When is the best time to visit Venice?
Venice is truly open-air museum displaying in every single narrow street and piazzas, amazing examples of architecture, art and engineering jewels.
There’s nothing better than exploring Venice on foot and take in all its beauty in a sunny day, even better when it’s not too hot!
So when exactly is the best time to visit Venice that will allow you to make the most of all its incredible attractions? Because like other touristic cities in Europe such as Amsterdam, Paris or London, Venice is in high season all year round.
Best time to visit Venice
If you want to know when the best time to travel to Venice is from a local’s perspective based on the weather conditions, events going on and affordability of flights and accommodation, keep reading this informative post.
When is the best time to visit Venice?
The quick answer would be to say that the best time to visit Venice is spring and early autumn. The city is always worth visiting, even if it’s cold, foggy and rainy like during the winter months or with the high tide (known as ‘acqua alta’).
I recommend visiting Venice between the end of March and the beginning of June and from September to half October. Temperatures range between 15 and 25 °C which are just perfect to walk around the streets, visit landmarks and plan a couple of day trips.
I’d aim to avoid summer because temperatures can easily go above 27 °C, but it feels much warmer than the actual temperature due to the high humidity rate.
In fact, the climate of Venice is moderately continental, with cold and humid winters and hot and muggy summers.
The presence of the Adriatic Sea mitigate the temperatures but remember that Venice is part of a lagoon and for that reason it’s humid all year round.
If your main concern is the budget, then the best months to travel to Venice are March and April during spring and October and November in autumn.
It’s no secret that in autumn you can encounter the high tide and that’s why many tourists feel discouraged and don’t travel around this time of the year.
To recap:
| Weather Conditions | Budget | |
| Winter | Rainy, cold, foggy, high tide | Low |
| Spring | Sunny with some rains, mild, high tide | Medium/Low |
| Summer | Hot and humid | High |
| Autumn | Rainy, mild, high tide | Medium/Low |
Acqua Alta Venice 2024
Acqua alta in Venice is a high tide seasonal phenomenon, during which the lowest areas of the city and some islands near Venice are subject to flooding.
It usually happens from late autumn to early spring and it can last a couple of days with the tide at its highest for a couple of hours, from late morning to early afternoon.
There are many factors causing the high tide in Venice, mainly the strong scirocco winds from south-east and the position of the lagoon’s basin in the Adriatic Sea.
The municipality of Venice instals temporary elevated platforms in the most affected areas of Venice, so people can keep walking around its streets and squares.
This is how the acqua alta in Venice is measured:
- high tide: when the tide level is between +80 cm and +109 cm
- very strong tide: when the value is between +110 cm and +139 cm
- exceptional tide: when the value reaches or exceeds +140 cm
High tide is considered as such when the tide level goes above +80 cm. Some of the lowest areas of the city are the most touristic ones: St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge.
If high tide is expected a loud acoustic alert is given, in the historic centre of Venice and on the islands, 3-4 hours before the peak.
To get ready for acqua alta, just travel with a pair of high rubber boots or Wellingtons.
If you don’t have the chance to travel with them, there are many shops around the city where you can buy them. Finally, you can check the Centro Previsioni e Segnalazioni Maree website to keep updated on when high tide is expected.
Summer in Venice
Summers in Venice are hot and humid. You can enjoy warm temperatures and the long sunny days, and don’t think about the infamous acqua alta and rain.
The best part of spending Venice in summer is being outdoors till late in the evening, wearing dresses, t-shirts and shorts all day long while exploring the city on foot.
Summer in north-east Italy can be scorching, with temperatures exceeding 30°C, but what complicates things most is the intense humidity, even more accentuated in a Lagoon city like Venice. You can always find refreshment by eating a lovely gelato or drinking a glass of Spritz accompanied by cicchetti like locals do.
You can escape the hot central hours of the day by visiting the best museums in Venice, art galleries and temporary exhibitions or simply by going to Lido of Venice for a swim and some beach time!
If the heat is not a problem for you, you can continue to explore the campi and calli of the city or go on a boat tour to the nearby islands of the Venetian lagoon such as Murano, Burano and Torcello.
Winter in Venice
Venice in winter is magical, especially during December and Christmas time. Temperatures are not higher than 7°C and the typical humidity accentuates the perception of cold.
