!

In fact, its façade overlooking the lagoon was built 100 years before the one facing the land, the “Piazzetta” and the Marciana Library .

Therefore, when visiting Venice make sure to see it from the water. Take a Gondola, a private boat, a taxi or a water bus, whichever you prefer. But do it!

Gondola tours  are one of the most beautiful ways to discover the city and explore its narrow canals.

Taxis were born as a  transportation service but can also be booked for a sightseeing experience.

Private tours on rowing boats and kayaks are definitely a fun way to spend a few hours discovering Venice from the water.

Lastly, one can also board a public water bus and navigate the full length of the Grand Canal . This way, you can admire the stunning palaces all around the Grand Canal but will, unfortunately, miss all the narrow canals and tiny bridges that are so unique to Venice.

Venice Tip #5 - Eat authentic local food in Venice Italy. Even on a budget!

If you’d like to eat authentic Italian food, you can do so even if you’re on a budget.

Eating well in Venice without spending much is possible.

A good  authentic bacaro serves tasty and affordable finger food that will leave you stuffed and satisfied.

However, also having an intimate dinner in a restaurant trying delicious Italian and Venetian plates is an experience we warmly recommend. To find the right place for you, check out the list of restaurants and places we recommend !

One more amazing way to discover Venice and taste the best of local food and wines is to take part in a private food and wine experience in Venice with us !

Finally, if you want to find the right place where to eat all by yourself, please check out our article that helps you understand how to spot the right places where to eat and those to absolutely avoid in Venice .

Unlock a discount at the best authentic local businesses in Venice

Venice tip #6 - spot and enjoy the best local bars, restaurants and shops by looking for the venezia autentica logo.

To many people, it is important to find the right local businesses when travelling.

Where should I eat? Where should I shop for authentic products? Where should I stop for a good drink? Where is the best place for a Murano Glass bracelet?

The good news is that it is easier than you’d think:

You can find great local businesses by using our directories of local shops and bars & restaurants . Moreover, you can also look for the Venezia Autentica’s logo on shop windows when you’re walking around Venice.

Our logo means that the local business operates in a way that is positive both for you and the local community.

Those shops are locally owned and operated. They give decent jobs to local residents. They offer good quality to their customers and operate in a sustainable and responsible way.

Venice Tip #7 - Discover Venice with a local: the best way to see Venice Italy

One of the biggest joys of travelling is meeting new people and discovering new cultures and ways of life.

Luckily, due to technology, it has never been easier to do so!

Group tours are generally affordable and a classic way to discover a new place. Unfortunately, they tend to be standardized and might not be the most rewarding experience.

On the other hand, private tours or activities are a bit more expensive but can adapt to your needs and match your personal interests.

Our Experience Booking platform offers many different private experiences in Venice.

You can take walks off the beaten path , try  hands-on activities or food-oriented tours.

They are all excellent ways to discover Venice from a unique point of view and engage in meaningful conversations with a Venetian.

Venice Tip #8 - Free yourself from the fear of not finding a bathroom when you need one

A piece of very useful information we can give you is on… toilets!

Public toilets, in fact, are very clean but are not always easy to find. They also have a small cost of 1,50€.

When you find yourself in need of a restroom, our tip is to look for a bar. You can then order a coffee or a pastry and, as paying customer, you will be welcomed to access the bar’s restroom.

Please, do not just enter, use the toilet, and leave. Such behaviour is frowned upon in Italy.

Instead, check if the bar has a bathroom and then ask for a “caffè” (espresso coffee, 1€) or a “pastina” (a pastry, 1€ to 1,50€). After that, feel free to head to the restroom.

Venice Tip #9 - If you book a guided tour make sure your guide is a local

In 2014, the EU stated that all European guides and tour leaders have the right to work everywhere in Europe.

That sounds reasonable, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, not so much.

In Italy, people must pass a rigorous exam to become a guide or a tour leader.

The majority of other European countries, on the other hand, do not require a mandatory certification or license.

Unfortunately, the latest EU regulation allows anyone who does not reside in Italy to sell his/her service as a guide and lead groups to Italy.

As a consequence, travellers might not be aware that guides and tour leaders are not all the same and might be tricked into picking the wrong professional.

Indeed, there is a stark difference between a trained guide that lives in an Italian city and a person that has no training and visited an Italian city a few times.

This is why we suggest you don’t rely on (literally) “outsiders” as your tour guides.

A good local guide should know Venice inside-out, be able to answer your questions, and give you real insights.

On the contrary, people who do not know Venice might either stick to common knowledge available on most online articles or even tell wrong facts about Venice.

Therefore, if you want to tour the city with someone and have a good experience, make sure you’re going with a certified local tour leader.

If you’d like to do it with us, feel free to check out our private off-the-beaten-path walk with a certified local tour leader .

Book an authentic experience in Venice

Venice tip #10 - take the time to enter artisans shops to discover centuries old crafts and get the real thing.

Venice is a city with an incredible culture. Over the centuries, many unique crafts were born or adopted locally.

Nowadays, there is still a number of artistic artisans who are keeping centuries-old traditions alive in the city. Their workshops are a must-visit for arts & crafts lovers and for anyone interested in an authentic experience of Venice.

However, the invasion of mass-produced souvenirs  is amongst the most visible things which are destroying the city and playing an important role in forcing the inhabitants to move out of Venice.

Recognizing authentic artisans shops is not easy. It requires a good eye and knowledge of the crafts.

However, there are few things which can help you understand whether or not you are likely to be in front of the window of an actual artisan or not.

You can find everything you need to know to shop local in Venice, here

If you are looking to understand the incredible culture of crafts in Venice from even closer and to enjoy a privileged moment with the master artisans, we invite you to attend experiences in the artisans’ workshops .

Booking carefully designed and curated private tours or activities with local crafts-masters is the perfect opportunity for either a fascinating guided visit of the best local craftspeople  or hands-on private activities.

Craft classes are unique ways to discover Venice from another viewpoint and to be initiated to mosaic making , glass making , handmade bookbindings ,  and more centuries-old techniques, directly by master artisans

Beware of mass produced souvenirs!

Besides copying and unfair competition that puts local shops out of business, the other problem caused by some mass produced items is a threat to your health.

Cheap  masks, for example,   do not comply with EU legislation regulating colors and substances for wearable products: the contact  with  your skin is potentially dangerous.

We created a shortlist that summarizes the risks and annoying things you should be aware of when in Venice.

Venice Tip #11 - To save time and money at the best local shops, bars, and restaurants in Venice get yourself the Venezia Autentica Friends’ Pass

By visiting this link , you can buy a digital pass giving you access to a 10% discount in Venice on a minimum expense of 30 euros at the best Venetian local businesses identifiable by the Venezia Autentica logo on their door or window.

All are locally owned, employ locals and offer authentic quality sustainable products and services.

Read more about how you can save money and time in Venice with the Venezia Autentica Friends’ Pass

Venice Tip #12 - For the best experience, leave those fancy and uncomfortable shoes behind

Don’t wear high heels . Trust us, do not wear high heels!

Venice Italy is an old pedestrian city, with uneven streets , that will require you to walk, and walk, and walk .

Even if you are planning to board a water bus , you’ll have a lot of walking to do to walk to the water bus stops, trying to navigate the uneven stone pavement , the bridges , and the crowds .

If you’re staying in your hotel or get picked up by a water taxi to go to a private party, high heels might be a fair choice. In any other case, trust us, you really don’t want to do it.

Your feet will thank us.

As Wikipedia points out, Venice is a pedestrian traffic-free city with almost 3.000 alleys… now you see the importance of wearing good shoes, don’t you?

Venice Tip #13 - Our ecological tip for your first trip to Venice: Carry a refilable bottle of water

The water  of the fountains in Venice  is drinkable and of very good quality.

Almost every main  square has a working fountain where you will be able to refill your bottle.

If you want to drink a prosecco, however, there is no such fountain yet. In this case, a stop at a bacaro will fulfill your needs.

If you care about your impact, read this New York Times article for more ideas on how to use less plastic in your everyday life .

Venice Tip #14 - Take some time to read our free insider guides to make the most of your time in la Bella Venezia!

Now you know plenty of things to do in Venice!

But, maybe, you now want to know even more about our beautiful city. Is that so?

In that case, make sure to check out our What is Venice, Italy article !

Do you have any tips or suggestions that you want to share with us and other visitors? Feel free to contact us and let us know!

If you found this article useful, make sure to check out also these resources to plan your first trip to Venice:

I'm visiting Venice. Why should I follow your recommendations?

The way you visit Venice has an impact both on the quality of your experience and on Venice itself.   Chilling, exploring , shopping , eating and drinking where the locals do, can make a huge impact both on the memories you bring home and on the local economy and community.

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• February 9, 2022

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A Day In Venice Itinerary: Best Things To Do In Venice

By Author Roxanne Weijer (she/her)

Posted on Last updated: October 10, 2022

Venice, the city of many canals, beautiful bridges, narrow streets, amazing architecture, and cute balconies. And don’t forget the romantic gondola rides. Plus, the oh so delicious Italian food. Get ready for this ‘a day in Venice’ itinerary!

This pictoresque city was already on my travel bucket list for a long time, and I’m so happy that I could finally see it with my own eyes. Yes, Italy has plenty of beautiful and romantic cities, but Venice is for sure one of the Italian cities you have to visit at least once. No place on earth is like Venice!

In this one day in Venice itinerary, we will you all about the top things to do in Venice. Venice in a day is enough time to see the highlights this picturesque city has to offer.

But if you have more time, there are also many other stunning places, like the islands Burano and Murano, that are great to visit. We will tell you all about it in this Venice itinerary. Plus about the transportation in Venice, where to stay in Venice, the best time to go, where to eat, and much more.

Before you go, it’s good to know Venice is located on over 110 small islands, which is why there are many canals and bridges!

The city is a pedestrian-only city, so you won’t find any cars, busses, or other motorcycles. The way to get around is by foot or boat.

Best Time to Visit Venice

July and August are two months to avoid, if possible! This time of year it gets the most crowded in Venice and the prices reach their highest point. August especially brings very hot temperatures, high humidity, and many bugs.

April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit Venice. It’s not that busy yet, or most tourists are leaving the city again, and it’s still warm, and dry in the city.

Weather in Venice

It can get pretty cold in Venice too! So if you want to visit Venice during winter, it’s good to know freezing temperatures can happen, mostly from November until March.

Winter in Venice can be cold, and sometimes there’s a bit of snow to make the city even more romantic. If you want to see Venice without many other people, these months might be perfect for you.

The temperatures in July and August are the hottest, reaching 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit), but as we said, these are also the busiest months of the year in Venice.

You might have seen pictures of a flooded Venice, this high water (acqua alta) can happen between late September and April, and most likely in the months of November and December. But if you are very unlucky, it happens during the summer months too.

