best time to travel venice

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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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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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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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When to visit Venice

May 15, 2023 • 4 min read

Find the perfect time for your visit to Venice with our guide to events in the city through the year © LeoPatrizi / Getty Images

There isn't a true low season in Venice . Not really.

The Serenissima is so unique and so famous that the desire to see it with one’s own eyes knows no seasonal limit. Every time of the year has its pros and cons – as well as different activities and events to enjoy up and down the canals – but there isn’t really a bad time to visit.

From festivals like Carnevale to the quieter winter months, we pick through the best times to visit Venice.

May to October hosts the best Venetian festivals

This is when Venice is at its best: with nice weather and sun lasting long past 8pm. The closer to summer it gets, the more tourist numbers and prices rise but the best free things to do in Venice can help you keep within your budget. At the height of summer, the weather crosses the threshold from nice to stiflingly hot – something to be aware of if you’re planning to explore the city on foot .  The crowds arrive for Carnevale (held on Shrove Tuesday) in spring too.

May is almost summer, and the whole city is alive with the knowledge that the warmest months are fast approaching. Events begin to pop up and gather crowds – the chief among all being the Biennale, which has been celebrating visual arts since 1895. June is the start of high season and tourists begin to pour in, especially once schools officially close down for summer break around the middle of the month. If the main tourist spots get too much, consider seeking out one of Venice's less-trafficked neighborhoods .

Even though the weather will begin to feel stifling in July, Venice is still bustling – get yourself a good spot among the other visitors for the Festa del Redentore (third Sunday of July) fireworks. If the crowds really get too much, consider a day trip outside the city . A good way to deal with the sun beating down on your head is to make the most of it while lying down at one of the many beaches of the Lagoon, both in and around Venice . 

September is one of the best months of the year – the heat dwindles, but the weather is still great, and it makes for an excellent set-up to enjoy the last moments of the warm season. Then, come October, fall has arrived. There are some good days, but it’s also when the possibility of acqua alta looms on the horizon. Pack rain boots just in case.

Go in March to April for cooler weather

If you thought the city emptied out after the revelries of the Carnevale, think again. With days getting longer and the weather getting warmer, people are again out and about on the bridges and canals. The spring months are the best choice if you want to do plenty of exploration without too much sun beating down on your head (and don’t mind getting caught in the occasional rain shower).

April is the true start of the spring season. Centuries-old celebrations like St Mark’s Day make for quite the photogenic stay. A trip around Easter time will also ensure you see your fair share of the best Venice has to offer , as the days of the Holy Week are always dotted with celebrations and ceremonies – but keep in mind that schools close in Italy for Easter, and there might be a lot of tourists coming in for a weekend trip.

November to February is the best time for budget travelers

With the exceptions of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the colder months are as empty as they can be in a city like Venice – with school and work in full swing, tourist numbers are much lower than they are in June and July.

A lack of travelers doesn’t mean the city is less lively. The Festa della Madonna della Salute brings the lagoon alive in late November, where stalls line the canals and a candlelit procession crosses a bridge of boats to reach the Salute.

Over Christmas the area around the Rialto Bridge glimmers with lights and markets, but it is in January for the Regata delle Befane – the boat race where participants dress as witches – that visitors will want to find a viewing spot on the infamous Ponte di Rialto.

The costumes continue at the world-famous Carnevale, a riot of color and concealment, the February coming together is the final throes of winter before the mask slips and spring in the city begins to unfurl.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated May 2023

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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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Best time to visit Venice Italy

If you are organizing your trip to Venice , you should know which is the best time to visit it .

Before we start our article, however, we want to let you know that the city is actually beautiful any time of the year . Anyhow, each season has its own characteristics , related to the weather, temperatures, festivals and so on.

Would you start this journey with us?

When is the best time to visit Venice Italy?

We truly do not know which is the best time to visit Venice .

As locals, who live here all year around, we love experiencing different sides of our beloved city .

However, from a tourist point of view , you may want to have some tips .

Let us explain our considerations to you.

Annual weather in Venice according to the seasons

In Italy, as you probably know, we could subdivide the year into 4 seasons.

Spring, from March to June , 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.

Summer, from June to September , is the hottest time of the year . Coming in those days of the year, you can experience warm temperatures but also sultriness and wet weather. It can be very challenging exploring Venice in July or August, so you have to organize your itinerary, avoiding the hottest hours of the day.

Autumn, from September to December , is characterized by colder temperatures and rainy days . However, due to climate change, in the last decade, we are experiencing a never ending Summer, so...

Winter days, from December to March , are characterized by the coldest temperatures of the year . Coming here during winter, you could also experience the high tide (acqua alta) so you'd better be prepared ( check out our guide to know more ).

Peak Season in Venice

If weather and temperatures are an important feature of your trip to Venice, so are peak season.

In fact, during peak seasons you will find less availability (of hotel rooms or restaurant tables) at higher rates .

Which is Venice's peak season? It's a tough question , indeed. In our opinion, it's easier if you ask which are not peak seasons!

Many festivals and events spread throughout the year, making Venetian calendar full of events and things to do.

For example, in many parts of the world, February is considered low season: however, in Venice it is the moment to celebrate one of the craziest festivals of the year : the Carnival!

Best time to visit Venice for events and festivals

As we said, February hosts the first big event of the year.

However, the season that concentrates most of the festivals and events is actually the Summer .

From the Biennale to the Mostra del Cinema (this one the first days of September); from the incredible Redentore feast (the third weekend of July) to the many events related to the Assumption Day on August 15th.

The city is very crowded but the atmosphere is so festive and joyful .

Should you visit Venice during the low season?

If you want our opinion (we run some restaurants in the city), the least busy time to visit Venice is January only .

Many shops, hotels and restaurants, in fact, decide to close during the coldest month of the year, just after the Christmas celebrations. They all open again to celebrate Carnival.

During January you would expect fewer tourists and of course fewer crowds . It's the perfect time of the year if you want to visit many attractions and museums.

November can also be considered off season. However, if you come here in the last week of the month, the city is more crowded than ever.

In fact, this is the moment to celebrate the Madonna della Salute (Holy Mary of the Health) and to organize a splendid festival with a beautiful floating bridge and beautiful fireworks !

When to visit Venice if you are traveling on a budget

From November to January is the best time to visit Venice on a budget . Hotel rates are lower and the city is less crowded.

Of course, you should avoid the last weeks of December for obvious reasons.

Please explore our guide on how to stay in the city to save some money .

In conclusion, which is the best time to visit Venice Italy?

As you probably have understood by reading carefully through the article, there is not a better moment to visit Venice.

It all depends on which kind of person you are and which kind of things you want to do.

If you don't stand high temperatures, please do not come here during July or August, but if you want to experience some of the craziest and traditional events this is the perfect time to come here.

If you want to stay quiet inside the museums and do not have to think about how to avoid large crowds, come here in November or January. However, this is also the coldest time of the year, with many rainy and foggy days.

You just have to be prepared to make the best out of your visit to the city !

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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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Best Time to Visit Venice

Wondering when is the best time to visit Venice? Venice is so special that every time of year is perfect for a trip! Every season has something different to offer, both in terms of weather and events.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Go to Venice in Brief

Best months to go in Venice for sightseeing: April, May, September, October Best months to visit Venice for some outdoor activities : April, May, June Best weather in Venice: April, May, September, October Best time to visit Venice for the events : February, August, September, December

Best Time to Visit Venice by Season

High season in Venice: summer. Though Venice can get really crowded and expensive between June and late August, there are no significant changes in comparison to the other seasons. The weather is generally hot and humid, so it’s not the best time to go sightseeing. 

Low season in Venice: winter. Even if between November and March there are fewer visitors in town, there are two exceptions: February and December. Prices are not particularly lower except in late November and late January. The weather is generally cold and rainy.

Shoulder season in Venice : March, April, September, and October. These months are definitely the best ones to visit the city because of the overall lovely weather conditions. April tends to be crowded due to the Italian Easter holidays/Spring Break.

Let’s see why you shall visit Venice in every month!

Best Time to Visit Venice by Month

Venice in january.

Max Temp: 7°C Min Temp: 0°C Rainy days: 10

January is the coldest month of the year in Venice and the perceived temperature can be considerably lower due to high humidity. 

Events in Venice in January: Jan 6th: Epiphany. The main event is the so-called “Befana Boat Race”, where all the participants are dressed up like the famous Italian folk character.

What to do : visiting a museum is the best activity to escape the cold, but you can also simply lounge at a restaurant and taste all the typical dishes without rushing your meal. In January, you can also go ice-skating in Campo San Polo.

Why January : plan a weekend off in the second half of the month to benefit from lower fees and fewer tourists around.

Perfect time for: art lovers and foodies

Venice in February

Max Temp: 9°C Min Temp: 1°C Rainy days: 11

It’s often quite cold and rainy, but weather gets better towards the end of the month.

Events in Venice in February:

Carnival: one of the main local events takes place in February, which is also one of the busiest months in Venice. Many tourists from all over Europe go there to attend local parties, parades or simply be immersed in local folklore.

St. Valentine’s Day: a weekend for two in Venice is something you shall experience once in a lifetime!

What to do: sightseeing can be quite tiring in February, since there are many people everywhere. For this reason, it’s best to book your visits in advance, either joining a guided tour or buying a skip-the-line ticket. Don’t miss a masked ball or a special Carnival event (check the list of the main events and their schedule here Carnival of Venice – parties and masquerades balls).

Why February : to experience the liveliest time of the year in Venice

Perfect time for: having fun

Venice in March

Max Temp: 13°C Min Temp: 8°C Rainy days: 11

Venice can be rainy all year long, but weather gets warmer and sunnier in March.

Events in Venice in March:

March 8th: Women’s Day. Local museums and art exhibitions are free for women.

What to do: you can plan one or more day trips to explore the areas nearby. Start with a tour of the islands and discover their traditions and landscapes.

Why March : to celebrate the arrival of spring

Perfect time for : a girls’ weekend

Venice in April

Max Temp: 17°C Min Temp: 12°C Rainy days: 12

Climate varies a lot in spring and you shall dress in layers and bring an umbrella with you to be ready for any kind of weather conditions.

Events in Venice in April:

Easter: a typical holiday period for Italians often choosing to spend a few days in a city of art like Venice. A typical local tradition is having a fish lunch and you can taste all the local specialties in a cozy restaurant overlooking Canal Grande.

April 25th: Italian Liberation Day and St. Mark’s Day, that is the patronal feast of Venice. On this day, men are used to offering a rose bud to their girlfriends and wives and the city center is full of rose vendors filling the air with spring scents.

What to do: April is one of the busiest months in Venice due to Italian Spring Break, so you shall plan your visits in advance and get your skip-the-line tickets whenever possible. It’s also a great time to take some beautiful pictures, thanks to the perfect spring light and the clear water of the canals. If you want to avoid large crowds, focus on less popular but equally interesting neighborhoods like the Jewish Ghetto or Castello district.

Why April : for a Spring Break in Italian style

Perfect time for : photographers/travel bloggers/influencers and visitors who like being surrounded by people

Venice in May

Max Temp: 21°C Min Temp: 15°C Rainy days: 12

Weather is generally warm and pleasant, but rainfalls are frequent.

Events in Venice in May:

May 1st: Labor Day. A typical weekend off for Italians who often choose Venice as a base.

What to do: on a bright and warm day, you shall definitely enjoy a boat tour, whether on the picturesque Canal Grande or in the Lagoon. In May, you can also spend some nights out thanks to local mild weather and a gondola ride in the evening could be a good idea to watch the city lights on the canals.

Why May : to spend your time outdoor and to enjoy some warm spring nights

Perfect time for : a boat or gondola ride

Venice in June

Max Temp: 25°C Min Temp: 20°C Rainy days: 10

Summer is generally hot and humid, but weather is still pleasant in June.

Events in Venice in June:

First Sunday of the month: Vogalonga boat race. It’s a 30Km regatta which is really spectacular to watch from the canals’ banks.

What to do: of course, summer is the ideal time for your day trips! You can also spend a day on the beach in Lido neighborhood, which is easily accessible by waterbus (it takes about 40 minutes from the city center).

Why June: despite being a sunny and warm month, there are not too many tourists around

Perfect for : combining sightseeing and relax on the beach

Venice in July

Max Temp: 27°C Min Temp: 20°C Rainy days: 10

Summer is often muggy because of high humidity.

Events in Venice in July:

Third Sunday of the month: Redentore Festival. It celebrates the end of the plague in 1577 and the highlight of this day is the firework display in the lagoon.

What to do: escape the heat inside a cool museum or take a dip in the sea. Enjoy a romantic gondola ride at sunset and join locals at a bacaro for an aperitivo based on Spritz and cicchetti (local tapas).

Why July : it’s not the best month to go sightseeing, but you could plan a beach holiday in a nice seaside resort and plan a day trip or a whole weekend in Venice.

