Things to do in Venice in May 2026

Are you considering visiting Venice in May?

May is one of the best months to experience Venice. The city fully comes to life in late spring, with longer days, mild temperatures and a lively atmosphere.

It’s an ideal time if you want to explore beyond the main sights, enjoy long walks through quieter neighbourhoods and take advantage of the season’s events and outdoor dining.

Venice in May at a glance:

• Weather: Mild to warm, with average temperatures between 15–24°C
• Crowds: Busy, the first Biennale days and towards the end of the month
• Vibe: Lively, social and outdoorsy
• Best for: Sightseeing, island hopping, food experiences and evening aperitivo by the canals

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip, from what to expect in May to key events and practical travel tips to make the most of your time in Venice.

Are you visiting Venice in May?

For many travellers planning a spring city break, Venice in May is one of the best times to visit Italy and enjoy a few well-deserved days away.

As someone who has explored Venice throughout the seasons, I can confidently say that May offers a fantastic balance of warm weather, long daylight hours and a vibrant atmosphere across the city.

May is a wonderful time to experience Venice’s most famous attractions, wander through its narrow calli for hours and enjoy the city at a slower pace.

If you want to explore beyond the tourist trail and uncover hidden gems, my neighbourhood maps and guides can help you achieve that!

The weather is often warm enough to spend most of the day outdoors, whether that means taking long walks, enjoying an aperitivo by the canals, or joining a boat tour around the Venetian lagoon.

It is also one of the best months for exploring beyond the historic centre, with perfect conditions for visiting the islands, taking day trips across the Veneto region and joining special seasonal experiences.

With cultural events like the Biennale, outdoor activities and longer evenings, visiting Venice in May is ideal for making the most of everything the city and its surroundings have to offer.

Is May a good month to visit Venice?

Yes, May is one of the best months to visit Venice.

Here’s why:

• Warm and pleasant weather: Temperatures typically range from 15–24°C, with plenty of sunny days, ideal for walking, outdoor dining and exploring the city at a relaxed pace.
• Perfect for day trips and the lagoon: Great conditions for joining a tour of Murano and Burano and other islands, as well as exploring towns across the Veneto region.
• Lively atmosphere: The city feels vibrant, with longer days, busy squares and a full calendar of events.
• Cultural events: May often includes important art events like the Biennale but also local traditions such as the Festa della Sensa and the Vogalonga, offering a deeper connection to Venetian culture.
• Busy but manageable crowds: While it’s a popular month, it’s still more enjoyable than peak summer if you plan ahead and explore beyond the main areas.

I recommend booking your accommodation at least 2–3 months in advance, especially when Biennale events are on and towards the end of the month.

Weather in Venice in May

Average temperatures in Venice during May range from 15–24°C (59–75°F), with many days feeling warm and occasionally reaching early summer temperatures.

Rainfall is generally low, with mostly sunny days and only occasional showers. The longer daylight hours and mild evenings make it ideal for spending time outdoors, whether you’re exploring the city on foot or visiting the islands.

What to pack for Venice in May:

• Light clothing (t-shirts, dresses, linen shirts)
• Layers (light jumpers or cardigans for evenings)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Light jacket (for cooler evenings)
• Compact umbrella (just in case)
• Crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack
• Swimsuit (if planning to visit nearby beaches like Lido or Jesolo).

I recommend packing light but focusing on layers, so you can stay comfortable throughout the day as temperatures shift from warm afternoons to slightly cooler evenings.

Is Venice expensive in May?

May is considered part of the high season in Vences for accommodation and flights tend to be higher compared to early spring.

As demand increases—especially across weekends and important cultural events—hotels in central areas can book up quickly.

That said, with a bit of planning and compromises, it’s still possible to find good options. Booking at least 2–3 months in advance will give you access to better rates and a wider choice of locations.

Bottom line: Venice in May isn’t the cheapest time to visit, but the weather, atmosphere and overall experience make it worth the higher cost.

Is Venice flooded in May?

May is generally a very low-risk month for flooding in Venice. Acqua alta is rare at this time of year, as it typically occurs during the autumn and winter months.

