Venice is the queen of the Adriatic and the mistress of the canals. Or is it the other way around? Known for its romantic waterways, jaw-dropping architecture, and rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder that tourists flock to this Italian gem like honey bees to black-eyed susan (I’m a gardener, so expect a lot of gardening metaphors on this blog🧑🏾‍🌾). Whether you’re looking for a cozy escape with your better half, a fun-filled family vacay, or a solo adventure, Venice has something for everyone. But hold your gondolas, dear travelers! The best time to visit Venice is as slippery as a gondolier’s oar or your ex you really thought was the one (they’re not 😛), and we’re here to help you navigate the tides of weather, crowds, and budget to ensure your trip is bellissimo. 

I surely love Venetian architecture and the endless and labyrinthine waterways, but personally I can barely stand the crowd. We visited in early September, and the crowd was maddening. Even the locals mumbled under their breath, “Fottuti turisti.” 😳

PERSONAL TIP

Here’s a personal tip that’ll save you some moolah and spare you from the crowds: head to Venice in the winter, from late October until March. Not only will you get to experience the city’s romantic charm without breaking the bank, but you’ll also have the waterways all to yourself (well, almost). So if you want to get the good side of the locals, I highly recommend visiting Venice from mid-March til early April or from late September to mid-October.

And let’s face it, who wants to sweat buckets in a European city during the scorching summer when you could be lounging on a sandy beach or dipping your toes in a picturesque lake? Winter is the new summer, my friends, and Venice is the place to be.

But I’ve Heard Venice Has Floods

Every year, from October to January, Venice puts on a show that’s unlike any other. It’s called “acqua alta,” and it’s when the city’s water levels rise and parts of it flood. Saint Mark’s Square, the lowest point in the city, becomes a lagoon for a brief moment, while the locals wade through the water or strut their stuff on raised walkways like Venice’s own fashion models. Meanwhile, visitors flock to witness the Basilica’s rippling reflection, making for a truly mesmerizing sight.

Now, we know what you’re thinking: “I don’t wanna get my feet wet on my vacay!” But hold your horses, dear travelers, because acqua alta is rarer than a unicorn sighting. You could spend the entire months of November and December in Venice and only experience the flooding once, if at all. 

Plus, autumn and winter are our favorite times to visit the city—the dreamy atmosphere is unparalleled, the crowds are fewer, and the weather’s cool without being frostbite-inducing. 

Weather in Venice 

Venice experiences a temperate climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The city is situated in a lagoon, which makes it prone to fog, particularly during the winter months. The high season for tourism in Venice is from April to October, when the weather is warmer and the days are longer. The winter months from November to March are considered the low season, and the weather is colder and damper.

Summer is the busiest time in Venice, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 86°F) or even hotter 🫠. While the weather is warm and sunny, the humidity can be quite high, which can make it uncomfortable to explore the city during the day. However, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the beaches and the outdoor cafés in Venice. You should also be prepared for high hotel rates and long queues at popular attractions.

Fall and spring are considered the best seasons to visit Venice, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The weather is mild and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the city on foot. Additionally, the crowds are thinner, and the prices are lower than during the peak season. However, you should be prepared for occasional rain showers during these seasons.

Winter in Venice is the least crowded season, and the weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). While the city is quieter during this time, it is still worth visiting as you can experience the winter carnival, which is held in February. 

The carnival is a colorful event that showcases Venetian masks and costumes, street performances, and musical events. Winter is also the perfect time to indulge in hot chocolate and other traditional Venetian cuisine.

PERSONAL TIP

Venice is quite expensive especially during the peak season. Consider staying in the neighboring areas, like Jesolo, to save some precious mollah. We went camping in Jesolo. Or stay in Lido de Venezia otherwise called Venice beach.

Crowds in Venice 

Venice is a popular tourist destination, and the crowds can be overwhelming during the peak season. The peak season is from April to October, with July and August being the busiest months. 

During this time, the crowds are at their highest, and the prices are also at their peak. You should expect long queues at popular attractions and crowded streets, especially around the main tourist spots.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Venice during the off-season or shoulder-seasons. The off-season is from November to March, and the shoulder seasons are April to May and September to October. During these seasons, the crowds are thinner, and the prices are lower than during the peak season. 

However, you should be prepared for occasional rain showers during these seasons.

PERSONAL TIP

If you want to be in the warmer months but you don’t really people, especially tourists like I do, come in early spring, from late March to early April or early fall in late September or early October. Shoulder-seasons are the best to have the best of both worlds.