Perfect for: people who are not bothered by high temperatures and humidity

Venice in August

Max Temp: 28°C Min Temp: 20°C Rainy Days: 10

Events in Venice in August:

August 15th: Ferragosto. This mid-summer celebration brings many tourists to Venice, even just for a weekend. There are also many entertainments offers and music festivals around that time.

Film Festival: one of the most eagerly awaited events takes place between the end of August and the beginning of September in Lido neighborhood.

What to do: August is another muggy month in Venice. Spend your time visiting some museums, relaxing on the beach and walking in nature visiting local beautiful gardens like the Biennale ones, where you’ll also find a few summer art exhibitions.  

Why August: to attend the famous Film Festival and spot some celebrities

Perfect for: movie lovers

Venice in September

Max Temp: 25°C Min Temp: 18°C Rainy days: 9

Weather is at its best: warm, sunny and dry

Events in Venice in September:

Film Festival: it usually ends around Sept 6 th -10 th

Historical Regatta: on the first weekend of September, a water parade of costumed character crowds the Canal Grande

What to do: in the second half of the month, there are fewer tourists around and the city gets quieter, so it’s the perfect time to explore the calli at your own pace and to enjoy the beautiful monuments and the many churches of Venice.

Why September: lovely weather

Perfect for: movie lovers and people who like wandering around the streets and be immersed in the local atmosphere

Venice in October

Max Temp: 18°C Min Temp: 13°C Rainy days: 10

Autumn is generally cool but there are still many sunny days in October. Towards the end of the month, the mist is quite common and you can already experience the typical phenomenon of Acqua Alta (partial floods due to high tide and winds).

Events in Venice in October:

October 31st: Halloween. You can find many themed tours in town: Venice: 2-Hour Legends and Ghosts of Cannaregio Tour.

What to do: October is one of the quietest months in Venice, so you can plan a thorough visit and spend several hours visiting all the monuments, churches, and museums at your own pace. The weather is generally good until the end of the month, so a walking tour can be a good idea too.

Why October : nice weather and no crowds

Perfect for: enjoying a thorough and quiet visit

Venice in November

Max Temp: 13°C Min Temp: 8°C Rainy days: 13

Heavy rainfall is relatively common as well as fog and Acqua Alta.

Events in Venice in November:

November 1st: All Saints. Avoid the closest weekend to this celebration if you don’t like crowds.

November 21st: Feast of Madonna della Salute. It celebrates the end of the plague and locals are used to going to mass in the homonymous church reachable by a votive pontoon bridge.

What to do: keep your camera at end and take plenty of pictures of a foggy and mysterious evening, a reddish sunset or a flooded square. Bring rubber boots, umbrella and raincoat with you since Acqua Alta is common in November!

Why November: to experience the foggy and wet yet romantic Autumn in Venice

Perfect for: artists, poets, photographers and romantic people

Venice in December

Max Temp: 10°C Min Temp: 6°C Rainy days: 11

Weather is generally cold and grey.

Events in Venice in December:

December 8th: Feast of the Immaculate Conception. It marks the official start of the Christmas season in Italy

December 25th: Christmas

December 31st: New Year’s Eve. If you can stand spending long hours out in the cold, there is a free concert in Piazza San Marco and some fireworks at midnight.

What to do: weather is not so good in December, but local Christmas magic is definitely worth the trip. December is one of the most expensive months (Venice is always expensive!) due to the high affluence of both national and international visitors. The main December activities in Venice are: going to La Fenice Theater to enjoy one of the best shows of the season, ice-skating in Campo San Polo, admiring the nativity scene in the Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, go shopping at the Christmas market in Campo Santo Stefano.

Why December: to experience local Christmas magic

Perfect for: people who are not bothered by cold and humid weather and high-budget travelers

Planning a trip to Venice? You might also like: How many days in Venice? How to spend 2 days in Venice Venice in winter Best day trips from Venice Interesting facts about Venice Venice or Rome?

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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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Best Time to Visit Venice: A Complete Guide

Are you planning a trip to Venice but wondering when the best time to visit is? If yes, then this guide is for you. Venice is a city that changes throughout the year. From vibrant summers to colorful falls, and from winters in its embrace to the charm of springs, Venice has something to offer in every season.

In this blog post, we will take you through a complete guide to help you decide the best time for your visit based on thoroughly understanding Venice’s seasons, tourist’s perspective on Venice’s seasons, key events and festivals, weather conditions, and accommodations in Venice. We will also answer some commonly asked questions like “Is Venice crowded during the Carnival?” So, read on and plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your visit to this beautiful city.

Table of Contents

Thoroughly Understanding Venice’s Seasons

Venice’s seasons offer unique experiences for visitors, with each season bringing different highlights. The peak season sees a high influx of tourists, while understanding the varying climate can aid in planning the ideal time to visit. From the vibrant new year celebrations to the picturesque first week of September, Venice offers something for everyone.

Cruise ship arrivals, aqua alta experiences, and average temperatures throughout the year all contribute to the city’s distinct seasonal charm. Knowing the time of the year for famous events such as the Carnival and historical regatta can enhance the overall experience, providing insights into Venice’s rich cultural tapestry.

The Charm of Spring in Venice

As spring unfolds in Venice, the city comes alive with vibrant blooms and inviting weather. Cultural events and festivals add to the allure, while the canals and landmarks don a colorful springtime palette. This season strikes a perfect balance, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds, allowing visitors to explore Venice’s charm on foot.

The enchanting ambiance of spring is further enhanced by the city’s rich history, with famous authors like Ernest Hemingway finding inspiration here. Additionally, workshops like the Enrica Rocca Cooking School and iconic sites such as the Doge’s Palace offer immersive experiences. Spring truly is a delightful time of the year to experience the magic of Venice.

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Summer: The Vibrant Season in Venice

Venice bursts with international events and festivals during summer, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The sunny days of summer are perfect for leisurely gondola rides and day trips, offering a unique perspective of the city. However, it’s important to note that summer is the peak tourist season in Venice, resulting in bustling street markets and high hotel rates.

The long hours of daylight during this time of the year provide ample opportunities for sightseeing and exploration, but it’s advisable to book Venetian hotels well in advance due to the high tourist numbers. Overall, summer in Venice offers a lively and energetic experience for visitors, with a plethora of activities and events to indulge in.

Fall: The Colorful Palette of Venice

As the summer bustle recedes, Venice embraces the warm hues of fall, attracting fewer tourists for a tranquil experience. The city’s architecture and canals reflect a vibrant palette of autumn colors, offering a picturesque spectacle.

Fall presents an ideal opportunity to explore Venice’s art and cultural centers, immersing oneself in the authentic Venetian lifestyle. Visitors can savor the city’s charm without the usual crowds, reveling in a more intimate encounter with Venice. Embracing the enchanting ambiance, fall invites exploration and discovery, ensuring a memorable experience amidst the city’s timeless allure.

Winter in Venice: A Different Perspective

Embracing winter in Venice reveals an enchanting, quieter ambiance marked by fewer crowds and reduced hotel rates. This season offers the perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in local traditions and savor authentic Venetian cuisine. Exploring Venice’s renowned museums and historical sites during the winter months presents a unique and immersive experience. The tranquil atmosphere allows for a deeper appreciation of the city’s cultural and artistic treasures, making it an ideal time to visit.

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Tourist’s Perspective on Venice’s Seasons

Navigating Venice’s seasons from a tourist’s perspective is crucial for trip planning. The peak season demands early booking of Venetian hotels due to the influx of visitors. Conversely, the off-season offers a more relaxed ambiance, allowing for an authentic experience.

Each season unveils unique opportunities to explore the city, such as the famous New Year’s Eve celebrations and the enchanting first week of September. Understanding the best time to visit enhances the overall tourist experience, whether it’s exploring the Doge’s Palace or enjoying a wine tour amidst aqua alta.

Navigating the Peak Tourist Season

During the peak season in Venice, there is a surge in tourist numbers and hotel rates. Navigating this period requires careful planning for crowded attractions and restaurants. It is also the time when key events and festivals take place, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of Venice’s cultural events. Despite the crowds, the lively atmosphere during the peak season offers an unforgettable experience, making it the best time for tourists to immerse themselves in the vibrant ambiance of the city.

Experiencing Venice in the Off-Season

Experiencing Venice in the off-season unveils an authentic and serene city, allowing visitors to savor local cuisine and explore landmarks at their own pace. This quieter charm of Venice offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the city’s museums and historical sites without the usual crowds. The off-season is an ideal time to appreciate the city’s beauty and culture, away from the hustle and bustle of peak tourist periods. Visitors can witness the true essence of Venice, experiencing its rich history and vibrant traditions without feeling rushed or overcrowded.

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Key Events and Festivals: Venice’s Cultural Tapestry

Venice’s cultural tapestry is a vibrant mosaic of key events and festivals that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and traditions. The spectacular Carnival of Venice stands as one of the most iconic events, drawing global designers, music enthusiasts, and food industry experts. Exploring these cultural celebrations provides an immersive experience, offering an insight into the city’s heritage. From the historical regatta to the spiritual Festa della Madonna della Salute, each event adds to the allure of Venice. These key events and festivals enrich the city’s landscape, attracting visitors and locals alike throughout the year.

The Spectacular Carnival of Venice

Amidst the grandeur of Venice, the Carnival stands out with its elaborate masquerade balls and parades, offering a unique experience of the city’s cultural heritage. Drawing tourists from around the world, it creates a vibrant atmosphere, showcasing the city’s artistic and historical significance.

The Carnival is the best time to witness Venice’s colorful and extravagant celebrations, making it an event not to be missed. The doge’s palace sets the stage for this grand festivity, attracting visitors to savor the city’s rich traditions and customs. The Carnival truly embodies the spirit of Venice, welcoming everyone to indulge in its splendor.

Festa del Redentore: A Celebration of Freedom

Celebrating the end of the plague in 1577, Festa del Redentore features a stunning fireworks display. A pontoon bridge links Giudecca island to the Zattere for processions and festivities, creating an extraordinary experience around the Giudecca canal. This celebration draws crowds, marking it as a high tourist season and providing the best insight into the city’s traditions and history. With global visitors and cultural enthusiasts, the festival is a vibrant homage to Venice’s distinct heritage.

Historical Regatta: A Gondola Extravaganza

Witness the grand canal burst into life on the first Sunday of September during the Historical Regatta. The event features thrilling gondola races and a vibrant procession of historic boats, drawing crowds from across the globe.

This celebration showcases the Rubelli family’s design ingenuity and the decorative techniques of the boat race, creating a fun atmosphere. It’s the perfect time to immerse in the gondola culture and savor the distinct types of tiramisu fusion in Venice. The regatta offers a unique experience, with the city’s rich history and artistic significance on full display, making it a must-see spectacle.

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The Spiritual Festa della Madonna della Salute

Celebrated on November 21st, the Festa della Madonna della Salute signifies the end of the plague with a pilgrimage to the basilica of the same name. It’s an opportunity to delve into Venice’s spiritual history and unique cultural heritage, offering a serene experience away from the crowds.

The festival also highlights the city’s extraordinary beaches and the distinct history of the island of Murano. For those seeking a tranquil time of the year with fewer crowds, this festival is an ideal choice. It’s a chance to appreciate the city’s rich traditions without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist seasons.

Weather Conditions: What to Expect?

Venice’s weather varies throughout the year, offering distinct experiences. Winter brings high rain boots, known as acqua alta, while summer offers sunny days for gondola rides. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather with fewer tourists. Winter in Venice showcases a different beauty. Expect a combination of warm and cool climates all year round.

Rain in Venice: A Different Beauty

Amidst Venice’s rain, reflective surfaces capture its charm, delighting photography enthusiasts. The acqua alta unveils new perspectives of the Rialto Bridge and the city’s food markets, offering a unique experience. Venture through the high rain boots of Venice, exploring distinct tiramisu fusion and the island’s glass history.

Embrace the decadent tiramisu fusion, a delightful Italian cake dessert, amid the city’s enchanting acqua alta. This period presents new vantage points of the Ponte di Rialto and its surrounding areas, providing a different, yet captivating, beauty in Venice.

The Heat of Summer in Venice

Venice’s summer months, the peak season, are ideal for indulging in the international film festival and the Venice film festival. It’s also a perfect time to savor the famous square of campo san giovanni and the festa del redentore. Tourists can relish the high season experience with the bustling grand canal and piazza san marco.

Additionally, the summer months offer a unique opportunity to appreciate global designers and the decorative techniques of the boat race. Furthermore, it’s an excellent time for tourists to explore the cultural center of piazza san marco with fewer crowds and autonomous companies, providing an authentic Venetian experience.

Cold Weather: Venice in Winter’s Embrace

Venice’s winter months offer a unique experience of the festa della madonna della salute and the biennial exhibition. During this time of the year, there are fewer tourists, making it the best time to explore the extraordinary beaches and the distinct glass factory of fornace ferro murano.

