Venice in winter: is it worth visiting?

Last updated on September 14th, 2026.

I first visited Venice in winter while at university.

The setting was everything I’d imagined and I was immediately captivated by the mysterious island city on the water.

Venice in winter - Venetian house

Many years later, I find myself living not just in Veneto but also around 45 minutes from Venice.

Because of this, I'm in a sound position to offer local advice, not just on visiting Venice in winter, but on planning a trip to Italy more broadly.


Why visit Venice?

Venice appeals to travelers on every level and belongs firmly on any Italy bucket list.

It's a place where couples can get lost in the side streets of Murano and Burano, as well as in each other.

For families visiting Italy with tweens or with a baby, Venice offers a real, hands-on introduction to art, history and architecture.

Day trips from Venice are plentiful and easy to reach.

A short ferry ride from Piazzale di Roma takes you to Lido di Venezia, home to the international Venice Film Festival, Liberty-style villas and a sandy beach.


When winter arrives in Venice

While summer brings the heat and masses of people, winter in Venice brings calm and far fewer visitors. As much as I like warmer weather, I prefer the stillness and mystery of Venice in winter.

When the cold season arrives in Venice, the city becomes even more alluring. At times, it feels closer to visiting a quiet town or village in Veneto than the Venice most people picture.

It's a season where you can take full advantage of quieter streets and endless, uninterrupted photo opportunities.

Venice canal in winter - Venice in winter

How cold does Venice get in winter?

Winter weather in Venice can range from heavy rain to snow when temperatures really dip. 

But, amidst the rain and snaps, there are also plenty of sunny, if bitterly cold, days.

Personally, we prefer visiting in November over December. Average temperatures that month range from highs of around 53.6°F (12°C) during the day to lows of 41°F (5°C) at night.


Does it snow in Venice?

Yes, it can, though it's not guaranteed every winter.

Snow is most likely in December and January, when temperatures regularly drop close to freezing overnight.

That said, snowfall in Venice tends to be light and doesn't stick around long, given the city's proximity to the sea.

Personally, we've been lucky on our own winter visits, with plenty of sunshine and dry weather rather than snow.

But don't let that fool you. Pack for the possibility, especially if you're visiting in December or January, since a light dusting can turn Piazza San Marco into one of the most photogenic scenes in Italy.

⏩️ Read: What to wear in Italy as a local

Canal in Venice with houses on either side - Venice in winter
Enjoy scenes like this in Venice in winter

Venice in December

In Venice in December, average temperatures drop further to around 46.4°F (8°C) during the day, falling to lows of 33.8°F (1°C) at night.

To say it's cold in December is putting it lightly.

It's similar to what we experienced visiting Iceland in November, but wetter. Mornings are chilly and misty, and the chance of snow is real (see above).

That said, we’ve been lucky so far when visiting during winter in Italy, experiencing mostly sunshine and dry weather. For us, Venice has always been a great winter sunshine destination in Europe.

Truthfully, Venice in winter can get really cold, but pack the right clothing, dress appropriately and you’ll be fine.


Venice like in January

January in Venice is, in my opinion, a great time of year to visit. The weather can be hit or miss since it's typically a month known for cold, wet conditions.

During one visit, daytime temperatures reached a maximum of 42.8°F (6°C), falling to around 33.8°F (1°C) at night. The winds add an extra chill factor in winter, so the 'feels like' temperature can drop even further.

Venice in winter - gondolas in a row

Are services open in Venice in January?

One of the bigger downsides to visiting in January is that many hotels and restaurants close for the season. It's a typical feature of low season, which also tends to bring more construction work.

See also  12 best things to do in Vicenza in 1 day

That means you might find monuments in Piazza San Marco covered in scaffolding, along with other works around the city.

On the plus side, plenty of places stay open, and they're likely to be less crowded too. It might mean walking and exploring a little more to find them, but that's part of the appeal.

Be cautious with what Google Maps shows for a restaurant or cafe's opening hours. A listing might say 'open' when it isn't. That's not usually Google's fault, but the property owner not keeping their information updated.

Museums, churches and general exhibitions are typically open in Venice in January. If there's a specific place or exhibition you want to see, check its website in advance.