The high water happens because of a very high tide! Luckily, the city is doing things to prevent this from happening, though global warming isn’t helping!

Note: the acqua alta is basically sewage, so even though you might be tempted to step in is barefoot – we do not recommend this!

It can rain a bit every month of the year, but the high water has nothing to do with the rainfall!

How Many Days in Venice

One day in Venice is enough time to see the highlights this picturesque city has to offer. The main area, for tourists, of Venice isn’t that big. That’s why you are able to see a lot of the city in a short period of time!

If you have two or three days, you are also able to see the more quiet and less visited areas of Venice. Plus, you can visit some surrounding islands like Murano and Burano.

With this a day in Venice itinerary, we help you to see the best parts of the city in just one day!

Like Venice, Santorini is a super romantic place to visit too!

How to Get to Venice

Venice is a city located in the northeast of Italy, in the Veneto region. The distance between Milan and Venice is about 270 kilometers (168 miles). And the distance between Venice and the capital city Rome is about 530 kilometers (329 miles).

It’s possible to reach the city multiple ways. Venice has a train station and an airport. And of course, it’s possible to get to Venice by boat!

As the city is car-free, we don’t recommend traveling to Venice by car. But if you have a car, you are able to park your car in a parking garage when you enter the island from the bridge, at Piazzale Roma. Or leave your car on the other side of the water, in Mestre.

If you come to Venice by bus, it will stop at Piazzale Roma too. From here you can either walk, take a water taxi, or go with a water bus (more about transportation in Venice later).

Marco Polo Airport is the international airport of Venice. This is the airport closest to Venice. From Marco Polo Airport, you can either take a private water taxi or the Alilaguna water bus to Venice.

It’s also possible to take an overland taxi or an overland bus to Piazzale Roma. A private water taxi is the only way to get directly to your accommodation.

Another airport to fly to is Treviso Airport. Both airports are international airports. Though, Treviso Airport is mainly used by low-cost airlines. It’s a bit further located from the city, but you might find the best prices flying to Treviso Airport, depending on where you are coming from.

Traveling from Treviso airport to Venice is either possible by taxi or bus.

As of August 2021, cruise ships are banned from driving through the city center of Venice. The city is looking for a permanent port outside the Venice lagoon.

Venice Transportation

Venice is a car-free city. Buses and cars can reach Piazzale Roma, but from there Venice is entirely pedestrian-only. Transport in Venice is therefore only on the water!

Water taxis are an option but are quite pricey, another option is using the Venice public transportation water buses (called vaporetto). You can buy a 24-hour pass for €20 or a 75-minute ticket for €7.50.

And of course, you can walk!

If you just want to cross the Grand Canal, by water (as there are only a few bridges), you can use the traghetto, which are cheap gondola ferries. Traghetto means ferry and for €2 you can get to the other side of the water.

Venice Budget

Venice isn’t a cheap city to visit. But that’s probably not a surprise, as it’s a famous tourist destination. Traveling outside the high season helps if you want to visit Venice on a budget.

• Accommodation  €50-€500 per night ($60-$600)

If you want to stay in the heart of Venice in a luxury hotel, you easily pay (more than) €500/$600 a night for two people. But a bit further away from the heart of Venice, it’s more affordable. You can find hotels for €50 per night for two people. Of course, depending on when you book and when you go. And it’s also possible to stay in a hostel if you want a cheap option.

• Meals  €15-€30 per person ($18-$36)
• Transport  €7.50-€20 a day ($9-$24)
• Activities  €10-€150 per activity ($12-$180)

Is tipping expected in Italy? In Italy, tipping is customary, but is definitely not obligatory. Italians usually only tip when they receive exceptional service at a restaurant or when dining in the finest restaurants. It’s usually a 10-15% on top of the bill.

Where to Stay in Venice?

We recommend staying in the neighborhood called San Marco. Since this is the neighborhood where you will spend most of your time during your day in Venice, it’s the tourist heart of the city. So it’s convenient if you also stay here, especially if you visit Venice for the first time. But as this is the most popular area of the city, it’s also the most expensive part of the city to stay.

If you are looking for cheaper accommodation, we recommend looking for accommodation in the area of the Santa Lucia train station or Piazzale Roma. This area is a bit further away from the central area, therefore it’s cheaper. And you don’t need to carry your luggage around the city, or with you on the water bus!

Below we will tell you about some of the best hotels in Venice.

Best Venice Hotels

From budget to mid-range to luxury hotels, you can find them all in Venice. And you can truly go as crazy as you want. Venice isn’t a cheap city to visit, but luckily there are also some options if you want to spend less on accommodation.

Luxury Venice Hotels

Hotel Danieli : Hotel Danieli is a fantastic hotel located a few minutes away from the famous Piazza San Marco. The interior of the whole hotel is so beautiful and typical authentic Venetian. It’s set right on the water and from the rooftop terrace and restaurant, you get the best views on the lagoon and the city of Venice.

The Gritti Palace : Located on Venice’s Grand Canal and overlooking the water and Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute, you can find a beautiful hotel named The Gritti Palace. It’s luxurious, romantic, and serves great food. If you are looking for an unforgettable hotel to stay in Venice and have the money to spend, this is the place to be during your day in Venice!

Baglioni Hotel Luna : Arrive in style with a water taxi or gondola at Baglioni Hotel Luna’s private dock. And within 1 minute you can reach Piazza San Marco by foot. This amazing hotel has beautiful elegant and spacious rooms plus the most beautiful dining and breakfast area, you will be impressed!

Mid-Range Venice Hotels

Palazzetto Pisani Grand Canal : Located in a 16th-century building, Palazzetto Pisani Grand Canal is an authentic Venetian place to stay with wooden decorated ceilings, beautiful paintings, and tapestries. It feels like you step back in time when entering Palazzetto Pisani Grand Canal! The area of the hotel is a bit quieter, but within a short walk, you are on Campo Santo Stefano and have access to restaurants and cafés. Also, every room is air-conditioned, which is very convenient during the hot Venetian summer months.

Hotel Firenze : This Venice boutique hotel is located very close to Piazza San Marco and offers rooms that are elegantly decorated. Have a delicious breakfast on the rooftop terrace of the hotel and enjoy the beautiful views of the tower bell. Shops and restaurants are literally located under and next to the hotel, so you don’t need to walk far to get the things you need. Plus, the staff at Hotel Firenze is helpful in all ways!

Hotel Serenissima : A typical Venetian style hotel which is a bit cheaper than all hotels mentioned above! If you want to stay in the heart of Venice while don’t spend too much money, but still enjoy some Venetian comfort, this might be a great option for you! Each room has air conditioning and is elegantly decorated. Within a 5-minute walk from Hotel Serenissima you are on Piazza San Marco!

Budget Venice Hotels

Hotel Belle Epoque : As we said before, for the cheaper accommodation, it’s better to look outside the neighborhood San Marco. Depending on when you go, the rooms at Hotel Belle Epoque should be between €50-100 per night for a double room. Of course, this can vary. This is a great place to stay close to the train station and bus stop.

Alle Guglie Boutique Hotel :  Another great option close to the train station is Alle Guglie Boutique Hotel. In about 7 minutes, you reach the hotel from the train station. And in about 15 minutes you reach the famous Rialto bridge. They offer rooms with air-conditioning and decorated in classic Venetian style.

A Day in Venice Itinerary: Best Things to do in Venice

It’s time to start your day in Venice and experience the best things to do in this beautiful Italian city. One day in Venice is enough time to see the highlights of the city. And we are going to tell you all about where to go and what to see to make the most of your Venice trip.

Visit Piazza San Marco

Piazza San Marco, also known as St Mark’s Square, is Venice’s main square. This is the tourist heart of Venice and where it’s often busy. That’s why we highly recommend starting the day here, to beat the big crowds.

If you haven’t had breakfast yet, enjoy breakfast or a coffee on the square (both Caffè Florian and Caffè Quadri are famous cafés to go to). Or in the surrounding streets, where the prices probably will be a bit cheaper.

St Mark’s Square is a famous and important square of Venice, rich in history. Many important buildings are located on this square. Walk around and enjoy the beauty of St Mark’s Basilica, St Mark’s Clock Tower, the Doge’s Palace, and St Mark’s Campanile.

St Mark’s Basilica

St Mark’s Basilica, or Basilica di San Marco, is a beautiful cathedral that you can enter for free. Go when the cathedral opens, to avoid long queues.

The basilica itself is free to enter, but there’s a fee if you want to visit special parts of the basilica complex. For the Treasury, the Golden Altar, and the Saint Mark’s Museum, there’s an entrance fee.

Make sure to dress appropriately when you want to go inside the cathedral (cover knees and shoulders). And it’s good to know large bags and luggage are forbidden to bring with you.

Doge’s Palace

Doge’s Palace, also known as Palazzo Ducale, is an impressive Venetian Gothic-style palace. It’s one of the landmarks of Venice and is now a museum you can visit. The palace used to be the residence of the Doge (ruler of Venice).

Buy your tickets in advance to skip the long queues if you want to visit Doge’s Palace. This way you don’t have to wait long in line, and you can make most of your day in Venice.

Feel free to decide for yourself which buildings you want to enter, but in any case, you should wander around the square itself!

And we highly recommend going to the top of St Mark’s Campanile, the bell tower of St Mark’s Basilica. More about in the next paragraph.

Enjoy the View From the Top of St Mark’s Campanile

St Mark’s Campanile is the bell tower of St Mark’s Basilica. The tower is a beautiful tower to see, and we highly recommend going to the top! With its 99 meters height (325 feet), it’s the tallest building in Venice.

Initially, the tower was supposed to be a watchtower, to see approaching ships from afar and to protect the entry to Venice. It was also the perfect landmark for ships to sail safely into the Venetian harbor safely, as the tower is visible for distant ships. So it was used as a lighthouse!

From the top, you get to enjoy beautiful views of the city! You look down on Piazza San Marco, the beautiful Basilica di San Marco, and Doge’s Palace. Plus you get to see the Venetian lagoon from above, the amazing Venetian houses and roofs, the Grand Canal, and even see the airport in the distance and the island Murano.

Of course, the weather needs to allow it! As it can be quite foggy in Venice.

Tickets for St Mark’s Campanile are €10 ($11.80) and there’s an elevator that can bring you to the top.

Head to Ponte Dei Sospiri / Bridge of Sighs

Very close to St Mark’s Square and St Mark’s Campanile you can find Ponte Dei Sospiri. Ponte Dei Sospiri is a very beautiful bridge in Venice and translates to the Bridge of Sighs. After the Rialto bridge, it’s the most famous bridge in Venice!

Ponte Dei Sospiri is an enclosed bridge over the canal Rio di Palazzo and connects a former prison to the Doge’s Palace and its interrogation rooms.