December is always a month packed with events, which is another good reason to be in Venice around this time of the year. You can expect to see some Christmas markets in Venice and its immediate mainland (Mestre and Marghera) and an ice skating rink in Campo San Polo.
During the weekend of the 8th of December (Immaculate Conception) you can begin to enjoy the festive decorations and lights illuminating Venice’s streets and canals, a giant Christmas tree in St. Mark’s Square, and the religious procession of the Nativity on the Grand Canal.
A special mention goes to the Venice Carnival, the most awaited event in the city that attracts thousands of visitors from around the world!
If you visit Venice in winter, you can also be part of this incredible experience as well as see a lot of quirky masks and elaborate costumes walking down Venice’s streets.
Even if temperatures don’t tend to go below 0°C, I recommend wearing woollen jumpers and dresses, thermal tights or leggings, a warm winter coat, boots or comfortable waterproof sneakers to protect you in case of heavy rain and acqua alta. See my guide on what to wear in Venice for my full list of recommendations.
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Best time to visit Venice
I can easily say that this city is worth visiting all year-round and there is no one best time to go to Venice. However, it all depends on what you’re looking for.
Read below to get more detailed information on each specific month in Venice:
Venice in January
Spending time in Venice in January is a fantastic idea if you want to distract yourself from everyday life, and are already nostalgic of the recent festivities.
If you choose to spend your stay in Venice in January, then you can celebrate the Epiphany, the 6th of January. In Italy, this event represents the end of Christmastime and for this occasion, you should absolutely join the procession of the Three Kings to the Torre dell’Orologio in St. Mark’s Square.
You can also watch the traditional ‘Regata delle Befane’: an annual regatta, characterized by boats full of men dressed as witches who cross the Grand Canal.
Around these days you should absolutely taste some typical specialities: mulled wine, creamy hot chocolate and the inimitable Venetian dessert called pinza. January in Venice is very cold and humid, so make sure to wear wool clothing, comfortable warm shoes and a raincoat.
Temperatures range between 0 and 7 °C. I also recommended putting some gloves and a warm hat to protect yourself during the coldest days of the month.
Venice in February
February in Venice is one of the most special months of the year. During this period fleets of locals and tourists flock to the streets to celebrate the long-awaited Carnival transforming them into a whirlwind of colourful masks and costumes.
Venice in February is still cold, with not many hours of daylight and possible rain. Temperatures range between 6 and 10 °C. As mentioned above, and depending on the years, Carnival is celebrated in February and thousands of people travel to the city to celebrate.
This means that accommodation prices rise and are a lot higher compared to January and March. Carnival is not the only event celebrated in Venice in February.
St. Valentine’s Day is celebrated on the 14th of February and I think booking one of these canal view hotel rooms are best to surprise your other half!
It’s also celebrated the Feste delle Marie, a historical re-enactment of when the wealthiest families in Venice used to donate the most sumptuous dresses to beautiful girls of modest means of the city.
Venice in March
Finally, Venice in March is when spring arrives and even if it doesn’t happen until the end of the month, weather conditions are more favourable and temperatures go significantly up.
Venice in March registers temperatures between 8 and 15 °C, but towards the end of the month they can also rise to 20 °C.
It’s not excluded the arrival of the high tide (acqua alta) and to get a couple of rainy days. You can therefore travel with cotton clothing and a pair of comfortable sneakers to walk around the city.
March is a great time to visit museums and art galleries as well as do some day trips. If you’re a first time visitor, book your ticket to visit both the St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace with a guide.
Then on one of your days in Venice you can do this Murano, Burano and Torcello boat trip to visit 3 of the most important islands in the Venetian Lagoon.
Depending on the year, you can celebrate Easter in March and the 8th of March, Women’s Day. Check out my post on things to do in Venice in March to learn more.
Venice in April
Venice in April is a great time to explore the city and avoid the crowds. During this month, the number of rainy days decreased a lot and the temperatures rise by about 5 °C compared to the previous month.
Temperatures range between 13 and 18 °C, but you can expect to find even warmer days. Venice in April is perfect to take a break in the middle of spring and enjoy spending time outdoors in Venice. On the 25th of April, the Liberation Day is celebrated, like in the rest of Italy. Many shops and businesses will be closed.
