visit venice november

Venice in November: Everything you need to know

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Visiting Venice in November is a great way to experience the city’s cool weather and festive atmosphere. November is also a good month for shopping, as the city’s stores begin to stock up on winter merchandise. And if you’re looking for a festive atmosphere, Venice’s annual Christmas Market opens in November and runs through December.

So whether you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors or do some holiday shopping, Venice is a great destination in November.

Venice in November: Top reasons to visit, what to avoid & travel tips

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The weather in Venice in November is cool and pleasant, with average temperatures around 10°C or 50 F. During the day it is a great time to explore the city’s many outdoor attractions, including its famous canals and bridges. 

Here is how the temperatures look like in November

Venice weather in November: Average temperatures 

• Ave temp: 12° / 5° (C )
• Ave temp: 53.6° / 41° (F)
• Rain : 6 days

Read : How to see Venice in a day

What is Venice like in November?

November technically is the fall or autumn season in Venice. 

Starting from September, Venice enters the velvet season with the perfect weather and fewer crowds (as compared to the crazy summer crowds or August vacationers). 

But November in Venice is quite cool, and you can tell that winter is knocking at the door. When you plan to travel to Venice in November, treat it like a crossover month and carry some warm clothing, a scarf, a waterproof jacket, and flowy tops to layer in. 

As you can see above, the average high temperature is about 12°C (or 53 F), and the average low can drop to 5°C (or 41 F). 

Although the weather network says it will rain on an average of 5-6 days, expect cloudy and overcast days, like up to 15 days with slight snow showers here and there.

Rain is not a heavy downpour, it keeps going throughout the day dampening outdoor activities. And cloudy vibes make for dark and gloomy photos. 

But…..if you are adventurers to walk around you will actually find the old town and piazza to yourself, which is a bonus!

But the sun will shine, and you can soak in about 9-10 hours of sunshine and warmer temperatures!  

Read : Italy in November | Rome in November

Acqua Alta and flooding in Venice in November

Acqua alta is the term used to describe the periodic flooding that occurs in Venice. This is caused by a combination of high tides and strong winds, which can push the water level up several feet in a matter of hours. 

While acqua alta can occur at any time of year, it is most common in November and December. 

Venice is prone to flooding in November when the rains come. Be sure to pack your rain gear and rubber boots if you’re visiting during this month! 

The good news is that the floodwaters typically recede after a few days, so you’ll still be able to enjoy all the city has to offer. Just be sure to check the weather forecast before you go.

About Venice flooding history

Venice has struggled with rising water levels since the fifth century. Venice floods approximately 100 times a year, usually from October through late winter, due to natural and human-induced causes (known as acqua alta).

As you know, the city is built on a series of canals and islands, which makes it especially vulnerable to rising water levels. 

The most devastating flood occurred in 1966 when the water level rose more than six feet in just a few hours (a level of 194 cm above average sea level).

It actually submerged most of the city, caused damage to Venice, and collapsed several bridges. The tide stayed for 22 hours above 110 cm and for around 40 hours above 50 cm.

While such devastating floods are relatively rare, Venice is still prone to periodic flooding, it is especially evident as you explore the main piazza or the San Marco Square. 

You must have seen Venice photos on Instagram from 2019 where people are rushing outside the Piazza San Marco . 

Advantages of visiting Venice in November: 7 Top Reasons

Fall is a shoulder season in venice (beat the crowds).

Due to the weather, visiting Venice in November has its advantages. 

The first thing is that it is shoulder season. The off-season is considered the best time to visit Venice, and these are mainly the months of September-October and March-April. 

November is not a popular time to visit Venice, making it a great occasion to hit touristy areas without the crowds. 

Want to experience a romantic moment by the Grand Canal, visit in November. Maybe reserve a table for two by the canals!

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Venice in November when the city is quieter. 

In November, the weather is usually milder and cooler, and the crowds are smaller than during peak tourist season. However, you’ll need to be prepared for the occasional rain shower. Be sure to pack your rain gear and rubber boots! 

If you’re interested in experiencing the city at its busiest, the peak season is from April to October. During this time, you’ll find the streets and canals packed with tourists from all over the world. 

If you don’t mind the crowds, Venice is a beautiful city to visit during any time of year!

Great flights and better accommodation deals in November in Venice

Due to the low tourist season, November brings in good flight deals to Italy, and even better rates for hotels and accommodation in the city centre of Venice. 

You can also expect restaurants to be less busy and can expect to be seated with little to no wait time. The same goes for tourist attractions like museums, access to churches, and stores. 

When using public transportation you will find trains, and Vaporetto will have fewer crowds (except for the weekends when buses at night could still be packed!)

Plan a trip to Venice to enjoy seasonal festivals in the city

There are festivals that take place in November in Venice, and it is worth planning your trip around it. 

The very first one is All Saints’ Day. It is celebrated the day after Halloween (November 1st). 

The Madonna Della Salute Festival is a popular event that takes place in Venice every November. The festival celebrates the Virgin Mary and includes a procession of boats from St. Mark’s Square to the Church of Santa Maria Della Salute. 

It is also known as the Santa Maria Della Salute Festival. The festival had its origins in 1630. Venetians were dying by the thousands in a plague epidemic, and the city authorities pleaded for divine aid, promising to construct a church in honor of the Virgin Mary if God would stop the epidemic.

Festa della Salute is celebrated every year on November 21st.

The festival is quite popular, so be sure to arrive early to get a good spot! There is also a mass and a fireworks display.

The Venice Christmas Parade kicks off in late November. It is held in the centre, and parades navigate the city, all the way down to Turin Street. 

Although you might see some Xmas festivities in November in Venice , the actual Christmas boat parade takes place on the first Saturday of December.  

Take advantage of the pleasant weather in Venice 

If you prefer traveling in milder weather without the scorching heat, then you will LOVE Venice in November. 

You will get the pleasant winter temperatures where you can dorn a light jacket and scarf, and still be comfortable walking outside. 

Day temperatures of around 10-12 degrees Celcius are perfect for sightseeing, according to us. And temperatures stay positive all throughout the month. 

‘A walk in the water’ moment

It is said that Venetians walk in the water in the autumn season, particularly from late October to December. 

This includes the acqua alta, or “high water,” which occurs in low-lying areas of the city such as St. Mark’s Square, and during this time you will be wearing colorful rubber rain boots and exploring the city! 

We saw children having fun in the water, and it was such a cool sight. Try it!

Major attractions are still open

Almost all of the Venice attractions are open in November. 

You can enjoy a lovely gondola ride , and visit sites such as the Doge Palace, San Marco Church, and more. Major sites won’t be busy at all in the month of November. 

Expect to get in without much wait time, or crowds inside. Isn’t it a great feeling?

November is also a great time to explore Venice’s outdoor attractions, including its famous canals and bridges. The cool weather is perfect for a leisurely stroll or boat ride through the city.

Go shopping and enjoy the festive vibes

November is also a good month for shopping, as the city’s stores begin to stock up on winter merchandise. You’ll find great deals on clothing, gifts, and souvenirs.

The annual Venice Christmas Market opens in November and runs through December. This is a great place to find unique gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city. 

You’ll also find traditional Christmas foods and drinks, as well as live entertainment. Be sure to check out the market when you’re in Venice in November or December!

Venice is a beautiful city any time of year, but it takes on a special charm in November – wander the streets and take in the sights and sounds of the season!

Things to consider when visiting Venice in November

Although we loved being in Venice in November and enjoy the rain generally, we do understand that not everybody is in. 

So here are some travel tips to prepare for your trip in November, 

Weather forecast and rains 

November is a crossover month, where winter is at its door. As temperatures are dropping, you do need to pack warmer clothing and be aware of weather changes. 

Keep an eye out for acqua alta. Venice is prone to flooding, especially in November when the rains come. 

Be sure to pack your rain gear and rubber boots if you’re visiting this month! You can also buy disposable boots from San Marco Square while you are there. 

Venice can be crowded over the weekends and on days of festivities

Although Venice is not super crowded in November, you have to make note of days when there are festivities or weekends, when it could get busy. 

When we visited Venice in November, it was All Saints Day, and that night all buses were packed!! Remember to take extra care of your belongings when you use public transportation.

Plan to stay at least 2 days (for better weather)

Due to the high possibility of rain, we recommend planning a vacation of at least 2 days in Venice, so that you can experience clear skies for some hours – in case, in case it rains a ton.

Read: How to spend 2 days in Venice itinerary

Don’t overspend

Shopping is one of the main attractions in Venice, but it’s easy to overdo it. Keep an eye on your budget and stick to your limits! 

Transport and tickets can also add up, so ensure you buy a savings card and set a budget prior to your visit. 

Don’t forget your rain gear

As mentioned before, Venice is prone to flooding. Be sure to pack your rain gear like waterproof jackets, pants, a poncho or umbrella, and rubber boots if you’re visiting during this month!

6 Things to Do in Venice in November

Experience iconic attractions without any wait time.

Check out all the iconic sites in Venice from enjoying a gondola ride, visiting San Marco Church, and Accademia Gallery, joining walking tours, and shopping. 

You can also embark on a day trip to nearby Venetian Islands such as Burano and Murano. 

Here is a suggested 2 to 3 day Venice itinerary (on a rainy day) in November,

Day One: 

• Start by exploring the canals and bridges of Venice. This is best done on foot or by taking a gondola ride!
• Next, head to St. Mark’s Square and take in the sights of the Basilica di San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, and the Campanile bell tower.
• Spend some time wandering around the narrow streets and alleyways of Venice, soaking up the atmosphere of this unique city. Be sure to stop by the Rialto Bridge!
• In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner in one of Venice’s many excellent restaurants.
• Visit some of Venice’s museums and art galleries, such as the Accademia Gallery or the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
• Spend an afternoon shopping for souvenirs and gifts in the city’s many shops and markets.
• End your time in Venice with a sunset cruise around the canals or a gondola ride through the city.

Day Three: Go on a day trip to the nearby Venetian Islands like Murano and Burano Islands

Grab an umbrella, and wander the city 

Getting lost in Venice is part of the unique experience in Italy! The city’s winding canals and narrow alleyways can be disorienting, but that’s all part of the charm. 

If you’re worried about getting lost, consider purchasing a map or guidebook before your trip. Or, better yet, we say just wander and see where the city takes you! 

Book a Venice Gondola ride (online to save money)

A gondola ride is a must in Venice. Yes, it is touristy, but it is worth it. 

Gondola ride fares are set by the state and it is about 80 euros (for the ride, not per person). You can surely save money if you are traveling with a group or family of 4-5 members. 

So you won’t be able to haggle or request a discount from the piers. 

But GetYourGuide has discounts on shared and some private tours online in the off-season. We recommend checking the website prior to your visit to save money. 

Participate in festivals in Venice

One of the best things about Venice in November is all the festivals that take place throughout the month. 

All Saints Day to the early onset of Christmas markets, don’t miss some of the festivities that take place in Venice!

Christmas Market, a festive highlight in Venice during November

One of the highlights of visiting Venice in November is the city’s annual Christmas Market. This market features stalls selling a variety of traditional Christmas decorations, gifts, and foods. 

It’s the perfect place to do some holiday shopping or simply soak up the festive atmosphere.

Go shopping in Venice in November

Venice is a great place to do some shopping, especially in November when the stores begin to stock up on winter merchandise. You’ll find a wide variety of shops selling everything from clothing and jewelry to art and antiques. 

What to pack for Venice in November?

It is important to pack well and pack light when you visit Venice in November. Here is our tried and tested packing list for Venice!

We always use a carry-on for 1-2 weeks in Europe. Our favorite is the Pacsafe Venturesafe backpack which is a 45 L backpack , and it is perfect to use as a full-size packing cube and for storing all of your dresses, pants, and more. 

Pack the following pieces of clothing, and accessories for Venice

• Tops: Carry long sleeve shirts, blouses & tops (for her). Avoid wearing clothing with big logos, or loud colors. 
• Bottoms: Jeans, leggings 
• Dress: Knee-length dresses (paired with boots) 
• Scarf: Carry a stylish scarf with you
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Waterproof boots
• Lightweight waterproof jacket or trench coat

For accessories, you must carry a universal adaptor. Europe uses a plug with two round pins (type C), unlike the flat ones in North America. You can buy yours here

Don’t forget your camera . Here are our camera essentials – Sony Mirrorless Camera and Sony A7iii.

Carry extra storage cards to back up all the photos you will be captured in Italy. 

Do check the validity of the passport, and make sure it is not expired. Apply for a Schengen visa if you require one.

Also, secure travel insurance. Get travel insurance quotes for your trip here

More Venice Travel Tips for November

The ideal season to visit Venice is in the fall. November is a fall month, but it does have nuances of a wintery vacation with cooler temperatures. Despite the chilly temperatures and rains, it’s still worth it due to the decreased hotel rates, and fewer crowds. 

Venice experiences high tides and floods in November, a phenomenon known as Acqua Alta.    The most recent flooding occurred in the November of 2019, and Venice was inundated with four more exceptional tides (4 feet 7 inches or greater) within six weeks after that.  And it is expected and common to see flooding in certain areas of the city in November.