If it does happen, it’s usually very minor, short-lived and limited to low-lying areas like parts of St Mark’s Square. Raised walkways are set up quickly when needed.

Bottom line: Flooding should not be a concern when visiting Venice in May. It’s one of the safest months in terms of water levels and overall conditions.

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What to do in Venice in May

Note, these are only suggestions for the month of May, I still suggest you read my guide on things to do in Venice to get the full picture on what’s on offer here.

1. Attend the Vogalonga regatta

The Vogalonga is a non-competitive event during which different rowing boats can participate. The event was born in honour of the Venetian rowing tradition and represents a much-awaited event for locals and tourists alike.

More precisely, it dates back to the year 1975 by the will of Venetians that didn’t want to lose the use of rowing boats, now widely replaced by motorboats.

Did you know that every year, thousands of people attend the Vogalonga from all over the world to compete?

The route of the competition is about 40 kilometres to complete without the help of the boat engine. It starts in Piazza San Marco and ends at Punta della Dogana. The route see the racers rowing along by many islands in the Venetian lagoon such as Sant’Erasmo, San Francesco del Deserto, Burano and Murano.

2. Travel back to the Serenissima Republic days during the Festa della Sensa

This celebration takes place on the day of the Ascension of Christ (Sènsa in the Venetian language) and represents an anniversary of an ancient tradition of the Republic of Venice.

For more than a thousand years, the rite of the Marriage of the Sea has taken place on this occasion and symbolizes the Venetian supremacy over the waters.

This occurrence dates back to the year 1177 when Pope Alessandro III and the emperor Frederick Barbarossa through the mediation of the doge’s Alessandro Ziani, signed a peace treaty. On this occasion, the pope gave a ring to Venice defining it ‘queen of the seas’.

Today, the festival is characterized by a re-enactment of this ancient ceremony, accompanied by regattas in which traditional costumes are worn. Even the Venetian mayor takes part in the celebrations as well as residents and tourists.

3. Enjoy Venice from its rooftops and best view points

There’s nothing better than admiring the beauty of Venice from above. To do that, there are many hotel rooftops, palaces and even the most important bell tower, the Campanile di San Marco which offer you the chance to get panaormic city views.

In fact, you’ll quickly learn that the Campanile offers the best bird-eye view and not only of Venice itself but the entire Venetian lagoon.

Aside from the view from Rialto Bridge and Accademia Bridge which are two of the most famous bridges in Venice if you want to get some of the best views over Venice and the lagoon, head over to the Campanile of San Giorgio Maggiore (note: unfortunately San Giorgio Campanile is currently closed).

Located on the island just opposite St Mark’s Square, you can easily reach it by vaporetto line 2. There’s also a lovely cafè called San Giorgio Cafè where you can have a coffee or a refreshing drink while you keep enjoying the lagoon views.

If you’re been reading this this blog, it’s no secret that there are some astonishing rooftop terraces and popular 5-star hotels in Venice that offer amazing city views.

At the top of the list, there’s Terrazza Danieli which belongs to Hotel Danieli and is known as the highest terrace in the city, then you have the rooftop terrace at H10 Palazzo Canova with views over the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge where you can sip a refreshing cocktail during the day.

4. Explore the city markets

If you really want to get to know a city, there is certainly no better way than visiting its markets, where you can discover its everyday life and most authentic soul.

Immersing yourself in the characteristic atmosphere of the local markets in Venice is an excellent way to discover different areas of the city and some of the most famous squares in Venice called ‘campi’ where most local markets usually take place.

The Rialto Market is one of the most important markets of the city and the oldest one in Italy. Founded in 1097, it is a must stop in any Venetian itinerary.

It is located near the Rialto Bridge and extends between Campo San Giacometo and Campo de la Pescaria. To learn more, why not join this food and market tour with an expert guide and get to know more about the history of Rialto Market?

Here you can visit both the famous fish market and fruit + vegetable market.

Other markets worth visiting in Venice in May are:

• Rio Terà San Leonardo market in the Cannaregio neighbourhood.
• Via Garibaldi market in the Castello district.
• Vegetable & Fish Market at Campo Santa Margherita.
• Floating market Campo San Barnaba, in the Dorsoduro neighbourhood.