This season is perfect for experiencing the festa della madonna della salute with fewer crowds and a calm canal experience. Additionally, it’s an ideal time to enjoy the contemporary music festival and the rich history of the island of Murano. In winter, tourists can savor the distinct cultural center and indulge in various types of tiramisu fusion.

Accommodations in Venice: Choosing Right

When selecting accommodations in Venice, the location is crucial – whether it’s in the heart of the city or on the outskirts. Consider amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and breakfast options to suit your needs. Check reviews and ratings for quality and reliability.

Venice can be expensive, so consider the price range and book in advance, especially during peak seasons. This ensures availability and avoids last-minute hassles. Additionally, keep in mind terms such as venetian hotels, doge’s palace, and aqua alta when researching options. By factoring in these considerations, you can make an informed decision about where to stay in Venice.

Hotel Rates During Peak Season

Hotel rates in Venice soar during the peak season, which typically spans from late spring to early fall, with July and August experiencing the highest influx of tourists. During this period, the cost of accommodations can be substantially higher compared to the off-season.

To mitigate expenses, it’s advisable to book lodgings well in advance or explore options in less popular areas outside the city center. Alternatively, opting for off-season travel can lead to more affordable hotel rates and fewer crowds, although the weather conditions may not be as favorable. Planning a visit during the off-season is a strategic approach to experiencing Venice while managing expenses and crowd density.

Affordable Off-Season Hotel Rates

Traveling to Venice during the off-peak season presents an opportunity to benefit from reduced hotel rates. Specifically, from November to March, excluding major holidays, visitors can take advantage of affordable accommodations.

While the weather may not be ideal during this time, the trade-off is experiencing fewer crowds and more authentic Venetian experiences. Look out for special deals and discounts on travel websites, and consider booking in advance for even lower rates. It’s also essential to factor in the cost of flights and transportation during the off-season, as these may also offer savings.

Read Also: 17 Best Places To Go For Spring Break In The USA

Is Venice Crowded During the Carnival?

The Venice Carnival attracts a large number of tourists annually, resulting in crowded streets and attractions. Planning your visit in advance, especially during the Carnival, is advisable due to the high tourist influx. Additionally, hotel rates might be higher, so booking early is recommended for better options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the peak tourist season in Venice and how does it affect travel?

The peak tourist season in Venice, from June to August, can create crowded conditions and make it challenging to navigate and enjoy the city’s attractions. Accommodation and activity prices also tend to be higher during this time. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October for a more pleasant experience with fewer crowds.

What are some of the top events to attend in Venice during different seasons?

Some of the top events to attend in Venice during different seasons include the Venice International Film Festival in summer, the Carnival of Venice in winter, the Festa della Sensa in spring, and the Venice Biennale in autumn.

What are the weather conditions like in Venice during different times of year?

Venice experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. During the peak tourist season from June to August, temperatures range from 23°C to 28°C. The shoulder season from September to November brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain. In the off-season from December to February, expect colder temperatures and occasional flooding.

Are there any specific attractions or activities that are best enjoyed during certain months?

Discover the best times to visit Venice for unique experiences. Enjoy outdoor festivals in the summer, immerse yourself in the world-famous Carnival of Venice in February, explore cultural attractions in spring and autumn, and savor a quieter experience in winter. Plan your trip accordingly for unforgettable moments.

In conclusion, Venice is a city that exudes charm and beauty throughout the year. Each season offers its own unique experiences, from the vibrant atmosphere of summer to the colorful palette of fall and the peacefulness of winter. As a tourist, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of visiting during peak seasons or off-seasons, depending on your preferences for crowds and weather conditions.

Additionally, don’t miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in Venice’s rich cultural tapestry by attending key events and festivals such as the Carnival, Festa del Redentore, Historical Regatta, and Festa della Madonna della Salute. When it comes to accommodations, be mindful of hotel rates during peak season but also consider the affordability of off-season rates. So plan your visit to Venice accordingly and get ready to fall in love with this enchanting city.

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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:

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• 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!)

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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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The Best Time to Visit Venice 2024: the Ultimate Guide

Venice is known as a magical and legendary city. With history as the capital of a small country, a major port of trade, an art hub, and a military presence in northern Italy, it has certainly earned the recognition. Built on a series of islands, and connected by many bridges, it has a unique and unmistakable appearance, which makes it a very much sought-after tourist destination. With beautiful stone pathways and old magnificently crafted bridges, you would be hard-pressed to find any cars in this ancient metropolis, so be sure to drop off any extra luggage at a storage locker before exploring. You may also want to pack a comfortable pair of shoes, as no vacation should ever have sore feet as a consequence. 

While Venice is always full of great things to do, some activities are better during certain seasons. August is very hot and humid, October through February is the time of Acqua Alta (High Water), and winter is just cold. So make sure you know which season would be best for the activities that you hope to do. If you choose to visit Venice in the later fall months or the earlier spring months, you may find smaller crowds and lower prices, but the weather is more unpredictable. Summer’s warm and sunny weather makes it one of the best times to visit if you are planning on hitting the beach, but that also makes it the most popular time for most vacationers, causing prices to soar. So here is a list of some of the pros and cons of visiting in different seasons, as well as some fun things to check out.

Summer in Venice, June - August 

Venice is known for its stunning architecture and waterways, and many people vacation in the region just for these, but the countryside surrounding the city can be just as spectacular. If you find yourself visiting the city in the summertime, you might want to consider adding hiking to your itinerary. Hiking in the mountains is a fun and economical activity for summer vacations in Venice. Even if the Italian Alps seem too challenging, rest assured in knowing that there are still some easier trails for beginner hikers.

You may also want to hit the nearby beaches, whether to go for a swim or just to relax. Set on the shore of the gorgeous Adriatic Sea , spending some time on the sand can be a wonderful way to break away from the cityscape while still enjoying the magic of Venice. On top of that, there are several nearby islands that you may want to plan a day trip to. Further from the tourist traps and bigger crowds, most of them can be reached by a short cruise on a Vaporetto or ferry and are well worth the trip for the view alone.

Museum tours are also a delightful way to spend your days in Venice. With almost 100 separate museums, from art and architecture to religion and culture, you will have plenty to choose from.  

A popular and relaxing option is to simply wander the streets and admire the stunning architecture. During the summer, the evening is a great time for exploring on foot, as the average temperatures drop and the city cools down.

One disadvantage to taking a trip in the high season is the fact that everyone wants to visit in summer, so the lines are longer, and everything is busier. Prices tend to be sky-high during the peak season, and the city is generally less amazing. Most cruise ships will dock on Saturday or Sunday, so if you are hoping for a weekend trip, be prepared to run into massive crowds of tourists.

The normal summer temperature is 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees Celsius) and the sky is usually mostly sunny. Combine the high temperatures with bustling crowds, and navigating the city can become very exhausting during the busiest months. August is generally considered the least pleasant time to visit Venice, as the weather turns hot and muggy. Most natives will take a vacation at this time to avoid the weather.

Fall in Venice, September - November

If you enjoy wine tastings and festivals, fall is a great time for you to visit Venice. With harvests and various Catholic celebrations in full swing, Venice in autumn still has strong tourist appeal, but with fewer of the warm weather visitors who will have left by now. October and November are really the best fall months to take a trip to the city if you are trying to avoid crowds and don’t mind the brisker 50 to 60-degree weather (10 to 15.6 degrees Celsius). You can wander the streets and admire the city, or head to the countryside for a scheduled vineyard tour. 

You may also find better hotel rates as the prices drop post vacation season and fewer tourists during the off-season.

In autumn you will find the Venetians appreciating the milder temperatures while celebrating the many fall festivals, such as All Saints Day, the Feast of Santa Maria della Salute , and the annual Venice Marathon. All Saints Day is a celebration of not only the classic Catholic saints, but all of the grandparents, parents, friends, and inspirational figures that people have lost over the years.

The Santa Maria della Salute (commonly referred to as the Salute) is a magnificent Basilica built to commemorate the end of the bubonic plague outbreak, also known as the Plague of Milan. In November, the Feast of the Presentation of the Virgin, a Roman Catholic tradition, is held at the Salute.

The Venice Marathon is recognized worldwide as a quality race, and it boasts the IAAF Bronze Label. Just over 26 miles long, the race takes a scenic route through the city. 

For movie lovers, the International Venice Film Festival is definitely worth visiting. Started in 1935, it is designed to showcase masterfully made movies. Most of the viewings are open to the public, with tickets available for purchase online. 

Hiking is still quite enjoyable in late September and early October, as the sun tends to spend most of its time hiding behind the clouds after the summer months, and the cooler weather is still quite nice. November's temperatures range from 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celcius) and the fall rains begin at this time, so hiking may not always be possible.

One disadvantage to visiting in the autumn is the high water season. With fall rains causing flooding, some popular tourist areas, such as Piazza San Marco, may be found under quite a bit of water. However, if you grab a pair of rubber boots you can still walk through the plaza. Many souvenir shops sell boots, however, they may be marked up significantly.

If you choose to visit Venice in the shoulder season you are also more likely to find some shops and restaurants closed, though there are always plenty of others to check out.

Winter in Venice, December - February

One of Venice’s most notable traditions is the Carnival of Venice. Known for its lavish costumes and outlandish masks, it has become quite an attraction for visitors to the region. According to tradition, the Carnival originally commemorated the victory of the Venice Republic over one of its enemies. Now it is just an excuse to have a party in the middle of February.

The Christmas season is another magical time to visit Venice, as most of the large crowds wait until Christmas day to swarm, leaving the streets peaceful the week before. If you choose to visit during the Christmas season, you may also want to stick around the city long enough to see the massive fireworks display held every New year's Eve in front of Saint Mark's Basilica.

If you prefer a more relaxed visit, you can take your trip to Venice during the early winter months before the Carnival. Take a lovely walk through the streets and pop in to check out some of the local cafes and restaurants, or take some time to appreciate the classic art of opera. Venice is also home to one of the oldest cafes in Europe, Caffè Florian . Built during the eighteenth century, it has hosted famed Italians and lasted through the ages. A work of art itself, it is still a coffee shop, so a reservation is not needed. 

Another great activity for a winter vacation is museum touring. With several huge museums, as well as medieval churches, a peaceful winter walk through the historical monuments is a wonderful way to spend the day.

The water buses will run rain, shine, or snow, so you won’t have to worry too much about transportation if you don’t feel like walking. 

Speaking of snow, Venice does get some snow flurries, but the weather usually stays just warm enough to keep the snow from sticking around. The temperatures can drop to as low as 32 degrees (0 degrees Celsius) but average closer to 35 degrees (2 degrees Celsius), so make sure you pack warm clothes. In general, the weather is rather dreary and wet during winter, which some people may like, while others would prefer to visit Venice once the sun has returned to the city.

Spring in Venice, March-May

Spring is a great time to explore Venice. The average temperature is 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) and as nature begins to wake up, it is a lovely time to explore the city without the massive throngs of tourists that invade the city during the summer. Most of the same attractions that would be open in summer are still available earlier in the year, but they may close earlier in the day than they would in summer.

Lacking the large summer crowds, Venice can be seen in a more authentic light in the spring months. And if you choose to visit in April during the holy week, you can participate in an Easter service at one of the numerous churches in the city, or partake in Benedizione del Fuoco (the Blessing of the Fire). 

Another fun cultural tradition is the Vogalonga Regatta. Starting at Saint Mark’s Basin near the Piazza San Marco, this massive gathering of motorless boats moves through the canals of Venice along a picturesque route. It is more of a boat parade than a competitive race, with prizes given out almost randomly. 

If you are looking to wander a bit farther from the city, you may want to check out the glass blowing factory on Murano Island, a short distance from the city itself. You can take a Vaporetto to get to and from the island, but you may have to schedule a visit before getting to the factory.

One disadvantage to visiting in Spring is the high water that will sometimes hit the city due to spring rains. Like the fall floods, the lower areas of the city will be left several inches underwater. But as long as you have your trusty rain boots, you will be unstoppable.

Another reason to possibly avoid springtime Venice would be the Easter crowds. While spring as a whole may be less busy than summer, the holy week of Easter will attract a lot of spring vacationers, so it may be best to wait until later in the season to plan your trip.

With its unique layout, Venice has become a natural vacation spot. There is no doubt you have heard of some of the more iconic attractions, such as the gondola rides through the canals and classic Italian cuisine. But there is so much more. Built around and through the Venetian Lagoon on a series of islands, it has a strong history as a merchant center. Due to cultural influences coming in from all directions, it is a beautiful and distinct metropolis. Like many European cities, you may find a modern coffee shop situated right next to an intricately detailed medieval building with centuries of history. You really shouldn't limit yourself to just the metropolis though. The surrounding countryside is just as gorgeous, with the Adriatic Sea to the east and the fields and mountains to the north, the whole Venetian region is truly a sight to be seen. 