The name of the bridge comes from the fact that prisoners walked over the bridge to the prison and their cell. While enjoying their final views of Venice through the bridge’s windows, they would sigh. Many prisoners would not come out of the prison alive or were sentenced to very long sentences.

If you visit Doge’s Palace, you are able to walk over the bridge. If you just want to see the outside of the bridge, head to the bridge Ponte della Paglia for a great view and picture spot! When lucky, multiple gondolas will pass by for an even more iconic Venetian picture.

Ponte della Paglia is located next to Doge’s Palace and along the sea!

See Venice from the Grand Canal

One of the best things to do in Venice is to see the city from the water! We advise to buy a day ticket for the bus boat (vaporetto) or get a 75-minute ticket.

From Piazza San Marco, we recommend driving over the Grand Canal to the Rialto Bridge on line 1. This way you get to see the best of Venice. It’s a sightseeing cruise and transportation in one, how convenient.

On the way, you can stop at Basilica di Santa Maria della Salut, or you can spot the basilica from the water. Make sure to also spot the haunted house Palazzo Dario , Palazzo Corner della Ca’ Grande, Ponte dell’Accademia, and stop at the Rialto Bridge.

Going on a Europe trip? Why not visit the amazing cities Lisbon , Budapest , Amsterdam , and Paris too?

Visit the Rialto Bridge

You made it to Venice’s most famous bridge: the Rialto Bridge. What’s a day in Venice without visiting the Rialto Bridge?! This bridge is built in the 16th century and is the oldest of four bridges in total on the Grand Canal.

It’s a beautiful stone arch bridge to see, and you can walk on it. There are even some (souvenir) shops and small galleries located on the Rialto Bridge. And it connects the districts San Marco and San Polo with each other.

Walk from one side to the other, and find some great viewing points and photo spots of the bridge on both sides of the water. And many gondolas will pass by for sure, for the perfect Venice photo!

Close to the bridge, you can find a mall named T Fondaco dei Tedeschi by DFS. It’s a high-end mall in an old building and on the top there’s an amazing terrace with beautiful views over the canal and Venice! It’s a very different view than from St Mark’s Campanile, so we highly recommend going to the top of this mall.

And the best part is: it’s totally free! Make sure to reserve a preferred time slot in advance, as there are only 40 people allowed on the terrace every 15 minutes. Therefore, it’s often fully booked and walk-ins aren’t guaranteed.

We recommend reserving a time slot at the end of the afternoon, so you have enough time for all other activities before heading to the mall!

Enjoy Venice’s Best Ice Cream

During your day in Venice, you can’t miss the world’s best ice cream. When in Italy, you simply have to eat Italian ice cream, gelato! Gelato comes from Italy and you can find it everywhere in the country.

One of the best places to go to for gelato in Venice is Gelatoteca Suso! And it’s just a short walk from the Rialto Bridge and T Fondaco dei Tedeschi by DFS bridge.

What’s the difference between ice cream and Italian gelato? Gelato is softer, is made with less fat, and is packed with flavors and a rich texture. Whereas ice cream contains a higher fat level and is airier. Gelato also normally has less sugar!

Go on a Venice Gondola Ride

One of the best things to do in Venice is going on a gondola ride. Because when you say Venice to someone, the first things they will think about are gondola boats and canals. The gondolas are iconic and unique to Venice, and you can only find them here. Or, well, maybe in Las Vegas too!

Before traveling to Venice, we weren’t 100% sure if we wanted to go on a gondola ride because to be honest, it’s quite pricey.

But it’s part of the Venice experience, and if you have the budget, you have to go on a gondola ride at least one time in your life. It’s an experience to never forget, and we enjoyed every second of it.

And you won’t remember the money afterwards, you will remember the memory!

You can go on a gondola ride from almost everywhere in the city center. And the prices are the same everywhere, €80 ($94) if you go on a gondola tour before 19:00 (7 PM) and €100 ($117) if you take it after that time. These prices are per gondola, so not per person. A maximum of 5 people in total is allowed in a gondola, plus the gondolier.

You will enjoy the ride for about 25-30 minutes. But of course, you can try to negotiate the price and time a bit (especially when it isn’t very busy in the city). We noticed this is easier further from the busiest places in Venice, like the gondolas at Piazza San Marco. Negotiate the price and the time on the water before you get into the gondola.

We recommend getting a gondola somewhere in the area of the Rialto Bridge. Your gondolier will take you to some very small authentic canals, but also bring you to the Grand Canal. But decide yourself what kind of gondola trip you want and where, and simply find a gondola stand there!

Interestingly, only since 2010 women are allowed to become gondoliers. Since gondolier licenses are fixed and usually stay in the family, there’s only 1 female gondolier at the time of writing this article. There’s also a trans man gondolier, Alex Hai , who offers more high-end gondola tours.

End Your Day in Venice With a Delicious Italian Meal

By now, you’ve seen the top things to do in Venice! It’s time to end your one day in Venice with a delicious Italian meal. Not only Italy’s gelato is famous worldwide, but Italian cuisine, in general, is famous worldwide. You can find pasta and pizza almost everywhere!

Below, we will tell you about some great restaurants in Venice to go to. No matter if it’s for dinner or lunch. And we also found some great spots for vegetarians and vegans.

• Restaurant Terrazza Danieli : Looking for a high-end restaurant close to Piazza San Marco? Don’t look further! Restaurant Terrazza Danieli, which is part of Hotel Danieli , has an amazing rooftop terrace and serves amazing classic Venetian cuisine. The view from the rooftop terrace is wonderful! Dress appropriately when you go here (flip-flips and shorts aren’t allowed, for example!).
• La Zucca : Located closer to the train station, you can find a wonderful restaurant called La Zucca. It’s famous for its seasonal fresh vegetables courses. It has many vegetarian options on their menu, but also meat and fish. Their menu changes sometimes, so it’s always different. But they always have vegetarian options, and often vegan too. You do need to make a reservation to eat here, otherwise it might be full when you come. It’s possible to sit inside and outsides. We loved sitting outside, it’s a cozy place!
• Osteria Al Squero : Osteria Al Squero is perfect to go to for lunch, apéritif, or for a small dinner. You get to enjoy tapas and amazing spritzes (especially Aperol Spritz is super popular in Italy) and wines. Inside, there are a few spots, but the best thing to do is to sit outside next to the canal. On the other side of the canal there’s a gondola workshop. So if you are lucky, you get to see gondolas being built and repaired.
• Osteria Alle Testiere : Any seafood lovers here? Then head to Osteria Alle Testiere! This seafood restaurant adjusts their menu on availability of fresh fish at the market. Everything you will eat here will be just caught fresh! They make the dishes traditional Venetian, with some twists!
• Wine Bar Teamo : There aren’t many places that serve vegetarian and vegan lasagna in Venice, but Wine Bar Teamo does! They also have other vegetarian and vegan Italian food options on their menu. As well as meat and fish dishes. We found the dishes a bit small, but tasty.
• Pizzeria L’Angelo : Looking for great takeaway pizza in the heart of the neighborhood San Marco? Then this is the place to be. And they even have vegan pizza’s, which you don’t often see. The prices are great, the pizza’s super delicious, and they are huge (especially if you get a large one!).

Not only Italy has amazing food, but the food in Greece is amazing too!

More Activities For One Day in Venice

If you have more time, or if you are looking for other activities to do, we got you covered!

The islands Burano and Murano are amazing to visit in the Venetian Lagoon, especially if you want to escape the city. The Venetian lagoon is an enclosed bay of the Adriatic Sea, which includes Venice and many other islands like Burano and Murano.

Burano is famous for its colored houses and Murano for its glassmaking. A bus boat ride to Burano takes about 45 minutes from Venice, and to Murano only about 10 minutes. Of course, this depends on where in Venice you are coming from!

We especially love visiting Burano as we love colorful places! But as Murano is a bit closer by, it’s perfect to head there for a short while. For dinner for example.

Other great spots in Venice to visit are:

• Libreria Acqua Alta (cute bookshop with Instagrammable ‘books stairs’)
• Gallerie dell’Accademia (for the art lovers)
• Lido island (to go to the beach)
• Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo (beautiful staircase with gorgeous view)
• San Giorgio Maggiore island (see San Marco from the island across!)
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection (again for the culture lovers)

Enjoy your once day in Venice! Do you have any questions?  Drop them below or send us a message.

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If you enjoyed our blog post, don’t forget to share it with all your friends and family! Thank you so much!

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Tuesday 24th of August 2021

Hi, I will be visiting Venice soon and I found this post super helpful! I plan to visit Murano and Burano too. Would you recommend buying a water taxi ticket and exploring it on your own or joining a tour group with a guide? PS. I absolutely positively love your Instagram account!

Roxanne & Maartje

Friday 27th of August 2021

Hi Lynette! That is so great to hear, you'll love the islands! We personally loved exploring by ourselves, without the time pressure of a group tour. But if you want to get more information, a tour might be a good idea. Hope this helps!

How Many Days in Venice? Planning a 2, 3 or 4-Day Itinerary

Last Updated on November 28, 2023

by Daniella Lynn Theis

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If you’re planning a visit, you are likely wondering how many days in Venice you should plan into your itinerary. Ideally, you should plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days in Venice to allow you to see the main attractions, as well as visit some islands and even, go on a day trip.

Venice is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world – and rightly so! The historic Italian city is truly one-of-a-kind. The picturesque canals of Venice, winding alleyways and centuries-old buildings are loved by locals and the millions of visitors it receives each year alike.

The options of things to do in Venice are almost endless, and itineraries can look very different depending on personal interest. Let it be history, food or nightlife – Venice has something for everyone!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Venice?

To decide how many days to spend in Venice, you must decide before your visit what is important to you. It is possible to see some of the city with one day in Venice, but to really soak in the city and its offerings you should plan in at least 3 to 4 days in this incredible city.

I would say that spending 2 days in Venice is the absolute minimum – and even then you won’t have time to dig deeper in the neighbourhoods or to go on a day trip in the Veneto region.

To do the city justice, I would recommend planning in at least 3 days in Venice. This will allow you to see the main attractions, as well as soak in the other areas outside San Marco such as San Polo and Cannaregio and give you enough time to also visit the islands surrounding the city.

Spending 4 days would furthermore allow you to explore the Veneto region and other cities such as Treviso or Verona – the city in which Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ was set in.

Venice is a walkable city, and a lot of the main attractions are located around the San Marco area. However, during peak season, Venice is also a bustling city.

It is also important to note that there are no roads or cars in Venice as it is made up of several islands connected through canals in the Venice Lagoon. While there is public transport in the form of boats, you either need to plan in how much time you will spend walking (make sure to invest in comfortable walking shoes !) or using public transport to get to your destinations.