Jump to:

Why winter is a good time to get around Venice


Vaporetto (water bus) 

With fewer crowds in winter, there's noticeably more space on the vaporetto (see how to use the vaporetto).

I prefer to stand for the best uninterrupted views of Venice, and to photograph the stillness of the city.


Gondolas

Gondolas are one of Venice's most iconic features.

It's a beautiful, unique way to see the city, but not the cheapest. Though, come winter, there's more chance of paying less than during peak season.

Venice in winter - Gondola factory
See where they build the iconic gondolas

I've passed plenty of gondoliers offering reduced prices every time I visit in January; some, honestly, come across a little desperate.

Because of this, winter might just be ideal to tick off a gondola tour of Venice, or for a different experience entirely, try learning how to row like a gondolier.


Water taxis

Another option is the water taxi, like this one from Venice Marco Polo airport. It can be costly, but it seats up to 10 people, so splitting the cost is an option.

Unlike gondolas, I haven't (yet) come across water taxis offering discounted winter rates. But, with fewer visitors around, lower prices are more likely.

Venice in winter - water taxi Venice
Split the fare for a water taxi in Venice

On foot

Exploring Venice on foot, alone, or on a guided walking tour, is one of the better ways to experience the city, even in colder weather.

Comfortable footwear is essential, since you’ll be walking a lot. In winter in northern Italy, choose something that keeps your feet warm and dry while still looking the part.

We are after all in northern Italy.

Venice in winter - gondolas waiting
Gondoliers wait for your custom

Why winter is a good time to eat out in Venice

The Veneto region is known for its comfort-style Italian cooking, the kind of dishes made for winter.

One seasonal ingredient I can’t get enough of is radicchio tardivo di Treviso. Produced in the neighboring namesake city of Treviso (see things to do in Treviso), it's a huge upgrade from anything sold packaged.

We like to eat it in several ways: in a salad with olive oil, salt and balsamic vinegar, or 'saltato nella padella' (sauteed in the pan) with simple seasoning.

Radicchio Tardivo di Treviso in a crate - Venice in winter
A seasonal and Venetian winter staple, radicchio from Treviso

Breakfast in Venice

With all the walking you’ll be doing in Venice, it's worth recharging your batteries at one of the city's many pasticceria (patisserie).

Expect rich pastries, buttery brioche (croissant) and specialty cakes; it'd be a crime not to try one or two.

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Campo Santa Margherita has many good pasticceria that aren't overly crowded. Come in the morning for an Italian breakfast or in the afternoon for a tea or coffee break.

Venice in winter - dining outside
Get the best table, and view, during Venice in winter

Where to eat lunch in Venice

Rather than dining at a standard restaurant, try eating like a local at a cicchetteria.

In winter, many are noticeably quieter, meaning a more relaxed dining experience.

Cicchetti are small snacks or side dishes, hot or cold, baked or fried. They're similar to tapas, and budget friendly, with some starting from €1.50.

Many bars, known as bacari serve their own versions, and some offer vegetarian and vegan options too. Simply put, they're among the best food to try in Italy (in my opinion).

Cicchetti in Venice - Venice in winter
Trying a few cicchetti in Venice is a must

Once you find a good cicchetteria, order at least three items. Pair it with a glass of local wine and take your time in the surroundings.

Some of my favorite cicchetti places in Venice include:

  • El Sbarlefo San Pantalon, Calle San Pantalon, 3757
  • Ostaria Dai Zemei, San Polo 1045
  • Majer, Calle Larga, 1630
  • Bakarò, Dorsoduro, 3662
Toast cicchetti on a tray in Venice Italy

What desserts to try in Venice

The period between Christmas and carnival brings with it a real spread of seasonal desserts. Frittelle are balls of fried dough, usually filled with Chantilly cream or zabaglione.

As with the cicchetti scene, it takes some trial and error to find a pasticceria that makes them well.

Another seasonal sweet is crostoli. Sweet, crispy pastries dusted with sugar are a common sight during Carnival in February.

Fritelle with zabaglione on display - visiting Venice in winter
Frittelle are a favorite Venetian treat during winter and carnival

Where to have dinner in Venice

Visiting in the colder months comes with a real advantage: easier reservations at top restaurants, thanks to lower demand during the off-peak season.