Overall, the springtime after the holy week but before the summer peak season is one of the best times to visit Venice, especially if you are looking for a nice relaxing weekend trip with fewer crowds. You can enjoy the low season, participate in key local events, and see the city in the purest light.

So no matter what's your best time to visit Venice, there will be something fantastic to partake in. Whether it’s basking on the beach, hiking the Italian Alps, appreciating the classic Italian opera, or participating in traditional Venetian celebrations, a stay in Venice is a wonderful and memorable experience. 

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Best time to visit Venice | A comprehensive guide

Things to do in Venice Venice Travel Guide Best Time To Visit Venice

Venice, the city of canals makes for a great travel destination year round. Whether you're planning to make it in time for the Venice Carnival or you're looking to steer clear of the acqua alta , this guide will give you an idea of the best time to visit Venice. You can also glance through what happens in Venice every month of the year and what makes Venice a year-round delight.

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Venice Through The Year

Best season to visit venice, weather in venice year round, a month-by-month guide to visiting venice.

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Know Before You Plan Your Trip to Venice

Best time for staying outdoors in venice.

If plenty of sun and a day by the beach is what you’re looking for, Venice offers you its best from March onwards till August. In these months, you will find several resorts and pools opening up for the holidaying crowd. You may also indulge in sailing or rowing, which is a popular activity in Venice during summers.

Best Time for Sightseeing & Museum Hopping

Art enthusiasts can head to Venice between August to November. The temperature during these months is pleasant, and one can also make the most of the iconic Venice Film Festival that is held during this time. Being the shoulder season, these months also witness relatively less crowd around the city.

Best Time for Honeymooners

Venice boasts of pleasant climate during the months of September and February. With the winter either settling in or making its way through the city, Venice witnesses partly cloudy and foggy climate that makes up for the ideal romantic destination. Honeymooners can also avoid the crowd during these months as they fall just before the high season in Venice.

Best Time for Budget Travellers

If you’re looking for an economic getaway, planning your trip around the months of November to January is an ideal option. Off-season in Venice sees lesser crowd and budgeted accommodation. Apart from this, there are also several holiday events lined up around the city that you simply shouldn’t miss!

Best Time for Shopaholics

Venice houses an annual sale during the months of November and December. It is also during these months that there are pop up markets around the city during Christmas. Shopaholics can make the most of their trip by having a go at some of the most ornamental Christmas markets in the city.

Tourist Seasons in Venice

High season.

June to August witnesses a very busy time for Venice. It is during this time of the year that you may find long queues, swarms of crowd and lack of accommodation in Venice. However, if you’re looking for a summer holiday with lots of sunshine by the beach, this season could provide in abundance.

Shoulder Season

Beginning from March to May and from September till November is shoulder season in Venice. This season relatively sees a lot less crowd than summer, but still has people visiting for the pleasant temperature and iconic festivals. While it does not promise cold, a thick jacket is advisable for the season as it gets nippy every now and then.

December to February in Venice marks a low season in the city. With the mercury dipping down to zero and days getting shorter, there are often very few activities available to enjoy. However, the holiday season does bring in the necessary fervour and you may spot arrays of Christmas markets in the city and before the New Year kicks in.

Visiting Venice in itself is one of the best experiences you will have in life. For most, it hardly matters what time of the year you visit Venice. However, if you want to know before you go, this is how the seasons in Venice look.

Venice in Spring

Venice welcomes Spring season at the beginning of March and it extends upto the end of May. The pleasant weather and the energetic ambiance is a welcome change after the gloominess of winter that often overstays up till February. It is also the time before summer kicks in, leaving enough time before the crowd finds its way to the city. Venice shows wonderful shades of the season with flowers blooming everywhere you go.

Venice in Summer

Cheerful sunshine and blue skies looking over the Venetian beaches — summer is quite a popular time to visit Venice and several tourists from around the world believe so. You may encounter large crowds and longer queues, so make sure you book on time. With long days and starry nights, Venetian summers also give way to interesting events taking place every now and then.

Venice in Autumn

If you’re looking for a nip in the air without having to face the music, Autumn is the best time for you to visit Venice. With winter settling in slowly and summer making its way out, there are a lot of open air activities that you could enjoy during this season. Venice also hosts a number of art festivals during this time that could be enjoyed by art-enthusiasts.

Venice in Winter

While the weather may seem challenging during winter, Venice is a sight for sore eyes with quaint pop-up markets and cutesy outdoor cafes prepping for Christmas. The temperature dips down to 0°C but the city retains its charm and lively ambiance during the season. The season also witnesses a relief from the crowd that is around for the summer or spring season in Venice.

The weather in Venice year round has been charted on the graph below. The Highs are depicted in red and the Lows in blue.

Follow our detailed guide to pick a month for your Venice exploits.

Venice In January

Average Temperature: 3°C to 6°C

If you’re looking to spend some quiet time in Venice, January is an ideal time to get acquainted to the city. With the mercury dropping every now and then, the city offers you an ambiance that is straight out of a romantic movie. Days can be cloudy, accompanied with some Venetian fog, and there’s always chance of untimely rains. However, the weather is pleasant and does not get as chilly as it does in December. Pack enough layers, including gloves, scarves and a warm coat to make the most of the weather in January.

Related Read : 12 Utterly Romantic Things To Do In Venice

Venice In February

Average Temperature: 5°C to 6°C

Despite the retreating winter, February can be quite cold in Venice. While you don’t need to pack as heavy as you would in January, you still require to carry enough overalls to keep you warm during early mornings and late evenings. February, however, hosts the most-awaited Venice Carnival that is the right time to stop by for a gala time and indulge in public shows as well as other events lined up especially for it. February is the ideal time to visit if you’re planning to enjoy the Venetian winter without having to book tickets during holiday season!

Recommended Experiences in Venice during Winters

Venice in march.

Average Temperature: 8°C to 12°C

With the onset of Spring, Venice warms up and you can enjoy the newly bloomed flowers across the city. Expect a little more of rainfall than usual in this season, but apart from that there is plenty of sunshine with 12 hours of daylight on an average. Celebrations begin to pop up around this month and you may notice various events being held for Women’s Day on 8th of March and 19th March which is St. Joseph’s day (also celebrated as Father’s Day in Venice). With Easter break just around the corner, be prepared to encounter moderate crowd.

Venice In April

Average Temperature: 12°C to 16°C

With April comes pleasant weather and lots of sunshine in Venice. Light clothing and comfortable footwear goes a long way during this season. This is the best time to visit outdoor cafes and open-air events that happen around this time of the year. Along with Easter in Venice , other iconic festivals including the feast of St. Mark on the 25th of April bring in a lot of cheer and celebration on the St. Mark Square. Apart from this, Venice also celebrates Liberation Day on the same day, commemorating Italy’s liberation during the World War II.

Venice In May

Average Temperature: 15°C to 21°C

May marks the beginning of the peak season in Venice, which means you may encounter larger crowds, more queues and accommodation issues. However, this will also mean a cheerful atmosphere and sunshine that will brighten up the city unlike any other weather. You can expect warm days but don’t be surprised to see the temperature dipping by the end of the day. This season will also witness several water sports taking place, as Festa della Sensa, commemorating Venice's marriage to the sea, takes place on the first Sunday after Ascension Day. It is also followed by Vogalonga, a rowing race, something that tourists as well as locals believe in participating.

Recommended Experiences in Venice during Spring

Venice in june.

Average Temperature: 16°C to 24°C

With the peak season along with summer, both on a full-swing, Venice is hot and sunny during June. There is still a chance of rain and some afternoon thunderstorms which drop in unannounced during summer season here. Pack light along with your beachwear, which is recommended if you want to catch some tan during the longest day in Venice, June 20. During odd numbered years, Venice hosts its Art Biennale, that runs from June to November. You may also catch up on its various previews and pre-events, apart from Art Night Venezia.

Venice In July

Average Temperature: 18°C to 28°C

July is not only the hottest month in Venice, but is also the peak of its tourist season. The temperature rising can This is perhaps the best season to pack your bathing suits and sandals to cool off at the beaches. It is advisable to pack a sunscreen with high SPF to avoid a possible sunstroke. Venice celebrates its biggest festival — Festa del Redentore — commemorating the end of plague in the city during 1587. The spectacle attracts many from around Europe and the world and is celebrated widely across Venice with pomp and fervour.

Related Read : 10 Museums In Venice You Ought To Visit Now!

Venice In August

Average Temperature: 18°C to 27°C

August in Venice can still be hot, however, night time can turn pleasant as compared to June or July. There is above average rainfall during this month and also a chance of thunderstorm. It is recommended to pack according to the changing weather and keep a raincoat at hand. August in Venice is a great time to go rowing or sailing, which could provide a respite from the heat in this season. Ferragosto, a traditional Italian holiday, takes place in August along with the preparations of the famous Venice Film Festival. You may also find a lot of interesting outdoor concerts and movie screenings taking place in this month.

Recommended Experiences in Venice during Summer

Venice in september.

Average Temperature: 15°C to 24°C

September witnesses a decline in the temperatures in Venice, however it does not require you to pack heavy just yet. Carrying a sweater for the evenings can do the needful as temperatures tend to dip moderately during the night time. While rain isn’t significant in this month, expect light drizzling every now and then which could cause the temperature to cool. With the Venice Film Festival taking place, September is also a lively time to visit the city. Experience a fun-filled, traditional gondola race at the Historical Regatta, which also takes place at the start of the month.

Venice In October

Average Temperature: 14°C to 16°C

It gets noticeably cooler in Venice during October, and you may also find a little less crowd than usual as the peak season dissipates. You may require a thicker jacket during this weather as the temperature gets nippy with the daylight constantly decreasing. Opera season kicks in at La Fenice in October which is ideal for those who are enthusiastic about the art. With Halloween around the corner, several lively parties and haunts come alive in October with a much younger crowd. Expect to find some fun events lined up for the festival across the city if you’re in town.

Recommended Experiences in Venice during Autumn

Venice in november.

Average Temperature: 4°C to 11°C

There is a dramatic drop in the temperature that marks the onset of winters in Venice. November can also get rainier, with rainfalls occurring every now and then. The temperature can drop more as the month progresses, so be sure to pack wisely. November starts off with an All Saints Day in Venice, which is a public holiday for the city. The Festa della Salute held on the 21st of November is yet another festival that commemorates the end of plague in 1631. November is a great time to sip hot chocolate in an outdoor cafe before the winter kicks in in December.

Venice In December

Average Temperature: 0°C to 7°C

December is the coldest month in Venice, and is also the beginning of holiday season in the city. Packing your cold gears, heavy jackets, hats and gloves is advisable if you plan to visit Venice during this season. With Christmas and Hanukkah around the corner, you may encounter several pop-up Christmas markets in the city. Closer to the New Year’s Eve, Venice will also have lively events taking place leading up to December 31st. The finale on New Year’s Eve features a firework show on Piazza San Marco and ends with couples kissing on midnight.

What is the best time of year to visit Venice?

The best time of year to visit Venice is from April to June or September to October when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

How many days should I plan to spend in Venice?

You should plan to spend at least 3 days in Venice to see the major sights and attractions. You can take a look at a curated Venice 3 Day Itineray

What are the must-see attractions in Venice?

The must-see attractions in Venice include the Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Can I take a gondola ride in Venice?

Yes, you can take a gondola ride in Venice! Gondola rides are a popular tourist activity and are a great way to see the city from the water.

What is there to do at night in Venice?

There are plenty of things to do at night in Venice! You can explore the city’s many bars and restaurants, take a moonlit gondola ride, or enjoy some live music.

What is the food like in Venice?

The food in Venice is typically Italian, with plenty of pasta, seafood, and pizza options. There are also many great restaurants to choose from.

What should I pack for my trip to Venice?

When packing for your trip to Venice, be sure to pack comfortable shoes as you will do a lot of walking. You should also pack a light jacket or sweater as the weather can be cool in the evenings.

When should you avoid Venice?

You should avoid visiting Venice during the peak tourist season from July to August when the city is crowded and prices are higher. You should also avoid visiting Venice during the winter months from November to March when the weather is colder and there are fewer things to do.

Ready to visit Venice?

Check out the top things to do in Venice and our comprehensive Venice Travel Guide to plan your vacation like a pro!

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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What is the best time to visit Venice?

April, May, September and October are the best months to visit Venice, with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C. These months mark the peak of Spring and Fall, respectively. They are devoid of the winter cold and experience plenty of warm sunshine. The pleasant weather and the lack of excessive crowds make these months a magical time to visit Venice to explore it in its raw state. The first half of May is also an excellent time to visit Venice.

June to August, in particular, are not advised for sightseeing. The sweltering heat and the presence of mosquitoes and bugs, combined with excessive tourists, make it impossible to experience Venice at its best. Alternatively, travellers who are keen to take part in any of Venice’s famous carnivals or events can plan their trips around the specific event. It is recommended to make your bookings in advance in such cases. If you’re looking for the lowest fares in flights as well as accommodation, then winter is your best bet.