April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit Venice because it is warm but not too hot when the city is dry and pleasant. Avoid visiting in August when temperatures are excessively hot and humid, as many Venetians go on month-long holidays.

Even in the most scorching of weather, Venice does not have an unpleasant odor since the water is constantly moving.

 November is Italy’s wettest month, with rainfall almost across the peninsula. It’s not always the coldest month on the calendar, but it’s also when wearing a coat and gloves becomes essential (not to mention waterproof shoes).

Venice is a beautiful and unique city that’s worth visiting at any time of year. November is an especially good time to visit due to the cooler weather and lack of crowds. 

So if you’re looking for a relaxed and romantic getaway, then Venice is the perfect destination.

Liked this post? Read some of our other Italy travel guides

• Italy : Most beautiful cities in Italy | 7 day Italy itinerary | Best Italy souvenirs
• Rome: Rome Itinerary 3 days | 4 day Rome itinerary
• Milan: One day in Milan itinerary

Pin: Complete Venice November travel guide

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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November in Venice: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Venice is one of Italy's most popular destinations—and it's not hard to see why. There's the romantic St. Mark's Plaza, the gondolas floating on the canals , and of course, the incredible food. However, with fame comes crowds, so if you want to have the city to yourself, it's best to visit in the off-season. November is a nice time to visit as the tourists leave after the summertime high and hotels drop their rates. Just be prepared to pack a few extra layers for the brisk weather and chilly evenings.

Venice Weather in November

In November, you'll escape the heat (and tourists) as temperatures drop, which makes walking in this carless city all the more pleasant. The weather averages between 40 F and 53 F, although it tends to get colder and can even touch freezing at night. Although there will still be some sunny days in November, it is one of Italy's rainiest months and there is a slight chance of snow as it gets closer to December.

In November, Venice often experiences  acqua alta  or flooding from high tides. (It is called the Floating City, after all.) This centuries-old phenomenon is caused by the moon's gravitational pull coinciding with a strong  scirocco , or warm wind that pushes water from the Adriatic Sea into the Venetian Lagoon. But don't let the "flood" fool you; it is more like a few larger puddles in the Piazza San Marco (the lowest point in the city) or some splashing onto the sidewalk near the canals. And since acqua alta is a tidal occurrence, it only lasts for three to four hours during high tide.

What to Pack

In general, bring your typical winter wardrobe, including long pants, sweaters, jackets, and light gloves. Because of the extra precipitation, you may want to pack an umbrella, raincoat, waterproof windbreaker, and rubber boots for avoiding the puddles and possible acqua alta flooding on the cobblestoned streets. It also wouldn't hurt to throw in a few plastic bags in case you need to put wet clothes or boots in your suitcase.

November Events in Venice

November is the start of the holiday season, so there are many religious celebrations and events. There are also arts and cultural festivities, including concerts, theater shows, and exhibits.

• All Saints' Day : On this public holiday (November 1), Italians remember their deceased loved ones by visiting graves and cemeteries. Note that many stores and services will be closed.
• Festa della Salute : The Festa della Salute  (November 21) commemorates the end of the 1630 plague that decimated one-third of Venice's population (see also the Festa del Redentore in Venice in July ). Locals celebrate by making a pilgrimage across a bridge of boats on the Grand Canal to light a candle and pray to the Holy Virgin at the church of the Santa Maria della Salute. Markets around Venice also set up stalls selling fresh produce, sweets, and the specialty dish:  castradina , a mutton meat stew with onions, wine, and cabbage.
• La Biennale : This months-long  contemporary  arts  extravaganza  happens every other year and runs from June through November. It features art, dance, film, architecture, music, and theater.
• Opera Season at La Fenice Theater : You'll never forget seeing an opera at Venice's famous opera house, Teatro La Fenice . Besides classic Italian operas, there's also piano competitions and contemporary music.

Click here to learn the best time of year to visit Venice .

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Venice in November: Worth the Trip? (+ Tips!)

There’s something magic about Venice in November.

Before visiting ourselves, hearing people speak about Venice often felt like hearing about two different cities, depending on their opinion of the place.

To some people, Venice was romantic, magical, and a special city like nowhere else in the world.

To others, it was an overpriced, overcrowded, and smelly city that wasn’t worth the effort to get there.

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As you can imagine, the second description left us a bit skeptical.

After visiting the city of canals during the summer and also hitting up Venice in November, we can say this with certainty: we love Venice at any time of the year, but November in Venice is something quite special–and it’s definitely worth the trip.

From the decreased crowds to the foggy mornings on the canals, a late fall trip to Venice has so much to offer.

Here’s what to keep in mind when planning a November getaway in Venice!

Table of Contents

November Weather in Venice, Italy

What to do when visiting venice in november, what to pack for november in venice, italy, where to stay in venice, final call for venice in november: is it worth it, read more about visiting venice (and italy).

High temperatures during Venice in November generally hang out around 11 Celsius/52 Fahrenheit for the bulk of the month, getting progressively colder as the month wears on.

By the end of November, you can generally expect highs in the 40s Fahrenheit.

Sunshine is limited, and it usually rains about a third of the days of the month.

November is also prime acqua alta season in Venice, so be prepared for the possibility of some flooding.

More often than not, the acqua alta is quite mild–you can see an example of it in the photo below–but it’s definitely something to be aware of!

Ultimately, November weather in Venice is far from cheerful, but it is moody, cozy, and definitely not a reason to shy away from visiting.

In many ways, visiting Venice in November is a lot like visiting during any other time–except better.

The legendary heat and humidity are absent, and the crowds are present but entirely manageable.

The major tourist sights don’t close, and you’ll always find plenty to do in a city whose mere existence is worth admiring for days on end.

Here’s what not to miss.

Wander the streets and photograph the canals.

Wandering through Venice is like wandering through an impressionist painting: everything from the architecture to the paint to the narrow alleys to the canals feels vaguely ethereal and magical.

While heavy clouds can detract from photos of many destinations, in Venice they just work!

Even if (like us during our trip to Venice in November) you never quite see the sunshine, the city still looks absolutely stunning, and there’s definitely no shortage of opportunities to photograph Venice .

Even during the summer, you can certainly find spots to be alone with the canals in Venice–but in the popular sestieri of San Marco and San Polo, in particular, that is far easier to do in the offseason than the busy one. 

Take a day trip to Burano and/or Murano.

These popular outlying islands of Venice don’t close for the season.

By visiting them while bundled in a coat instead of in a t-shirt or sundress, though, you’ll have far fewer crowds to contend with (like just about everywhere else in Venice).

Head to Burano to see the famous colorful fishing village, or Murano to check out the island’s legendary glass-blowing– or book a tour that will take you to both in one day!

Book your day trip to Burano and Murano today!

Consider a gondola ride.

Gondola rides are still just as expensive when visiting Venice in November, there’s no doubt about it–but you’re also far more likely to have the quiet canals to yourselves.

Perhaps, if you’re lucky, a little fog might even roll in, making your gondola ride just that much more ethereal.

If you’re looking for solitude, there’s no reason to book your gondola ride in advance–but if budget is on your mind, arranging for a shared gondola ride in advance is a great way to save.

Alternatively, set off i n search of a traghetto , Venice’s cheap, elusive gondolas that serve as public transportation!

Book your shared gondola ride in Venice today!

Curl up with a book.

My inner bibliophile simply can’t miss an opportunity to suggest paying a visit to Libreria Acqua Alta !

This gorgeous bookstore in Venice is known for its unique methods of storing books: in a gondola, in bathtubs, in rowboats, and more.

The reason for this?

Protecting the books from the acqua alta –and there was even a minor one lapping at the feet of an armchair on the store’s back porch during our first (of many) visits to the store.

Be sure not to miss climbing the epic staircase of books out back, either–the view of a canal from the top is lovely, and the decor itself even more so.

Be sure to check out our Facebook page to see the video we made at Libreria Acqua Alta during our trip to Venice in November!

Check out the acqua alta , if there is one.

November in Venice is prime acqua alta (or flooding) season, with November and December being the two of the most common months for one to occur.

The constant worry about flooding is no doubt a pain for residents, can definitely get much more dramatic than what we witnessed during our trip to Venice in November, and is concerning for the city overall.

That being said, it was a very interesting cultural experience to be in Venice and see St. Mark’s Square completely dry one day and flooded the next!

If there’s any flooding, you’ll likely have a chance to w alk on the elevated ramps the city puts down to help people move through the acqua alta safely and to see street hawkers selling plastic booties to tourists.

Visit all the major tourist attractions–just like any other time of year. 

Sights like the Doge’s Palace, the San Marco Bell Tower, and the St. Mark’s Basilica certainly don’t close for the winter.

Our detailed 2 day Venice itinerary can easily be enjoyed during your November trip to Venice!

If you’re hoping to see Venice’s major historical sights, it’s actually  easier to do so when visiting Venice in November than during, say, June or July–because there will be far fewer people to share the space with.

We do still recommend booking a tour of the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, simply because the content is so interesting (and history buffs, definitely consider reading City of Fortune: How Venice Ruled the Seas before coming as well–it adds so much context to the city and is an enjoyable read).

Book your tour  of the Doge’s Palace + St. Mark’s Basilica today! Prefer something a bit more exclusive?   This after-hours tour   might be right for you! If you’d rather avoid tours, you can still skip the line at the Doge’s Palace by  purchasing a priority ticket  in advance.

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and this is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

For example, it would be very, very rare, but in the event of a particularly severe acqua alta, you might be glad for the chance to cancel your trip!

Warm coat — Temperatures are far from frigid during November in Venice, but the damp, cold air–especially if you take a gondola ride or head out on the water via ferry–will certainly leave you chilled.

Since Venice is such a walkable city, and exploring it by foot is such a joy, you can stay just about anywhere in or near the center of Venice and easily work your way through this Venice itinerary.

We’ve stayed in 5 of the 6 sestieri in Venice (Cannaregio, San Marco, Dorsoduro , Santa Croce, and Castello–we’re only missing San Polo), and enjoyed our stays in all of them.

When researching hotels, consider checking out the prices for hotels a bit nicer than what you normally stay in–you might find them surprisingly low, another benefit to planning a trip to Venice in November!

Hotel Casa Boccassini  — This cute hotel easily met our needs during our first trip to Venice!

The room was simple but clean, and the shared bathroom a fair trade in exchange for their competitive prices in a great location in Cannaregio.

The bathroom was clean and we had a sink in our room, both of which always make shared bathroom situations much easier. The courtyard of the hotel was beautiful!

The hotel was a simple and beautiful 10-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge and just a 5-minute walk to the Vaporetto to the airport. 

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Casa Boccassini!

Hotel Lisbona  — We decided to check into Hotel Lisbona for one reason: we wanted to stay on a canal!

If you’re looking to stay right on a canal in Venice without paying luxury prices, we can heartily recommend Hotel Lisbona: the building is beautiful and definitely has that oh-wow-I’m-in-Venice effect (especially when you look out the windows), the customer service is great, and the included breakfast tasty.

The central location (it’s around a 5-minute walk to Piazza San Marco) couldn’t be better.

The downside? The room we stayed in was  tiny –but to be staying right on a Venetian canal in such an amazing location, we definitely considered the trade-off worth it.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Lisbona!

Hotel Danieli  — If you’re looking for a true luxury experience for your 2 days in Venice–the kind of hotel stay that you’ll remember for the rest of your life–look no further than the iconic Hotel Danieli, located inside 3 former palazzos along the Riva degli Schiavoni.

Every detail has been looked after here, and everything from the furniture to the breakfast to the location (mere steps from the Bridge of Sighs) to the truly stunning lobby will ensure you have an absolutely unforgettable trip to Venice.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Danieli!

Yes, yes, yes! We are so glad that we took the risk and decided to spend 3 days in Venice in November, and highly recommend the experience–even one day in Venice would have been worth it.

True, the weather was not great during our November trip–our umbrella was constantly with us in our day bag and the only time we saw blue sky hovering over Venice was on the ferry to the airport the day we left–but cloudy skies definitely didn’t detract from Venice’s beauty.

We loved the smaller crowds (even more so after later experiencing Venice’s summer crowds!) and the lack of heat and humidity, as well as the quiet peacefulness of seeing the city a bit foggy and with a slightly mysterious vibe completely fitting of Venice. 

We would plan more trips back to Venice in the fall and/or winter in a heartbeat–probably starting with paying a visit to Carnival in February , which would definitely be crowded, but also an experience not to forget.

Planning a trip to Venice soon and want to keep reading?

You can  browse our 100+ Italy blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• Dazzling Dorsoduro, Venice: Things to Do + Travel Guide
• How to Spend 2 Weeks in Italy (Itinerary for 14 Perfect Days!)
• What to Buy in Venice: 15 Best Souvenirs from Venice
• The 23 Best Things to Do in Verona (+ Day Trips)
• 15+ Common Travel Mistakes in Italy (What NOT to Do!)

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

33 thoughts on “Venice in November: Worth the Trip? (+ Tips!)”