An average of 24 million people visit the city each year. Delays while walking the narrow streets and queues outside and within the main attractions are likely during these times, all of which mean that you might not be able to achieve all you desire within one day.

Getting To & Around Venice

Venice can be reached through two airports. One is outside Venice in the mainland city of Treviso, and Marco Polo is just across the lagoon. Both airports are connected to the city through public transport.

Treviso airport has a direct bus to Venice’s Piazzale Roma that takes approximately one hour. Marco Polo Airport also has a bus service to Piazzale Roma , which takes about twenty minutes.

You can also book a private transfer if you prefer to have a stress-free journey from the airport.

Should you be looking to get closer to your accommodation from Marco Polo airport, the blue Alilaguna line boat service stops at several points across the central lagoon such as Fondamente Nuove in Cannaregio and San Marco within about half an hour. If your Venice trip budget allows it, there are also shared water taxis that will take you directly to your hotel.

It is also possible to arrive to Venice by train from a nearby city such as Bologna , Milan or Florence , it’s best to book tickets in advance to get the best fares – you can click here to browse train routes and availability.

There are no roads or cars in Venice. The public transport system consists entirely of boats run by the ACTV network. Boats often serve several stops along the Grand Canal as well as providing access to the islands outside Venice such as the island of Burano or Giudecca.

Services run very frequently – usually every 10 to 15 minutes within the hour – and you will often be sharing your ride with locals and other travellers alike. Detailed timetables can be obtained directly from ACTV. The company also offers its own app for iOS and Android that makes scheduling trips a lot easier.

While there is public transport in Venice, it is definitely possible to plan your full itinerary for Venice entirely on foot. Walking along the narrow alleyways and canals is what inspired the real feeling of being in Venice for me. Most districts are connected through bridges and Venice also has quite a few street signs to keep you on track. It is easy to get lost, but that is almost the best thing about it.

Overall it is still quite easy to get from one place to another by walking. Especially if you are trying to see the main tourist attractions around San Marco, it is possible to do entirely by foot. However, it is worth noting that there are stairs – lots of them, in fact.

Venice by foot is going to be more tricky if you have trouble using stairs or have a pram with you. I have seen people lifting wheelchairs and prams across these steps, but it is something you need to be aware of if you are considering navigating Venice by foot.

2, 3 or 4 Days in Venice Itinerary

So, you are starting to plan your Venice itinerary, but what to do? During your first two days, you will want to try and see as much of the city as possible. Luckily, it is definitely possible to tick off many popular tourist sites and explore many of the city’s charms and quirky attractions within 2 days.

Should you have the option to stay for three days, you can then also learn more about the surrounding islands and their cultural heritage. Of course, it is hard to narrow down exactly what to see and do, especially if you are looking for some activities outside of the typical sightseeing ‘agenda.’

Day 1 – See the Highlights of Venice

Start your day at rialto bridge (ponte di rialto).

The bridge is probably one of the most famous sights in Venice in terms of how often it has been pictured in photographs. It stretches over the Grand Canal connecting the areas of San Marco and San Polo. Do not cross over just yet this time. Just stand and marvel at the beautiful architecture gaze on to the Grand Canal in front of you.

The bridge can get quite busy at times, so if you feel too overwhelmed by crowds when on the bridge, be sure to take a stroll down one of the side steps and walk along the grand canal. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from there should you not have had breakfast yet or be needing a coffee top-up.

My recommendation would be to keep your eyes peeled when looking down the side streets between restaurants. Tucked away down the darker alleyways, apart from the hustle and bustle and crowded tourist hotspots you will often find a bacaro – a traditional Venetian bar.

These bars are usually a lot more ‘stripped back’ and also come with less of a tourist price tag. They are also a great way to meet some locals and get your first glimpse at what Venetians do.

From the bridge, you will want to make your way towards the San Marco area, as many of the cultural and historic tourist sites are located there. If you have time for a detour, try and visit the Libreria Acqua Alta .

The unusual bookstore has shot to fame more recently as pictures of tourists posing within it have become prominent on social media, but it is definitely still worth a visit due to its one-of-a-kind concept.

The bookstore sells new and used books that are shelved on gondolas, boats and other random items. Old books themselves have been turned into part of the store. One great feature is the book staircase one can climb to take a look over the canal.

If you want another view of the Rialto Bridge, no visit to Venice is complete without a gondola ride on the Grand Canal. You can book a gondola tour here .

Stroll along St. Marks Square (Piazza San Marco )

Make sure that while you are walking along the area to not rush or ignore your surroundings. The streets are quite narrow, but you will find many great shops and eateries tucked among them.

We tried some of the best chocolate and gelato I ever had all while making our way around San Marco and had a chat with a Venetian local while standing squeezed against an on-street coffee bar for a midway espresso. That being said, try and be considerate of the locals and let people pass beside you in the narrow streets.

When you arrive at Piazza San Marco, take a moment to take in the scene and breathe. Piazza San Marco does really make you feel like you stepped back in time (despite the potentially large tourist crowds). The open square is surrounded by an arcade of shops and beautiful architecture.

Right in the centre of the square, you will find the Basilica di San Marco . The building boasts some beautiful architecture – it is held up by dozens of marble pillars that are all a different colour – and features some paintings on its exterior which showcase Venice’s cultural heritage.

The church can be visited by tourists (you can book skip-the-line entry tickets here and guided tour tickets here ), but there are some days when it is closed for worshippers only.

Around the Piazza, you will find the Museo Correr – a museum full of historical and cultural artefacts housed in the Napoleanic wing of the Piazza. The square is also home to the famous Café Florian . This renowned café comes with a hefty price tag, but it is a century-old establishment, and for many, it is worth the splurge. It serves up anything from prosecco to coffee and food. 

Turning away from the square towards the shore, you will find the Doge Palace . It was the residence of the Doge of Venice, the supreme authority of the former Venetian Republic but is now a museum. If you walk along the shoreline and the outside of the palace, you will reach the famous ‘Bridge of Sighs’.

The bridge was built to connect the newly built prison beside the Doge palace with the interrogation rooms of the court within the palace. It is said to have its name as it was the last view of Venice that convicts saw before their imprisonment.

Click here to book advance skip-the-line tickets for the Doge Palace & Museo Correr . If you’re planning to visit even more museums during your days in Venice, then this Museum Pass gives you entry to eleven museums, including the ones mentioned above.

If you want to see a lot of these sites in more context, it can also be a great idea to book a guided walking tour. This walking tour takes visitors to a mix of main sites and hidden places. And this guided tour will take you through the former Jewish Ghetto of Venice where you can learn about the Jewish history of this city.

Find yourself a good view

You have now successfully marvelled at the historic architecture of Venice and have ticked off some of the ‘must-see’ sights. But it is not time to relax just yet. Venice is not only beautiful to walk around in.

There are also many great viewpoints to marvel at the city from above. Right in St. Marks Square, you have the San Marco campanile – the bell tower on the Piazza San Marco. Unfortunately, the wait time to actually be able to go up the tower is often very long.

However, there are some great alternatives to skip the queue: The Fondaco dei Tedeschi is located next to the Rialto Bridge and now houses a shopping centre (Duty-Free Venice) with a rooftop that gives excellent views overlooking the city.

Another option is the Scala Contarini del Bovolo. This beautiful mansion is hidden away down one of the side streets not far from St. Marks Square. Even if you decide not to climb the stairs, it is definitely worth a visit just to see the unique exterior of this building.

If heights are not for you, you do not need to worry. Soak up Venice’s beauty by walking along the shoreline instead. Overlooking the lagoon is very serene, especially at sunset! If you walk towards the area of Castello, you will soon find yourself in a park far away from the hustle and bustle of San Marco.

Try some local cuisine and unwind

Have an Aperol Spritz (or two) paired with some cicchetti – the Venetian version of tapas. These are small bits of bread with a selection of different toppings and are seen as snacks to have before dinner by Venetians.

If you are looking for something more hearty than cicchetti , you will find plenty of selection, but keep in mind that the area of San Marco comes with a higher price tag. Our favourite place in the area was Osteria la Staffa (located down a side street about five minutes from the square).

For those who would rather have a knowledgeable local guide them through this Venetian food tradition, consider booking a food tour of Venice where you can learn all about cicchetti and other local delicacies. Another great option is this Venice street food tour .

If you are looking for some entertainment (and do not mind the price tag), then there is often some live music playing in St. Marks Square at night, and you can enjoy it while seated in one of the outside tables of one of the restaurants.

Day 2 – Explore Venice’s Neighbourhoods

Explore san polo.

Again, start your day at Rialto Bridge but this time cross over into the area of San Polo. What you will notice straight away is that the area itself is a.) much quieter and b.) much cheaper.

Close to the bridge, you will find the Rialto Fish Market. Let your senses guide you there…it is easy to find! It is definitely worth a visit even if you do not intend to buy anything. The selection of fish, seafood, fruits, vegetables and other offerings is eye-opening (and mouth-watering).

The area of San Polo is beautiful. Walking along you have the same narrow streets as in San Marco but will also find many big open squares and colourful buildings. Breakfast in San Polo is a lot cheaper, and there is an excellent selection of local cafes to choose from.    

The area also has a great selection of museums and beautiful churches. Grouped together in one corner of San Polo you will find a museum dedicated to Leonardo Da Vinci, a beautiful church and the Scuola Grande di San Rocco – an art museum featuring a ceiling covered in paintings and gold.

Explore Dorsoduro

The neighbourhood of Dorsoduro houses several great museums and beautiful walks along the canals. It is one of the most picturesque places in Venice, in my opinion, and the further bonus is that you are sharing your space with far fewer people.

Being a student area, the nightlife in Dorsoduro is said to be fun as well. A further benefit of the area being popular with students is that it is also cheaper.

In terms of museums and things to do, it is definitely worth visiting the Accademia Art Gallery and the Peggy Guggenheim collection. Both are absolutely outstanding art galleries. The Accademia Art Gallery is more focused on fine art and traditional Venetian art, whereas the Peggy Guggenheim collection concentrates on European and American art of the first half of the 20th century.

If you walk along, you can sit on the steps of Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute. Likely you will have seen the building already when looking across the bay from the shores of San Marco. See if you can spot some places you visited yesterday!

Cross over the Accademia bridge back to the area of San Marco

The wooden structure of the bridge might pale in the shadows of what you previously saw when walking along the Rialto Bridge, but it is still lovely in its own way – especially the view you get of the Grand Canal!

The bridge is also less busy than the Rialto Bridge, so if you are looking to get a snap of you overlooking the Grand Canal, then this might be your best shot.

Across the bridge, you are back in the area of San Marco and can maybe tick off some other sights that you missed yesterday. One you should visit is the Teatro La Fenice. It has housed several great operas in the past and still has many shows on today.