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• Hanukkah is celebrated widely in the Ghetto - the Jewish region of Venice.
• Feast of the Immaculate Virgin takes place on 8th December.
• Christmas Markets pop up from mid-December onwards. Christmas Eve is usually celebrated with a multi-course fish dinner followed by a Midnight Mass at the Saint Mark’s Basilica. 
• New Year’s Eve or Festa di San Silvestro is celebrated pompously throughout Venice. The festivities include parties, music, toasts and fireworks.
• La Befana or Epiphany is another national holiday. It is held on January 6th every year. It is celebrated with a regatta, known as La Regatta Delle Befane, in Venice.  
• The Feast Day of Saint Anthony Abbott is held on 16th and 17th of January. This Italian holiday celebrates gravediggers, the patron saint of butchers, domestic animals and basket makers.
• State-mandated sales start in early January and last for about eight weeks. Watch out for some excellent bargains.
• Carnivale di Venezia is one of the most significant events in Venice. Though the Carnivale is celebrated throughout Italy, it is Venice that throws the biggest parties.

Venice in Spring (March-May)

• Easter Week occurs in March or April, depending on the calendar. It is a busy week for Venice as tourists start pouring in, owing to the long weekend. Restaurants and other businesses usually remain closed during this time.
• Festa di San Marco and the Liberation Day are celebrated on the 25th of April every year. It is the day when Italy was liberated towards the end of the Second World War.
• The Week of Culture or Settimana della Cultura usually takes place around mid-April. National museums and other tourist attractions offer free entry in order to promote the Italian culture.
• Festa Della Sensa is an ancient celebration that commemorates Venice’s relationship with the sea. The festivities include colourful boat parades and an elaborate procession at sea.
• Vogalonga is an exciting rowing race held during the weekend after Festa Della Sensa. About 3000 participants take part in the 32 km race to put forth a fantastic event.

Venice in Summer (June-July and August)

• Festa Della Repubblica or Republic Day is a national holiday in Italy. It takes place on June 2nd each year. Majority of the public places and businesses will remain closed on this day. 
• La Biennale is a cultural arts event that takes place in alternate years. It starts in June and goes on till November. Long processions are held in Venice on this occasion.
• Palio of the Four Ancient Maritime Republics is a boat race that is held in Venice once in every four years. 
• Arena di Campo San Polo is an open-air cinema that begins in late-July and goes on till the end of August. It is the largest screen in Venice and features blockbusters from the previous season. Most of the films are either in Italian or dubbed in Italian.
• Festa del Redentore or the Festival of the Redeemer is the biggest event in the month of July. It marks the end of the 1576 epidemic. 
• La Biennale di Venezia or the Venice Biennial is regarded as one of the most prominent art extravaganzas in the world. It is held in alternate years in the month of August. 
• The Venice Film Festival is an internationally-renowned and important annual event. It takes place in August each year.
• Ferragosto takes place on August 15th, which is also a religious holiday of Assumption. Since it marks the beginning of the summer holidays, locals usually head out of town.
• Several outdoor concerts and movies are held throughout the month of August.

Venice in Fall (September to November)

• Festival of the Triumph of the Cross is a holy day that takes place on September 14th. Processions take place at the church and grand school of San Giovanni Evangelista.
• Regata Storica di Venezia is Venice’s Historic Regatta. It is regarded as one of the most spectacular and important events of this city. 
• The Venice Marathon is held on the fourth Sunday of October each year.
• Opera Season at La Fenice takes place towards mid-October. It is a perfect opportunity to see an opera at Venice’s popular opera house.
• Various events are hosted by local restaurants and pubs on the eve of Halloween. The festival is becoming increasingly popular in recent times.
• All Saints Day takes place on November 1st and is a public holiday. This day is dedicated to the deceased loved ones and locals visit the cemeteries in their memory.
• Festa di San Martino takes place on November 11th each year. Kids create a ruckus and indulge in a trick or treat sort of event.
• Festa Della Salute or the Festival of La Salute takes place on 21st November every year. It commemorates the plague that had decimated a majority of the city’s population.

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Best Time to Visit Venice: Unlocking the City’s Seasonal Charms

Venice, with its timeless allure as one of the most enchanting cities in the world, beckons travelers year-round. However, timing your visit can significantly impact your experience. This guide explores the best time to visit Venice, considering the city’s distinct seasons and the unique charm each one offers.

Seasons in Venice

Spring (march to may): .

Spring brings a delightful transformation to Venice. Temperatures are mild, ranging from 53°F to 75°F. While you’ll enjoy comfortable weather, be prepared for occasional rain showers. Spring is a time of renewal, with blossoming landscapes and fewer tourists. However, there’s a risk of flooding, known as “aqua alta.”

Summer (June to August): 

Venice’s summer dazzles with its guaranteed sunshine, but it also sizzles with high temperatures, often soaring to 95°F. Swarms run to the city, transforming it into a clamoring center point of action. Cultural events and festivals, including the Carnival in February, lend a vibrant atmosphere to Venice.

Autumn (September to November): 

Fall in Venice is a sweet spot between summer’s intensity and winter’s chill. The weather conditions stays charming with temperatures somewhere in the range of 59°F and 75°F, while the dampness melts away. Rainy days are frequent in the fall, but that’s a small trade-off for the local charm and fewer tourists.

Winter (December to February): 

Winter bestows a unique and enchanting atmosphere on Venice. Expect cold temperatures averaging around 50°F, and don’t forget to pack your rain boots, as it’s the season of “acqua alta” or flooding. The city sees fewer tourists, lower hotel rates, and the chance to explore Venice like a local.

Best Months to Visit Venice

• The Ideal Months for Good Weather: April, May, June, July, August, September, and October are the best for good weather.
• The Warmest Months in Venice: June, July, and August, with temperatures reaching 95°F.
• The Coldest Month in Venice: January, where the average temperature drops to 33°F.
• Rainiest Months: May, June, and November, so be prepared for occasional downpours.
• Best Months for Swimming: June, July, August, and September offer pleasant sea temperatures.

Annual Weather and Climate Overview

Venice’s summer is hot and humid, with July and August often reaching temperatures around 95°F. The high humidity can make the atmosphere stifling, prompting locals to escape the city.

Fall is a pleasant season in Venice, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 59°F to 75°F. While occasional rain showers are common, it’s a quieter and more authentic time to explore.

Venice’s winter is characterized by cold temperatures (50°F) and the “acqua alta” or flooding season. However, it’s also a season of fewer tourists, lower hotel rates, and a unique, atmospheric experience.

Spring offers mild temperatures (53°F to 75°F), blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists. Still, be cautious of potential flooding.

Tourist Seasons in Venice

Peak visitor numbers: .

The highest tourist influx is in April, May, June, September, and October when Venice experiences its high season.

Off-Peak Tourist Season: 

On the flip side, January, February, March, November, and December mark the low tourist season.

Best Time for Low Prices: 

December is the month with the lowest hotel prices in Venice, while May is statistically the most expensive month for accommodations. To save money on flights, visit in January, and for car rentals, February is the most cost-effective.

Activities, Things to Do, Events, and Places to Explore

Venice is not just about picturesque canals and historic architecture; it offers a rich tapestry of experiences throughout the year.

Spring (March to May):

• The Venice Carnival: While the main Carnival events occur in February, echoes of this extravagant celebration linger into March. Marvel at the elaborate masks, elegant costumes, and the magical ambiance.
• Giardini Pubblici: As spring blossoms, the Giardini Pubblici gardens burst into color. A peaceful stroll amidst flowers and sculptures offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle.
• Biennale of Architecture: This biennial event, happening in odd-numbered years, brings contemporary architectural masterpieces to Venice. Explore avant-garde designs from around the world.

Summer (June to August):

• Venice Film Festival: The world-renowned Venice Film Festival lights up the city at the end of August or early September. Spot international stars and experience the glamour of the silver screen.
• Beach Time: Escape the city heat by heading to Venice Lido’s beaches. Partake in the sun, ocean, and sand, and cool off in the completely clear waters of the Adriatic.
• Acqua Alta Bookshop: Visit this unique bookstore in an old Venetian gondola. It’s an extraordinary place to pick up a book and witness the charm of Venice’s underwater culture.

Autumn (September to November):

• Festa del Redentore: The third weekend of July is when Venetians throw a massive party. Join in the festivities, watch fireworks, and celebrate with the locals.
• Enjoy Venetian Cuisine: Savor delicious autumn dishes, including squid ink risotto and Venetian tapas, cicchetti, in the city’s many bacari (wine bars).
• Art Biennale:In odd-numbered years, Venice has the renowned Workmanship Biennale, a global contemporary craftsmanship show that runs from early June to November.

Winter (December to February):

• Teatro La Fenice: Attend a world-class opera or ballet performance at Teatro La Fenice, a beautiful opera house steeped in history and elegance.
• Christmas Markets: Experience the magic of Venetian Christmas markets. Shop for unique gifts and try traditional festive treats.
• Explore the Jewish Ghetto: Venice’s Jewish Ghetto is a fascinating neighborhood to explore. Visit its historic synagogues, and enjoy traditional Jewish cuisine like pastries and kosher wines.

General Activities for All Seasons:

• Gondola Rides: No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. Drift through serene canals and discover hidden corners of the city.
• Visit St. Mark’s Square: Marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square, home to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. It’s especially enchanting in the evening.
• Rialto Bridge: Cross the famous Rialto Scaffold and investigate the energetic Rialto Market, where you can buy new produce, Venetian luxuries, and gifts.
• Murano and Burano Islands: Take a vaporetto (water bus) to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano, known for their glassmaking and colorful houses, respectively.

Venice offers a different scope of exercises, occasions, and places to investigate consistently, guaranteeing that your visit is loaded up with extraordinary encounters.

Monthly Breakdown: When to Visit Venice

Visiting Venice can be a unique experience depending on the month you choose. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown to help you plan your trip.

• Weather: January is the coldest month in Venice. Expect temperatures to hover around 42°F (6°C) during the day and 30°F (-1°C) at night.
• Tourist Volume: Venice experiences low tourist numbers in January, making it a tranquil time to explore the city.
• Events: You can enjoy the festive spirit lingering from the holiday season, and Venice’s churches host Epiphany processions and concerts.
• Activities: Wrap up warmly and explore the city’s historic sites and museums, such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
• Weather: February continues to be chilly with temperatures averaging around 46°F (8°C) during the day and 33°F (1°C) at night.
• Tourist Volume: Venice sees a slight increase in tourists due to the Carnival. It’s a vibrant and busy time to visit.
• Events: Venice Carnival (Carnevale di Venezia) is the highlight of the month with elaborate masquerade balls, grand parades, and festivities.
• Activities: Immerse yourself in the Carnival spirit, attend masked balls, and take part in this extravagant celebration.
• Weather: Spring begins, bringing milder weather. Expect daytime temperatures around 53°F (12°C) and nighttime temperatures around 48°F (9°C).
• Tourist Volume: Venice becomes quieter in March as Carnival festivities subside.
• Events: While no major events are held in March, it’s a perfect time to explore Venice without the crowds.
• Activities: Visit Giardini Pubblici, take peaceful gondola rides, and enjoy early springtime in Venice.
• Weather: April is delightful with daytime temperatures averaging 61°F (16°C) and nighttime temperatures around 46°F (8°C).
• Tourist Volume: Venice starts to welcome more visitors, but it’s not as crowded as the summer months.
• Events: The city enjoys a sense of renewal as flowers bloom. Easter events are celebrated with processions and church services.
• Activities: Explore Venice’s gardens, including the Biennale Gardens, and savor the blooming beauty of the city.
• Weather: May brings even warmer weather with daytime temperatures around 70°F (21°C) and nighttime temperatures near 54°F (12°C).
• Tourist Volume: Tourist numbers begin to rise in May, but it’s still a pleasant time to visit Venice.
• Events: Venice hosts the Feast of the Ascension (Festa della Sensa) in May, featuring a symbolic marriage of Venice to the sea.
• Activities: Enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor activities, and take boat rides to explore the surrounding islands.
• Weather: June marks the onset of summer with daytime temperatures around 76°F (24°C) and nighttime temperatures near 60°F (16°C).
• Tourist Volume: Venice sees a steady increase in tourists, especially as summer approaches.
• Events: Odd-numbered years feature the Venice Art Biennale, showcasing contemporary art from around the world.
• Activities: Explore art exhibitions, attend local festivals, and enjoy the beginning of summer in Venice.
• Weather: July is warm and sunny, with daytime temperatures averaging 81°F (27°C) and nighttime temperatures around 64°F (18°C).
• Tourist Volume: July is the start of the summer season, and Venice experiences a high influx of tourists.
• Events: Venice hosts the Festa del Redentore in mid-July, with fireworks and celebrations. The Venice Film Festival typically begins in late August or early September.
• Weather: August continues to be hot, with daytime temperatures around 80°F (27°C) and nighttime temperatures near 63°F (17°C).
• Tourist Volume: August is a peak tourist month, with many Europeans on summer holidays. It can get crowded.
• Weather: September offers a comfortable climate, with daytime temperatures around 74°F (23°C) and nighttime temperatures near 57°F (14°C).
• Tourist Volume: Tourist numbers start to taper off as summer winds down, making September an excellent time to visit.
• Events: The Venice Film Festival takes place at the end of August or early September.
• Weather: October is a transitional month with daytime temperatures averaging 64°F (18°C) and nighttime temperatures around 48°F (9°C).
• Tourist Volume: Tourist numbers continue to decline, offering a more serene experience.
• Events: Some restaurants and shops may close for a brief holiday, but it’s generally a quieter time for tourism.
• Activities: Enjoy the fall season, explore local markets, and witness the city’s transition to autumn.
• Weather: November is cooler, with daytime temperatures around 53°F (12°C) and nighttime temperatures near 44°F (7°C).
• Tourist Volume: Venice remains less crowded in November, making it an ideal time for a peaceful visit.
• Events: On November 21st, Venice celebrates the Festa della Salute with a temporary bridge over the Grand Canal leading to the Salute church.
• Activities: Take part in the local festival, explore Venice’s museums, and enjoy the fall ambiance.
• Weather: December can be cold, with daytime temperatures around 44°F (7°C) and nighttime temperatures near 32°F (0°C).
• Tourist Volume: While some tourists come to Venice to enjoy the festive atmosphere, it’s generally a quieter month for the city.
• Events: Venice is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with holiday markets and seasonal festivities.
• Activities: Embrace the Christmassy spirit in Venice, explore its stunning architecture, and enjoy cozy cafes.