It's a good chance to sample excellent Venetian cooking without the usual competition for a table.

Dinner at La Colombina Venice - Venice in winter
Our seafood salad starter
Risotto at La Colombina Venice - Venice in winter
Enjoy a delicious risotto in Al Colombo in Venice in winter

Some of my favorite restaurants in Venice include Al Colombo and Alle Corone.

Al Colombo is a cozy, unpretentious trattoria, serving fresh seafood alongside traditional Venetian dishes on the menu like bigoli with ragù.

Alle Corone, inside the luxury hotel Hotel Ai Reali, is worth every Euro. Dine on seasonal Venetian cuisine with a view of the gondolas gliding past the window.


Venice feels like yours in winter

Travel to Venice in winter, and it can sometimes feel like the city belongs entirely to you.

Away from Piazza San Marco and the Rialto, other parts of the city, like Castello, are waiting to be discovered.

Explore every narrow street and smaller bridge, stop as often as you like, and take as many photos as you want.

Venice canals at night - Venice in winter

Local life up close

Many visitors forget that people live, work and study in Venice, and in winter, you notice it immediately.

A good example is the gondola-making workshops, only a short distance from the Grand Canal's usual allure, but fascinating to see what happens behind the scenes.

As an amateur photographer, visiting Venice in the off-peak season makes a real difference. No angle of the canal or of the Rialto Bridge ever feels tiresome to photograph.

Instead, scenes come to life, whether during the day or at night. And with a touch of post-production, Venice's colors stand out even more.


Why winter is a good time to book top Venice hotels

Many top hotels reduce their prices during the off-peak season to attract guests, meaning that boutique and luxury stays in Venice become more affordable in winter.

If you're looking for somewhere to stay, these three options suit a range of budgets and tastes.


Novecento Boutique Hotel 

Location is the standout feature at Novecento Boutique Hotel, around 5 minutes to the Gallerie dell’Accademia, and 10 minutes to Piazza San Marco.

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Rooms blend Mediterranean and Oriental design, created by Italian artists and stylists. Thai platform beds and Moroccan carpets sit alongside Venetian marble.

Breakfast is homemade, served buffet-style with produce straight from the market.

Venice in winter - Venice quiet streets

Corte di Gabriela

A 4-star boutique hotel with a modern feel, Corte di Gabriela treats every guest well from the start.

There are 11 suites, ranging from comfort rooms to a generously sized Junior Suite with balcony.

Breakfast consistently earns high reviews. Freshly baked croissants with dark chocolate filling, locally produced ham and Asiago cheese, rounded off with coffee from a local roaster.

For families or larger groups, the hotel's suite apartments accommodate up to 4 people, with daily fresh linens and towels.

The apartments are in a separate building a few meters away from the main hotel, a 'home away from home' feel right in the heart of Venice.

Venice in winter - Venetian style building
Venetian style architecture

The Gritti Palace

For a real sense of luxury, The Gritti Palace is a 5-star, 15th century palace in one of the best locations on the Grand Canal.

Room types range from Patron Canal Suites, with Grand Canal views, marble bathrooms and a walk-in shower, to Venetian guest rooms.

Venetian guest rooms feature Venetian stucco or Rubelli silk walls, Murano glass chandeliers, and historical oil paintings.

Whichever room you choose, it's the kind of stay you'll remember.

Lisa Rivera standing in Venice - Venice in winter

The hotel's spa is worth a mention too.

Two double suites with private steam baths decorated in Venetian mosaics, offering couple’s massages, facials and foot baths.

Looking for more options? My guide to where to stay in Venice covers accommodation by budget and neighborhood.


Map: Venice in winter

Here's a map of the places mentioned in this guide.

Where I ate, where I’d recommend staying, and a few quieter corners worth exploring away from the crowds.


Is Venice worth visiting in winter?

If there's one thing that sums up why winter works so well in Venice, it's the crowds, or rather, the lack of them.

The period before Christmas and after the New Year is when I most enjoy visiting.