Events and Festivals 

Venice is known for its vibrant festivals and events, which attract tourists from all over the world. 

The Carnival 

The cherry on top of this Venetian cake is the Carnival, held every February. This shindig is a feast for the eyes and ears, with vibrant masks and costumes, street performances that’ll make you wanna dance in the canals, and music that’ll have you tapping your toes (or feet, if you’re feeling extra festive). Thousands of folks flock to the carnival every year, making it a must-see event that’ll leave you with unforgettable memories and an urge to wear a mask 24/7 (we don’t judge). So come on, folks, let’s get our party hats (or masks) on and join the fun in Venice!

Venice Biennale 

If you thought the Carnival was the only feather in Venice’s festival cap, think again! This city knows how to throw down with not one, but two more fantastic events that’ll make your heart sing (or maybe that’s just the gondoliers).

First up is the Venice Biennale, an art exhibition that attracts international talent every two years. This ain’t no ordinary gallery crawl, folks – expect mind-bending installations, cutting-edge contemporary art, and more creativity than you can shake a paintbrush at.

Regata Storica

If you’re craving some heart-pumping action, the Regata Storica is the event for you. Held on the first Sunday of September, this historic boat race is not for the faint of heart. We’re talking lightning-fast boats, fierce competition, and a whole lotta passion (and maybe a bit of splashy action too).

But that’s not all, folks. You’ll also be treated to some seriously epic Venetian outfits that’ll make you feel like you’re living in a Renaissance painting (minus the plague, thank goodness). So bring your A-game, your loudest cheering voice, and maybe a waterproof poncho just in case. The Regata Storica is a bucket-list event that’ll have you feeling like a Venetian champion in no time. So come on, folks, let’s ride the waves to victory!

Hold on to your wallets, folks! If you’re planning to attend one of Venice’s legendary events, expect prices to be at their peak and crowds to be at their rowdiest. But fear not, with some smart planning and a bit of luck, you can still experience the magic without breaking the bank (or your eardrums from the noise of the crowd).

PERSONAL TIP

Book your tickets and accommodations well in advance to avoid the dreaded sold-out signs and overpriced hotel rooms. Trust us, you don’t want to be stranded in the streets with nothing but a sad carnival mask and a ravenous appetite for cicchetti. So plan ahead, folks, and get ready to immerse yourself in the lively and unforgettable atmosphere of Venice’s most exciting events!

Check some tickets and exciting tours on GetyourGuide or Viator.

Budget considerations 

The best time to visit Venice also depends on your budget. Prices for flights, accommodation, and attractions vary depending on the season. 

During the peak season, prices for flights and accommodation can be significantly higher than during the off-season or shoulder-seasons. If you’re traveling on a budget, it’s recommended to visit Venice during the off-season or shoulder-seasons when the prices are lower.

Other factors to consider apart from weather, crowds, and budget, there are other factors to consider when planning your trip to Venice. For instance, Venice is prone to floods, particularly during the winter months. High tides can cause water levels to rise and flood the streets, making it difficult to navigate the city. 

If you’re visiting Venice during the winter months, it’s recommended to check the weather forecast and tide levels before heading out.

Venice is also known for its air quality issues, particularly during the summer months when the humidity is high. The combination of heat, humidity, and pollution can make it difficult to breathe, especially for people with respiratory issues. 

If you’re sensitive to air pollution, it’s recommended to visit Venice during the off-season or shoulder-seasons when the air quality is better.

PERSONAL TIP

For destinations that require a ticket, book yours in advance, and arrive in the tourist attraction early in the morning. The photo above, that’s the line at around 10AM in the morning. They are available on GetyourGuide or Viator.

Wrap it up

To wrap it up, the best time to visit Venice is as personal as your underwear preference. 😛 If you’re after peace and quiet (and maybe some killer deals), then the off-season and shoulder-seasons are your jam. But if you’re down for a party and ready to let loose, then make sure to mark your calendars for one of Venice’s iconic events and book those tickets and accommodations ahead of time like your life depends on it.

But regardless of when you decide to visit, Venice is like that perfect slice of pizza – always delicious and satisfying, no matter the toppings. Whether you’re strolling through the winding streets, gazing at the stunning architecture, or stuffing your face with local delicacies, this city will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime if you were not too drunk to remember if anything. And maybe a few extra pounds. So get your bags packed, your cameras ready, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime in one of the world’s most beautiful cities – Venice!

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