This monthly breakdown provides a detailed guide for choosing the best time to visit Venice based on your preferences, whether you seek a bustling Carnival, a serene autumn, or a quiet winter retreat. Remember that Venice’s exceptional appeal can be appreciated all year, and each season offers something uniquely great to investigate.

Conclusion:

Timing your visit to Venice is crucial for experiencing the city’s distinct seasonal charms. The best time varies depending on your preferences, whether it’s embracing the summer bustle or savoring the tranquility of winter. Careful planning ensures an unforgettable Venetian adventure.

Read More : The Best Time to Visit Italy: Unveiling the Perfect Season to Explore La Dolce Vita

Venice is least crowded in January, making it an ideal time for a more peaceful visit with fewer tourists.

A 2-3 roadtrip is typically adequate to investigate the fundamental attractions in Venice. Nonetheless, on the off chance that you believe an all the more relaxed insight and wish should investigate the islands and unlikely treasures, a 4-multi day visit is suggested.

Venice can be enjoyable year-round, but it depends on your preferences. Summer offers warm weather and vibrant festivals but comes with more crowds. Winter provides a quieter experience with a festive atmosphere but cooler temperatures.

The most sweltering a very long time in Venice are June, July, and August, with normal temperatures stretching around 80-90°F (27-32°C).

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Best Time to Visit Venice: A Comprehensive Guide

Venice, often known as “La Serenissima,” is a city of dreams that appears to float magically on the waters of its lagoon. Each season brings its own unique charm to this timeless destination. Understanding the city’s weather, popular events, and travel considerations can help you decide on the best time to visit Venice.

Introduction to Venice

Venice, a jewel of the Italian heritage, is known for its beautiful waterways, gondolas, charming narrow streets, and unique architecture. Regardless of when you visit, the City of Canals offers an enchanting experience.

Venice’s Weather by Seasons

Spring in venice.

Spring, spanning from March to May, brings forth gentle weather characterized by temperatures ranging from 15°C to 23°C. During this season, the city bursts into a colorful display of blooming flowers, creating a picturesque environment. The delightful climate of spring also lends itself perfectly to various outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to engage in leisurely pursuits.

Summer in Venice

From June to August, Venice basks in the warmth of summer, with temperatures hovering between 27°C and 30°C. This time frame represents the peak of tourist season, drawing a multitude of visitors to the city’s enchanting charms. Bathed in abundant sunshine and blessed with extended daylight hours, Venice becomes a bustling hub for exploration and adventure, offering ample opportunities to uncover its captivating treasures.

Autumn in Venice

During the autumn months of September to November, a gentle coolness fills the air, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C. Nature takes on a magnificent transformation, as vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow paint the cityscape in a breathtaking display. This season offers a perfect opportunity to capture the beauty of the surroundings, providing an exquisite backdrop for photography enthusiasts and creating lasting memories.

Winter in Venice

Winter embraces Venice from December to February, bringing temperatures that plummet below 10°C. Although the cold is undeniable, there exists a captivating allure in witnessing the city cloaked in mist, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Additionally, fortunate visitors may have the opportunity to witness the enchanting occurrence known as ‘Aqua Alta,’ where the tides rise to create temporary flooding in certain areas, adding an extra touch of wonder to the winter experience in Venice.

Popular Venetian Festivals

Venice hosts a myriad of captivating festivals that entice visitors from far and wide. Two notable events include the Carnevale di Venezia in February and the Festa del Redentore in July. Planning your visit to coincide with these celebrations can create a truly unforgettable experience. The Carnevale di Venezia, held in February, showcases a mesmerizing display of extravagant masks, costumes, and vibrant parades, transporting you to a world of mystery and enchantment. In July, the Festa del Redentore takes center stage, where the city comes alive with fireworks, illuminated boats, and a joyous atmosphere, commemorating the construction of the Church of the Redentore. Embracing the spirit of these festivals guarantees a truly immersive and memorable visit to Venice.

When to Visit Venice for Less Crowds

For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the optimal moments to explore Venice would be during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. These periods, situated between the peak tourist influx, offer a serene ambiance and fewer crowds. Spring, with its mild weather and blossoming scenery, creates an idyllic atmosphere for leisurely strolls along the canals. Likewise, autumn paints Venice with breathtaking autumnal hues, providing a picturesque backdrop for peaceful exploration. Choosing to visit during these shoulder seasons ensures a more relaxed and intimate encounter with the captivating charms of Venice.

When to Visit Venice for Budget Travel

For budget-conscious travelers, winter presents an excellent opportunity to explore Venice while taking advantage of discounted rates on accommodations and flights. During this season, many establishments offer attractive deals and promotions, allowing you to make the most of your travel budget. By planning your visit during winter, you can enjoy the enchanting sights and experiences Venice has to offer while benefiting from cost-effective options for both accommodation and transportation. It’s a favorable time for those seeking to experience Venice’s magic without stretching their wallets.

Factors to Consider When Planning Your Trip

Travel budget.

When planning your trip, it is essential to take your budget into consideration. Prices for accommodation and flights can vary significantly throughout the year, with the summer months typically experiencing peak rates. To make the most of your budget, it is advisable to explore options during off-peak seasons when prices are more favorable. By carefully considering the timing of your trip, you can optimize your expenses and ensure a more cost-effective and enjoyable travel experience.

Personal Preference

Determining the ideal time to visit depends greatly on your personal preferences, whether you revel in warm weather or find solace in the chill of winter. Understanding your own inclinations will guide you in selecting the perfect season for your visit to Venice. If you delight in basking under the sun and partaking in outdoor activities, the summer months may suit you best. Alternatively, if you find joy in the cozy ambiance of winter and prefer fewer crowds, the colder months may hold a special allure. Ultimately, tailoring your trip to align with your personal tastes ensures a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience in Venice.

Tourist Crowds

The best time to visit Venice, if you prefer a more intimate exploration free from large crowds, is to avoid the peak tourist season in the summer months. By bypassing this period, you can relish in a serene and peaceful environment, fully immersing yourself in the enchanting allure of Venice. Opting for the off-peak seasons grants you the opportunity to savor the city’s captivating attractions and landmarks with ease and tranquility, ultimately enhancing your overall experience of discovery and enjoyment.

There truly isn’t a bad time to visit Venice. Each season brings its own flavor to the city. If you want pleasant weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in spring or autumn. If you wish to experience the hustle and bustle of Venice at its peak, summer is your season. For those traveling on a budget, winter offers discounted travel rates and a unique Venetian experience. Ultimately, the best time to visit Venice is whenever suits you best. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to be enthralled by this mesmerizing city.

• What is the peak tourist season in Venice?

The peak tourist season in Venice is during the summer months, from June to August.

• When can I witness the Carnevale di Venezia?

The Carnevale di Venezia typically takes place in February.

• What is the weather like in Venice during winter?

Winter in Venice can be chilly with temperatures often dipping below 10°C. However, the city has its own unique charm during this season.

• When is the best time for budget travel to Venice?

The best time for budget travel to Venice is during the winter months, where you can find discounted rates on flights and accommodations.

• Is Venice crowded during spring and autumn?

Venice tends to be less crowded during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

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Exploring the Perfect Timing: Best Time to visit Venice

Venice, with its enchanting canals and historical splendor, offers a unique allure that varies with each season. Choosing the ideal time to visit depends on personal preferences, whether you’re seeking the vibrant festivities of summer, the serene beauty of winter, the fresh rebirth of spring, or the rich warmth of autumn. This article delves into the seasonal nuances of Venice, providing insights into the best times for weather, crowds, cultural events, and accommodations to ensure a magical Venetian experience.

Key Takeaways:

• The shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal for visiting Venice, offering mild weather and fewer tourists.
• Winter (December to February) in Venice is quieter with misty vistas and fewer tourists, while summer (July to August) is lively but crowded and hot.
• Cultural events like the Venice Carnival and various summer festivals provide unique experiences, though they often coincide with peak tourist seasons.
• Accommodation rates are more favorable during the off-peak seasons, and choosing the right neighborhood can enhance your stay.
• Each month offers distinct experiences, from the New Year and Carnival vibes in winter to the cultural awakening of spring, vibrant summer festivities, and the autumnal charm.

Embracing Venice’s Charm: A Seasonal Guide

Spring Awakening: April to June Highlights

As you wander through the serpentine alleys and over the storied bridges of Venice, spring ushers in a vibrant tapestry of cultural festivities and natural beauty. Embrace the longer daylight hours and the gentle warmth without the scorching heat of summer or the biting cold of winter. This is the time to experience the city’s renaissance during the Festa della Sensa, or to be captivated by the harmonious strains of Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” in March.

Venice in spring is not just a feast for the eyes, but a celebration of the senses. The air is filled with the scent of wildflowers, and the city’s energy is as refreshing as the season itself.

Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you:

• Early May brings the Calendimaggio, with its concerts and processions.
• The Festa della Sensa marks Venice’s bond with the sea through a historic ceremony.
• Flower festivals, like the Iris Garden in Florence, bloom into life, offering a rare spectacle.

Remember, while the allure of spring in Venice is undeniable, it’s also a time when events sell out quickly. Plan ahead to secure your spot at these exclusive celebrations.

Autumnal Allure: September to November Insights

As the sweltering heat of summer fades, Venice welcomes you with a refreshing embrace. September marks the beginning of a magical transformation , with the city shedding its crowded summer skin. You’ll find the streets less congested, the air cooler, and the evenings perfectly suited for leisurely strolls along the canals.

Autumn in Venice is synonymous with the harvest season, offering a bounty of fresh produce that enriches the local cuisine. Imagine savoring dishes infused with freshly picked olives, mushrooms, and chestnuts, without the need for advanced reservations. For those with a penchant for the exquisite, truffle season in November is a culinary delight not to be missed.

Embrace the tranquility of Venice in autumn, where the city’s beauty is matched only by the serenity of its atmosphere.

While the days do grow shorter, the allure of the city remains undiminished. Consider visiting in late September or October for the best balance of pleasant weather and minimal crowds. If you’re drawn to the quieter side of Venice, November offers a unique opportunity to have the city almost to yourself, with the added charm of the alpine resort of Courmayeur at the foot of Mont Blanc showcasing its fall colors.

Here’s a quick glance at what to expect:

• Cooler, pleasant temperatures
• Less crowded streets and attractions
• Abundant fresh produce and culinary experiences
• Truffle season for gastronomy enthusiasts
• Courmayeur’s alpine beauty in fall

Winter Wonders: The Serenity of December to February

As the festive season approaches, Venice transforms into a serene wonderland. Christmas is undoubtedly the highlight of December , with the city adorned in twinkling lights and bustling markets. Yet, the true charm of Venice in winter lies in its tranquil canals and misty vistas, where you can savor the city’s beauty without the crowds.

In January, seize the opportunity for a gondola ride, a quintessential Venetian experience made more intimate by the sparse tourist presence. Expect temperatures to range from a crisp -5 to a mild 13 Degrees Celsius, perfect for enjoying the city’s outdoor allure.

Embrace the low season benefits: accommodation prices can be significantly lower, and the city reclaims its local spirit.

