When to Visit
Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.
January
January in Venice is winter, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 7°C. The city is quieter during this time, offering a peaceful atmosphere to explore without the crowds. There’s a chance of light snowfall, adding to the charm of the city’s canals and historic buildings. This is a perfect time for visiting indoor attractions like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Market. The Venice Carnival begins at the end of the month, a world-renowned festival known for its elaborate masks and costumes, making this a wonderful time to visit for those seeking a cultural experience.
February
Temperatures in Venice during February range from 2°C to 9°C. The city is still quiet early in the month, but the Venice Carnival kicks off, bringing the city to life with vibrant parades, parties, and festivities. The winter chill can be brisk, especially near the water, but it’s a magical time to experience the city’s romantic atmosphere. The Northern Lights aren’t visible in Venice, but the bright, colourful masks and Venetian balls make up for the lack of natural phenomena. It's also a good month to enjoy Venetian cuisine, including hearty dishes like risotto and squid ink pasta.
March
March sees temperatures reaching around 13°C. The weather is still chilly, but the days gradually get longer, and the city starts to awaken from winter. The Venice Carnival typically wraps up by early March, but the festivities linger, especially in quieter spots. The early signs of spring emerge, with flowers beginning to bloom in the Giardini della Biennale. It’s a great time for a stroll through Piazza San Marco and enjoying the view of the Grand Canal without the peak tourist crowds.
April
April brings milder temperatures in Venice, peaking at around 17°C. The days become noticeably longer, with around 12-13 hours of daylight. This is the start of the spring season, making it a lovely time to visit. The city begins to fill with visitors, but the atmosphere is still more relaxed than in the summer months. The Venice Biennale (art exhibition) is just around the corner, making it a great time for art lovers to visit. Outdoor activities like gondola rides and visiting Murano and Burano islands are particularly enjoyable in this pleasant weather.
May
Temperatures in May can hit up to the low 20s, and the weather is generally mild and sunny. The Venice Biennale art exhibition begins, attracting cultural enthusiasts and artists from around the world. The St. Mark’s Square is full of life, and the city’s parks and gardens are blooming. May is an excellent time for sightseeing without the heat of summer, and you can enjoy outdoor cafes along the Grand Canal. It’s a great time for walking tours and visits to less crowded sites like Dorsoduro and Santa Croce.
June
June in Venice sees warmer temperatures, around the mid-20s. The summer crowds begin to arrive, but the city’s beauty and charm make it worth it. The days are long, with 15-16 hours of daylight, making it ideal for exploring. The Venetian Festival kicks off in early June, and the Venetian Regatta on the Grand Canal is a spectacular event to witness. Venice’s nightlife also comes alive during June, with many cafes and restaurants offering outdoor seating with views of the canals.
July
July is the height of summer, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 28°C in Venice. The city can get quite crowded, particularly in touristy spots like St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, but it’s a lively time to visit. The long summer days offer around 16-17 hours of daylight, so there’s plenty of time for sightseeing and enjoying the outdoor events. The Venetian Film Festival is also held in late July, making it an exciting time for cinema lovers. Keep in mind that it can be quite hot and humid, so be prepared for the heat.
August
August in Venice is hot, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It’s one of the warmest months, and the city is very busy with tourists. The humidity can be high, but the evenings cool off slightly. August 15th marks Ferragosto, a national holiday in Italy, and many Venetians head out of the city, which can make it slightly quieter than usual. It’s a great time for enjoying a leisurely gondola ride through the canals or visiting nearby islands like Murano and Lido. Many outdoor concerts and cultural events are held throughout the month.
September
September offers mild temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 24°C. It’s still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities, but the summer crowds start to thin out. The days are still long, with around 12-13 hours of daylight. The Venetian Regatta continues, featuring exciting boat races along the Grand Canal. This is also a great time for exploring Venice’s unique neighbourhoods, like Cannaregio and San Polo, where you can experience the local culture and cuisine without the peak tourist crowds.
October
October in Venice sees cooler temperatures, of up to 18°C. The weather is generally pleasant, with fewer tourists than in the summer months. The fall foliage starts to show in the city’s parks and gardens, and the shorter days (around 9-10 hours of daylight) create a more relaxed atmosphere. Venice’s many museums and art galleries are perfect for indoor exploration, and you can enjoy the Venice Film Festival (if not attended earlier in the year). October is also a great time for visiting the Murano Glass Factory to learn about Venetian craftsmanship.
November
While the weather can be chilly, the city has a unique charm during this time, especially when the fog rolls in over the canals, creating a mysterious and romantic atmosphere. It’s a great time for enjoying cafe dining and exploring Venice’s lesser-known spots, such as the Arsenale and the Jewish Ghetto. The Venetian Marathon is also held in November, drawing athletes from around the world.
December
The days are very short in December, with only about 6-7 hours of daylight. The city gets into the holiday spirit with Christmas markets, decorations, and seasonal events. Venice’s Christmas lights along Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco are a must-see. It’s also the time for winter activities like visiting Murano for glass-making and indulging in delicious Venetian winter foods. The New Year’s Eve celebrations on the Grand Canal are spectacular, making this a magical time to visit.
Our Ratings
Most Recommended
Recommended
Highly Recommended
Not Recommended