Another event that might fall in April is Easter. Accommodation prices might be higher around Easter time. Apart from that, April is probably one of the best months to visit Venice, because temperatures are pleasant and just ideal to explore the city on foot.
Enjoy the view of Venice’s palaces and attractions from the Grand Canal and other city’s canals, by booking your gondola ride before your trip. Usually travelling in April will help you to avoid long queues in front of the attractions, even though I also recommend booking your skip-the-line tickets in advance.
Check these fast track tickets:
- St. Mark’s Basilica Fast-Track Entry and Audio Guide
- La Fenice: Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
- Doge’s Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket with Guidebook
Venice in May
For many travelers (me included), being in Venice in May is undoubtedly one of the best moments of the year. The days are warm, rainy days are rare, while tourists are not as many as in the summer, Christmas or Carnival periods.
May is a good choice for those who want to explore every corner of the city, take long walks to discover the most secret spots and enjoy the lovely spring weather. Finally, you can leave your coat at home, but I recommend carrying a jacket for the evenings, a couple of t-shirts, dresses and skirts for the ladies.
Remember that you’ll be spending a lot of time walking around, so comfortable shoes or sandals are imperative. Temperatures range between 18 and 25 °C, which are perfect to spend time outdoors.
Apart from visiting the main attractions of the city, May is perfect to hang around the markets stalls of the Rialto Market and try Venetian street foods whilst exploring its streets. Check out this fantastic street food tour with a local guide!
If you’re spending more than 2 days in Venice, then why don’t hop on a train and visit other places in the Veneto region, or even beyond? In my guide to day trips from Venice by train you see that I suggest a couple of interesting destinations.
Venice in June
June is the month that marks the end of the school term (in Italy) and the beginning of summer, which it’s ideal to organize a holiday or a short trip to Venice.
I always suggest spending at least 3 days in Venice to get a real taste of the city without rushing into visiting every attraction and immerse yourself in the Venetian lifestyle. Temperatures range between 21 and 26 °C, you can expect to find many sunny days with plenty of hours of daylight.
If you’re interested in art, then visit now the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection before the big crowds arrive in July and August. There are tens of smaller islands in the Venetian Lagoon worth visiting.
From Lido to San Giorgio Maggiore and the island of Sant’Erasmo, there’s no better time of the year to see what else there’s outside the historical city centre of Venice.
The main festivities are the 2nd of June, the Republic Day is celebrated and the Vogalonga, on the first Sunday of the month.
Towards the end of the month, Venice also hosts two important popular festivals: San Giovanni in Bragora and San Piero de Casteo with food stalls, music and traditional dances. Read more about visiting Venice in June here on this blog.
Venice in July
July in Venice means sunny and hot days, during this month temperatures range between 23 and 28 °C, but towards the end of the month can also reach 30 °C.
In reality, Venice in July can be quite hot, and spending hours and hours walking under the sun is not easy. Find shelter from the sun by visiting museums and art galleries and the rest of the best attractions of Venice that are situated indoors.
Enjoy a spectacular view of the city and the Grand Canal from the T Fondaco dei Tedeschi, just a couple of minutes away from the Rialto Bridge. You just need to book a timeslot in advance.
Other free things you can do in Venice, it’s visiting the unique Libreria Acqua Alta and visit the Biennale Gardens, in the Castello neighbourhood.
This month is perfect to spend some time at the beach, so check out the best beaches near Venice and book accommodation in Jesolo, from where you can also get to nearby coastal towns.
Make sure to be in Venice to join the Festa del Redentore celebrations, the third Sunday of the month.
Venice in August
Venice in August is very hot, but that shouldn’t stop you from visiting the city if you don’t have the choice to be here on a different period of time.
Temperatures go over 30 °C and it’s not ideal to walk around in the hottest hours between midday and 3pm. Make sure to carry with you a good sun cream and a hat.
It’s important to stay hydrated and it’s a good idea to carry with you a refillable bottle. Did you know that the water from the fountains in Venice is drinkable?
Check this map out and see where they’re located! Many tourists visit Venice in August and you’ll see many long queues in front of the most popular attractions.