There are guided tours available so you can get a glimpse of the beautiful, gold-engulfed interior. You can also book skip-the-line tickets online in advance.

Walk to Cannaregio and enjoy the nightlife among Venetians

We stayed here during our visit, and from our first day onwards we loved this area. It is always bustling with locals chatting over a glass of wine, and there are so many great bars, eateries and shops! It even has a supermarket that is situated in an old theatre. It is here where you will get to enjoy life like a true Venetian.

To end your busy day, pick a spot you love to gain a further taste of Venetian cuisine. If you are feeling adventurous, why not try a famous local dish: Spaghetti al Nero di sepia – squid ink spaghetti? You will get this dish in many Osterias. It depends entirely on you whether you want to sit beside a canal or in a market square or down a small side street to end your day exactly how you like it.

We also found a fantastic Jazz Bar tucked down one of the side streets, so it is good to just keep your eyes peeled while walking along.

Day 3 – Visit the Surrounding Islands

Day trip to islands.

Venice itself is made up of several islands connected through bridges and canals, but outside of the central city itself, you have other islands that are definitely worth a visit.

There are several great islands to choose from which all have their own history and heritage. Examples are the island of Burano – known for its beautiful lacework and colourful homes – and the island of Murano – known for its beautiful coloured glassware.

Other islands include Giudecca, which is only a five-minute Vaporetto ride from busy San Marco but is by far quieter. If you already have an ACTV Vaporetto ticket for the day, you can use it to get to the islands surrounding Venice.

All islands have boats driving to them leaving from intermediate stops such as San Marco Pier and Fondamente Nuove in Cannaregio and the journey time is often less than half an hour.

Go to the beach

If you had enough of the city life (or if you are someone who needs a day of lying in the sand somewhere to truly get that holiday feeling), you could visit one of Venice’s surrounding beaches. You can find beaches on the nearby island of Lido which again can be reached using your ACTV ticket.

Day 4 – Venice Day Trips

Taste some prosecco.

Did you know prosecco is from the Veneto region? Now you do. Outside Venice in the Veneto region, you will find several excellent wineries, and you can book a day tour here to learn more about the region and enjoy a tasting!

Day trip to Treviso

The town of Treviso lies just outside Venice and is often entirely ignored due to Venice’s popularity. It is smaller than Venice, but also less dependent on tourism, meaning you will find fewer tourist traps and more culture. Treviso can be reached by train from Venice within about half an hour, and tickets cost less if pre-booked.

Day Trip to Verona

Verona was the city featured in Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ – you can even visit the houses that are said to have been the inspiration for Romeo’s and Juliet’s residences.

Within the heart of Verona, you will find a fantastic amphitheatre that will remind you a little bit of the Colosseum in Rome (or across the Adriatic in Pula, Croatia !) – sometimes there are shows you can watch within the theatre!

Overall, Verona is a charming city full of good food, architecture and nightlife and is a great day trip option from Venice! You can reach Verona easily by direct train from Venice within about an hour. It is also possible to book a guided day tour.

Where to Stay in Venice

Ca’ Angeli — This small, centrally-located hotel is an excellent place to stay if you have a slightly higher budget and are looking for a bit of luxury on your trip to Venice. Located in the San Polo neighbourhood, this small hotel only has 6 clean and comfortable rooms available and there is also an excellent breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Riva del Vin Boutique Hotel – This hotel, located within a stone’s throw of the Rialto Bridge, is the perfect place for those looking for a bit of classic, romantic luxury on their trip to Venice. There are a handful of chic and comfortable rooms available, a bar on site, and a great breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Combo Venezia — This locally-run hostel is an excellent place for those who are travelling solo or on a tight budget. Located in the Cannaregio neighbourhood, they have both dorm and private rooms available and great facilities to help you meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Venice hotels!

As you can now tell, there are so many great things to do in Venice, and hopefully, you will now have a better idea of some of the things you could do yourself. Venice is a genuinely magnificent city. If you are finding yourself wondering how many days in Venice are enough, then the real answer is subjective to what it is you want to see during your time in Venice.

Are you visiting Venice? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect 1 to 2 Days in Turin Itinerary

About Daniella Lynn Theis

Daniella is a writer for The World Was Here First. Based in in Glasgow, Scotland, she has lived in several different countries and is always on the hunt for adventures, trying to find even the most hidden secrets for any destination. In her spare time, she loves photography and finding new eateries and things to do in or around Glasgow.

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best day of the week to visit Venice? quietest? - Venice Forum

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Also does anyone know if you can get a boat trip from Lignano to Venice? or any other places on the coast?

Do a search in the Venice forums "go" box for cruise ship schedules: there are websites that tell which boats are due in on which days, and you can then figure out how many passengers possible...when we were there this summer, there were far fewer "cruisers" scheduled on the Tuesday (something like a difference of 9000 people!)--and indeed, the main tourist areas were a bit easier to navigate that morning due to thinner crowds. Or so it seemed...

If you want the "quietest' days avoid the weekend...

That's right Weekends are worse, but always it's busy around the San Marco area, 10 minutes away from there and it's relatively quiet,

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12 incredible day trips from Venice

May 15, 2023 • 16 min read

Escape the clamor of Venice on a day trip © Andrea Comi / Getty Images

Venice is one of the world’s greatest cities – a floating work of art, an open-air museum, and a place that everyone wants to visit at least once in their lifetime.

But what makes it great also makes it crowded...and then some. This fragile city is the poster child for overtourism and not only is it unpleasant to be part of that, but a whistle-stop tour of the sights makes you part of the problem. Our advice? Stay longer. A week is a decent amount of time to get a feel for the real Venice, beyond the crowds, and to take a couple of day trips beyond the canals.

The Italian railway system is excellent and in this part of the country, there are regular high-speed trains that can whisk you to another world in less than half an hour. Whether you’re looking for somewhere close by or fancy a day out in another region or even in the mountains, here are some of the best places to go.

1. See world-changing art in Padova

Travel time: 26 minutes by train

If it wasn’t so close to Venice, Padova (or Padua) would be one of northern Italy’s most feted cities. As it is, not many tourists make it to the place that changed art history – yet it’s one of the easiest day trips from Venice by train. Here, in the Cappella degli Scrovegni – the chapel of the Scrovegni banking family, which now sits in a little park, just 10 minutes’ walk from the train station – Giotto spent two years from 1303 to 1305, frescoing it from top to bottom. What he produced shattered medieval artistic conventions, introducing perspective and humanizing his figures, instead of keeping them stiff and sculptural. If his Nativity and Flight to Egypt scenes are familiar, that’s because they make regular appearances on Christmas cards around the globe.

Other sights include the colossal Basilica di Santa'Antonio – where the remains of St. Anthony of Padua are kept – and Prato della Valle , a huge square (said to be Europe’s largest) where grand statues of local luminaries stand guard over a moated island (join the locals and buy a pizza at nearby Pizzeria Orsucci, going strong since 1922, and eat it in the square). Don’t miss Piazza delle Erbe, where there’s still a busy food market, both inside and out. Looking for souvenirs? La Bottega del Pane is a pantry of exceptional local foods.

How to get to Padova from Venice:  The easiest way to get there is by train. Fast trains can take as little as 26 minutes, and slower (cheaper) regional trains can take double that time.

2. Pay homage to Romeo and Juliet in Verona

Travel time: 72 minutes by train

In fair Verona , where we set our scene, little has changed since the 16th century, when Shakespeare set Romeo and Juliet here. The Piazza delle Erbe still hosts a lively market beneath its frescoed palazzos; the Adige river still loops around the elegant center; and the Giardino Giusti’s impeccably laid out garden hasn’t undergone anything more radical than a trim in 500 years. Juliet may not have existed in real life but her spirit lives on in Verona, where " Juliet’s House " – complete with balcony, of course – lures visitors, and a bronze statue is said to bring love to those who rub its breast (nobody could accuse Italy of being politically correct).

Verona may be known as a romantic getaway, but its real attraction is its Roman amphitheater, the Verona Arena , constructed from rosy-pink stone from a local quarry. Back in the day it put on gladiator battles; today, it’s rather more sophisticated, hosting an annual opera festival that’s one of Italy’s iconic summer events.

How to get to Verona from Venice:  The train is the fastest and easiest way to get there. There are fast trains (the Milan-Venice route stops at Verona) or slower, cheaper regional ones. The journey ranges between 72 minutes and nearly two and a half hours.

3. See bombastic Renaissance architecture in Vicenza

Travel time: 44 minutes by train

Just as Padova is overshadowed by Venice, Vicenza is the often overlooked sibling of nearby Verona. It wasn’t like this 500 years ago, when the local dignitaries were building palazzos, each grander than the last along what was the Roman decumanus (main drag) and is now called Corso Palladio, after Renaissance starchitect and adopted vicentino , Andrea Palladio.

Today, you can still walk along the street, just as they did – the only thing that’s changed is that it’s now pedestrianized and the “most elegant street in Europe,” according to 19th-century historian Cesare Cantù. The jewel in Vicenza’s crown, though, is the Teatro Olimpico – a jaw-dropping theatre by Palladio, its interior crafted entirely from wood, stucco and plaster to aid the acoustics. Its trompe l’oeil stage set is the oldest in the world. If you have a car, it’s worth driving around the countryside, which is littered with sumptuous villas also designed by Palladio – La Rotonda is one of the finest.

How to get to Vicenza from Venice:  Fast trains from Venice are quick (from 44 minutes) and easy, or it’s a 50-minute drive.

4. Hit the water at Lake Garda

Travel time: 93 minutes by train

Yes, you can do a day trip from Venice to Lake Garda – in fact, Italy’s largest lake makes for a fun day trip on public transport. Take the train to Desenzano , from where the (water) world is your oyster. Ferries zigzag across the lake – top stops include Lazise, a picture-perfect village on the crystal clear water; Gargnano, where you’ll find Limonaia La Malora, one of the only remaining lemon groves which Garda used to be famous for; and Limone sul Garda, where there’s a footpath cantilevered over the water on the outskirts of town.

At Sirmione, a peninsula thrusting out into the lake from the southern shore, there are the remains of a Roman villa, the Grotte di Catullo , while on a hill above Gardone Riviera is the Vittoriale , the former home of beloved Italian writer Gabriele D’Annunzio. The views from the rambling grounds (which include a warship dug into the hill) are spectacular. It’s a great family day trip but you may want to extend that into an overnight or two – it’s the perfect destination to combine with Venice.

How to get to Lake Garda from Venice:  To do it all by public transport, you can take the train to Desenzano, from where ferries depart for towns and villages around the lake. Otherwise, you can drive from Venice, rent a car at Desenzano or, if you’re sticking to the east side of the lake, Verona.