That’s good you experienced Venice without all the people there. I’m there frequently and usually avoid like the plague because of too many tourists, so well done! And good job on the 7.50 for the gondola ride, that’s more the right price than the tourist extortionate price!

We definitely had a better experience due to avoiding the crowds! It made the whole trip much more peaceful.

Learning the gondola ride is 80 Euros just broke my heart too. Though Venice is mostly projected as the most romantic city I want to go there for its architecture, history and city planning. Its hard to imagine a city on water, so I need to see and feel it in order to understand! The loved your picture in the mask!

I know, right?! So much money. Maybe one day if we’re feeling especially wealthy. 😛

I paid $28 booked through a excursions site for gondola and other trips Booking in advance is way cheaper then paying for it in Venice I book everything in advance

I didn’t know it was 80 euros for a gondala ride in Venice. I think you chose a good option by getting your pictures taken in masks! I too don’t have a desire to visit Venice so would probably rush it into 1-2 days.

We actually took the photos ourselves–even better! Just required an early wake up call to get out with our tripod before the crowds lol.

I can’t believe those are actually your photos, and not professionally taken! The architecture in Venice is so breathtaking, I want to copy this vacation for myself! I have always wanted to visit Venice, and take a gondala ride. I agree with travelling slightly off-season, it makes for a less touristy vacation and there is so much more you can do easily! Staying in a hotel that is that central to everything sounds like a huge bonus, you end up saving a lot of money on getting around town!

Aw, thank you! High compliment. We love how our Venice photos turned out.

I have to admit, I am definitely of that second group of people. I had a horrible experience in Venice, therefore I hated it and would only consider returning in the winter and only because it’s sinking. Or the ocean is rising. Whatever. Also, I did not get to see the Libreria Acqua Alta, and I am so jealous that you did!! That alone is worth the visit. Awesome video, btw!

Ah, so sorry you didn’t have a good experience Savannah! I can definitely see how that would happen.

We did precisely the same. No gondola ride but the water canal ride and it gave good photo ops. Masks are a must buy there. Cool you did Venice in November not peak of winters yet.

The water bus ride definitely did the trick! Doing it as soon as we arrived in the city made an impact for sure.

I too have heard both opinions about Venice, which left me skeptical as well, but I like how you cleared things up. Wandering around and taking photographs is the way to go anywhere you travel and now I feel iffy about taking that iconic gondola ride haha. Climbing the San Marco Bell Tower is totally something I would do, I live getting birds eye views of places!

I agree, visiting viewpoints is almost always worth it! This one definitely was, even if the wind almost knocked us over a few times.

Sometimes it is good to do a tour in off season, specially famous tourist attractions. Though it was raining during your trip, you managed to take beautiful pictures of Venice. Climbing Bell Tower and having views of Venice is so beautiful thing to do here and I missed it because our trip was of only 1 day. I also did Venice tour in February to avoid crowds, heat and overpriced hotels.

Avoiding the crowds and heat is definitely a plus! Changes the whole experience.

This comes as a very helpful post and it clears my doubt. I have also been skeptical about thinking of Venice because I have heard its dirty but once you guys said that it was good that you visited, I am sure there is something magical about the place that attracts so many people all over the world. Lovely captures.

Aw, thank you! Hope you get a chance to go soon and love it as much as we do now!

I’ve been to Venice 3 times and I love the place, not for the romance or the canals, but for the history. You’ve done the right thing going in the off-season. Venice in the summer is a hell-hole and well worth avoiding unless you have no other choice. Nothing I loved more than getting on a boat and going island to island on the public transportation.

Ha–yes, heard that about the summer a lot! I can’t imagine we’ll ever plan a trip there in July–if we ever decide to fight the crowds and pay a premium for lodging in Venice, it will be because we decide to go for Carnival!

Hi there! Thank you for this post. I might do exactly this trip, as I will be going there in late November for three days, sans the partner. hahaha. Do you think the things you listed would still be okay for a solo traveler? I do not mind the time, but was thinking more of the cost. Also, did you bring water boots, for when the water floods in? Or did you just buy/rent something local? Thanks for the tip, and again, really enjoyed your post!

I actually think Venice is wonderful for solo travel–the only additional expenses I can think of is buying a hotel for one instead of two (unless you opt for a dorm hostel), and you’d need to get a group together for a gondola ride if that’s something you want to do (I assume they’ll take solo people, but it’s expensive!).

The odds of an acqua alta severe enough to require water boots during a short visit are very slim–most likely you’ll see just some minor flooding in certain areas if anything, and salesmen will be selling the plastic booties you can see in the photos if that happens. I wouldn’t worry about it, and just pick up something local if it becomes an issue. Venice is pretty great about putting up elevated walkways, etc, making it easy to get around without being wet.

Hope you have a blast!! We can’t wait to go back one day.

Thanks for this great write-up. It was very helpful. I’ll be visiting Venice with my wife this coming November. How cold was it when you were there? What were the temperatures like during the day and night?

Thanks, Joel! We were there toward the beginning of November, temperatures were in the low 50’s during the day and into the high 30’s at night if I remember correctly. We definitely wanted coats on (I actually bought one in Venice!), but with layers, scarves, gloves, etc, we were quite content to walk around for hours. The only time we got unbearably cold was on top of St. Mark’s Bell Tower.

We went to Venice for a week one November (anniversary). We loved every aspect of it. Stunning. We had a lovely theatre evening (Vivaldi music) – we sauntered back to the hotel, admiring the pink street lights, enjoying the quietness and the beauty of the light on the water. We crossed over St Marks Square and couldn’t believe it – the water was beginning to bubble up. We’d never seen anything like it! We thoroughly enjoyed the special light, the buildings/architecture/ no traffic. During the days when busy with day trippers we went round the ‘back local streets’ and found the Jewish Quarter – very interesting, visited Murano. The market is interesting, plenty to see and explore. A uniquely, amazing place.

Venice is definitely both unique and amazing! I’m glad you agree on the November trips–honestly, we loved it so much we would happily plan a November trip there again. The quiet mornings and evenings in the city were just marvelous.

I visited Venice in June and didn’t have a problem with the crowds or the heat or humidity. It was all part of the experience. The streets flooded when it rained the one day and ruined my shoes permanently, also my feet were swollen red and killing me after all the walking by the end of our 3 nights but it was worth it. It’s the most beautiful and magical place in the world without a doubt. It’s literally a marvel of innovation and has the most breathtaking architecture and art the world has ever created. Anyone with any interest in history or art needs to go at least once. It’s like being in a fairy tale, it doesn’t even feel real. Anyone that complains about it is clearly lacking some kind of crucial substance and it’s a sign to avoid that person. Only a Grinch or an absolute spoiled brat who grew up with a silver spoon would complain about this place.

Glad you had a great time, Rachele! We’re hoping to make it back to Venice this year–we miss the city and its magic terribly!

after reading your review I am now debating on going in November. I was originally going to go next year during the quiet time as I thought November might be colder and wetter and wanted to fit it in with something else but we are now looking at Rome for a few days and Venice for the others.I am definitely going to speak to my husband now about going for our wedding anniversary in November x

Hope you have a wonderful anniversary! Venice in November certainly is a bit cold and wet, but still absolutely lovely. We’d be happy to book an off-season trip there again!

thanks for sharing as i was planning to go there 1-3nov this year.. hopefully the covid 19 case is solved by then. anyhow.. i read that the chance of acqua alta is high in november? i wouldnt want to risk that and maybe have a day trip from milan instead of staying in venice?? because i cant imagine if we have to travel the city with our luggage with the flood… any suggestion on this??

thankssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss

I sure hope so, too, for so many reasons.

November is a high-risk month for the acqua alta, but normally it isn’t anything like last year–that was a 50-year record! We experienced a small acqua alta a few years ago, and it wasn’t enough to disrupt business or tourism at all.

If you’re concerned you can definitely schedule a day trip, though truthfully we love Venice far more than Milan!

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Venice Travel Tips

Venice in November

Venice Travel Guides Last Updated · Sep 25th, 2023 · Maddy [post_comments before=""] -->

Welcome to this guide about visiting Venice in November that includes a list of unique events and things to do during this month.

I like to think that Venice in November is back in Venetians’ hands . Summer is just a thing of the past and as the crisp autumn air descends in the city’s streets, the city is divested of all the tourists that took over it for (too) many months.

From this moment on, the tourist’s influx drastically falls , allowing you to discover the quieter side of the city and visit popular attractions in peace.

Yes, the days do get shorter and the temperatures can drop below 10 °C, but with some perseverance, and the right clothing, you can keep walking around Venice.

What's in this guide?

Visiting Venice in November is the perfect time to take advantage of the indoor attractions such as museums and art galleries especially on the more severe days.

Then, as you’ll learn in this guide, there are walking tours you can do to discover the artistic heritage that lurks inside little-known churches and lavish palaces too.

So are you ready to discover Venice in November? Let’s go!

Why visit Venice in November?

If you’re wondering why Venice is worth visiting in November, let me help you unveil a few reasons why this is the perfect time to explore the Floating city.

Despite the colder temperatures, along with the fact that there is a good chance of meeting with the acqua alta during your stay, what makes Venice worth visiting?

• Venice in November is a bit rainy and foggy , but temperatures are still quite mild. Compared to the summer with its sultry heat, November’s weather is much better for exploring the city. Even if the chance of the infamous ‘acqua alta’ increase, this month offers magical views of the Venetian lagoon and early sunsets to admire from Riva degli Schiavoni or Zattere promenade.
• In November there are some city events that are very much felt by Venetians . At the beginning of November, there’s All Saints’ Day, then the Festa della Madonna della Salute , and Festa di San Martino , the most awaited by local children. Take part in any of these events to get a glimpse into the most intimately heard Venetian’s traditions.

If you’re still put off by the thought of cold weather or prefer other seasons, see my guide on the best time to visit to Venice for even more ideas on when to visit.

However, by this point, maybe you are somewhat convinced that travelling to Venice in November is not a bad idea. As I said, there are some unique things to do in Venice on top of the usual ‘unmissable landmarks’ that I’ll visit in the next section.

But before we do though, what about the actual weather forecast for Venice in November? Is it not all doom and gloom? Let’s take a closer look to find out.

Venice in November weather

Temperatures range between 5 and 12 °C in Venice in November. The number of rainy days increases and you can expect to wake up in the morning and see a cloud of dramatic thick fog from your hotel room window.

In this period of the year, tides are higher, so there’s a good chance to come across the infamous ‘acqua alta’. If high tide is expected, it lasts only a couple of hours and it generally affects the lowest parts of the city, like St. Mark’s Square.

You’ll be able to still walk around the city and in the most affected areas by using the elevated walkways. It’s a good idea to carry a pair of rubber high boots , but if you can’t, no worries, you can buy them in one of the many shops in Venice.

When visiting Venice in November, you will want to aim to dress in layers and wear warm cotton or woollen clothes if you can. Carry a decent raincoat and always have a portable travel umbrella with you in your bag to protect you from the rain.

As usual, it’s important to wear a pair of comfortable shoes for wandering around the city, even better if they are waterproof. Check out these Geox for Women or these Geox for Men which are both offer high standards when it comes to comfort.

Got travel insurance for Venice?

Things to do in Venice in November

Now that you know late autumn is a good time to visit Venice , see this list of the best things to do and most important events happening in Venice in November.

Celebrate like a local All Saints’ Day

In Italy it’s called Ponte di Ognissanti (All Saint’s Bridge) and for Italian people, it’s nothing but a great opportunity to plan a city escape.

All Saint’s Day is a Catholic festivity dedicated to all saints and celebrated the 1st of November . Venice is a fantastic destination to visit on this occasion as you can cover the main attractions with a limited time.

Recently, I wrote a list of the best things to see and do with this 3 days in Venice itinerary which I suggest you read on the days leading up to your trip here.

November is much less touristy than July and August and even late spring, and if you feel inspired by the idea of uncovering unusual and little-known sides of the city, this event is the perfect time to do that.

The Halloween spirit is still in the air , so to stay in theme, why not join this unusual Secret Itineraries of Doge’s Palace VIP Tour while exploring the city?

If you’re more up for a guided walking tour where you can feel spooked, this Legends, Anecdotes and Ghost Stories Walking Tour will be perfect for you!

On this day, you can attend the All Saints mass in one of the numerous churches of the city and on the following day, head over the San Michele island and cemetery, for the All Soul’s Day commemoration.

Visit the San Michele island, the cemetery of Venice

November is the month dedicated to the dead , so you can visit the San Michele island and its Monumental Cemetery to admire the important artistic heritage and commemorate loved ones who have passed, if you like.

You can get to the island from Venice by vaporetto with the lines 4.1 and 4.2 that you can get from different locations around the city like Piazzale Roma, Santa Lucia railway station and St. Mark’s Square (which is one of the most popular points).

Here you can visit the beautiful Church of San Michele , the first example of Renaissance architecture in Venice, and the cemetery . In the XIX century, under Napoleon’s rule, it was decided to have Venice’s cemetery on this island , in order to avoid city burials in churches or other populated places.