Thinking about the sheer number of people who flock to Venice in summer is enough to bring on a wave of anxiety. The crowds at Piazzale Roma alone, whether arriving, departing, or lining up to buy vaporetto tickets are only the start.

Then there’s boarding the vaporetto itself, packed in among sweaty tourists.

Row of gondolas at night - Venice in winter

Winter is a far more relaxed affair.

Sure, you'll get the occasional irate Venetian raising their voice in their local dialect. But, it’s nothing compared to the noise levels of summer.

Between the fewer crowds, quieter transport, easier restaurant bookings, better hotel rates, winter is one of the better times to experience Venice.

Add to that the feeling of having the city to yourself, and cold weather starts to feel like a small price to pay.


FAQs

How cold does Venice get in winter?

In Venice in December, average temperatures reach around 8°C (46.4°F) during the day, dropping to around 1°C (33.8°F) at night. Mornings are chilly, and the chance of snow is possible. canal with buildings in thick fog in Venice Italy in winter

What is Venice like in January?

Average daily temperatures reach 6°C (42.8°F), falling to around 1°C (33.8°F) at night, wind chill can make it feel colder still. Some hotels and restaurants close in January in Venice, but most attractions remain open.

What is the best month to visit Venice in winter?

November tends to offer the mildest temperatures, while December and January bring the coldest weather, occasional snow and good hotel deals.

Is Venice in winter worth visiting?

Yes. You'll find far fewer crowds, better hotel rates, easier restaurant bookings, and a quieter, more atmospheric version of the city, even with the colder weather.

What are your thoughts on this Italy travel guide of visiting Venice in winter? Would you like to visit during the colder months? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

Written by Lisa Rivera: Italy traveler and resident for 10+ years. First-hand researched for 2026.

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canal with buildings in thick fog in Venice Italy in winter

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140 Comments

  1. I've been to Venice in February for the Carnival when it's crowded again but still better than during summer. I can't imagine snowing in Venice, we had a lovely weather and enjoyed some of the authentic Venice as we escaped the tourist routes close to the Grand Canal.

    1. That's the best thing to do Anda; Venice has so many little side streets that it's possible to escape the large crowds. I'm glad you've experienced visiting in winter 🙂

  2. I love Venice. I didn't think I would, but it was so wonderful once you escape the hordes of tourists. Lovely article.

  3. Ok, you have convinced us to go in winter. Just don’t twist our arms anymore! I thought it was packed with people all year. Excellent photos too!

  4. Wow! To see Venice without massive amounts of tourists?? For some reason I thought there would be tourists all year round. Now I know when to visit 🙂 🙂 (Also, as always, the food pics look DELICIOUS!!)

  5. I still haven’t been to Venice, but winter seems to be my time. Less crowds, cheaper 4 star hotels, and soul warming food. These are all my language. I’m enticed.

  6. Never been and hope to visit before tourism will be restricted because of environmental pollution. I love off-peak travel for all reasons stated: less tourists, empty attractions, affordable everything.

  7. Excellent post Lisa! I’ve always only visited Venice in the summer, but now I want to give it a try in winter too! Love your photos with the winter lighting and night shots.

    1. Aw thanks Jenny, so glad you enjoyed it 🙂 I love photographing Venice, it's really a dream 🙂

  8. Your night photos are stunning! Venice is one of our family’s favorite cities in the world - and would love to return in the winter for this tranquil experience. And I wanna learn how to row like a gondolier!

  9. Great photos Lisa. The winter light and quite streets.... I wouldn't hesitate to visit Venice in the winter after reading your post

  10. We enjoy visiting Venice in winter for these exact reasons. One year St Marks was flooded and we had to walk on tables to cross it! We wandered and got lost but came across the gondola makers too.

    1. Wow! We've been so lucky to always have had winter sunshine, but of course, the flooding in Venice is legendary

  11. some friends have adviced me to be careful visiting Venice in winter because of frequent floods. I've always dreamt to visit Venice for the Carnival! Maybe one day!

    1. They did have flooding last year, but I've always been lucky to visit during winter sunshine, it's the best!

  12. Really helpful article for those who are planning to visit the beauty of Venice. U explained every details. Thanks for sharing.