5. See a Venice without tourists at Chioggia

Travel time: 75 minutes by ferry and bus

Perched at the southern end of the Venice lagoon, Chioggia is close to Venice on a map, but getting there by road is tortuous. That’s why you should visit during summer, when one of Europe’s most beautiful public transport routes is running: the 11, which takes the form of a bus all the way along the Lido island, then transfers to a ferry across to Pellestrina, continues the length of this toothpick-thin island separating the lagoon from the Adriatic, before dropping you off for a final ferry crossing to Chioggia.

Often described as a mini Venice, Chioggia certainly shares a lot with La Serenissima – a settlement clumped over islands, linked by bridges – but where Venice has an elegant feel of decay, Chioggia is a living, working town. Instead of tourist gondolas, you’ll see fishing boats lined along the canals, and there are even cars driving along the streets. Don’t miss the church of San Domenico, where a painting of St. Paul by Renaissance artist Carpaccio sits in the dark, alongside votive paintings by fishermen. It’s a brilliantly atmospheric yet cheap day trip from Venice.

How to get to Chioggia from Venice:  Take a vaporetto from the city to the Lido, where the number 11 bus route whisks you eastwards, transfers to a ferry to Pellestrina, continues to the end of the island, and then drops you off at the ferry for Chioggia. Note that this route is only active in summer. Otherwise, it’s about an hour’s drive (but on frustratingly slow roads) south of Venice.

6. Soak up the cross-cultural history of Trieste

Travel time: One hour 50 minutes by car

It takes a while to get to Trieste – just over two hours by train, or a quicker (but stressful) drive – but it’s absolutely worth it. Reward an early start with a capo in b – a micro-sized cappuccino, served in an espresso glass. This used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, so the coffee scene is more Vienna than Venice, here. Instead of downing an espresso at the bar, people sit down with a newspaper to savour their break. Caffe degli Specchi is the place to go – it sits on Piazza Unità d’Italia , one of Italy’s most spectacular squares, with frothy Habsburg-era buildings on three sides, and the sparkling Gulf of Trieste on the fourth.

Wander the old city – home to Roman ruins and the 15 th -century Castello di San Giusto , which has spectacular views over the water – then head northwest from the center to Miramare , a fairytale castle of gleaming white stone, cantilevered over the water. On the way back into town, take a dip; the sidewalk doubles as a sun terrace, where the Triestini lay their towels, sunbathe, and hop in the calm waters of the Gulf to cool off.

How to get to Trieste from Venice:  It’s quickest to drive, at around 1 hour 50 minutes, but the road’s a busy autostrada  with tolls. Better to take the slower but scenic train, which weaves around the lagoons at the very northern tip of the Adriatic Sea.

7. Travel back in time to mysterious Ferrara

Travel time: About one hour by train

Often mist-swirled and always mysterious, Ferrara is a time machine back to the Renaissance period. The Castello Estense , the ominous brick castle of the Este dynasty, dominates the city – today you can go for a boat ride in the moat that once separated the family from their citizens and mooch through the castle which, 500-odd years ago, was one of Italy’s cultural capitals. Fancy a taste of their lifestyle? Much of Ferrara’s traditional food comes from the Este family’s Renaissance cookbook – try pasticcio, a sweet-pastry pie filled with macaroni cheese, meat ragù and bechamel sauce, and salama da sugo, a spicy kind of sausage, served with mash and said to be Lucrezia Borgia’s favorite food. Both are acquired tastes, but a fascinating glimpse into how they ate hundreds of years ago.

Ferrara’s Palazzo dei Diamanti , an exhibition space in a 15 th -century palace whose façade is studded with diamond-shaped stones, reopened in 2023 after two years of closure. It was originally damaged in the 2012 earthquake, along with much of the city. Check out its website for what’s on during your visit – its exhibitions are usually top notch and well worth the trip.

Until the Second World War, Ferrara had a renowned Jewish community; this was the setting for The Garden of the Finzi-Continis , by Giorgio Bassani, and you can still wander the narrow streets of what used to be the Jewish quarter. Learn the history of the community – both here and more widely in Italy – at the exceptional MEIS , or National Museum of Italian Judaism and the Shoah.

How to get to Ferrara from Venice:  It’s easiest to go by rail. High-speed trains take just over an hour, while regional ones are around 90 minutes. Otherwise, it’s an easy 75-minute drive along the autostrada, but it’s a toll road and city center parking is expensive.

8. Eat some of Italy’s best food in Bologna

Where to go from Venice by train? Further than you think. By high-speed rail, it’s easy to turn Italy’s culinary capital into a daytrip. Step off the Frecciarossa (“red arrow” train) into La Rossa (“the red” – one of Bologna’s nicknames, along with “the learned” and “the fat”), for a day of shameless indulgence.

Wander the streets of the Quadrilatero  (home to food stalls since the medieval period), take a pasta-making class (we like the offerings at Salumeria Bruno e Franco ), and end with an aperitivo on Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square, where a hulking naked statue-fountain of Neptune dominates one side, and the Basilica di San Petronio , a barn-like church, dominates the other. Any of the restaurants will do you proud – must-try dishes are tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo (tiny pasta pockets filled with a meaty, cheesy stuffing and swimming in broth), and cotoletta alla petroniana, or alla bolognese – a veal cutlet swathed in prosciutto, layered with cheese, then baked to oozing perfection.

How to get to Bologna from Venice:  It’s easiest by train – high-speed Frecciarossa trains can whisk you there in just over an hour and a half. It’s roughly the same by car, though you should add autostrada tolls and the road is quite monotonous.

9. Climb into the Dolomites at Cortina d’Ampezzo

Travel time: Two hours by car

Within a two-hour drive from Venice, you can be in the heart of the Dolomites . Head due north, and within an hour you’ll be winding up through mountain passes towards Pieve di Cadore, the birthplace of Renaissance painter Titian (his birthplace is now a museum, and there are paintings by his artist family in the local church). From there, fork west, hugging the mountainsides, to Cortina d’Ampezzo .

This is one of Italy’s chi-chiest ski resorts, but there’s plenty to do year round, from hiking to eating (try the Michelin-starred SanBrite , whose owners source all their ingredients locally). This is part of the Ladin community, an ancient population of the mountains that have their own language and traditions. Learn about the Ladins, and the Regole – essentially a collection of centuries-standing families who "govern" the town – at the Ethnographic Museum, housed in an old sawmill.

How to get to Cortina d’Ampezzo from Venice:  This is definitely one to drive. The two hours by car (or 80 minutes from Venice Marco Polo airport) changes to a minimum of five and a half by public transport and you’ll have to change at least twice.

10. Wallow in volcanic mud in the Euganean Hills

Travel time: 45 minutes by car or train

The wider region around Venice, Veneto , tends to be pretty flat except where the landscape rears up towards the Dolomites. This is one of the exceptions – a group of cone-like volcanic hills, 81 of them to be precise, rearing up from the plains south of Padova.

Of course, their volcanic origin should give you a hint that Italy’s famous thermal spas will be nearby. The small, neighboring towns of Montegrotto and Abano are home to various springs and spas that have been going since Roman times. Today, along with other nearby towns Galzignano, Battaglia and Teolo, they’re said to form the oldest, and largest, thermal spa in Europe, with 240 thermal pools between them. One of our favorites is the Abano Ritz Hotel Terme – family- and female-owned for three generations. The thermal mud they use in balneotherapy treatments comes from right beside the hotel and the pools in their 6,000-square-meter waterpark stay a constant 33 degrees (91.4F), thanks to the thermal waters that spent 25 years and 100km (62 miles) underground before gushing out here.

Don’t spend all your time wallowing, though – the whole area is designated the Euganean Hills Regional Park, and there are trails for hiking, biking and horse-riding, as well as breathtaking views from behind the wheel if you prefer a road trip. Visit one of the sprawling Renaissance country villas on offer (try Villa Barbarigo , known as the hills’ answer to Versailles, near Galzignano). Can’t go to Italy without seeing some Roman remains? You’ll find bits of 2000-year-old spas at Montegrotto and Abano.

How to get to the Euganean Hills from Venice:  Trains take between 37 minutes and an hour to reach the Terme Euganee-Abano-Montegrotto station, which serves the spa towns. If you want to explore the park, though, you’ll need a car – it’s about a 45-minute drive from Venice.

11. Wind back the centuries at Aquileia

Travel time: 80 minutes by car

Across the border in Friuli Venezia Giulia and en route to Trieste is this fascinating time capsule, where the history of the northern Adriatic is layered like a lasagne. Now a Unesco World Heritage site, this was one of the richest cities of the early Roman Empire before it was destroyed by the Huns in the fifth century CE. There’s not a lot from that era visible, since most of it lies unexcavated below fields, although the Roman river port is fascinating in its detail.

What you’re really going for is the later history – the basilica , dating back to the fourth century and rebuilt in the medieval period after an earthquake. The original mosaic floor was saved from damage and today it’s an astonishing, colorful carpet of early Christian artwork, with astonishingly vivid depictions of Bible stories like the Good Shepherd and Jonah and the whale, in between cameos of rich Roman locals, and lagoon wildlife.

How to get to Aquileia from Venice:  The easiest way to get there is by car; it’s about an hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Venice, and about two thirds of the way to Trieste. By public transport you’ll need to take a train to Cervignano-Aquileia-Grado and then swap to a bus – the journey takes just over two hours.

12. Visit Venice’s inland empire at Treviso

Travel time: 31 minutes by train

These days, Treviso is best known for its airport, home to budget airlines galore, but there’s nothing low-end about the town itself. Elegant, petite and pretty, Treviso is still a place for residents rather than tourists, and a walk around its calm centro storico is like one big exhale if you’ve come from crowded Venice. Once part of the Stato da Tera, Venice’s historic inland empire, it’s curiously similar to La Serenissima – all porticoes, art-filled churches and elegant palazzos – only without canals taking center stage (though there are a few – the Canale dei Buranelli, sweeping through the center, is the prettiest).

Don’t miss the Fontana delle Tette , a fountain in the shape of a naked woman which used to spout wine from her breasts – white from one, and red from the other – every time a new mayor was sworn in. The original has been moved to the Palazzo dei Trecento, the 13th-century castle-like building dominating the Piazza dei Signori but there’s a replica in situ just off Calmaggiore, the main street dating back to Roman times. The church of San Nicolò is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, which you won’t find much in Venice.

How to get to Treviso from Venice: Trains run every half hour or so, and take 30-40 minutes to Treviso Centrale. Otherwise, it’s a simple, if not particularly scenic, 40-minute drive from Piazzale Roma.

This article was first published March 2019 and updated May 2023

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Day Trips From Venice

15 Best Day Trips From Venice

Venice is a uniquely charming city, set on the canals and waterways of northern Italy.

