Things to do in Venice in March 2026

March is the month when Venice begins to change pace. Winter slowly loosens its grip, days become longer, and the city feels more alive without the spring crowds.

It’s a transitional month where you still find chilly and rainy days best to visit indoor attractions, but also the first month of the year to enjoy the outdoors more.

Unlike February, March is less about major big events and more about balance. If you visit Venice during this month, you can expect to enjoy better walking weather, more daylight for exploring neighbourhoods and the rest of the Venetian lagoon.

Prices start to rise compared to winter, but Venice in March is still far more manageable than April or May.

This guide covers what to expect from Venice in March, including weather, costs, crowds, events, and practical tips, with local insight to help you plan your early spring trip and avoid common mistakes.

Is March a good time to visit Venice?

Yes, March is one of the best months to visit Venice if you want a calmer experience without winter feeling too harsh.

It’s particularly well suited to travellers who enjoy walking, museum visits, and discovering neighbourhoods beyond the main tourist routes.

Why visit Venice in March:

• Fewer crowds than spring peak: March is noticeably quieter than April, May, and summer, especially midweek.
• Longer daylight hours: Days are longer than winter, making sightseeing more relaxed.
• Comfortable sightseeing weather: Cool but walkable temperatures are ideal for exploring on foot.
• More local atmosphere: Venetians begin spending more time outside again, especially towards the end of the month.
• Good value compared to spring: Prices rise from winter lows, but March still offers better value than high season.

March is especially appealing if you prefer a slower pace and want to experience Venice as a lived-in city rather than a packed attraction.

Weather in Venice in March

March marks the transition from winter to early spring. Temperatures typically range between 5°C and 13°C (41–55°F), though sunny afternoons can feel warmer, especially by late March. Mornings can still be chilly, and humidity remains high.

Rain is possible throughout the month, but prolonged downpours are less common than in late autumn.

Fog becomes rarer compared to winter, and snow is extremely unlikely. Acqua alta can still occur early in the month, but it becomes less frequent as March progresses.

What to pack for Venice in March:

• Light to medium-weight coat or trench coat;
• Layers (jumpers, cardigans, long-sleeve tops);
• Comfortable walking shoes (water-resistant if possible);
• Scarf (useful for cool mornings and evenings);
• Compact umbrella;
• Crossbody or this Pacsafe anti-theft backpack for busy areas targeted by pickpockets.

If you’re unsure how to layer properly, see my Venice packing guide or what to wear in Venice by season guide for more tips.

Can you ride a gondola in Venice in March?

Yes. Gondolas operate all year, and March is a pleasant time to take a ride. The weather is milder than winter, canals are calmer than spring, and gondoliers are generally less rushed.

Prices are fixed by the city: €90 during the day and €110 in the evening (up to five people). Late morning and late afternoon tend to work best, while gondola stations away from St Mark’s Square usually lead to quieter canals.

Are you planning to go on a gondola ride? Then make sure to check out my complete on gondola prices and tickets.

Is Venice expensive in March?

Venice in March sits comfortably between low and high season. Prices are higher than January and early February (excluding the Carnival period where they are sky-high), but still lower than April, May, and summer.

Accommodation starts to rise, especially in central areas, but midweek stays and neighbourhoods outside San Marco still offer good value.

Flights are often cheaper than spring peak, and food prices remain stable year‑round, with bacari and local osterie continuing to offer affordable cicchetti (€2–4 each).

Things to do in Venice in March

March is one of those months when Venice doesn’t need to put on a show, it simply feels good to be there. These are the things I recommend doing in Venice in March, based on what actually works well this time of year.

1. Catch the final echoes of Carnival (early March only)

If you’re visiting Venice in the first days of March, you might still see traces of Carnival around the city. While the official programme usually ends in February, the spirit is still high and there are a few Carnival-themed things you can do.

The atmosphere is also much calmer than peak Carnival weekend, which makes it easier to stop, watch, and enjoy the details.

This is also a good moment to join a mask‑making workshop or a Carnival‑focused walking tour. Artisans are less rushed, groups are smaller, and you’ll get more insight into why certain masks exist and how they were traditionally used.

2. Walk Venice properly, neighbourhood by neighbourhood

March is one of the best months of the year for walking in Venice. Temperatures are cool but comfortable, and you can easily spend hours outside without needing long indoor breaks.

Instead of ticking off sights, I recommend planning walks that connect entire neighbourhoods.

Good combinations in March:

• Dorsoduro, starting from Accademia and ending along the Zattere;
• Cannaregio, especially in the late afternoon when locals head out for aperitivo;
• Castello, for quieter canals and a more residential feel.

This is when Venice rewards curiosity: small squares, bakeries, and everyday scenes are often more memorable than the main landmarks.