The cemetery is divided into 3 areas , based on the religious creed: Catholic, Orthodox and Evangelical. The cemetery is a tourist spot because here some important Italian and foreign celebrities are buried: Igor’ Fëdorovič Stravinskij , Christian Doppler, Ezra Pound and Sergey Djagilev, just to name a few.

Visit the city’s top attractions with no crowds

Visiting the popular landmarks in Venice in November is a different story when there are no long queues at the entrance and not mobbed by hoards of tourists .

Not only is it a less expensive time to visit Venice overall, but late autumn is a great time to slowly discover the inestimable historical and artistic value of this city.

For example, you can easily be one of the few people staring at the impressive opulence of the Chamber of the Great Council inside the Doge’s Palace and appreciate every detail feeling no rush to move one quick, so the next tourist can take your spot.

Stroll around the rest of the chambers and floors before heading towards the Bridge of Sighs that leads to the Prisons. When visiting the St. Mark’s Basilica , enjoy the peace while admiring the wonderful golden mosaics , the Pala d’Oro and the view from the Loggia dei Cavalli terrace of St. Mark’s Square.

During summer I’ve seen some of the longest queues outside St. Mark’s Campanile and to the disappointment of many tourists, some end up queuing for nothing.

In November, you can be reassured that you won’t find such long queues and if you’d love to see the city from above, make sure to add it to your itinerary.

From here, you can take in the sights of not only Venice but many islands of the Venetian lagoon. Since during this month you can find rainy or foggy days, it might not be possible to spot all the islands, but it’s still totally worth it.

Feel like a child again during the Festa di San Martino

Every year, the 11th of November the Feast of San Martino is celebrated. The cult of San Martino is an old religious tradition in Venice .

The church dedicated to him was founded as early as the 8th century, perhaps by refugees from the city of Ravenna, where devotion to this saint was deeply felt.

Today, the tradition is still alive and felt by Venetians , especially children. Children go down in the streets and armed with old pots, lids and cowbells, wander around the city’s streets, making a lot of noise and asking shopkeepers and passers-by for some change.

This is the old nursery rhyme in Venetian children recite:

San Martin xe ‘ndà in sofita a trovar la so novissa. So novissa no ghe gera, San Martin xe cascà par tera. el s’ha tacà un bołetin cari signori, xe San Martin!”

For this special occasion, windows of pastry shops are filled with the typical dessert of San Martino , depicting the silhouette of the Saint on horseback.

The St. Martin’s cake is a large shortcrust pastry biscuit , garnished with colourful icings, sugar paste, sweets and chocolates.

Take part in the most awaited Festa della Salute celebrations

The Festa della Madonna della Salute is probably the most important religious event happening in Venice in November and celebrated the 21st of November .

The Catholic festivity dates back to the year 1630 , when Venetians asked the Virgin Mary (Madonna) to end the horrific plague epidemic that decimated at least a quarter of the population of Venice.

At that time, the Senate of the Serenissima organised a procession and promised to build a church if the epidemic regressed.

The splendid baroque Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute is the second most important church in Venice and hosts large celebrations on this occasion.

You can expect to find many liturgical ceremonies and popular entertainment like food stalls outside the church. There is also a temporary wooden bridge crossing the Grand Canal and connecting Santa Maria del Giglio to Punta della Dogana.

This way, participants are going to easily reach the church on foot. Be aware that during this day, there’s a large influx of people making it difficult to move around this part of Venice.

Dive into art at the Biennale International Art Exhibition

Biennially in Venice in November the Biennale International Art Exhibition takes place, one of the world’s most important and prestigious contemporary art events .

The first Biennale dates back to the year 1895 and the city of Venice takes a lot of pride from organising it year after year. The exhibitions showcase artworks from the most talented and cutting-edge artists in the world.

The Venetian art event unfolds among the national pavilions in the Biennale Gardens , the Arsenale and the deconsecrated churches and palaces of the historic centre.

All the Biennale events usually end during this month. There are many collateral events you can take part in while the art Biennale exhibitions are on, and held in various locations around the city and the lagoon. You can check out the official Venice Biennale website to find out more about this event.

Go on a day trip to Milan or Verona by train

I have said it once and I will say it again, Venice is one of the best places in Italy to start your exploration of the rest of the country!

Normally, I’d suggest spending as many days as you can in Venice, but if you have time on your side, why don’t you get on a train and see what else there is inland?

There are untold places you can reach from Venice by train. From big cities, to small mediaeval towns in the heart of Veneto region or at the foothills of the Alps if you like the idea of spending time in one of the many sleepy picturesque lakeside villages.

Two cities you can cover with one or two days are Milan and Verona . You can get to Milano Centrale train station in 2 and a half hours and to Verona from Venice in 1 hour and 12 minutes by high-speed train Frecciarossa of Trenitalia or Italo.

Milan is a buzzing modern metropolis, and apart from visiting the Duomo and its stunning rooftop terraces, the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery and Sforzesco Castle, you can go shopping and visit internationally renowned museums such as the Museo del Novecento and the Pinacoteca di Brera.

Verona doesn’t need much presentation! It’s the City of Love (after Venice), famous for Shakespeare’s tragedy of Romeo and Juliet. While in Verona, you can visit the famous Roman amphitheatre also called Arena di Verona , Juliet’s house, Piazza Bra and Castelvecchio .

Now you have a good idea of what to expect from your visit to Venice in November.

Even though late autumn and winter don’t sound like good times to visit because the weather is cold and rainy, November is the perfect month to avoid the tourist crowds, find great hotel and flight deals and participate in unique events .

Make sure that you pack some warm clothing and the right travel accessories to protect you from the bad weather, and you’ll be more than ready to go!

If you’re planning your itinerary and not sure what to include, check out my popular guide covering the best things to do in Venice so you know what not to miss.

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About Maddy

I love to share tips, advice and resources to help visitors explore Venice and the Veneto region like a local. Learn more about me here.

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Visiting Venice in November | The Complete Guide

November 1, 2022, the best guide to an off-season vacation in venice in november, venice in november may seem hostile to someone expecting perfect italian sunshine and happiness, but there is a way to find magic in the coziness of autumn..

November in Venice means: fog, acqua alta , La Salute festival with all of its small-town-magic, the first mulled wine of the season and hot chocolate, a lot of rain and umbrellas, the closing of the Biennale Exhibition, early darkness, the first Christmas lights, and probably one of the very few times during the year when the streets are quiet and there are very few tourists.

Visiting Venice is always a good idea, even for just a couple of days in November.

Venice is a city made of   majestic palaces, intricate canals and narrow streets to get lost into. The whole area of Venice and its lagoon has been declared a UNESCO Heritage site , for multiple reasons. So there is no wrong time of year to visit and learn more about its history.

But if you are traveling to Venice in November, keep in mind that you might encounter some acqua alta, rain, or both.

Acqua alta , rain and fog can be difficult but also interesting when it comes to the photographic perspective. The fog enveloping all monuments is fascinating and extremely romantic when used as a background for couple photographs. A couple photoshoot in November is always a good way to make memories in Venice.

Now let me answer some of the questions you might have when you are planning to visit Venice in November :

What is unique about visiting Venice in November?

• The first reason to visit Venice in November is the relative peace you will encounter. Less tourists around, more Venetians. You will be able to take your time and enjoy the iconic monuments, museums and locations all around the city without the summer crowds. At this time of the year you are more likely to strike a conversation with a local, and see the true spirit of the city.
• November is cold, but you still have a chance to find a good sunny day. The fog is completely normal at this time of the year, especially in the early morning and after sunset. It feels like living in a dream. And it looks great in pictures.
• Acqua alta: the water is generally on a higher level, so you will have a chance to experience the phenomenon of acqua alta. You can find more information on the acqua alta forecast and what to do in case of acqua alta at this website .
• As the holiday season approaches, Venice celebrates some of its most important festivities such as All Saints’ Day, San Martino and Festa Della Salute on November 21st.

What’s the weather like in November in Venice?

Venice in November can be very cold, rainy and humid. With highs of 12°C and lows of 5°C, the city is in full Autumn and you can expect near-freezing nights and a quite a few rainy days. When you book a photoshoot in November in Venice with me, we will have to make sure that you have a change of shoes if you want to have heels, and a coat, especially if we meet in the early morning. We will also check out the weather forecast for rain (if it rains, the photos can still be magical, don’t worry) and acqua alta . In case of acqua alta you might want to buy some boots and we can work around that to create unique portraits on the water.

Best Things To Do In Venice In November

• Visit all of the best museums in Venice with peace and ease. At this time of the year, in November in Venice, you will not find excessive queues. The basics are: Doge’s Palace , Saint Mark’s Basilica and Accademia if you are interested in learning more about the history of Venice; Punta della Dogana and Palazzo Grassi if you want to see the best contemporary art selection. The Biennale Exhibition is also very important and it closes at the end of November, so this is your last chance to see it.
• Plan a photoshoot in Venice . Having a photo session in Venice in November is not only a way to bring special memories home, but it can also be a creative way to make memories. My offerings as a photographer in Venice are dedicated to couples, solo travelers, and families. The editorial photoshoot is the most exclusive of my services and it focuses on creating together a visual narrative that tell your story. Larger-than-life landscapes, impeccable styling and authentic love stories as unique as the couples telling them, imagery that’s full of life and adventure. The result are photos fit for the pages of a magazine . If you need some more reasons to do it, check out my journal post on the subject .
• Try some of the best restaurants in Venice and enjoy the best service. November is the perfect time to enjoy the coziness of an osteria in Venice: great wines, great food and much more ease when it comes to booking. Some of the best restaurants in Venice are: Ristorante Quadri , Al Covo , Osteria Do Spade , Osteria alle Testiere , La Zucca (recommended for those of you looking for vegetarian options).
• Experience the magnificence of Italian Opera at Teatro La Fenice . Experiencing a show or two at Teatro La Fenice is highly recommended. The theatre isn’t just loaded with architectural gems, it also has wonderful acoustics. Teatro La Fenice is the cultural center of the city. The name of the theater has the word “phoenix” in it as it was rebuilt from ashes twice during its existence. The theatre has once hosted the likes of Verdi, Donizetti, Abbado, Muti and Chung, Rossini, Mirella Freni, Luciano Pavarotti, and Bellini. You can buy a ticket for an evening show, or you can also book a tour of the theater to learn more about its history.
• Explore the canals with a gondola ride The city of Venice is lined with serpentine canals. To see the city of Venice while sitting in a gondola is an unmissable experience that takes you back in time. A gondola is made of 280 hand-made pieces using eight types of wood (lime, oak, mahogany, walnut, cherry, fir, larch and elm). The process takes about two months. The uniqueness of the gondola includes its being asymmetrical along the length making the single-oar propulsion more efficient. This unique boat is one of the most recognizable symbols of Venice.

Calendar of Events in Venice in November

Visiting Venice in November means visiting off-season, far from the crowds and the biggest events. But it doesn’t mean that there are no events in the city! Some of the most important religious events are celebrated in Venice in November. As a tourist, these events can be an interesting way to see how Italians live.

– All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on November 1st and 2nd

You will have the chance to see the most unique cemetery in the world, the island of san michele , around the days of all saints’ day and all souls’ day..

All Saints’ Day , or Ognissanti in italian, is a day when everyone gathers to celebrate the saints. It originated in the 3 rd or 4 th Century with Pope Gregory IV making it a catholic holiday in 835AD. Church bells will call everyone to church, and throughout the day families get together and share a meal.

The following day is All Souls’ Day , Giorno dei Morti . Families visit the graves of their loved ones, cleaning them and praying. A place is often laid at the table for those who have passed away or even a glass of water for them to drink. This is because some people believe that there is a strong connection between the living and the dead on this day.

This celebration is deeply ingrained in the Italian history and as with all Italian traditions, every region has developed their own customs.

In the Veneto region, as with any festival worth celebrating, food is at the heart of it all and despite having drifted slightly from the original recipes, the concepts are still the same (see Fave dei morti in the Food Section of this Article ).

– Festa di San Martino on November 11th

San martino or st martin was a military man who was an early convert to christianity..

Festa di San Martino is celebrated throughout Italy on 11th November each year. Legend says that St Martin was a soldier riding his horse through a city, in the depths of winter, when he saw a poor man, dressed in rags and begging.

Martin’s response to this man’s situation was to cut his cloak in half and give half of his cloak to the frozen man. A simple act of kindness and generosity.

That night Martin had a dream: Jesus appeared before him wearing the exact same military cloak that Martin had cut in half to give to the poor man. Martin then converted to Christianity and went on to become the third Bishop of Tours, in France, that is why he is known as St Martin of Tours.

In Venice the tradition of San Martino has developed into a fun day for the local children.

The bakeries and pastry shops all make beautifully decorated biscuits in the shape of a man on a horse. The man is of course San Martino. These large biscuits are elaborately covered with sweets, chocolate coins and icing sugar.

On the feast day of San Martino the children of Venice walk all over the city visiting local shops and requesting sweets as a gift. It looks like Halloween, with the addition of pots and pans that kids carry around and bang to make noise. In the days leading up to 11th November the shop windows are filled with these colourful and joyous displays.

– Festa della Salute on November 21st

Festa della salute commemorates the end of deadly 1630 plague that had wiped out nearly 33% of venice’s population..

