As one of Italy’s most beautiful and historic cities, there is plenty to see and do during a trip to Venice. The best time to visit “The Floating City” depends entirely on what you want from your experience. Whether it’s fewer crowds at top attractions like Piazza San Marco or soaking up traditional Venetian culture during the Venice Carnival, this month-by-month guide to Venice has everything you need to know. From weather to crowds, prices, and cultural events, discover the best time to visit Venice that fits your preferences.
Choosing the best time to go to Venice
April to June and September to October are perfect for enjoying mild weather conditions and thinner crowds than during the peak summer months. However, if you’re traveling on a budget and don’t mind compromising on weather, winter is a great time to visit the famous “Floating City.”
Best time for foodies
August is a great time to visit Venice and experience the freshest flavors of local fruits and vegetables. Eggplants and tomatoes are in season, and you can enjoy them in classic dishes such as bruschetta, caprese salad, and eggplant parmesan.
Alternatively, October is the best month to go to Venice to experience harvest. This is an excellent time for seasonal produce such as grapes, olives, chestnuts, and truffles.
Best time for people on a budget
Avoid the peak tourist season if you’re visiting Venice on a budget. November, January, or February are the best months to go if you want to save some money and don’t mind compromising on the weather.
Best time for sightseeing
Want to check out Venice’s most iconic sights? Visit the city in spring or fall. From April to June and September to early October, you will experience pleasant yet mild weather and fewer crowds than during the peak tourist season of July and August.
Venice throughout the seasons
Spring in Venice
March to May
Spring in Venice is mild and sunny, with showers throughout the month. Crowds are lower than during the peak summer season, making this the best time of the year to visit for sightseeing. Take advantage of the good weather and thin crowds to explore the narrow Venetian streets at your leisure.
Summer in Venice
June to August
Summer is Venice’s peak tourist season, so expect hot weather and big crowds. This might not be the ideal time for sightseeing, but there are plenty of lively cultural events and concerts taking place in the city that are worth checking out. One of the most famous is the Festa del Redentore, which takes place on the third Sunday of July.
Fall in Venice
September to November
Fall in Venice is an excellent time to visit as it is much quieter than summer, but the weather remains sunny and mild. Fall is also the perfect season to visit for foodies, as the summer produce is reaching its peak, so you can enjoy the freshest, finest produce.
Winter in Venice
December to February
Winter in Venice is the cheapest and quietest season to visit. However, it is also the coldest time of the year, so pack your layers. Discover plenty of indoor activities or immerse yourself in the festive spirit by enjoying Christmas Markets, traditional religious services, or the festive lights. January begins with a New Year’s swim, where thousands of people dip into the chilly waters of Lido di Venezia. Epiphany and Befana celebrations also offer a lively atmosphere throughout the month.