It has a well-deserved place on many people’s Europe bucket list, for its gondolas and piazzas, its world-renowned food and intricate artisanal masks.

The city has plenty to keep you occupied, as even simply wandering its labyrinthine streets leads to new discoveries each day, but for the restless traveller, there is also plenty to explore beyond the water, in Italy as a whole.

If you find yourself getting sick of its shady streets, there are definitely options for you.

Here are 15 of the best day trips to take while on your trip to Venice.

1. Lake Garda

From one water-bound attraction to another, Lake Garda is without doubt Italy’s most famous, as well as largest, lake.

Surrounded by lemon trees, magnolia, cypresses and olive trees, Lake Garda exudes a Mediterranean vibe, and is just as relaxing as it sounds.

Enjoy a boat ride across the lake, or stroll along the shore, before exploring the lakeside town of Sirmione or the medieval jewel of Lazise.

If you have time, visit the nearby producers of olive oil, and learn about their traditional methods of production.

2. Murano, Torcello and Burano islands

Venice’s own islands of Murano, Torcello and Burano deserve a separate day trip to fully appreciate and explore what they have to offer.

Glass blowing, lace production and embroidery are just a few of the attractions of these picturesque islands, with each in turn having their own highlight.

Visit the glass factory in Murano and watch a display of great artistry from the glass blowers, who will craft molten glass into dainty ornaments right before your eyes.

Pay a visit to Torcello, the oldest of the inhabited islands, and finish up in Burano, whose lace making is renowned.

Near to Lake Garda is fair Verona, made famous by Shakespeare but more than maintaining its popularity through sheer charm and beauty.

Verona was of course the setting for the most popular of Shakespeare’s plays, Romeo and Juliet, and a highlight of any visit is spotting the balcony from which Juliet wondered ‘wherefore art thou Romeo?’

Head into the city’s historical centre to check out its many picturesque piazzas and the famed Mazzanti houses.

Then take a walk along the river or stop by the Basilica or Verona’s Duomo to marvel at its impressive architecture.

By train, a day trip to Padua is a fantastic option from Venice.

Padua has intrigue as well as all the hallmarks of Italian towns: beautiful architecture, vast open piazzas, art and excellent cuisine.

One of the most interesting highlights of a Padua trip is wandering through its former ghetto, which also houses the only Synagogue still in use in Padua today.

The Cappella Degli Scrovegni is another point of interest, which is home to many exquisite 14th century works of art, including those of Giotto.

5. Prosecco Region

One of Italy’s most famous exports, a Prosecco tour is a must-do on a trip to Italy.

Only around an hour’s drive from Venice, the scenery on the journey there is jaw-dropping, and of course the reward on arrival is a taste of those renowned bubbles.

The hills of the Prosecco valley are a great location to learn about the whole process of wine-making, from picking the perfect grapes, to pressing them, fermenting them, and finally bottling the finished products.

You’ll get the chance to wander round well-stocked cellars and perhaps choose the perfect tipple to pair with your lunch.

6. Florence

Thanks to the advent of high speed trains, a trip to Florence from Venice is well within the reach of a day tripper.

Just two hours away from Venice, Florence holds great treasures for tourists.

From the glorious art hosted by the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery and the city at large, to the towering Duomo offering panoramic views of the landscape, there will be plenty to keep you entertained.

If marvelling at Renaissance paintings and sculpture isn’t really your thing, you can always while away the hours wandering through Florence’s attractive streets, from the Ponte Vecchio where the high-class Medici family trod centuries ago, to the Piazza della Liberta.

7. Venice Lido

Venice’s Lido necessitates its own day trip in order to soak up the requisite number of rays, and it’s definitely a relaxing way to spend a day out.

It’s a ferry ride away, but well worth it for the glory of sun, sea and sand.

If seaside lounging, reading, sunbathing, swimming and sipping mojitos isn’t quite enough entertainment for you, a diverting way to spend the afternoon might be to explore by bike.

Cycle along the lagoon, spot the myriad tiny islands in its centre, and make sure to check out the massive, impressive fortress of Murazzi, built in the 18th century.

The medieval town of Siena is a Tuscan gem, and at just over three hours’ drive from Venice it’s not too far a stretch to visit for the day.

Home to the famed Palio Horse Race, Siena offers more than just the main square, Piazza del Campo: it has a 12th century cathedral and myriad narrow cobbled streets among which you can happily lose yourself.

Siena’s gothic architecture lends a sense of grandeur to even the dreariest days.

If nothing else, divert yourself in Siena with some delicious gelato, for which Italy is world-renowned, and sit in the piazza to watch the world go by.

Yet another historical town famed for its architecture, Vicenza’s main draw is its buildings designed by celebrated 16th century architect Andrea Palladio.

The Teatro Olimpico is the key attraction of the town, as Palladio’s last work, but the Villa La Rotunda and the Basilica Palladiana also provide excellent examples of Palladian design.

The town’s shady parks and narrow streets lend it a relaxed air, and to top it off the views from the the Santuario di Monte Berico are breathtaking, and can be reached by a covered walkway.

10. Amarone

Nestled in between Lake Garda and Verona, the Valpolicella Valley produces excellent wines including Amarone and Recioto.

The drive along narrow winding roads to reach this destination is a real treat, passing through scenery replete with villas, olive groves and of course wineries.

Take advice from a well-versed sommelier and cheese taster on which cheeses to pair with which drinks, and dine on a traditional lunch at a 15th century cantina; an experience in itself.

11. San Gimignano

Tuscany has a multitude of quaint towns tucked away amid its hills and scenic countryside, and one of the most beautiful is San Gimignano.

A medieval jewel, San Gimignano is a UNESCO world heritage site, with plenty to keep visitors occupied.

Known for its wine, saffron, and finely crafted pottery, you can find many ways to entertain yourself in its crooked side streets.

It’s also an arresting sight on the approach, with a skyline towering above the trees.

If one Tuscan town isn’t enough for you, you can also take the opportunity to visit nearby Siena or explore further afield in the Chianti countryside.

12. The Dolomites

Italy’s north-eastern Veneto region holds much more than just the waterways of Venice.

Even aside from its popular wineries, nature has much more to offer: namely, the Dolomites.

Explore up into the fresh air of the mountains, visiting key highlights such as Cortina, Lake Auronzo and Lake Misurina.

Keep your cameras at the ready as you wind through valleys and power up steep mountain roads, reaching a peak of over 7,700 feet.

If the weather allows, a quick trip up in the cable car from Cortina up to Faloria is well worth it, offering panoramic views from its lofty peak.

13. Ravenna

Charming Ravenna has been given the accolade of UNESCO World Heritage status for its stunning mosaics.

Ravenna was of great importance during the era in which the Byzantine and Roman empires mixed.

Perhaps the best thing about Ravenna is that it isn’t as swarmed with tourists as other Italian destinations are: it’s not on just anyone’s list.

On the way to or from Ravenna, you can also choose to visit the impressive Pomposa Abbey, build around the 10th century by members of the Benedictine community.

14. Venetian Villas at Padova and Asolo

What better way to dive deeper into your exploration of Venice itself than to visit its outskirts, and learn about a region that belonged to the Republic of Venice centuries ago? Journey along the Brenta Canal and tour your way through the villas alongside it, built by holidaying Venetians in days gone by.

Head out to Padova, with its pretty university, and find a chapel inlaid with frescoes by Giotto.

Afterwards, move on to Asolo, set back into the hills, which was the location for the court of the Queen of Cyprus and later played host to the writer Ernest Hemingway.

15. Trieste

Trieste offers something a little different from the rest of the Venice day trips on offer.

Its complex history and geographical position has lent it a huge variety of influences, and indeed it was only returned to Italian possession in 1954. From its castles to its square, its seafront to its myriad churches, there’s heaps to explore in this beautiful city.

Missed off many a travel plan, Trieste is certainly underrated given its easy elegance and abundance of cultural activities on offer – and certainly a good option for a visit from Venice.

15 Best Day Trips From Venice:

• Murano, Torcello and Burano islands
• Prosecco Region
• Venice Lido
• San Gimignano
• The Dolomites
• Venetian Villas at Padova and Asolo

16 Things to Do in Venice Italy in One Day

Looking for things to do in Venice Italy in one day? We've got you.

Though I would never suggest you spend just one day in Venice, it helps to have a list of activities that you could accomplish in one day.

Whether you take your time or really do only have 24 hours to explore, I hope this list helps you to fit in as much as possible.

We were able to see Venice as part of a Viking Ocean Cruise . Not only did we begin the cruise in gorgeous Venice, but we saw parts of Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece. 

This meant checking off four new countries for me, finally taking the number of countries I've visited to over 40! Think of places you want to see and Viking probably goes there!

I think Italy has become my favorite country, especially after spending a week in Sicily last year and a week later exploring Venice for a few days. For a foodie like me, it's pretty much heaven.

Where is Venice Italy?

Located on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, the beautiful city of Venice is in the northeastern part of Italy. It’s about a six-hour drive from Rome. If you’re flying, you can get between Rome and Venice in about an hour.

Venice is actually not on the mainland part of Italy. It is an archipelago of islands all connected by bridges over a series of interconnected canals. 

This unique geography is why it has nicknames like City of Water, The Floating City, and City of Canals. The historic city and lagoon area are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Due to its coastal location, you’ll find Venice has cool and damp winters, sometimes even with snowfall, and warm, humid summers. The summer months might just be the best time to visit as the crowds like to explore the city in Spring and Fall.

Why We Love This City

There are so many reasons to love Venice. It’s no wonder why this is one of the most popular cities for tourists in the world. But here are some of the reasons why we love this city.

Food We love appetizers and Venice has so many small plate dishes like cicchetti (think Venetian tapas!) and bruschetta. The flavors are incredible.

Culture & History The Byzantine-influenced architecture of the city is simply stunning. Add to that all the incredible – and yet different – styles of bridges.

With 118 islands in Venice, of course, you’ll need bridges to get from one to another. The islands are linked by over 400 bridges. Though all pretty, there are only a handful that are famous, so it's worth the time to seek them out.

I take a travel guide everywhere I go so I can look things up as I explore.

Floating City In general, the idea of a floating city is really unique. Technically, the city is built on marshy land, but with a support system going back centuries to help keep buildings above the water.

The supports were built with wood, and although you’d think they would rot over the years, the lack of exposure to oxygen and the sediment in the water actually petrified the logs, making them durable today.

Even so, Venice is at risk from “acqua alta”, high water, as severe flooding has become more and more common.

Where to begin when exploring the Queen of the Adriatic? We have recommendations for you of the most important things to see in Venice Italy in one day.

See the Most Beautiful Bridges  

Venice may be the city of canals, but that means there are also a lot of bridges to cross the canals – more than 430 bridges!