3. Visit museums, palaces, and churches without the crowds

March is ideal if you actually want to enjoy Venice’s museums rather than rush through them. Queues are shorter, rooms are quieter, and you can take your time.

Places that work particularly well in March:

• Doge’s Palace, paired with the Correr Museum and Marciana Library (same ticket);
• Gallerie dell’Accademia, especially mid‑morning;
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection, perfect on grey or rainy days
• Scuola Grande di San Rocco, where you can admire Tintoretto without being pushed along
• Ca’ Rezzonico or Ca’ Pesaro, if you enjoy historic interiors and like the idea of stepping inside some of the most important Venetian palaces.

March is also a great month to step into smaller churches, many are quiet, sometimes completely empty, and feel far more atmospheric than in high season.

Here’s my hidden church itinerary and if you wish to visit museums and attractions, I recommend purchasing the Venice city pass.

4. Explore Murano, Burano and Torcello

March is a perfect month to explore the Venetian lagoon. The days are often clear and crisp, making boat trips to Murano, Burano, and Torcello especially enjoyable.

In Murano, you can watch master glassblowers at work, see centuries-old techniques in action, and even pick up a unique souvenir.

Burano is equally captivating, with its colourful fishermen’s houses, narrow streets, and famous lace shops. Torcello, quieter and less visited, offers a fascinating glimpse into Venice’s early history, with ancient Byzantine churches and peaceful canals.

Taking this trip in March means fewer tourists on the islands, giving you time to linger, explore, and photograph without feeling rushed.

You can also book a guided day trip in advance here: Murano, Burano and Torcello Islands full-day trip for an experience that covers all 3 islands in one trip.

5. Attend the Venetian New Year

The Venetian New Year, or ‘Cao de ano’ in the local dialect, is one of the oldest celebrations in the city. Its roots go back even before the Roman Empire, linked to the early Veneto populations who first settled this region.

Historically, 1st of March marked the start of the new year, signalling the end of winter and the first hints of spring when canals, gardens, and streets began to come back to life.

Venetians used to go into the streets banging pots and pans in a custom called “Bati Marso”, summoning the god Mars to chase away winter and welcome the new season. Currently, there are no specific events celebrating this, but it’s an interesting story worth knowing.

6. Discover Venice through markets and bacari

Another wonderful way to experience Venice in March is to explore the local markets scattered throughout the neighbourhoods.

Walking around stalls is one of the best ways to see the authentic side of the city, hear the merchants calling out, and enjoy the colours and scents of fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties.

The oldest and most famous is the Rialto Market, open daily from 7.30 am to 1.30 pm (closed on Sundays).

Take your time here, and if you’re staying in an apartment, picking up fresh ingredients for cooking is a genuinely Venetian experience or join a cooking class in a local’s house.

Other markets worth visiting include:

• Mercato di Rio Terà San Leonardo in Cannaregio: Monday to Saturday
• Mercato di Via Garibaldi in Castello: daily 7 am–2 pm
• Mercato di Campo Santa Margherita: daily in the morning; nearby you’ll find the market boat at Campo San Barnaba

Once you’ve explored the markets, a natural next step is to dive into Venice’s bacari culture.

You can either follow my self-guided bacaro tour maps, hopping between some of the city’s best taverns, or join a local guide on a foodie tour and discover all the hidden gems.

Pair small cicchetti with a Venetian spritz, enjoy lively chatter with locals, and let the combination of market shopping and bacaro stops give you a true taste of daily Venetian life.

7. Celebrate Women’s Day in Venice

On 8 March, Venice comes alive with celebrations for Women’s Day, making it a perfect occasion for an all-girls getaway or a romantic surprise for your partner.

Events take place all around the city, so it’s worth checking the Comune di Venezia website closer to your visit for the latest programme.

One unique highlight is the Women’s Regatta (Regata delle Donne), featuring caorline, colourful six-oared boats that were once the exclusive domain of male rowers.

Additionally, on this day all state-run museums in Venice are free for women, making it an excellent chance to explore palaces, galleries, and exhibitions without the usual ticket fees.

📅 Venice Events in March 2026

Why March is a great time to visit Venice

Visiting Venice in March allows you to experience the city as it awakens from winter, with smaller crowds, early spring sunshine, and a variety of cultural events that bring the city to life.

Plan ahead and you can enjoy the full range of experiences: exploring Murano, Burano, and Torcello without the summer crowds, visiting top museums and galleries, attending concerts at Teatro La Fenice, or witnessing the Palm Sunday religious procession.

With its mix of culture, history, and early spring charm, Venice in March offers a unique perspective on the city that’s quieter, more local, and just as magical as during the busier months.

If you found this Venice travel guide helpful, feel free to buy me a virtual coffee here.

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