The festival honors the ex-voto made by doge Contarini in 1630. The Doge vowed to erect a solemn temple if the city had survived the disease. A few weeks after, the epidemic started to decrease until it finally stopped in November 1631.

The final count was of about 50,000 deaths in the city alone and almost 100,000 in the whole Venetian territory. The Basilica, designed by Baldassare Longhena (who also built Ca’ Rezzonico and Ca’ Pesaro ), was consecrated in 1687.

Venetians celebrate the occasion by taking a pilgrimage walk across the Grand Canal over a temporary bridge made of boats.

Once inside the Church of Santa Maria Della Salute they will also light a candle and say a prayer. This day, November 21st, is a public holiday in Venice, that’s why everybody participates. It is a celebration that shows you the real Venice and it feel like a small town carnvival: there are food stands, little shops, mulled wine and cotton candy for the kids.

What to eat and drink in Venice in November

The pillars of venetian cuisine to try in november and any other month.

In the Veneto region unlike other parts of Italy, pasta is not the staple – that role is played by the double act of polenta and rice. You can find yellow and white polenta, served as a side dish for meat in its liquid form, or in its hard form, sliced and toasted. Risotto is a very common first course in Veneto, and it is commonly fish risotto in Venice.

Many of Venezia’s traditional dishes are fish-based.

Bigoli in salsa (pasta in an anchovy sauce), risotto al nero di seppia (risotto cooked with cuttlefish ink) and sarde in saor (sardines preserved in a sweet and sour marinade) are amongst the most famous dishes. A very unique recipe is moeche : fried small green crabs fished out of the lagoon in the spring, when they moult and lose their shell.

Ironically, for a region with a large coast, baccalà , dried fish from the north Atlantic, is very popular. In baccalà mantecato , it’s soaked, cooked in milk and then pounded with olive oil to make a kind of pâté, eaten with disks of white or yellow polenta.

Risi e bisi is a kind of risotto made from peas and pancetta. Pasta e fasioi is a winter warming dish consisting of a bean soup with small pieces of pasta in it.

Most people in Venice enjoy a glass of wine after work with a couple of cichèti .

Cicheti are small plates served in bacari , the city’s traditional wine bars. Anything you can eat while standing with a glass in your hand is a cicheto .

Mozzarella in carozza (deep fried mozzarella sandwiches) are a local speciality, with the best ones said to come from the Rosticceria Gislon in Venice.

Among the most famous Venetian desserts are fritoe , a kind of donut made during the carnival season and pinza , a pudding made from dried bread, milk, sugar and sultanas. Baicoli are a kind of thin biscuit, often eaten dipped in coffee with zabaglione or crema al mascarpone (cream cheese mixed with sugar, eggs, and rum).

Autumn delicacies to try when you are visiting Venice in November

On the occasion of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, you can eat ‘ fave dei morti ’ (beans of the dead) a sweet almond biscuit made in three different colours. Legend has it that Fava beans, which the almond biscuits are supposed to represent, were a direct line of communication between the world of the living and dead.

Secondly, the ‘Cotognata sweets’. They can be described as a sort of crystalised quince jelly, made of an apple-pear fruit. We recommend finding them at Mascari, the last spice shop in Venice, by the Rialto Market.

Around November 11th you will find all bakeries and pastry shops filled with San Martino cakes, large biscuits elaborately covered with sweets, chocolate coins and icing sugar.

Tips for visiting Venice in November

• Bring shoes that can resist water. You are probably going to encounter some rain, or acqua alta at some point during your trip, so be prepared.
• Note that November 1st is a public holiday in Venice for All Saints’ Day. Some services might be unavailable.
• If you get to Venice via plane, once you are at Marco Polo Airport remember to buy 48hours, or 72hours travel tickets: this will give you access to all transport networks in the city. You don’t need the vaporetto (waterbus) everyday if you are staying in the main island of Venice, but you need them if you want to explore Murano, Burano and Giudecca.
• If you are looking for a coffee, be aware that in Venice there are two ways to have coffee. Since coffee is seen as a necessity, and espresso if a very short coffee, most Italians will have it while standing at the bar. If you want to sit down and sip it, remember the the pricing will be different.
• If you want to keep warm during a long day in Venice, taste some hot chocolate, or mulled wine in November to make the best of the extreme weather.
• Look for deals on hotel and flight rates as November is not a peak tourist season.

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Visiting Venice in November – The definitive guide

Things to do in Venice Venice Travel Guide Best Time to Visit Venice Venice in November

Venice - City of Canals, needs no introduction. The wide and narrow canals of the city are one of it's most prominent features. One of Europe's most visited cities, with a footfall of nearly 3.8 million/annum, Venice continues to remain an unassuming city with centuries-old cafes beneath stately porticoes.

So what is it about Venice that tourists can't get enough of? Plan a trip to Venice this November to find out!

What makes Venice in November special?

• The weather in November is a pleasant one. Though it is cooler than previous months, there is plenty of sunshine and temperatures are mild, ranging from 16°C to 21°C.
• November is shoulder season in Venice, which means less tourist crowds and more time to visit tourist hot spots. The rates of accomodations and tourist attractions also drop considerably.
• With the holiday season approaching, Venice begins bracing for festive celebrations. All Saints’ Day, Festa Della Salute, and La Biennale are some of the events that bring out the Venetian spirit. Be a part of these events and you are guaranteed to leave the city with a part of it in your heart.

Venice in November: Weather

November is the onset of autumn season in Venice, which means cooler days, with some sunshine and some rain! The temperature ranges between 12°C and 5°C, necessating layers but definitely worth it.

Venice in November: Things to do

Doge’s palace.

A disntinguishing feature of Venice's skyline, The Doge's Palace is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Previously the government center for the Venetian Republic, now it is a landmark monument in Venice with an extensive history.

November Timings 9 AM - 7 PM [last entry at 5 PM]

Piazza San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy Getting There ›

Gondola Tour

As cliche as it sounds, a trip to Venice is incomplete without a gondola ride! Gondolas are flat-bottomed, wooden boats plying the busy Grand Canal and smaller waterways of Venice. They are a symbol of history, tradition, and romance in Venice.

November Timings Daily, 11 AM - 7:30 PM

30100 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy Getting There ›

St. Mark’s Basilica

Formally known as the Patriarchal Cathedral Basilica of Saint Mark, this megastructure is truly the crown jewel of Venice. With a history that stretches way back to the 9th century A.D., it is a church veiled in rich biblical history and fascinating lores and legends. Book a guided tour of the cathedral and follow it up with a visit to the St. Mark's Museum.

November Timings Weekdays: 9:30 AM – 5 PM [last entry at 4:45 PM] Sunday and holidays: 2 PM – 5 PM [last entry at 4:15 PM] St. Mark’s Museum: Every day: 9:30 AM – 5:10 PM Sunday: 2 PM - 5:15 PM

Merceria Orologio, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy Getting There ›

Teatro La Fenice

Italian opera has a special place in the hearts of theater and art lovers. Teatro La Fenice, Venice's most important theater, is the cultural center of the city. The name of the theater has the word “phoenix” in it as it was reborn after two fires. The theatre had once hosted the likes of Verdi, Donizetti, Abbado, Muti and Chung, Rossini, Mirella Freni, Luciano Pavarotti, and Bellini.

November Timings Daily, 9:30 AM – 6 PM Check up-to-date timings here .

Piazza San Marco, 1965 30124 Venezia VE Italy Getting There ›

Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum in Venice is one of the best places to head to if you want to delve into the heritage of the city. The Jewish community has always been a big part of Venice’s population and this museum honours their legacy. The museum's collection includes a wide range of articrafts, including religious objects, textiles, furniture, and works of art.

November Timings 10 AM to 5:30 PM

Campo di Ghetto Nuovo, 2902/b, 30121 Venezia, Italy Getting There ›

Venice craftsmenship tour

Traditional craftsmanship is popular in Venetian households. This tour takes you behind the scenes of some of the renowned workshops in the city where you will be able to experience the making of glass, gold and silver jewelry and mask-making workshops.

November Timings Daily, 11 AM

Venice Tours Office, San Marco 1130 , Venezia Italy Getting There ›

Leonardo da Vinci Museum

Leonardo Da Vinci Museum delves deep into the workings of Leonardo Da Vinci, revealing the strata and substrata of his expertise. The museum exhibits his genius through art, machinery, anatomy, and science through interactive machines, multimedia videos, educational laboratories, infographics, anatomical studies and his most important paintings.

November Timings Daily, 10 AM – 6:45 PM

Scoletta – Complesso Monumentale, Campo San Rocco, 3052, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy Getting There ›

Venice in November: Events to look out for

Festa Della Salute

November 21, 2023 Festa Della Salute commemorates the end of deadly 1630 plague that wiped out nearly 33% of Venice’s population in its wake. Venetians celebrate the occasion by taking a pilgrimage walk across the Grand Canal, over a bridge of boats and lighting a candle at the Church of Santa Maria Della Salute. It is a sombre occasion but one that teaches a lot about the culture of the city.

Biennale Architettura 2023

May 20 - November 26, 2023 Biennale Architettura is the world's biggest architectural festival, currently in its 18th edition and curated by Lesley Lokko. This year's theme, 'The Laboratory of the Future’, puts Africa in the spotlight.

Operas at Teatro La Fenice

All November Experiencing a show or two at Teatro La Fenice is highly recommended. The theater is an architectural marvel with great acoustics. This November, watch Canadian pianist Louis Lortie conduct and play Grieg and Schumann at the Teatro La Fenice. Other must-watch shows include MaLes contes d'Hoffmann, Venezia in Danza: Vivaldiana, and Enrico Dindo & Pietro De Maria in recital.

Concerts at San Vidal

All November San Vidal is a former church that has now been converted to a concert hall. It is located at the end of Campo Santo Stefano. The concert hall is known to host a number of concerts throughout the year. This November, lose yourself in the melody of The Four Seasons by Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi.

Venice in November: 3-day itinerary

3 days in Venice

Basilica di San Marco

Doge's Palace

Gondola Ride

Rialto Market

Museum & Church Trailing

Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands

Venice in November: Essentials

Language Italian

Time zone GMT+2

Country Code +39

Socket Type C, F and L

Currency Euro (€)

Venice accommodations in November

Venice has plenty of vacant accommodations available in November. Since the city is well equipped to handle the tourist crowd, you will have no problem finding a hotel of your choice within your budget. Make sure you have your itinerary in hand before making the hotel bookings. Here are some of the best hotels sorted by budget:

• Luxury – Hotel Canal Grande , Ca’ Maria Adele , The Gritti Palace
• Mid-range – Al Ponte Antico Hotel , Charming House IQs , Hotel Nani Mocenigo Palace
• Budget – Hotel Moresco , Hotel Palazzo Stern , Hotel Olimpia Venice

What to pack for Venice in November?

Venice has a distinguished weather in November. The days are mild and the nights may get freezing cold. Make sure to carry enough warm clothes to layer on, especially if you're planning any night outings. November can be a rainy month in Venice, so have your umbrellas, waterproof coats, and boots handy. Venice is a delight to walk around (when the weather permits) so pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes. If you’re going on a gondola tour on a clear day, you will need sunblock because the gondolas are not equipped with sun umbrellas or any shade.

Getting around Venice in November

It is common knowledge that moving around Venice is mostly water-based. There are over 150 types of water-based vehicles that ply through the canal network of the city. You can take a Vaporetto , motorboat, battelli foranei for most part of the day. A popular means of public transport is the expansive ACTV fleet which has been in operation for over a century in Venice. Alilaguna is a common choice as well considering the city is served by 5 Alilaguna routes. Seasonal transport lines are activated during the rush period but you won’t need them in November. ACTV and ATVO also operate a bus service in the city that connects Venice to the mainland and all the major airports and transport channels. however, amongst the locals. the favorite way of commute are the narrow pedestrian lanes.

Venice in November: Seasonal delicacies

Risotto al Nero di Seppia is a must-try when in Venice. It is squid ink risotto [the jet-black color of the dish is due to this], which has a briny taste. Interestingly, the briny taste is a scale to test the quality of the risotto. The dish also has plentiful wine, onions, and tomatoes. Vini da Gigio serves one of the best Risotto al Nero di Seppia in the city.

Bigoli in salsa is made of long, thick, whole wheat pasta called bigoli which resembles spaghetti in some ways. The dish is made with bigoli, onions, and salt-cured fish, made from scratch. bigoli in salsa was initially served on special occasions like Fridays or Christmas Eve but it is now a year-round delicacy. Try this dish at Cantina do Spade .

Offal enthusiasts, unite. The specialty of fegato alla veneziana is its balanced taste due to the carefully chosen ingredients utilized in it. The main ingredient is often calf liver, which is set against the sweetness of caramelized onions. If you haven’t tried offal yet, this might be a good way to begin. The best fegato alla veneziana can be had at Osteria Antico Calice .

This sweet and sour dish first made its way to Venice in the middle ages back when it wasn't food, but a method used to preserve food. Sarde in saor consists of sardine fillets cooked in vinegar, onions, raisins, and pine nuts. However, overtime, the method of preservation slowly lost its relevance, leaving behind the distinct taste that was lent by this method. Try sarde in saor from Trattoria da Gigio.