Book your fast-track admission ticket to Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica to not waste hours and hours waiting to visit them.
There are three main events going on in August: the Biennale of Venice, one of the most important contemporary art exhibitions, Ferragosto the 15th of August, and the Venice Film Festival, end of the month.
Venice in September
September is a great month to visit Venice. Temperatures are more enjoyable than in August, more precisely between 19 and 25 °C. Even in September in Venice there are plenty of events worth joining.
The Venice Film Festival is still on and takes place at the Lido, the Regata Storica is an historical regatta taking place the first Sunday of the month.
After the second half of September, you can start seeing more hotel deals, and I suggest taking a look at this selection the best 5-star hotels featuring incredible city and canal views, stunning balconies overlooking the lagoon and luxurious suites.
Are you planning on spending more than 3 or 4 days in Venice?
Check out these day trips you can join from Venice:
- Dolomites, Lake Misurina, and Cortina Day Trip
- Murano, Burano, Torcello Island & Glass Factory Tour
- Prosecco Wine Tasting Tour
- Venice to Padua Full-Day Brenta Riviera Boat Cruise
- Amarone Wine Tour & Tasting from Venice
- From Venice: Florence by High-Speed Train & Guided Tours
Venice in October
Venice in October is perfect for long walks, during which you can explore campi and lesser known sestieri like the Cannaregio or Castello neighbourhood, now free from the swarms of tourists and the discomfort of the summer heat.
Temperatures range between 14 and 19 °C, and if the weather proves to be too harsh, between one tour and another, you can still warm up by visiting the many temporary exhibitions and museums of the lagoon city.
Venice is known for many things, one of this is the ‘acqua alta’ or high tide phenomenon. If you’re travelling in October be equipped with a pair of high boots to protect your feet from the water. St. Mark’s Square and Rialto are the first areas of the city subject to flooding.
It’s now time to wear a coat and get dressed in layers, so you can easily remove your clothes based on the temperatures of the day. There are a couple of events going on in October: Halloween, the Venice Marathon the Festa del Mosto in Sant’Erasmo, also called the ‘garden of Venice’.
Venice in November
Venice in November is quite cold, humid and there’s an higher chance to encounter the ‘acqua alta’. Temperatures range between 10 and 14 °C.
Autumn in Venice is also a great time to visit the city, in particular, if you want to avoid tourists and save some money with your accommodation and flights.
The perks of travelling in November is that you can admire the most beautiful sunsets on a clear day. Some of the best sunset spots are: the St. Mark’s Campanile, Zattere, Rialto Bridge and the Accademia Bridge.
In November in Venice you can also see the fog that gives almost a ghostly appearance to the city. November is the perfect time to visit museums, art galleries, exhibitions and the attractions of St. Mark’s Square.
Venice in December
Venice in December is cold and I suggest travelling with a warm coat and wear wool clothing to protect you from humidity. Temperatures range between 6 and 10 °C.
There are important events happening in December in Venice: the Feast of the Immaculate Conception the 8th of December, Christmas and the New Year’s Eve.
Christmas turns the city into a magical place, festively decorated with lights and it’s the perfect time to join concerts and musical events.
The Fenice Theatre is one of the most important opera theatre in the world and people book years in advance a seat to assist at the New Year’s Eve concert. If you want to learn what else you can do in Venice in December, check out my post.
To recap:
| Month | Temperatures |
| January | 0 – 7 °C |
| February | 6 – 10 °C |
| March | 8 – 15 °C |
| April | 13 – 18 °C |
| May | 18 – 25 °C |
| June | 21 – 26 °C |
| July | 23 – 28 °C |
| August | over 30 °C |
| September | 19 – 25 °C |
| October | 14 – 19 °C |
| November | 10 – 14 °C |
| December | 6 – 10 °C |
Best Time to Visit Venice FAQ Guide
Here are some questions people ask when it comes to the best time to go to Venice:
Best time to visit Venice
Now you should have a better idea of which weather conditions, temperatures, events and things you can do in Venice every month of the year and when it’s the best time to visit Venice.
As you can see, there’s always something going on in this city and the number of things to see and do is endless.
Before you travel, remember to check out the options you have when it comes to getting from Marco Polo airport or Treviso airport to Venice for a smooth ride.
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