December is a magical time to explore Venice. I’ve spent several winters wandering the city at this time, and it’s a side of Venice most tourists never see.
Early mornings are particularly special: the fog wraps the canals, and you feel as if the city is sharing a secret with you.
The winter adds a festive touch with seasonal decorations all around the city, Christmas lights, and small trattorie serving hearty lagoon-inspired dishes that locals actually enjoy in December.
You’ll find a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, from art galleries, museums, and churches to seasonal markets, concerts, and boat processions.
There’s plenty to do in Venice in December, especially if you enjoy cultural experiences. Visiting museums, attending art exhibitions, and exploring historic churches is easier now because of fewer crowds.
Things to do in Venice in December
This guide will help you make the most of Venice in December, covering practical tips, weather advice, events, food, packing, sightseeing, and even insider insights from someone who’s explored the city during the winter months.
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Is December a good time to visit Venice?
While there isn’t a single “best” month to visit Venice, December has a charm unlike any other season. You can explore the usual top attractions like St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, but also experience activities unique to winter.
During one of my last visits, I stayed at the boutique B&B Bloom Settimo Cielo. The Christmas decorations were delightful, and the cozy atmosphere made mornings with breakfast and a complimentary bottle of Prosecco feel extra special.
The hotel is just a 10-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square and 5 minutes to the Gallerie dell’Accademia, making it easy to enjoy winter sightseeing without rushing.
In early December, Venice is incredibly peaceful. You can enjoy quiet streets and take photographs without crowds. By mid-December, especially around Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the city comes alive with festive spirit — lights, music, and seasonal events — but it’s still far calmer than summer.
The weather in December in Venice
- Venice in December is cold and damp. Average temperatures range from 1 °C (34 °F) at night to 8 °C (46 °F) during the day, though wind chill near the lagoon can make it feel colder.
- Daylight hours: Sunrise is around 7:30–7:50 AM and sunset around 4:30 PM, giving roughly 8–9 hours of daylight. Plan your sightseeing accordingly.
- Rain and fog: Rain is occasional; fog is more frequent, especially in early mornings. Snow is rare but possible.
- Acqua alta (high tide): High tide occurs more often in winter, particularly in November and December, due to the scirocco wind and seasonal tidal changes. Low-lying areas like St. Mark’s Square and Rialto are affected. Elevated walkways are installed when necessary. Check forecasts at Centro Previsioni e Segnalazioni Maree and consider bringing waterproof boots.
- Clothing tips: Layered warm clothes (wool or thermal fabrics), waterproof boots, gloves, hat, scarf, and a small travel umbrella.
⚠️ Remember to carry a secure bag like this one I use from Pacsafe for its anti-theft features, so your belongings stay safe from pickpockets operating here.
Can you ride a gondola in December?
Yes! Gondolas operate year-round. The main advantage of visiting in December is fewer tourists, meaning shorter waits and a quieter experience. Even around St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, rides are much more relaxed.
Typical gondola costs:
- Daytime (up to 5 people): €90
- Evening (7 PM–8 AM): €110
You can split the cost with others or book a private ride. For a more informative experience, I recommend the Grand Canal Gondola Ride with app commentary, which guides you past Venetian palaces and historic sites as you glide along the canals.
Pro tip: Bring a scarf like this one or shawl for the evening. It gets colder on the water.
Things to do in Venice in December
December transforms Venice into a festive and cultural wonderland. From Christmas markets to concerts, here’s a full guide to the top activities and experiences, with practical tips and local insights.
1. Ponte dell’Immacolata (8th December)
The Immaculate Conception is celebrated on 8th December and marks the official start of the Christmas season in Venice. One of the most charming ways to experience this is by watching water processions along the Grand Canal.
Local boats carry artistic installations depicting the Nativity, floating past historic palaces and bridges. The processions typically start from Piazzale Roma and Ca’ Giustiniani, ending near the Rialto fish market.
Practical tips:
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the canal edges.
- Bring a warm coat and gloves. Mornings are chilly, especially on the water.
- Combine this with a visit to Murano, where the “Christmas of Glass” exhibition displays works from master glassmakers. It’s quieter in December than summer, so you can really enjoy the craftsmanship.
2. Venice Christmas Markets
Venice comes alive with Christmas markets in December. These markets aren’t just tourist attractions. They reflect local holiday traditions and showcase artisans from across the lagoon.
- Venice: There are no Christmas markets in Venice historic centre, head to Lido of Venice, Mestre or Marghera to experience the traditional markets.
- Mestre: Mestre: Piazza Ferretto and Via Piave markets run from the 21st of November till the 6th of January.