Buranelli are Venetian butter cookies said to have originated on the island of Burano, which lent it its name. Buranelli is a sweet treat that was packed by sailors as they left for long voyages. Like most biscuits, they were made 'round' but recently they are available as ‘S’ shaped biscuit, making them easier to dunk in beverages. Get the best Buranelli at Tonolo .

Venice in November: Visiting tips

• To avoid feet blisters, don't wear slippers on your walks. Instead, opt for a pair of comfortable walking shoes.
• November 1 is a public holiday in Venice for All Saints’ Day. Many services might be unavailable.
• Get hold of a Marco Polo travel ticket once you are in Venice which will give you access to all transport networks within the city.
• Do not book a hotel adjacent to a narrow canal as you will be charged an extra fee for the risky navigation of the gondola.
• Look for deals on hotels and flights as November is not a peak tourist season.
• Sip on some Venetian hot chocolate to keep you warm during the cold November days.

Explore Venice through the year

Arun George

A writer who doubles as a food, film, and music guide, Arun spent a good part of his life pursuing Business Management courses that no longer make sense to him. He worked in Dubai as an Accountant for 3.5 years before returning to the city he keeps referring to as 'second home' - Bangalore. Travelling is also one of his interests although he doesn't go by bucket-lists anymore.

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Venice in November: weather and travel tips

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 06.02.2024

Keen to visit Venice outside its peak tourist season? Read our guide to visiting Venice in November, with weather and travel tips that’ll give you an idea of what to expect, and how to make the most of your trip. From what to expect of the weather in Venice in November, to what to expect in the way of festivals, this overview will stand you in good stead. In addition, we share some inspirational itinerary suggestions to further fuel your plans. 

• What's the weather in Venice like in November?

Is November a good time to visit Venice?

• Air and sea temperatures in Venice in November
• Is it cold in Venice in November?
• Is it rainy in Venice in November?

Unforgettable, fully customisable Venice itineraries

• What to do in Venice in November

Visit Venice in other months:

Tailor-made travel itineraries for italy, created by local experts.

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Stay in beautiful Taormina with gorgeous views of Mount Etna and discover Sicily, including famous filming locations. Go on exclusive wine tastings, discover the Greek theater in Taormina with a private guide, visit other Sicilian towns and enjoy the crystal clear water on this week-long trip.

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Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

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From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

What's the weather in Venice like in November?

In November, Venice experiences cooler and more variable weather as autumn progresses into winter. Average temperatures typically range from 5°C (41°F) to 11°C (52°F). While it's a bit colder, it can still be pleasant for exploring if you dress warmly.

Rainfall becomes more frequent, so packing waterproof clothing and an umbrella is recommended. The city takes on a quieter and more intimate atmosphere in November, with fewer tourists around. This can provide a unique opportunity to experience the charm of Venice without the usual crowds.

Thinking of visiting Venice in November? Browse our inspirational  Italy itineraries  to plan your dream trip.

Gondolas in Venice © Shutterstock

Put simply, it depends what you want most from your trip. If you’re into art and culture, and aren’t keen on chronic over-crowding, the answer is yes! 

Given its year-around allure, Venice really doesn’t have a clear-cut low season as such, but November is definitely less packed with tourists than in the spring and summer months. All the better for visiting Venice’s galleries and museums without jostling to get a decent view of all those masterpieces. November also gives you a better chance of booking your preferred accommodation, at a more pleasing price.  

With festive season on the horizon, visiting Venice in November is perfect for getting a head start on your Christmas shopping. During this month, shops start to display their seasonal wares. Just bear in mind the weather in Venice in November — expect rain, and you’ll need to wrap up pretty warm.

Venice © avphotosales/Shutterstock

Air and sea temperatures in Venice in November 

If you’re visiting Venice in November, you're looking at daily average temperature highs of around 12°C, and average lows around 5°C. That’s quite some drop off from the city’s heady summer highs!

Talking of drop offs, November in Venice is also characterised by decreasing temperatures at the weeks go by. At the start of the month, you may well see highs of up to 14°C. By the end of November, you’re looking at an average daily high of 7°C. 

As for Venice’s November sea temperature, this averages around 15°C. For comparison, July averages 25°C. 

Is it cold in Venice in November? 

While Venice isn’t chill-you-to-the-bone freezing in November, it’s certainly a lot colder than its summer months, and even compared with October. Overall, cool is the best word to describe the weather in Venice in November — you won’t freeze, but you will want to wrap up snugly. 

Want more detail? Read up on the weather in Italy in November , and when to go to Italy.

Visit Venice in November to stock-up on seasonal gifts with fewer crowds © Lukasz Janyst/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Is it rainy in Venice in November? 

In a word — yes! The weather in Venice in November can be pretty rainy. On average, there’s 32% chance of rain each day. When it does rain, there’s an average of 67mm.   

But don’t let than dampen your spirit, or style! Armed with a brolly and the right attire, and you can soak up Venetian elegance in style, unhindered by all those summer crowds. 

Set on taking a trip this autumn? Discover more of the best places to visit in November .

St Mark's square from the Grand canal. Venice, Italy © volkova natalia/Shutterstock

Seeking an unforgettable trip to Venice? Some of our immersive, customisable Italy itineraries put this captivating city centre stage. 

As with all Rough Guides trips, they can be 100% tailored to your needs, with a local Italy travel expert on hand to take the hassle out of planning, and to share a wealth of insider intel. 

• Romantic Venice : in the market for a magical weekend getaway in an undeniably romantic city? Our Romantic Venice trip is on hand to help you realise that exact fantasy! After enjoying a couples’ gondola ride, uncover Venice’s history, art and architecture on a fascinating walking tour.  
• Treasures of Italy — Venice, Florence and Rome : want to enjoy some of Italy’s top attractions in around a week? Check out our Treasures of Italy trip. Focussing on a trio of top Italian cities, this can be 100% tailored to your wishes, allowing you to divide your time between Venice , Florence and Rome as you see fit. 
• Grand Tour of Northern Italy : if you have a longer trip in mind, take a look at our Grand Tour of Northern Italy itinerary. It certainly ticks a whole lot of Italy’s best (and most beautiful) boxes in around two weeks. Covering Venice’s captivating canals and islands, Milan’s modern buzz and medieval majesty, and Florence’s ravishing Renaissance treasures, it’s a dream trip for culture vultures, foodies and fashionistas. 

Burano island canal, Venice, taly © StevanZZ/Shutterstock

What to do in Venice in November

Alongside enjoying Venice’s enchanting atmosphere and all those top Venetian experiences (for example, gondola rides, canal-side dining, galleries and opera), November gives visitors the opportunity to witness a unique event. Namely, Festa della Madonna della Salute.

More commonly known as Festa della Salute, this religious festival is held annually on 21st November. It has its origins in 1630, when the Venetians held a three-day procession asking the Virgin Mary for help in ridding the city of the plague. Once the plague had passed, it was decreed that the procession would be held annually.

Today the procession involves a pilgrimage from the San Marco district to the Church of Santa Maria della Salute in the Dorsoduro district, via the Grand Canal. Expect the route to be lined with stalls selling sweets and toys.

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy © Apple Kullathida/Shutterstock

Ready to take a trip to Venice? Read  The Rough Guide to Venice and the Veneto . Or, if you'd prefer to forgoe the hassle of planinng and booking, contact our local  Italy travel experts  to create your dream trip.

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Venice In November: Is it worth it? (2024)

By Georgia Bird

You’ve booked the flights, notified work you will be AWOL, all the while dreaming of eating pizza next to the Adriatic Sea on the canals of Venice…so what next? 

We’ve taken all the best things we did and saw on our trip to Venice and made this handy guide for you!

Let’s take a look at all the best things to see and do in Venice in November .

In A Hurry? Not To Worry!

Weather: Average 12°C, expect rain. Rainy Season: Nov sees highest rainfall. Sunset: 7am-5pm, plan photos! Gondolas: A must, even in Nov . Murano & Burano: Colorful day trip. Rialto Bridge: Oldest, scenic views. Festivals: Nov 21st religious celebration. Christmas Markets: Mestre from late Nov. Getting Around: Walk or water taxi. Stay: Budget | Mid Range | Luxury Conclusion: Nov quieter, perfect for exploring Venice’s charm!

What’s The Weather Like In Venice In November?

The weather in Venice in November could work in your favour on your visit, as you won’t have the blistering sun beating on you as you walk the tight streets of Venice, and tourism takes a dip during this time.

• Temperature: The average temperature should be around 12°c (54°f) – not exactly sun bathing weather, but (usually) not so cold that you won’t want to explore! The temperature can vary, and it is not uncommon for it to drop below freezing at night so prepare for all weather.
• Fog: During Autumn and Winter, fog is common in Venice. Though it will impact visibility, it does create a mysterious aura around the streets of Venice.
• Sunshine: Days are noticeably shorter in November, with around 4-5 hours of sun. Don’t let this dishearten you! Venice comes alive at night, with twinkling waterside restaurants lining the canals. The lack of sun is definitely made up for in atmosphere.

When is rainy season in Venice?

Venice has frequent rainfall through the year, but there are two periods which stand out the most:

• April-June: May in particular is one of the wettest months of the year, with frequent thunderstorms included.
• October-January: November is in the highest months that Venice experiences rainfall, with a general peak happening around this time.

Make sure to plan your activities (and clothing!) accordingly, and a little bit of rain will not dampen your trip to Venice at all.

When does the sunset in Venice in winter?

In November, Venice experiences shorter days with the Sun rising around 7am and setting by 5pm.

Keep these timings in mind for you to maximize daylight hours. Early mornings offer a soft light ideal for capturing the city’s canals, while evenings provide a golden hue perfect for highlighting its historic architecture. Plan your excursions accordingly to make the most of Venice during this time of year.

Things To Do In Venice In November

This astounding floating city is bursting with history and culture.

Despite temperatures dropping from its usual subtropical climate, Venice in November is still the experience of a lifetime. A trip can be planned to suit any budget , whilst still getting the full Venetian experience.

1. Admire The Basilica San Marco

Also known as Saint Mark’s Basilica, this astounding Cathedral is a must for anyone visiting Venice. On the outside, its intricately decorated exterior draws flocks of tourists in the thousands each year. On the inside, the delicately painted ceilings will leave you in awe. This 12th-century backdrop also offers the perfect setting for those iconic, jaw-dropping photos seen across social media.

Insider Tip: For prayer, mass, and services entrance to the Basilica is free, and you can take in the breathtaking painted ceilings. Queues can be long (30-60 minutes), but it is entirely worth it.

2. Relax On A Gondola

Unless you have been living under a rock, you should know that the most popular activity to partake in when visiting Venice is a trip on a Gondola!

You will make your way through the maze of canals, watching Venice go by as you sit back, relax, and maybe even enjoy some Gelato as you go!

Can You Ride Gondolas In Venice In November?

Absolutely! In fact, it is one of the best things you can do in Venice, and we personally think it is a must during your visit at least one. There are so many Gondola experiences to choose from that it helps when others have had a great experience too- below are a few highly recommended Gondola experiences for you to look through.

⭐ Pre-Book Your Gondola Experience Here! ⭐

3. Shop ‘Til You Drop At Rialto Market

Rialto Market is one of the last remaining Venetian markets , unfortunately, down to the lack of tourism it attracts. Visiting Venice in November would be a great opportunity to skip breakfast, make your way to this market, and enjoy the fresh produce that the locals have to offer!

It is so easy for traditions (and the local’s livelihoods) such as markets to be forgotten; it is important that we, as tourists, make an active attempt to support the countries we are visiting as much as we can.

4. Enjoy Italian Cuisine

Italy is renowned for having some of the best cuisine in the world which you can enjoy whilst meeting others and socialising: like a true Italian.

Join a local chef who will teach you all the secrets to cooking beautiful meals- skills that you will carry with you for a lifetime! Sip Prosecco as you prepare pasta and Tiramis u, before sitting down to enjoy your creation.

Or if you’re thinking “but i’m on holiday, I don’t want to cook” , why not join a food tour that will ensure your taste buds are taken on a delicious journey as you venture from one hidden gem to the other right in the heart of Venice.

⭐ Eat Like A Local ⭐ ⭐ Cook Like A Local ⭐

5. Free Walking Tour

As you are admiring the beauty of Venice, you are likely to just stroll past buildings with so much history without realizing. That is why walking tours are one of the absolute best ways to experience any city you visit. They are almost always led by citizens of Venice, also.

Insider Tip: On the first Sunday of every month, Museo Archeologico Nazionale, Gallerie dell’Accademia and many more museums are FREE by Italian law!

These are perfect for people on a budget as they usually only require a small tip to the guide at the end of your tour as a courtesy. They often last a few hours, and are so insightful. You’ll walk away with a ton of new facts to take home!

6. Murano And Burano Day Trip

For those on a slightly longer trip to Venice, a trip to the colorful streets of Burano is an experience that should be considered. Just a 30 minute boat ride from Venice , you will be transported into a quaint, Italian village and allowed to explore. 