These bridges are a mix of classical designs to modern designs, Some of the most well-known ones include the Scalzi Bridge, the Constitution Bridge (Ponte di Calatrava), and the Ponte dell’Accademia (the Academy Bridge).

Probably the most famous bridge is the Rialto Bridge, which spans over the Grand Canal. Make sure to grab a photo with the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) in the background.

Of course, the Bridge of Sighs is famous, too, but for different reasons as you'll see below.

Visit Piazza San Marco  

Piazza San Marco, also known as St. Mark’s Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous squares in all of Italy. It’s a must-do for your Venice itinerary! 

From the square, there are several other places you’ll want to explore, but the square itself is also worth exploring.

As a large, open square, it stands in contrast to the rest of Venice with narrow streets and alleys. It is one of the best places to grab a coffee and people watch.

Explore Basilica San Marco 

One of the most notable locations at St Mark’s Square is the Basilica San Marco (St. Mark’s). Inside, you’ll find fabulous mosaics, Byzantine-style architecture, relics of St. Mark, and more. 

There’s no admission fee to go in, but it can end up with long lines as it is a very popular place. Booking a guided tour is a good option to make sure you're able to see all the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica has to offer.

Even from the outside, however, this church has exceptional architectural features with intricate spires and domes. The gold shimmers in the sunlight on the wings of statues of angels and mosaics high above the church. 

Unfortunately, there was scaffolding up while we were there, but it was still beautiful.

Address: P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy

Hours: Daily 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.

Take a Tour of the 500-Year-Old St. Mark’s Bell Tower

Go up to the Bell Tower of Basilica San Marco for one of the best views of the whole city. You will need a ticket and it’s best to get it ahead of time as this is one of the top attractions.

Order online and print or screenshot (or both) your confirmation to show when you arrive.

Everyone was offering to take photos of each other.

The tower is about 99 meters high, and from the top, you can see Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal, Venetian Lagoon, Bridge of Sighs, Rialto Bridge, and more.

This was one of my favorite things we did while in Venice.

Address: Piazza San Marco, 30124 Venezia, Italy

Hours: Daily, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Take a Gondola Ride

Can you say you’ve been to Venice if you don’t take a gondola ride? A private gondola ride is one of those essential splurges that you’ll want to do.

In addition to being a unique experience, it is also the best way to see many of the highlights of the city.

See the Bridge of Sighs

The Ponte del Sospiri (the Bridge of Sighs) is a beautiful bridge with a tragic secret. On one side of the famous Bridge of Sighs is the Doge’s Palace, and on the other side is the prison. 

It is easy to imagine the sighs of sadness as people were taken between the court and the prison where they would face the horrors of the prison’s torture room or know that their freedom would be taken away in the courtroom.

Bridge of Sighs

For some, the view from this bridge was the last sight of the outside world they would ever see.

Experience Doge’s Palace

The original palace, Palazzo Ducale, was built around the 10th or 11th century. Its location being surrounded by a canal and fortress walls made it a solid location for the seat of government, armories, and the apartments of the Doge (the Venetian dukes).

Over the centuries, the palace was expanded and renovated as needs changed and the palace experienced fires over the years.

After the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, various groups used the palace as their center of government as well as home to cultural locations, like the Biblioteca Marciana.

Eventually, in 1923, the Italian State appointed the City Council of Venice to manage the building as a public museum, which it is today.

Address: P.za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Hours: Daily, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

See a Show at Gran Teatro La Fenice  

If you have time, book a show at the Venice Opera House. Even if you don’t have time, try to stop by and see this stunning venue. 

Don’t let the name fool you. If you’re not a fan of opera, there are many other music and dance performances offered. Give this location a try. There’s something about the setting that makes shows here extra special.

Address: Gran Teatro La Fenice , Campo San Fantin, 1965, 30124 Venice VE

Hours: La Fenice is open for daily visits from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

See San Moisè

San Moisè church , dedicated to Moses, was built in the 7th century. Throughout the years, updates have been done to the church, including a stunning Baroque facade on the outside in the 1600s.

Inside the church are spectacular works of art that are well worth viewing, including an enormous piece behind the altar depicting Moses at Mount Sinai. 

Address: Salizada S. Moisè, 1390/A, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Hours: Daily, open 24 hours 

T ake a Break in the Royal Gardens  

In 1807, Napoleon decided to take over the Piazza San Marco area and the Procuratie Nuove building for a Royal Palace. And like any royal palace, royal gardens were installed. Over the years, the gardens were neglected, but now have been restored to their incredible beauty.

When we visited in October, the flowers were beautiful. During different times of year, the Royal Gardens is blooming with flowers like wisteria, begonia, and agapanthus.

There’s also a large focus on conservation and the use of natural resources to maintain this garden. All of the impressive work here is part of the reason why it has been awarded a European Heritage Award.

I know it seems there is never enough time to see everything, but do yourself a favor and relax for a bit in this area.

Address: P.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Hours: Closed Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Spot the Lace Curtains

As you are wandering the streets of Venice, remember to look up. See if you can spot some of the lace curtains in the windows. 

Venice is known for lace, specifically Burano, from the school of Burano Lace. This fine lace made by needlework was once a status symbol for the nobles of Europe. Many of the houses have fine lace curtains that have been in their family for generations.

Save Some Time for Shopping

You’ll find plenty of souvenir shops so you can pick up something for those who couldn’t join you on the trip.

If you have money to burn (or even if you want to window shop as I did!), try San Marco Plaza for a peek into YSL, Dior, Bulgari Jewelers, and more.

All this exploring is sure to have you work up an appetite. Thankfully, the food in Venice is incredible!

Who doesn't love Italian food? What I love about this country is that the food in Venice was not the same as the food in Sicily or Rome. Each city has its own cuisine.

One food you’ve got to try is cicchetti – think of it as Venetian tapas or bar food. Cicchetti is many varieties of finger food (or food eaten with toothpicks) that you walk up, grab a bite, and head on.

Often, people stand at a bar in front of the kitchen where you can watch the preparation. Some of the foods you might find include meatballs, seafood preparations, and olives.

Sometimes these items are served on a slice of toasted baguette, other times just with a toothpick. This is my favorite way to dine as I can try a little of everything.

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, fried seafood is very popular and delicious in Venice. (A walk through the Rialto Market with its fish vendors can give you some idea why seafood in Venice is incredible. It doesn’t get fresher than that!) The calamari is downright addictive! 

Next, wash that food down with a local beer, like Messina. I fell in love with this Italian beer when I was in Sicily. It pairs perfectly with seafood!

Of course, you can’t forget dessert. When in Italy, you have to get a cannoli! 

Our favorite spots for dinner were Osteria da Bubi for seafood, Osteria Doge Morosini, Al Teatro for cappuccino and dessert, and Al Vaporetto Trattoria for pizza.

And at the end of it all, enjoy a moment of relaxation by having a cappuccino on Canal Grande. Look for the red benches around Venice–these are placed specifically for tourists and locals alike to sit and do some people watching.

Now that you have your list of things to do, start planning! A great way to spend a couple of days in Venice is to arrive early before a cruise with Viking Ocean Cruises. 

I knew sailing on a Viking Ocean Cruise was going to be an exceptional experience as I had sailed with them on river cruises several times.

My husband and I sailed on the Viking Rhone River Cruise 8 years ago and loved it so much we decided to take our adult daughters on a river cruise.

That sailing was on the Viking Rhine River Cruise , including seeing the Black Forest in Germany , and it was one of the best family trips we've taken.

I also took the Seine River Cruise in Paris in 2022 and it was truly unforgettable. We sailed from Paris to Normandy and back. If you go to Paris, make sure to bookmark my list of things to do in Paris at night !

When it comes to luxury cruises, Viking Cruises has it down to a science, which is why I can't seem to get enough!

Viking has been in the cruise business for over 25 years, beginning with just four longships to take "curious travelers" on culturally immersive sailings. Today, the company has more than 90 ships, including a dozen ocean ships and two expedition ships.

Why Should I Sail with Viking?

When planning a cruise vacation, this is the first question you want answered. With so many cruise companies vying for your attention, why should you choose to sail with Viking?

Luxury accommodations You can see our stateroom above. Viking Ocean is 100% Veranda Staterooms.

Spectacular Itineraries The itineraries designed by Viking Cruises are for guests who are interested in the history and culture of a destination.

Excellent food The specialty restaurants are fantastic, but I enjoyed all of them. I loved the special themed nights!

Amazing Excursions No one does excursions like Viking.

Passenger to Crew Ratio Nearly 2:1!

It's an easy decision once you know the facts! Visit the Viking website and start exploring.

Where Should You Stay in Venice?

Note that if you are seeing Venice as part of a cruise, it is not close to the cruise port. Viking gave us the option of a transfer, making it so much easier to get to the port than doing it on our own. The cruise port is on Chioggia Island, about an hour and a half south of the city center of Venice.

Viking can give you recommendations for where to stay. We ended up booking Calle de le Carrozze for a couple of nights because we wanted to be in the heart of the city.

Viking will take care of booking your travel, transfers, and even accommodations if you would just rather not worry about it. 

Pope Francis’ schedule released for pastoral visit to Venice

By Devin Watkins

Pope Francis is scheduled to make a one-day pastoral visit to the northern Italian city of Venice on Sunday, April 28.

The Holy See Press Office released the programme for the visit on Monday.

According to the schedule, the Pope is due to arrive in Venice by helicopter, landing inside the Giudecca Women’s Prison facility.

After receiving a welcome by Venetian Patriarch Francesco Moraglia and several Italian officials at 8 AM, the Pope meets with around 80 female inmates in the prison’s courtyard.

He is then scheduled to meet with artists in the prison’s chapel, and view the Holy See’s Pavilion for the 60th International Art Exhibition – known as the Venice Biennale.

The Pavilion bears the title “With My Own Eyes,” and is dedicated to the theme of human rights and people living on the margins of society.

According to the Holy See, it seeks to draw the world’s attention to those people who are largely ignored while fostering a culture of encounter.

Encounter with young people and celebration of Mass

Following his meeting with artists, Pope Francis departs from Giudecca Island in a patrol boat and travels to the Basilica of St. Mary of Good Health.

There, he meets with young people from the Dioceses of Venice and Veneto.

The Pope then crosses a bridge to enter St. Mark’s Square, where he will be welcomed by the president of the Veneto Region, along with Venice’s Prefect and Mayor.

At 11 AM, Pope Francis presides over Mass in St. Mark’s Square and prays the Regina Coeli, the traditional noon-day Marian prayer during the Easter Season.

After Mass, the Pope will enter the Basilica of St. Mark to venerate the relics of the Saint, after which he will board a patrol boat that takes him to the island of St. Elena.

From there he is due to return to the Vatican by helicopter, where he is expected to land at around 2:30 PM.

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