February brings the Venice Carnival , a time of elaborate masks and vibrant festivities. Plan your visit to coincide with this unique cultural event, but remember to book well in advance to secure your spot amidst the revelry.

Summer Sensations: Navigating July and August

As you wander through the bustling streets of Venice in July and August, you’ll find the city pulsating with life. Summer in Venice is synonymous with festive evenings and cultural festivals , offering a vibrant atmosphere that’s hard to resist. Yet, with the sun beating down, the heat can be intense, and the crowds— immense . To truly embrace the summer charm, consider these tips:

• Plan your sightseeing for early mornings or late afternoons to dodge the peak tourist hours.
• Seek out air-conditioned accommodations to ensure a comfortable retreat from the heat.
• Explore open-air performances and street festivals for a taste of local culture.

Remember, while the allure of summer is undeniable, it’s also the season when Venice reveals its most tourist-packed and expensive side. Strategize your visit to balance the excitement with moments of tranquility.

The following table provides a quick glance at what to expect during these summer months:

Despite the challenges, July and August present a unique opportunity to experience Venice at its most dynamic. With careful planning, you can navigate the summer sensations and uncover the city’s true spirit.

Navigating the Climate and Crowds

Understanding Venice’s Mediterranean Climate

Venice’s enchanting allure is greatly influenced by its Mediterranean climate , which shapes the city’s mood and attire throughout the year. Summer months can be intensely hot and humid , making the breezy evenings by the canals a sought-after respite. Conversely, winter brings cooler temperatures and the possibility of the famous ‘acqua alta’ or high water, adding a touch of drama to the cityscape.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn present a sweet spot for your visit. You’ll enjoy mild weather, perfect for meandering through the labyrinth of streets and discovering hidden gems without the discomfort of extreme temperatures. Here’s a quick glance at what you can expect:

• Spring (April to June): Mild temperatures, occasional showers.
• Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, lively evenings.
• Autumn (September to November): Pleasant climate, fewer tourists.
• Winter (December to February): Cooler, potential for acqua alta.

While the city is a magical place year-round, timing your trip to match Venice’s climate can enhance your experience. Pack an umbrella for spring showers, and prepare for the city’s whimsical weather patterns to fully embrace its charm.

Strategies for Avoiding Peak Tourist Seasons

To truly immerse yourself in the Venetian lifestyle without the hassle of overcrowded streets and overpriced services, timing your visit is key. Avoid the peak tourist months of July and August when the city swells with visitors and the heat can be oppressive. Instead, consider the shoulder seasons —those magical times when you can enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds.

Opting for April, May, or early June, as well as September and October, not only offers a more authentic experience but also the potential for better deals on accommodation and flights.

Here’s a quick guide to help you plan:

• April to early June : Enjoy the spring bloom with moderate crowds.
• September to October : Experience the autumnal charm with fewer tourists.
• November to February : Embrace the tranquility of winter, excluding the Christmas and Carnival rush.

Remember, while the shoulder season offers a respite from the masses, it’s still wise to book your essentials in advance. This ensures you secure the best prices and avoid any last-minute inconveniences.

Weather Patterns and Planning Your Activities

When you’re planning your visit to Venice, understanding the city’s weather patterns is crucial. Venice’s Mediterranean climate offers distinct experiences throughout the year. The summers are warm and humid, while winters are cool and damp. To make the most of your trip, align your activities with the season’s offerings.

• Spring and autumn boast pleasant temperatures , ideal for outdoor exploration and gondola rides.
• Summer, despite the heat, is perfect for festivals and late-night strolls along the canals.
• Winter provides a serene backdrop for museum visits and sipping espresso in cozy cafes.

Remember, the weather can be unpredictable, so always pack layers and be prepared for rain or shine.

Lastly, consider the nuances of each month. For instance, July and August are peak tourist months, which means more crowds but also vibrant nightlife. On the other hand, November may offer fewer tourists but also a higher chance of acqua alta (high water). By planning ahead, you can embrace Venice in all its seasonal glory.

Cultural Festivities and When to Experience Them

Venice Carnival: A Spectacle of Masks and Mystery

Imagine yourself adorned in a handcrafted mask, wandering the storied streets of Venice during the Carnival, a time when the city transforms into a vibrant tableau of history and fantasy. The Venice Carnival is an experience like no other , a celebration that captures the essence of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Venice comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colors and characters, where every corner promises a new delight. Participating in a mask-making workshop not only allows you to take home a unique souvenir but also offers a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into these iconic symbols of Venetian lore.

Embrace the opportunity to become part of Venice’s living history.

Here’s a quick guide to making the most of your Carnival experience:

• Book your tickets and accommodations early , as the Carnival draws visitors from around the globe.
• Engage in the local festivities by attending a mask-making class on March 16th, 2024.
• Take a day trip to the Venetian Lagoon islands for a serene escape from the bustle of the main events.
• Remember, the Carnival takes place in February, marking the start of Lent with a city-wide celebration.

Summer Festivals: Celebrating Art and History

As you immerse yourself in Venice’s summer tapestry, you’ll find that the city is not just about gondolas and canals, but also a hub for vibrant festivities that blend art and history into an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendars for the Venice International Film Festival at the end of August, a prestigious event that draws cinephiles and A-listers alike. But that’s not all; the entire country is alive with celebrations.

During the first weekend, don’t miss La Quintana in Marche, where the past comes alive with medieval jousting and archery. And if you’re in Venice on the first Sunday of September, the Regata Storica is a must-see with its thrilling gondola races.

Remember, while Ferragosto on August 15th signals the peak of summer, it also means many local businesses will be closed. Plan accordingly to ensure you don’t miss out on the festivities or essential services.

Here’s a quick glance at some key events:

• First weekend: La Quintana, vibrant medieval festival
• August 15: Ferragosto, national holiday with fireworks
• End of August: Venice International Film Festival
• First Sunday of September: Regata Storica, gondola races

Whether you’re a film enthusiast or a lover of historical reenactments, summer in Venice offers a rich palette of cultural experiences. Just be sure to check local guides for the exact dates as some festivals vary each year.

Winter Events: Enjoying Venice’s Quieter Side

As the tourist throngs dissipate, winter in Venice ushers in a serene tranquility, allowing you to experience the Floating City at a more leisurely pace. Embrace the calm of the canals and the charm of the quieter streets, where the true essence of Venice shines through.

During these cooler months, take the opportunity to explore the less crowded museums and galleries, such as the Gallerie dell’Accademia or the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, without the summer queues.

The Venice Carnival, a highlight of the season, transforms the city into a vibrant tableau of masks and mystery. Plan your visit around this event to witness a centuries-old tradition that continues to captivate.

• January: Ideal for gondola rides, with fewer tourists and a chance to see Venice’s historic grandeur up close.
• February: Home to the Venice Carnival, expect a festive atmosphere filled with elaborate costumes and lively celebrations.

Remember, while accommodation offers are more attractive and the atmosphere is peaceful, it’s wise to check the opening hours of attractions as some may have winter schedules.

Accommodation Tips: Where and When to Stay

Seeking Serenity: Best Times for Hotel Deals

If you’re yearning for a peaceful retreat in Venice without the hefty price tag, timing is everything. Discover the importance of a suitable vehicle for a tranquil mountain escape . In the context of Venice, this means choosing your travel dates wisely to ensure both comfort and value. The best hotel deals are typically found during the off-peak seasons, when the city sheds its bustling tourist persona and reveals a more serene side.

January to February and November are the golden months for hotel bargains. During these times, you can indulge in luxury accommodations at a fraction of the cost. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan:

• January to February : Post-holiday tranquility, with Carnival as a potential highlight.
• November : Misty ambiance and a prelude to the festive season, minus the crowds.

Embrace the calm of Venice’s low season and let the city’s timeless allure unfold around you, all while enjoying the comfort of premium stays at budget-friendly rates.

Remember, while seeking serenity, prioritize safety and comfort in your choice of accommodation. This ensures that your Venetian escape is not only cost-effective but also truly relaxing.

Location Matters: Choosing Your Venetian Neighborhood

Venice’s allure isn’t just in its grand canals and historic landmarks; it’s also in the distinct character of its neighborhoods. Choosing the right area to stay can transform your experience , offering a unique glimpse into the local lifestyle beyond the tourist veneer.

Venice is divided into six neighborhoods : Dorsoduro, San Marco, San Polo, Santa Croce, Cannaregio, and Castello. Each has its own charm and secrets to uncover. For a taste of authentic Venetian life, Cannaregio beckons with its residential vibe, historic Jewish Ghetto, and the lively Strada Nova. Meanwhile, the tranquil Sant’Elena offers a serene escape, where you can enjoy a spritz while watching the local scene unfold.

To truly embrace the Venetian spirit, venture into the less-trodden paths. Discover hidden alleyways and residential areas where the real Venice thrives, away from the bustling tourist spots.

Remember to prepare for travel by learning local phrases, researching transportation, and booking accommodations in advance. Consider budget-friendly options like hostels or apartment rentals to make the most of your stay.

Planning a Long Weekend: A Compact Travel Guide

Venice, a city of timeless charm, is perfect for a long weekend getaway. Maximize your time by planning ahead, ensuring you experience the best of Venice without the rush. Start with a clear itinerary that includes must-see attractions, local dining spots, and hidden gems.

• Day 1 : Immerse yourself in the historic grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Wander the winding streets and discover artisan shops.
• Day 2 : Explore the vibrant Rialto Market in the morning, then enjoy a leisurely gondola ride in the afternoon.
• Day 3 : Visit the islands of Murano and Burano for a colorful escape from the mainland.

Remember, Venice is more than just a checklist of sights; it’s an experience to be savored. Take time to enjoy a spritz by the canal and watch the world go by.

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Month-by-Month Breakdown: Best Times to Visit

January to March: New Year and Carnival Vibes

As you usher in the New Year, Venice greets you with a crisp chill in the air, but the city’s festive spirit is far from cooling down. The Carnival of Venice , a spectacle of masks and mystery, peaks in this period, especially in the weeks leading up to Shrove Tuesday. If you’re keen to immerse yourself in this iconic celebration, plan ahead; accommodations fill up quickly and prices soar.

Italy in March signals the approach of spring, with a mix of rain, wind, and sunshine. The weather begins to warm as the month progresses, hinting at the coming bloom of spring. Despite the potential for minimal tourist traffic, expect some crowds due to the Easter holidays and the Almond Blossom Festival.

Embrace the quieter moments of Venice in the weeks following the Carnival. This is the perfect time to enjoy the city’s beauty without the crowds, especially if you venture out at early sunrise.

• Temperature range: 5 to 13 Degrees Celsius
• Key events: Carnevale, Almond Blossom Festival

Remember, the period after Carnival and before Easter offers a sweet spot for travel deals. Hotels and flights may be more affordable, so keep an eye out for those opportunities.

April to June: Spring Blooms and Cultural Awakening

As you plan your visit to Venice between April and June, you’re choosing a time when the city is at its most vibrant. Spring in Venice is a time of renewal , with the countryside bursting into color and the city shaking off the last chills of winter. You’ll find the days growing longer and the weather pleasantly warm, perfect for leisurely strolls along the canals or sipping espresso at a sunlit piazza.

During this period, you can immerse yourself in the cultural renaissance that sweeps through the city. Venice’s event calendar comes alive with festivals such as the Festa della Sensa and the prestigious La Biennale di Venezia. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect:

• Early April: Enjoy the quieter streets before the Easter rush.
• Throughout May: Experience the Flower Festivals and the Iris Garden in Florence, open for a limited time.
• Early June: Take advantage of the shoulder season before the summer crowds arrive.

Remember, while the allure of Venice in spring is undeniable, it’s essential to maximize enjoyment by considering factors such as weather and tourist crowds. Planning ahead ensures that you can navigate the city with ease and truly embrace its charm.

July to September: Summer Heat and Vibrant Festivities

As you wander through the canals of Venice during the summer months, you’ll find the city buzzing with energy. Summer in Venice is synonymous with vibrant festivals and al fresco dining , but it’s also the season of intense heat and packed streets. To truly embrace the city’s summer charm, consider these tips:

• Plan your sightseeing for early mornings or late afternoons to escape the sweltering midday sun.
• Engage in the local culture by attending open-air performances and street festivals.
• Remember that August 15th is Ferragosto, a national holiday where you can witness fireworks and celebrations, but also expect closures.

Despite the crowds, summer offers long days perfect for exploring and savoring gelato by the lagoon. Just be prepared for higher expenses and plan your budget accordingly.

Be mindful of the peak tourist season, as Venice becomes a magnet for travelers seeking its summer allure. If you prefer a more tranquil experience, the early weeks of June still offer a respite from the throngs of tourists. And don’t forget to hydrate and protect yourself from the sun!