  13. Venice is really beautiful any time of the year, but gorgeous in the winter. Love that clear water and yummy food!

  14. I love Venice _ I've only ever been during the summer but I feel head over heels back then! I can only image what it is like in the winter.

  15. I tend to go back and forth between spring and winter being my favorite season so I would absolutely love to visit in the winter. You make it seem so amazing.

  16. Venice is such a romantic destination. No wonder it is amazing to visit in winter. I love the idea of exploring the city in a water taxi. The hotels look awesome too.

  17. The images are on point. I can sit on that waterside table and spend a whole day sipping coffee and worrying about nothing. Amazing images.

  18. I was checking the accommodation in your Booking.com and wow even in winter hotels are not cheap in Venice. I wish to visit it during summer maybe after my France trip. I will keep your recommendation.

    1. It really depends on when you start looking. Now it's coming up to carnival season, so it won't be cheap. But if you visit before Christmas and in January, it's much lower in price.

  19. Venice has been on my list ever since. Whenever I plan to go something else comes up. Your pics are making my hands itch to book a ticket soon 🙂

  20. Wow, this place looks incredible during Winter. There’s so much to do and see there! Looks like a brilliant place to take the whole family

  21. I read a post similar to this one as to why visit Venice in SUmmer. or perhaps it was in a Facebook post. All the more that i am excited to save for the trip and truly visit the place Summer of not.

  22. I adore Venice in winter! When we visited in February last year, we arrived late due to a taxi strike in Florence (missed our train) and literally ran through the city seeing as much as we could. I wish we had the time to try some Cicchetti or better yet, fine dining at Alle Corone and an overnight. (Although we did enjoy some delicious salami sandwiches on the go.) Reading your posts reminds me that I'm due for a more leisurely return trip. Like you, I will look to the more peaceful pace of Venice in winter.

    1. Fantastic Jackie! Venice is truly beautiful any time of year, but during winter you really get to enjoy it 🙂

  23. Wow so much information!! I'm going to save this for my future trip to Venice! I plan to visit Paris and travel a bit around the surrounding areas on my 30th birthday!

  24. I would love to visit Venice anytime however; I love the idea of experiencing it when it's not so busy. Great recommendations!

  25. Great read! Thanks for the pro tip! winter = less tourists !! That's good to know. I don't mind winter but I hate dealing with crowds. I would def consider a winter trip. I also loved your pictures. Beautiful 🙂

  26. uhg it's just SO gorgeous that I could not stop looking at your pictures! I would LOVE to be able to do this one day - and now I know that winter is a great time to go.

  27. I could not believe, for a while, that these were pictures of Venice. I have never seen any without people in it. The absence of crowds seems just perfect to enjoy the city and definitely consider it mine. Very often, I have dabbled with the idea of traveling to Europe in the winters. But I hail from the tropics and chilly weather scares me. However, these pictures are giving me serious winter wanderlust.

    1. Thank you for the compliments! I love Venice in winter, and am definitely used to the weather come winter. Hope you visit one day!

  28. Venice is amazing! I have visited this magical place a few years ago when the festival is happening! I have to admit it that it is even more beautiful when is not so crowded! Thank you for sharing your memories with us!

  29. oh we love venice i haven't been for many years these photos bring back so many memories thanks for sharing it's such a beautiful surreal place

  30. I'd love to go to Venice anytime, but winter sounds like a really great time. I think I'd like to take a gondola ride at least once, just for the experience. The water taxi sounds fun too. The hotels sounds wonderful too.

  31. I am a frequent traveler and has not been to Venice yet, it will be in my bucket list. I am so glad to learn that it can be still fun and so many benefits to visiting during winter. My number 1 favorite is fewer people and crowd, that way I could have better pictures without photobomb.

  32. Venice has always been on our bucket list. And you have clicked some amazing pictures. Can't wait to visit Venice and Lago di Braise this year.

  33. Venice looks so much more authentic and less touristy in winter! I prefer traveling to Europe off season. I'd rather put up with bad weather than with the crowds. Besides, Venice is beautiful at any time of year.

  34. Loved your photos. I have travelled to Venice twice now and both in summer. I should really rethink this and visit in Winter. Summer was so crowded both times we went. Great tips.