Practical tips:
- Go during weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Bring cash for small stalls; many don’t take cards.
- Try Venetian specialties like cicchetti with seasonal toppings or roasted chestnuts.
3. Ice skating in Campo San Polo
Campo San Polo hosts one of the largest ice rinks in Venice every winter, open December to March.
- Prices: Non-residents pay €12 for adults and €10 for children under 12, which includes skate rental.
- Duration: Each session lasts about 1.5 hours.
Practical tips:
- Wear warm layers, gloves, and a hat.
- The rink is well-lit in the evenings, creating a magical atmosphere surrounded by historic buildings.
- Families, couples, and friends all enjoy this festive activity. It’s also a great opportunity to meet locals.
Local insight: Try it on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowd.
4. Christmas concerts
Venice’s churches and theatres host numerous Christmas concerts throughout December. From traditional carols to classical performances, there’s something for every music lover.
- La Fenice Theatre: Renowned for its holiday concerts, including the prestigious Concerto di Capodanno.
- Local churches: Many host smaller, intimate performances featuring traditional carols or works by visiting international choirs.
Practical tips:
- Book tickets in advance, especially for La Fenice.
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to find a good seat.
- Check programs online: some concerts focus on organ music, others on full orchestras or choral ensembles.
Local insight: Venetians often attend church concerts rather than large public shows, making this a chance to experience the city as locals do.
5. New Year’s eve celebrations
St. Mark’s Square is the hub of New Year’s Eve festivities in Venice. Thousands gather to watch live performances, countdowns, and fireworks over the lagoon.
Practical tips:
- Arrive hours before midnight to secure a good spot.
- Dress very warmly. Evenings can drop below 0°C.
- Combine the evening with a nearby dinner reservation; many restaurants offer special New Year menus.
Alternative: For a quieter celebration, attend the La Fenice New Year concert, which offers an elegant and less crowded way to ring in the year.
Local insight: Venetians balance large celebrations with smaller family gatherings, so you’ll notice the city has both lively public events and cozy local traditions.
6. Panettone and hot chocolate
December is the season for festive treats. Venetian pastry shops display panettone (dome-shaped sweet bread with candied fruit) and pandoro (star-shaped, vanilla-scented cake).
Where to try:
- Rosa Salva
- Emilio Colussi
- Tonolo
For drinks, thick, creamy hot chocolate is ideal to warm up on chilly afternoons:
- VizioVirtù
- Tonolo
- Dal Mas (near the train station)
Local insight: Venetians often enjoy panettone or pandoro with a cup of their favourite hot drink, whether it’s a cappuccino, hot chocolate or tea, pairing tradition with a daily ritual. This is a time to relax, sit down in a café and watch the festive streets.
7. Nativity scenes (Santo Stefano, 26th December)
Santo Stefano is a public holiday in Italy, celebrated the day after Christmas. Visiting presepi (nativity scenes) is a cherished tradition.
- Churches: Scalzi Church and Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari have elaborate displays.
- Burano: Famous for its floating nativity outside the old Pescheria.
Local insight: Even if you’re not religious, seeing the presepi is a cultural experience. Some include local figures, historic Venetian settings, and intricate handcrafts.
Practical tip: These displays are usually free to visit but go earlier in the day to avoid small crowds, particularly on Santo Stefano.
Packing List for Venice in December
- Warm layers (thermal tops, wool jumpers)
- Waterproof coat and boots
- Gloves, scarf, hat
- Small travel umbrella
- Anti-theft bag (e.g., I use this one from Pacsafe)
- Comfortable walking shoes (Women / Men)
- Portable phone charger
Venice in December FAQ
Here are some questions people ask before visiting in Venice:
Tips for visiting Venice in December
- Plan for short daylight hours
- Check acqua alta forecasts
- Stay central to avoid long walks in wet streets
- Book tours in advance during festive weekends
- Try local food: cicchetti, baccalà mantecato, bigoli in salsa, pasta or risotto with radicchio, musetto, cotecchino or zampone with lentils (said to bring good luck in the new year!), seasonal desserts
- Visit early December for quiet streets; late December for festive events
Things to do in Venice in December
December in Venice offers a rare combination of festive spirit, peaceful streets, and cultural immersion. Dress warmly, plan indoor activities, allow time to wander, and you’ll experience Venice in a way most visitors never do.
Other useful guides:
- Visiting Venice in winter
- Christmas in Venice 2025
- Where to stay in Venice
- How to get from Marco Polo Airport to Venice
- Venice neighbourhood maps
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