October to December: Autumn Colors and Holiday Magic

As the leaves turn to gold and the air fills with the crisp scent of autumn, Venice transforms into a city of enchantment. October’s mild weather is perfect for meandering through the less crowded streets, allowing you to discover the city’s hidden gems at a leisurely pace. You’ll find the local cuisine particularly delightful, with an abundance of fresh produce like grapes and chestnuts enhancing the flavors of traditional Venetian dishes.

In November, the city wraps itself in a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. It’s the ideal time for you to indulge in the serenity of Venice, as the tourist bustle fades and the city reveals its authentic charm.

December brings a festive spirit that lights up the city. While it’s technically the off-season, the allure of Christmas markets and the joyous mood make it a magical time to visit. However, remember that this period can attract visitors looking for holiday enchantment, so plan accordingly.

• October : Perfect for outdoor exploration and enjoying the harvest season’s bounty.
• November : Experience Venice’s tranquility and the start of truffle season.
• December : Festive decorations and markets, with a quieter experience at indoor attractions.

If you’re considering a trip during these months, keep in mind that early bookings are essential, especially if you aim to capture the festive magic of December in Venice.

Conclusion:

Venice, with its enchanting canals and timeless architecture, offers a unique charm in every season. For the ideal visit, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) strike the perfect balance between pleasant weather and fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the city’s wonders. While summer brings lively festivities, it also comes with heat and crowds. Winter, on the other hand, offers a serene experience with misty vistas and sparse crowds, though the weather can be unpredictable. Ultimately, the best time to visit Venice aligns with your preferences—whether that’s enjoying the vibrant summer atmosphere, experiencing the tranquil beauty of winter, or finding a middle ground in the shoulder seasons. No matter when you choose to go, Venice’s magic awaits.

What is the best time to visit Venice?

The ideal times to visit Venice are during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and tourist numbers are more manageable. However, some may prefer the festive atmosphere of summer or the tranquil and misty vistas of winter.

How is the weather in Venice throughout the year?

Venice has a Mediterranean climate with hot, humid summers and cool winters. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summers can be quite hot. Winters may be cooler with occasional flooding known as ‘acqua alta.’

Is Venice crowded in the summer?

Yes, Venice is typically crowded in the summer months due to peak tourist season. Visitors may experience heat, humidity, and mosquitoes. For a less crowded experience, consider visiting in late autumn or winter.

When can I experience the Venice Carnival?

The Venice Carnival takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent, usually in February or early March. It’s a vibrant festival known for its elaborate masks and costumes, but it also attracts large crowds.

Are there any hotel deals or quieter times to visit Venice?

Hotel deals and quieter times in Venice can typically be found during the winter months, especially from November to January. This period offers a unique experience of the city with fewer tourists and potential for lower accommodation rates.

What are some tips for planning a long weekend in Venice?

For a long weekend in Venice, plan your visit between September and November when the city is quieter and the weather is moderate. Look for hotel deals and consider staying in less touristy neighborhoods to experience more of the local culture.

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Venice in 3 days. - Venice Forum

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Venice in 3 days.

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10 replies to this topic

just scroll down and you will see many posts in recent days looking for hotel recommendations.

Our favourite area in which to stay is Dorsoduro , which is quieter than the main tourist ‘hot spots’ but is still near to San Marco, Doge’s Palace and Basilica, either by walking over the Accademia Bridge or on the public vaporetto. It is easy to get to Dorsoduro from either Piazza Roma or the train station by boat, on numbers 1 or 2 - along the Grand Canal.

Hotels you might consider are La Calcina, Ca’ Pisani, Accademia B & B or American Dinesen but many others can be found on TA.

Despite the crowds Venice is still a beautiful and unique City- you will never forget your first visit.

Our comfortable lodging was called 3749 Ponte Chiodo (we had the upstairs double superior, rm 3).... https://www.pontechiodo.it/en/

Thank you so much for your information. It's very helpful.

Charming, great location, excellent breakfast and some rooms have stunning view over canal ( Not Canal Grande though, but I would say it is more picturesque with those narrower canals). Not cheap, but well worth it beacause of the atmosphere.

Thank you for the information. Very helpful.

Thank you for the information. Vey helpful.

We go in February after the Carnevale, it did rain a bit this year but that is made up for by the absence of hordes of people. Hotels are cheaper and places quieter. We haven't noticed anywhere being closed. In fact it can be a good time for exhibitions.

At many times of the year the crowds can make it unbearable although getting out very early in the morning helps.

We had a wonderfully sunny and clear trip in December one year. You could see the snow on the Dolomites in the far distance.

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15 things you must do in Venice, Italy

Posted: September 26, 2023 | Last updated: September 26, 2023

Even if you've never been to Venice, you know what it looks like. Venetian buildings lined across canals, open courtyards dotted with plants, exotic bridges soft with seaweed, and buzzing with tourists. The mere mention of Venice conjures a whirlpool of images. 

So why not dive in? Visit the historic city and you can amble around sun-speckled canals, mysterious alleyways, unmissable museums, and romantic restaurants. There are a million things to do in Venice, but there are only 15 things you can't go without. 

Grand Canal

The city's beating heart and romantic soul, there's no shortage of things to do here. Take a water taxi or a gondola ride. Admire the view from a bridge or a nearby restaurant. Or circle back at night when the crowds are thin, the streets are quiet and the lights flicker across the canal, beckoning you to take a closer look. 

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St. Mark's Square

St. Mark's Square is kind of like Times Square without the streakers. Or the homeless people, trash cans, or New Yorkers. OK, so it's not exactly like Times Square, but it is nicknamed "the Times Square of Venice," because it's the central spot for tourists and is surrounded by history. Thankfully, this slice of history is lined with columns and museums, and if you arrive early enough, you can have the place to yourself. 

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Caffe Florian

While you're in St. Mark's Square, you'll want to visit Caffe Florian. This iconic Venetian restaurant was once a watering hole for Proust, Dickens, and Casanova, and the decor hasn't changed much over the years. My advice: enjoy an espresso in the same seat Dickens once enjoyed a beer. 

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Teatro La Fenice

The name Teatro La Fenice, a landmark opera house, means "The Phoenix"--a nod to the fact that it's risen from the ashes not once, but three times, most recently after two arsonists burned it down in 1996. But it's been renovated and restored back to its former glory, complete with rows of balconies and red-velvet chairs. 

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

This private collection was once the home of Peggy Guggenheim, who played a big role in the careers of Jackson Pollock, Max Ernst, and Alberto Giacometti. Now, you'll find the walls lined with Picasso, Dali, Mondrian, and Malevich. Plus, Joseph Cornell! 

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Lido Island

After wandering museums and alleyways, you'll want to lie down on the serene sands of Lido. A 15-minute Vaporetto ride from St. Mark's Square, the island offers beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with kids, teens, families, and leather-skin grandpas. Two hours on the beach and you'll have a pretty great tan, too. 

Venice Film Festival

Speaking of the Lido, when the Venice Film Festival hits town every September, there's no better place to be. Pro tip: get to screenings early. Even if you have a pass, you'll need to be there a couple of hours before the film starts. 

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Murano Glass Museum

While your hopping from island to island, make time for a trip to Murano and admire the glass-making artistry. The products are held on display at the Murano glass museum, where you're gonna want to keep an eye on your pocketbook. Not because of pickpockets, which are a problem in Venice. But because these dreamy works of art are going to inspire you to stop by the gift shop on your way out, or at a glass factory nearby. 

Osteria Alla Frasca

For a true Venetian dinner, Osteria Alla Frasca is one of the most authentic spots in town. You come here, of course, for the delightful seafood pasta, but you're really here to eat like the locals, with the locals. It's an adventure just trying to find this small, family-owned gem, though once seated in its courtyard, you won't want to leave. 

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Church of San Giorgio Maggiore

Everyone needs a picture of themselves in Venice. Whether it's for Instagram, Twitter, or Tinder, you can't go wrong with the tower of San Giorgio, which boasts panoramic views of Venice from 350-feet up. 

Rialto Bridge

Another candidate for best-selfie: Rialto Bridge has the best view of the Grand Canal, though best not to go midday. Like every main attraction in Venice, make plans to go in the morning or at night. 

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Burano Island

Burano is a beautiful island 40-minutes away from Venice, but what truly sets this destination apart are the colorful buildings sprinkled around the city. The fisherman painted each house a different color so they knew whose house was whose, which makes it look like a paint sampler come to life. Every street is a rainbow of discovery. 

Carnevale Festival

Every February, the city hosts a carnival where three million people dress up in costumes and dance until dawn. It's the closest thing to Fellini-esque Venice has to offer. 

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Hotel Locanda

Known as the spot where Ernest Hemingway wrote Across the River , the Hotel Locanda is nicely situated just outside of town, and it's $75 a night. Not bad for a place with so much history...and such great croissants! 

Venice is a crazy, decadent maze of streets--and each one leads to a new, exciting place. You're going to get lost. Your map is going to be off. The best thing to do is walk around, lose the schedule, and discover a new restaurant, cafe, canal, or church. Once you've seen the tourist spots, wander into the heart of Venice, glide across a sun-soaked street, dance into a wine-soaked night, share a bottle with a loved one or a spritz with a stranger. There are a million things to do in Venice, but getting lost is mio preferito . 

Did you enjoy this slideshow? Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive lifestyle content.

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Venice to Charge Day Trippers an Entry Fee to Discourage Overcrowding

Starting this month, tourists intending to visit the city on busy dates will be required to register on a website, and those coming for a single day will have to pay a little over $5.

By Elisabetta Povoledo

Reporting from Italy

On its busiest days, Venice swells with tourists who clog the city’s narrow streets, leave behind piles of garbage and often frustrate locals. So the canal-crossed city is fighting back.

Starting on April 25, and for another 29 days scattered mostly around national holidays and weekends through mid-July, day trippers to the historic part of Venice will have to pay 5 euros, about $5.40, a measure that city officials hope will encourage people to come during less busy times.

All visitors to Venice will also have to register their presence in the city on the specified days, filling out an online form that will help officials gauge how many visitors to expect and strategize about how to handle them.

“It’s not about making money — the costs of the operation are higher than what we’re going to make,” Mayor Luigi Brugnaro told reporters on Thursday as Venetian officials kicked off a global advertising campaign. Instead, said Michele Zuin, the city official in charge of budgeting and economics, the aim is “to better manage the numbers of tourists and disincentivize mass tourism, which is what creates, let’s say, the difficulty of living in this city.”

Visitors staying overnight in Venice will not have to pay, nor will those traveling there to work, to visit relatives or to study. Anyone born in the city is also exempt , as are minors under 14. And Mr. Brugnaro said there would be no cap on the number of visitors allowed in.

Rising improbably from the waters of the Venetian lagoon, the city is as delicate as it is beautiful, and in recent decades it has struggled to protect a uniqueness that is threatened by climate change and rising seas, as well as by mass tourism .

To counter that figurative and literal erosion, the city has installed giant gates at four mouths of the lagoon to keep seawater out and pavements dry, and banned cruise ships from the inner canals. Those efforts helped keep Venice off UNESCO’s list of “World Heritage in Danger” even after experts at the agency raised concerns last year that Italy had not done enough to protect the city.

From 1976 until this year, Italy had allocated funds to help safeguard Venice, and on Thursday, Mr. Brugnaro chided the country’s central government for not renewing that funding. He said he had asked the government for €1.5 billion for the next 10 years to help preserve a city with a unique heritage that requires continuous maintenance.

“We need that financing,” he said.

Occasionally, days have been so busy with tourists that the city has had to limit some streets to one-way pedestrian traffic.

Simone Venturini, the city official in charge of tourism, said of the new measures, “We will be the first city in the world to know exactly how many tourists will come to Venice that day — whether exempt or paying, they have to register.”

After registering on the website, visitors will receive a QR code — valid from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. — that they will be required to show when entering the city at points like the train station, Piazzale Roma, the municipal parking lot, some beachfront locations and St. Mark’s Square. There will also be spot checks throughout the city.

For now, anyone arriving in Venice without a QR code will be allowed to buy it at the last minute, either on a smartphone or at kiosks set up leading up to the access points, officials said.

Transgressors will face fines of €50 to €300 plus a €10 fee, Mr. Zuin said.

The initiative is being introduced on a trial basis so that city officials can see whether the system works and how it can be improved, he said. In the future, the entry fee could be calibrated — “a sliding scale of prices,” Mayor Brugnaro said — depending on the day.

“We’re asking for collaboration,” Mr. Brugnaro said, adding that the data accumulated during the 29 days would be made public. He said that officials from other cities around the world had contacted his administration to find out more about the access system.

So far, more than 50,000 people have registered through the website — about a third of them paying for one-day visits, officials said.

“The entire world wants to come to Venice,” Mr. Venturini said at the introduction of the advertising campaign, which included a video message of the mayor speaking in various languages using A.I.-generated speech translation.

In the video, Mayor Brugnaro apologizes for any inconvenience that the new system might create. But, he said, “the city has to be protected.”

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo

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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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