Murano is known for its long history of Glass-Making, and is a unique experience to share with everyone at home.

⭐ Murano and Burano Day Trip From Venice ⭐

7. Doge’s Palace and Prisons

A tour of Doge’s Palace and Prisons is ideal for any visit to Venice in November to stay out of the colder weather for a while! Admire the artistic ceilings that sit within this amazing example of Gothic architecture.

For any dark tourism fans , the Prison Quarters are a great change to the delicate streets of Venice. And even better, the tours are guided; meaning you’ll get a professional telling you all about the building and its history.

⭐ Skip The Line At Doge’s Palace And Prison ⭐

8. Visit Rialto Bridge

Rialto Bridge is the oldest of the bridges along the Grand Canal, having been built in the 16th Century. It provides breathtaking birds-eye views of this iconic waterway.

It can, understandably, get pretty packed on this bridge, so try to visit either late in the evening, or super early in the morning to have it all to yourselves.

Fun fact for Spider-Man fans: scenes from ‘Far From Home’ were filmed at this very location!

Events & Festivals In Venice In November

> feast of the madonna della salute.

Every year on November 21st, this religious celebration takes place . Citizens of Venice pull together, and walk over the floating bridge, that is constructed for this time, towards the Salute Church to pay homage to Mother Mary , lighting a candle and praying for their health. The main focus of this celebration is the reflection of the Plague, and how it wiped out 1/3 of the population of Venice within weeks.

If you are in Venice during this time, you must jump at the chance to join this yearly tradition.

Are there any Christmas markets in Venice in November?

Mestre Markets has 2 main Christmas markets which start right at the very end of November and run until early January. 

Mercatino di Natale at the Piazza Ferreto starts on the 27th November . Mercato dei Portici at Via Palazzo starts on the 30th November . 

If you’re here during this time, make sure to check them out!

Insider Tip: The majority of businesses and attractions in Italy are closed on November 1st for All Saints Day.

Read More On Venice: Romantic Trip To Venice, Italy Hidden Gems Of Venice

Getting Around Venice

The best, and cheapest, way to get around Venice is on foot! It is very small, and takes around one hour to walk from one side of the city to the other. 

That being said, you should absolutely take a water taxi at least once for just a few Euros . It is fun, and you will definitely be asked by friends and family if you did this!

You can also make use of the Vaperettos (public water bus). They work just like regular buses/trams, in which they have numbered routes for each area of the city.

For a 3-day travel card, it will set you back around €40- not exactly cheap . However you can also get to Murano/Burano, from/to Marco-Polo Airport, and use any of the public transport within Venice with this pass.

How Many Days Should You Spend In Venice?

In order to ensure you see everything that Venice has to offer at surface level, 2 days at least is a must. 

If you want to experience a little bit more but at a comfortable pace, we recommend 3-4 days. This will give you time to do all the most famous attractions, along with a day in any museums, and a day trip to Murano and Burano.

What To Pack For Venice In November

Venice in November is going to be colder than its usual sub-tropical heat so layers, layers, layers!  You’ll want the option to add/take off layers throughout the day. 

Comfortable boots/shoes, sweaters, rain jackets, and an umbrella should all be packed in your bag- just in case.

Don’t forget you’ll also need a Type C plug adapter for all your electronics!

Where To Stay In Venice

Venice is definitely not short of beautiful hotels , and you’ll have no issue finding the perfect one for you. We have lined up three hotels of differing budgets for you to book- all are highly reviewed , so we hope you love them!

📍 Budget: Alloggi Acquavita

Alloggi Acquavita is just 15-minutes from Piazza San Marco. This historic guesthouse is set alongside the canal- ideal for those visiting Venice on a budget, without sacrificing a comfortable stay.

⭐ See Alloggi Acquavity Availability and Prices ⭐

📍 Mid-Range: Hotel Montecarlo

Set in a 17th Century building, Hotel Montecarlo is just around the corner from Piazza San Marco- ideal for short breaks in November, as it is close to all the tourist hot-spots.

⭐ Book Hotel Montecarlo Here! ⭐

📍 Luxury : Locanda Vivaldi

Locanda Vivaldi offers elegant rooms, with some overlooking St Mark’s Basin. Based just a 7-minute walk from St Mark’s Basilica, this traditional hotel hosts the chance for a luxurious, cosy stay on those cold November nights in Venice!

⭐ Experience Luxury At Locanda Vivaldi Here! ⭐

Conclusion: Is It Worth Visiting Venice In November?

Whilst the weather may be colder, and the chance of rain higher, this should not put you off visiting Venice in November.

In fact, it is the perfect time if you want to be able to embrace Venice, in all its glory, without the crowds of tourists. 

You will find that in November, you will be walking among more Venetians than tourists. This will mean you are less likely to queue for museums, and will get to that photo opportunity much quicker, and without people in the background of your photos. 

Also the colour of the buildings reflecting off the wet cobbled streets is a sight to be seen- arm yourself with a colourful umbrella , and you will fit right in.

At time of writing, there are currently no Coronavirus measures limiting tourists to enter Italy. This is in accordance with the information provided on gov.uk .

Researched and Written

Georgia Bird is the owner and author of First Step: Europe. She uses her 10+ years of European travel experience to create comprehensive guides for her readers. Her passion for travel led her to create the site, aiming to ease the anxiety of first-time European visitors. Georgia’s insights offer a reassuring guide for an unforgettable journey.

Enjoy Our Web Story For Quick And Easy Viewing!

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Exploring the Enchanting Wreaths of Venice in November

Venice, with its timeless beauty, captivating canals, and rich history, is a city that enchants visitors throughout the year. However, there is something truly magical about exploring this enchanting city in the month of November. As the summer crowds disperse and the crisp autumn air settles in, Venice welcomes a sense of tranquility and charm that is unique to this time of year.

Peter Veenstra

9/24/2023 3 min read

Weather in Venice during November

One of the reasons why November is a great time to visit Venice is the weather. The scorching heat of summer has passed, and the city is embraced by cooler temperatures, making it perfect for leisurely strolls along the canals. The average temperature during this month ranges from 8 to 15 degrees Celsius (46 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit), allowing you to comfortably explore the city's many attractions without the discomfort of extreme heat or cold.

Why November is a great time to visit Venice

November offers a quieter and more intimate experience of Venice. The summer crowds have dissipated, allowing you to appreciate the city's architecture, art, and culture at your own pace. The narrow alleys and hidden corners of Venice become less crowded, giving you the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the city's unique atmosphere. Additionally, visiting Venice in November means you can enjoy lower hotel rates and fewer queues at popular attractions, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable trip.

Top attractions to explore in Venice during November

Venice is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, historical landmarks, and world-class art. In November, some of the city's top attractions can be explored in a more serene setting. Start your journey at the iconic St. Mark's Square, where you can marvel at the stunning St. Mark's Basilica and the grand Doge's Palace. Take a leisurely gondola ride along the picturesque canals, passing under the iconic Rialto Bridge and discovering the hidden beauty of Venice's lesser-known neighborhoods. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the renowned Peggy Guggenheim Collection, showcasing modern art masterpieces in an elegant palazzo overlooking the Grand Canal.

Festivals and events in Venice in November

Venice is known for its vibrant and unique festivals, and November is no exception. One of the highlights of this month is the Festa della Salute, celebrated on November 21st. This religious festival commemorates the end of the devastating plague in 1630 and involves a pilgrimage to the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute. The city comes alive with processions, gondola races, and stunning fireworks, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Additionally, November marks the beginning of the Venice Jazz Festival, where world-class musicians gather to perform in various iconic venues throughout the city.

Exploring the canals and bridges of Venice

Venice is renowned for its intricate network of canals and charming bridges. November provides the perfect opportunity to explore these enchanting waterways without the usual crowds. Take a romantic stroll along the famous Grand Canal, admiring the elegant palaces and historic buildings that line its banks. Cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs and discover the hidden gems of the quieter canals, where you can witness the daily life of Venetians and discover charming cafes and artisan boutiques.

The enchanting wreaths of Venice

As November arrives, Venice prepares for the holiday season with a touch of enchantment. The city is adorned with beautiful wreaths that add a festive and magical atmosphere to the already picturesque surroundings. These wreaths, often made with dried flowers, pinecones, and ribbons, can be found adorning the doors and windows of Venetian homes, hotels, and shops. Each wreath is unique, reflecting the creativity and craftsmanship of the people of Venice.

Where to find the most beautiful wreaths in Venice

To truly immerse yourself in the enchanting wreaths of Venice, head to the district of Cannaregio. Here, you will find the Fondamenta della Misericordia, a charming waterfront promenade lined with traditional Venetian houses. As you stroll along, pay attention to the intricately decorated wreaths that adorn the doors and windows. The district of Dorsoduro also offers a delightful display of wreaths, particularly around the beautiful Campo Santa Margherita, where locals gather to enjoy a coffee or aperitivo.

Tips for capturing the beauty of Venice in November

To capture the beauty of Venice in November, consider waking up early to witness the magical sunrise over the city's canals. The soft morning light combined with the calm waters creates a surreal and ethereal atmosphere that is perfect for photography. Explore the city on foot, allowing yourself to get lost in its labyrinthine streets and hidden corners. Don't forget to try some of the local delicacies, such as cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and a glass of spritz, as you soak in the unique ambiance of this enchanting city.

Venice in November offers a truly enchanting experience. The quieter atmosphere, beautiful wreaths, and pleasant weather make it the perfect time to explore this captivating city. Whether you're wandering along the canals, visiting the top attractions, or immersing yourself in the local festivals, Venice in November will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, prepare your camera, and get ready to embark on a journey through the enchanting wreaths of Venice.

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Miss Travelesque

Europe , Italy · 10/07/2022

Venice in November: Is it Worth Visiting?

Last updated on August 9th, 2023 at 03:56 am

How’s Venice in November? That’s the question a long-time friend broached to me over the phone one hectic Monday morning (while I was still struggling to come to terms with the fact that it’s already Monday , heh). And it’s the question that gave life to this post.

She’s planning to visit Venice in November and since I went in the same month not too long ago, she thought I would be an expert on the subject. Ha.

I wouldn’t exactly call myself an expert, but I do know a thing or two about visiting Venice in November to credibly (I’d like to think) write something about it. So to answer her question and those of others who wonder the same, here’s a look at Venice in November.

Venice in November

For starters, I didn’t have the most favorable first impression of Venice when I disembarked from our Vaporetto (a canal boat or water bus) at the San Marco stop one wet, rainy midnight.

The midnight part was totally my fault (I missed my original flight from Paris, leaving me to board a later one–an interesting story for another time). The rain? A force of nature that couldn’t be helped. But the rest that followed, I would say, was totally on Venice.

First off, the streets were flooded. So much water, we had a hard time navigating our way.

Second, everyone we talked to in the streets was either: one, saying we won’t be able to reach our hotel that night; or two, selling us one thing or another, claiming we need them to reach our hotel that night –not exactly encouraging things to hear when you’re bone-tired after a long day’s travel.

To make the story short, we, thankfully, found our hotel just before we fell asleep on our feet, but not without discouraging thoughts about how this Venice City trip might just… suck?

Well, we couldn’t be more wrong, though. Because it turned out to be totally the opposite of that. That Venice trip was one of the best and most memorable Europe trips we’ve made. Here’s how that came about.

Venice Gondola

The morning after we arrived, we woke up to this sight.

Oh wow. Gondolas after gondola ferrying sightseers, who wanted to experience an authentic Venice Gondola ride, passed by on the canals under our room. What a sight that was! If the reality that we were already in Venice still seemed surreal before that, then that picturesque scene certainly brought the fact sinking in.

When we went out, this site greeted us, however.

In some areas, there was still water left by the high tide the night before. We were surprised, for sure, but that’s mainly because we didn’t check how Venice is in the fall.

This didn’t bother us, though, because while it might be a bit of a hassle walking on wet streets, still the weather was cool and there were fewer crowds, which are plusses when visiting during autumn.

These pictures were taken in the morning, hence the water.

Come lunch or early afternoon, however, it receded significantly, making going around easier.

St. Mark’s Square

And as you can see, we weren’t the only ones not bothered by the wetness. People still enjoyed Venice despite it.

And many were still out and about.

Venice Canal

Because who wouldn’t when Venice is amazingly gorgeous; it’s just wonderful and unique: a city on water.

Grand Canal, Venice

The biggest canal, Grand Canal, is a sight to behold. It’s huge compared to other inner canals and bustling with activity that’s so fascinating to see. We took this photo while on the Rialto Bridge.

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Bridge of Sighs

The famous Bridge of Sighs didn’t disappoint. It was as splendid as the photos we’ve seen before portrayed it to be. Actually, more splendid.

Exploring Venice

We went exploring. Venice with its labyrinth of streets is a joy to explore–you’ll never know what may turn up on a corner or what you’ll chance upon down a pathway.

And then, of course, there are those little, dramatic bridges like this that afford you another delightful and romantic view of gondolas gently sailing on the water.

We stayed in Venice for around three days and we had the best time of our lives that we promised ourselves we would return.