  35. I would love to Venice anytime of the year! Visiting with low crowds would be the main reason I would go in winter. Also Pinned!

    1. Venice is beautiful! I visited during summer and fell in love. I can only imagine how much more in love I'd be going during winter. Your descriptions, pictures, and experience makes me want to jump on that plane now!

  36. I have to admit that I prefer travelling in winter. It's normally quieter and I prefer the cooler temperatures. I think Venice would be amazing anytime of year

  37. I just came back from Venice a week ago and you’re absolutely right - compared to the hoards of people in the summer, winter is much more tranquil! Experienced a lot more flooded routes & high tides in the winter though - pretty well managed by locals but can be a pain for sure!

  38. We know Venice so so well, we have been here several times and every time is like the first one ahahah
    This city is beautiful all the year, always!! Oh we are italian 😉

  39. I have to admit, I wouldn't have thought to visit Venice during the winter. It always seemed like a summer destination. But with the chaos and how buy Venice gets during the summer, what an amazing suggestion to go in the winter...when the city gets to be yours! How wonderful to be able to take photos without the hoards of tourists everywhere. I would like to try to ride a Gondola, even though I have heard it's so overly expensive. But I guess it's a one in a lifetime thing! But what a romantic city filled with so much interesting history and architecture to explore.

    1. I find them overpriced, but I also understand why people love to try the gondolas. And yes, the city really feels like it's yours...

  40. Looks like you were lucky with the weather, judging by your gorgeous photos! You've inspired me to visit Venice again, it's a beautiful city and I get so upset when I see photos of the huge cruise ships arriving in the summer!! Those Venetian treats - the frittelle and the crostoli look divine.

    1. Fritelle is gorgeous! And one is never enough! I'm glad I've inspired you to return, maybe this time during winter too 🙂

  41. That looks so amazing! I have always wanted to visit Venice. I first saw a documentary on it when I was around 12 or 13, and all the canals and water throughout the city just fascinated me.

  42. Definitely agreeing with you there - I visited in January when its cold and it was such a pleasure to be able to walk about without bumping into people and the photographs are possible without people on it finally. You just proved it with the wonderful pictures you took. *high Five

    1. Aw thank you! I love photographing Venice, and it's much more enjoyable without all the people in the way!

  43. We were in summer in Venice, with lots of tourists, hard to find where to park the car and lousy smell for water. So in winter is definitely worth a visit. Lovely photos.

  44. Venice had always been a dream destination for me. But with the recent news of so many tourists visiting Venice, I was quite apprehensive whether I would visit the place or not. I really did not want to visit my dream place and get badly disappointed! Now that you have written about how Venice is during the winter, I will go there during this time. Truly, winter makes the city even more attractive. Your photographs are really beautiful, does total justice to the beautiful city!

    1. Thank you so much! I much prefer going, simply because I get agitated in large crowds. I hope you get to visit your dream city 😀

  45. Less tourists would be a huge advantage to visiting Venice in the winter! It gets crazy in the summer. I'm surprised that the gondolas still work in winter?

  46. Wow! Absolutely gorgeous photos. The first time I went to Venice was in the winter. I can totally agree with everything you wrote. There was hardly a soul around and it felt like we had Venice to ourselves. This was 30 years ago! I have been back in the summer and I wouldn't go back again in the summer. I love your hotel recommendations. They look lovely.

    1. Thanks Nicole! I'm so happy to read that you agree 😀 I hope you return soon, it's as beautiful as it was then...

  47. It's always a right time to visit Venice 😀

    I have been there 4 times, during winter and carnival time, it just has something special there 😀

  48. The top reason for me to visit Venice in winter (if I ever do) would be the less crowds! Given how touristy that city is, it is literally impossible to find good angles to photograph without having too many people spoil it. And also, some really good hotels such as Corte de Gabriela mentioned by you, a nice 4-star boutique hotel, would be much cheaper in winter than summer. I had no idea though that it can also snow sometimes in the winter. Lucky that you encountered good sunny weather on most of your trips!

    1. I've been super lucky Medha! Everytime I've visited, there's been nothing but wonderful winter sunshine 😀

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