Venice, a city of unparalleled beauty and romance, is a must-see destination for discerning travellers. However, the time of year you visit Venice can vastly shape your experience. To ensure your trip is nothing short of magical, we’re here to answer the question, “When is the best time to visit Venice?” Then, all that’s left to do is decide which of our exquisite properties will suit your stay.
What's the Best Time to Visit Venice by Season?
The best time to visit Venice, Italy, depends on what you’re looking for. The weather varies considerably, with everything from bitter frosts to beating summer sun.
Venice in Spring
Venice’s spring weather is mild, ranging from 15 to 22 degrees Celsius during the day. Nights are colder, reaching lows of 4 °C. By the end of May, the water warms up enough for swimming season to begin.
Because of the weather, there are fewer crowds in Spring. If you don’t mind a bit of drizzle, this makes it an ideal time for sightseeing.
March and April see Easter celebrations taking over the city, with April’s Feast of St Mark being one of the most important events annually. In May, the famous Vogalonga regatta takes place. For art lovers, the Biennale Arte opens in April.
Venice in Summer
With temperatures often exceeding 30 °C, summer Venice is for those who like it hot. Thanks to the city’s watery location, the air is humid and can feel very close and stuffy.
Despite the heat, summer is the most popular time for tourists. The streets are packed with day-trippers, so expect big crowds, especially around the well-known spots. Things calm down as the sun dips below the horizon. For this reason, after-hours guided tours are a great way to explore—and more romantic, too. The balmy temperatures make it the perfect time for a moonlit gondola ride or stroll along the canals.
As far as events go, you’re spoiled for choice. The Feast of the Redeemer is famous for lighting up the sky with fireworks, while the ancient Feast of the Madonna di Marina is celebrated with concerts, dances, and even a cross-country race. During August, the Festival of Santo Stefano di Portosecco di Pellestrina is one of the most stunning events in Venice. Film buff? The Venice Film Festival marks the end of summer each year, at the Palazzo del Cinema on the Lido.
Venice in Autumn
As peak season ends, the tourists dissipate, leaving the city a lot quieter and more suited to travellers looking for a more tranquil getaway. That being said, Autumn brings with it cooler temperatures and storms. Late Autumn is especially prone to floods.
Temperatures sit around 11 to 20 °C during the day and go from around 15 °C during September to as low as 4 °C in November at night.
The Historic Regatta is the big Autumn event, with impressive costumes and bright colours making up the pre-race pageant spectacle.
Venice in Winter
Venice in winter is an enchanting time, with fewer tourists and more of a serene atmosphere. While you do benefit from fewer crowds, be prepared for freezing temperatures and dark days. Expect as little as 3 hours of sun per day, as well as icy winds, rain, and even snow.
If you can brave the weather, Christmas and New Year are magical in Venice. San Marco is transformed into a market wonderland of hot wine, gifts, and traditional wooden cabins. In February, the 1000-year-old Venice Carnival gets underway, with its impressive array of costumes, masks, and revelry.
The Charm of Venetian Festivals
Venice’s festivals are a highlight of any visit. They happen all year round, so there are plenty of chances to get involved. From epic masquerade parties to parades, dances, feasts, and of course rowing, there’s an endless supply of culture.
Planning Around Peak Tourist Times
Not a fan of crowds? Then summer is not the best time of year to visit Venice. The sheer volume of people can be overwhelming and shocking compared to the romantic picture of Venice you’ve seen in movies.
Some top tips are to pre-book activities, tours, and excursions. Keep your wits about you and, as with any major city, keep a close eye on your belongings. For gondola rides, board somewhere out of the centre where it’s quieter, and you won’t get stuck in a gondola traffic jam.
Budgeting for Your Venice Trip by Season
As you’d imagine, prices inflate around the busy summer months. You can expect to pay €90 for a half-hour gondola ride during the day. This increases to €110 between 7 pm and 3 am and the rates are fixed.
Generally speaking, summer is the most expensive, followed by Carnival and Christmas.
Plan Your Dream Venice Getaway Now
So, when is the best time to visit Venice? Ultimately, it depends on your preferences for weather, events, and crowds. Book your luxury accommodation with us today and start getting excited about your journey to this timeless city of art and romance.