5. Visit Venice Lido, the closest beach to the city

Among the places to visit in Venice, Lido certainly deserves some attention. Lido is an island in the Venetian lagoon, more specifically a strip of coastline overlooking the Adriatic Sea and an elegant and refined seaside resort.

Lido is the Venetian’s beach par excellence and here you can spend a day away from the chaos of the historic centre and hit-and-run tourists. Enjoy a day at the beach, spend time surrounded by nature and walk among beautiful Liberty Villas.

The only way to get there is by water and the water bus lines arriving to Lido are: the line 1, 2 (seasonal), 5.1, 5.2 and 6 leaving from Piazzale Roma and Santa Lucia railway station and the lines 10 and 14 leaving from St. Mark’s Square.

Among the best things to do in Lido, you should: visit the church of San Nicolò, explore Malamocco village, the Jewish cemetery and go to the island by bike, which I believe is the best way to discover all its best bits and hidden corners.

6. Walk around the lesser touristic neighbourhoods

Getting around Venice on foot is always a unique experience as it allows you to discover the more authentic sides of the city. Whilst exploring Venice in May, it’s crucial to wear comfortable footwear and carry a packet of blister plasters with you.

Also, dress in layers since the mornings are cool but during the day, temperatures can go over 22 °C on a clear sunny day. Some of the best walking itineraries in Venice unravel in the lesser touristic neighbourhoods and off-the-beaten-track.

The Dorsoduro district is loved by art and architecture aficionados, students and residents since not many tourists reach most of its piazzas and narrow streets.

Then there’s the Cannaregio district, full of picturesque alleyways and bridges, with bacari mainly frequented by locals and where you can visit the Jewish Ghetto.

Finally, you can reach Punta della Dogana where you can visit the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute and enjoy views over the Grand Canal and the Doge’s Palace.

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 that prowl the streets.

7. Go on a bacaro tour!

What is a bacaro tour? It literally means to wander from one bacaro to another. During the tour, you avoid the expensive and touristic places and only stop at the most traditional taverns. After all, all this walking and no eating takes it’s toll, right?

A bacaro is a small locally-run tavern, often characterized by a dark ambiance and where you can try the ombra de vin (glass of local wine).

Here locals love meeting up to eat some Cicchetti, small bread bites topped with cheeses, seasonal vegetables and cured meats or seafood and have a chat.

Some bacari also sell mozzarella in carrozza, polpette (meatballs) and (perfectly) fried lagoon fishes. You can also order an Aperol Spritz or a Prosecco wine in a glass, just like the locals do. Andar per bacari doesn’t mean getting drunk, but to use it as an excuse to catch up with friends with a glass of wine and a few snacks.

Only locals know where the best bacari are, but I’m spilling the beans and pinned some of the best spots in my 6 bacari walking maps, one for each neighbourhood of the city where you can eat fantastic cicchetti and drink regional wines and Spritz like a real Venetian.

If you want to sample the best Venetian street food, then I recommend this small group street food tour during which you’ll be accompanied by a local guide.

📅 Venice Events in May 2026

Note: You can find out about more events and exhibitions by consulting the Venezia Unica website.

Making the most of Venice in May

May is one of the best months to experience Venice if you are looking for warm weather, a lively atmosphere and long days that are perfect for exploring the city on foot.

With temperatures that often feel close to early summer, it’s an ideal time to spend hours wandering through Venice’s neighbourhoods, visiting the islands of the lagoon and enjoying the city’s outdoor spaces at a slower pace.

While May is a popular month, you can still avoid the biggest crowds by planning ahead and booking access to major attractions such as St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace in advance. I also recommend reserving guided tours early, especially if you want to make the most of your time in the city.

It’s also a great month for day trips to Murano, Burano and other parts of the Veneto region, thanks to the stable weather and longer daylight hours.

With its combination of cultural events, outdoor experiences and seasonal energy, Venice in May offers a vibrant yet still balanced way to experience the city at its best.

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