Venice in winter is an enchanting destination, offering a peaceful, serene escape from the usual tourist crowds. The city, often cloaked in mist, sparkles with festive lights, and its canals take on a mysterious charm as fog weaves around ancient buildings. With cozy cafes, holiday markets, and a rich cultural calendar, there’s so much to enjoy during the colder months. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Venice during winter!
During the winter months, Venice transforms into a Christmas wonderland. The Campo Santo Stefano Christmas Market is the city’s most famous holiday market. Here, you can peruse handcrafted gifts, local delicacies, and ornaments made from Murano glass. The market's charming wooden stalls are adorned with twinkling lights, offering a delightful atmosphere for shopping. Grab a cup of Vin Brulé (mulled wine) or a calda cioccolata (hot chocolate), which is a Venetian winter staple.
The historic St. Mark’s Basilica holds a midnight mass that is both serene and spectacular, with its gold mosaics shimmering in the candlelight.
Celebrate New Year's Eve in Venice with a spectacular view of the fireworks over the St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) lagoon. The city hosts one of its grandest events here, with live music, dancing, and a countdown leading up to midnight. The fireworks reflect off the water, creating a breathtaking display of color.
For an exclusive celebration, consider booking a gala dinner at Caffè Florian, one of the oldest cafes in the world, known for its opulent atmosphere. Alternatively, you can attend a grand ball at the Bauer Palazzo, a luxurious hotel with panoramic views of the Grand Canal, where you can dance the night away.
Fun Fact: In Venice, it’s customary to eat lentils on New Year's Eve as they’re believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year!
A gondola ride in winter is even more romantic than in the summer. The crisp air and fog that often blanket the canals lend an almost ethereal quality to the experience. Bacino Orseolo is a quieter area where you can find gondolas, away from the main tourist crowds. You’ll glide past mist-covered buildings and bridges, giving you the feeling of stepping back in time.
Winter is the best time to explore Venice's world-class museums without the usual summer crowds. Notable museums include:
Insider Tip: Venice has a museum pass that gives you access to multiple museums for a discounted price.
Winter is the perfect time to indulge in hearty Venetian cuisine. Some dishes to try include:
If you’re looking to escape the bustle of Venice, take a day trip to Burano and Murano. Burano, known for its brightly colored houses, offers a tranquil setting, even in winter. The islands are less crowded during the colder months, allowing you to enjoy their charm in peace. On Murano, you can watch artisans craft the world-renowned glass, and perhaps even pick up a unique souvenir.
Teatro La Fenice hosts incredible winter performances, including opera, ballet, and classical concerts. It’s one of the most famous opera houses in the world, known for its opulent interior and stellar acoustics. Make sure to book tickets in advance, as performances tend to sell out quickly.
Venice is famous for its Spritz, a refreshing cocktail made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water. In winter, head to a bacaro, a traditional Venetian wine bar, to warm up with a Spritz and enjoy cicchetti (small Venetian tapas). Some great spots to try are Osteria Al Squero and Cantina Do Spade.
Winter in Venice offers the perfect opportunity to wander through the quieter parts of the city. Without the usual crowds, you can stroll through hidden alleys and cross mist-covered bridges. Explore neighborhoods like Cannaregio, where you can find charming canals that are often overlooked by tourists.
Winter in Venice offers a magical, peaceful experience, with fewer crowds and plenty of festive charm. From exploring the enchanting Christmas markets to indulging in traditional Venetian cuisine, there’s something special about the city during the colder months.