Is Venice Worth Visiting?

So visiting Venice in November is great for many reasons, a few of which are:

• One, the weather isn’t hot as opposed to going in the summer. Also, they say that the canals emit this foul smell in the summer that isn’t present during the autumn.
• Second, November belongs to shoulder season or one approaching the off-season, so there are fewer crowds.
• Third, hotels aren’t fully booked, so you have more options to choose from. A little story: we had this cousin who visited Venice in the summer and had to stay at a hotel an hour and a half from Venice because all hotels in and around the city center were fully booked. He had to take a bus every day to get to Venice.
• Fourth, prices on almost everything are more affordable.

Get These Venice Travel Guides

Venice Tours

For a most extraordinary and memorable Venice experience, you can avail of these Venice tours that offer something extra special. Book in advance to ensure there are still slots available.

Hotels in Venice

For places to stay in Venice, here are some highly-rated hotels near the attractions.

• Hotel Colombina
• Bauer Palazzo
• Palazzo Orseolo-Gondola View

Final Thoughts

We hope you’d love and enjoy Venice as much as we did!

Don’t forget to share this post or save it for later.

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10/07/2022 at 5:44 pm

Venice is so beautiful! Can’t believe how high the water gets though haha

11/07/2022 at 5:37 am

Yes, it is. And yes, there’s that, heh. But it’s tolerable and fun in some ways, I guess.

23/07/2022 at 2:00 pm

It’s beautiful! I would definitely go in November. Such a beautiful place to visit. Thanks for sharing your experience!

24/07/2022 at 2:06 am

Thank you so much and you’re welcome.

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Venice Revealed

The Best Time to Visit Venice: The Ultimate All-Season Guide

This post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you book a tour or hotel through my link I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. By supporting me through these links, you’re helping me keep this site awesome and deliver top-notch content to you. Your support means the world to me, and I’m incredibly grateful for it!

To truly appreciate Venice’s romantic allure , it’s crucial to plan your visit carefully. I live very close to Venice and spend time there frequently meaning that I have been there in every season.

What’s the best time to visit Venice? My favorite times to go there are in April and May and then again in September and October.

However, the best time to visit Venice can vary greatly depending on your preferences. Some prefer the bustling energy of the peak season, while others seek the tranquility of fewer crowds. Factors such as weather, hotel rates, and key events also play a significant role in determining the ideal time for your visit.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll delve into the nuances of Venice’s seasons, discuss the city’s weather patterns, highlight key events and attractions, and provide practical tips to help you plan your visit.

Want to know the worst time to visit Venice? Click here for my full article!

Understanding Venice’s Seasons

Venice, like much of Italy, experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique characteristics and charm. Understanding these seasons and their implications for travel can greatly enhance your visit to this enchanting city.

Peak Season

The peak season in Venice typically falls in the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the city is teeming with tourists from around the world, drawn by the warm weather and the vibrant atmosphere.

The city is in full swing, with all attractions open and tons of events taking place. However, be prepared for large crowds , long lines, and packed vaporetti, especially in popular spots like Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal. Also, hotel rates tend to be at their highest during this period and some people complain that it’s smelly in the summer.

You’re not too far from some gorgeous beaches , though, so if you have some extra time to spend in Venice then it’s worth it to come during this season.

The off-season in Venice is generally during the colder months, from November to February, excluding the festive Christmas period and the famous Carnevale in February . Aside from during those times, the city sees fewer tourists, resulting in smaller crowds and shorter lines at attractions.

The weather can be quite cold, and some attractions may have shorter hours or be closed entirely. However, hotel rates are generally cheaper, and you can experience a quieter, more authentic Venice.

There is still plenty of events and things to do in the off season. For instance, in January you can take in the Epiphany celebrations.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Venice occurs in the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October). These periods offer a balance between the bustling energy of the peak season and the tranquility of the off season. The weather is generally pleasant, and while there are still tourists, the crowds are less overwhelming.

Hotel rates are also more moderate compared to the peak season. The shoulder season can be an excellent time to visit Venice if you’re looking for a balance between good weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices.

Read my guide on the most romantic hotels once you’ve started planning your trip!

Peak Visitor Numbers and Tourist Seasons in Venice

Venice, the city of canals, is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year . Understanding the peak visitor numbers and tourist seasons in Venice can help you plan your trip more effectively, ensuring you get the most out of your visit.

Venice experiences its highest tourist influx during the summer months, particularly in July and August. This is considered the “peak season” when the city is bustling with tourists from around the world. The weather is warm, and all attractions are open, making it an ideal time for sightseeing. However, it’s also when Venice is most crowded, and hotel rates are at their highest.

On the other hand, the “off season” typically falls in the colder months, from late fall to early spring. During this time, the number of tourists drops significantly. While some attractions may have shorter hours, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds, and accommodations are generally cheaper.

The “ shoulder season ” falls in the transitional periods between the peak and off seasons, usually in late spring (April to June) and early fall (September and October). During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and the tourist crowds are less overwhelming than in the peak season.

However, it’s important to note that these are general trends and can vary from year to year.

Weather in Venice

Venice, the city of canals, is a marvel to behold in any season. However, the weather can significantly impact your visit, so it’s essential to know what to expect.

Average Temperatures

Venice experiences a humid subtropical climate, with cool winters and very warm summers. The average annual temperature is 18℃. The warmest month of the year is July, with an average temperature of 28℃. On the other hand, January is usually the coldest month, with an average temperature of 7℃.

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of the average temperatures:

• January: 7℃
• February: 9℃
• August: 28℃
• September: 24℃
• October: 19℃
• November: 13℃
• December: 9℃

Precipitation

Venice also sees a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year. The months with the largest precipitation are October, November, and May, with October seeing the highest average precipitation of 88mm.

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of the average precipitation:

• January: 49mm
• February: 51mm
• March: 61mm
• April: 73mm
• August: 62mm
• September: 68mm
• October: 88mm
• November: 84mm
• December: 62mm

Visiting Venice in Different Seasons

Each season in Venice offers a unique experience, with its own set of pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when visiting Venice in different seasons:

Summer (June – August)

• Long, sunny days perfect for sightseeing
• Numerous events and festivals, such as the Festa del Redentore in July
• Gondola rides and alfresco dining are particularly enjoyable in the warm weather
• High tourist season, resulting in large crowds and long lines at attractions
• High temperatures and occasional summer thunderstorms can be uncomfortable
• Hotel rates are at their peak

Fall (September – November)

• Fewer tourists, resulting in a more relaxed atmosphere
• The weather is generally pleasant, with temperatures dropping from the summer highs
• The occurrence of “acqua alta” can be an interesting experience (though it’s best to come prepared with rain boots)
• Some attractions may have shorter hours
• The weather can be unpredictable, with a higher chance of rain and acqua alta

Winter (December – February)

• The least crowded time to visit Venice
• Lower hotel rates
• Unique events like the Venice Carnival in February
• Cold winters, with temperatures often dropping below freezing
• Shorter days mean less daylight for sightseeing
• Some businesses may be closed or have reduced hours

Spring (March – May)

• Beautiful blooming flowers and pleasant weather
• Fewer crowds compared to the summer months
• The Venice Biennale starts in late May, a major contemporary art exhibition
• Spring showers are common, so it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella
• Some popular sites can start to get crowded, especially during the Easter holidays

Remember, the best time to visit Venice depends on your personal preferences and what you want to get out of your trip.

Key Events and Holidays in Venice

Venice is a city that’s rich in culture and tradition, and this is reflected in the numerous events and holidays that take place throughout the year. These events can significantly impact your visit, affecting everything from hotel rates to tourist crowds.

National Holidays in Italy

Italy celebrates several national holidays, many of which are also celebrated in Venice. These include New Year’s Day (January 1), Easter Monday (date varies), Labor Day (May 1), and Christmas Day (December 25). During these holidays, many businesses and attractions may be closed, but the city often comes alive with special events and celebrations.

Specific Events

One of the most significant events that impact the city’s crowd levels is the Carnevale di Venezia, or the Carnival of Venice. This annual festival is world-renowned and attracts visitors from all corners of the globe. The Carnevale typically takes place in February , leading up to Lent. The exact dates vary each year, but in 2023, for example, many of the Carnival events were scheduled from the 11th to the 21st of February, according to the official Venice Carnival website .

If you’re planning to visit during the Carnevale, it’s recommended to book your accommodation and tickets for events well in advance. Some of the most popular events, like the ‘Il Ballo del Doge’ or the Doge’s Ball, can sell out quickly.

Another significant event is the Festa del Redentore in July, a grand festival with fireworks and a regatta to celebrate the end of the plague in 1576.

Holy Week , leading up to Easter, is also a special time in Venice, with religious processions and services taking place throughout the city.

Christmas in Venice is a magical time, with festive decorations, special church services, and Christmas markets. The markets start popping up around the end of November and often last until into the second week of January.

Another notable event is the Vogalonga Regatta, a non-competitive rowing event that takes place in May. It’s a spectacular sight, with hundreds of boats from around the world participating.

Impact on Hotel Rates and Tourist Crowds

During these events and holidays, Venice can become particularly crowded, and hotel rates often increase due to the high demand. It’s advisable to book your accommodations well in advance if you plan to visit during these times.

For events like the Vogalonga, transportation and even the routes the gondolas can take are impacted. The Grand Canal is closed to public transportation during the Vogalonga for most of the day, for example.

Practical Tips for Visiting Venice

Visiting Venice can be an unforgettable experience, but it requires some planning and preparation. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Weather Preparedness

Venice’s weather can be quite variable, so it’s important to plan for good weather and prepare for the possibility of bad weather. Check the average temperatures and rainfall for the time of your visit and pack accordingly. Remember, even in the summer, thunderstorms can occur, and in the winter, the city can experience cold temperatures and high water levels (acqua alta). Always have a plan B for outdoor activities in case of unexpected weather changes.

Venice can be an expensive city, especially during the peak tourist season. If you’re on a tight budget , consider visiting in the off-season when hotel rates are generally cheaper. Also, keep in mind that many attractions charge admission fees, so factor these into your budget as well.

Buying one of the many passes available for things like transportation, museums , and other attractions can save you money and time. I highly recommend one and you can see the ones that should help you on your trip by clicking here.

Check out my guide on the most popular Venice Passes so you can find one that suits your needs best!

Packing Appropriately

Packing appropriately for your trip to Venice is crucial. In addition to clothing suitable for the weather, consider packing items like rain boots and a waterproof jacket, especially if you’re visiting during the acqua alta season . If you are caught by surprise by aqua alta and didn’t pack appropriately, don’t worry as many souvenir shops sell boots.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must as you’ll likely spend a lot of time on your feet exploring the city.

Check out my packing list guide for what to wear in Venice!

Day Trips and Special Events

Venice’s location in northern Italy makes it a great base for day trips to other cities and regions such as the Prosecco hills for a wine tour . Consider adding a day trip to your itinerary to explore more of Italy. Also, if you’re visiting over New Year’s Eve, you’re in for a treat. Venice hosts a spectacular fireworks display over the lagoon to ring in the new year, a truly magical experience.

Check out my article on the best day trips from Venice to help you plan your ideal trip!

Venice, with its unique charm and rich history, is a city that captivates every visitor. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets during the peak tourist season, experiencing the festive atmosphere of the Carnevale, or enjoying the quieter charm of the off-season, Venice promises an unforgettable experience.

Remember, the best time to visit Venice is the time that suits you best. So, plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with La Serenissima, the most serene city.

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Best Times To Visit Venice

The best time to visit Venice is from September to November when tourists desert the city. Although the temperatures – which range from the upper 30s to mid-70s – necessitate some layers, the lowered hotel rates and the barren canals make it worth it. Winters are cold with temperatures in the 30s and 40s, while spring brings Venice's most beautiful weather. Summertime is peak season and is characterized by high hotel rates, high temperatures and – you guessed it – plenty of crowds. Although acqua alta  (high water) can occur anytime between late September and April, it's most likely to happen in November and December, so make sure to pack a pair of rain boots if you plan on traveling then. 

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When to visit Venice

May 15, 2023 • 4 min read

Find the perfect time for your visit to Venice with our guide to events in the city through the year © LeoPatrizi / Getty Images

There isn't a true low season in Venice . Not really.

The Serenissima is so unique and so famous that the desire to see it with one’s own eyes knows no seasonal limit. Every time of the year has its pros and cons – as well as different activities and events to enjoy up and down the canals – but there isn’t really a bad time to visit.

From festivals like Carnevale to the quieter winter months, we pick through the best times to visit Venice.

May to October hosts the best Venetian festivals

This is when Venice is at its best: with nice weather and sun lasting long past 8pm. The closer to summer it gets, the more tourist numbers and prices rise but the best free things to do in Venice can help you keep within your budget. At the height of summer, the weather crosses the threshold from nice to stiflingly hot – something to be aware of if you’re planning to explore the city on foot .  The crowds arrive for Carnevale (held on Shrove Tuesday) in spring too.

May is almost summer, and the whole city is alive with the knowledge that the warmest months are fast approaching. Events begin to pop up and gather crowds – the chief among all being the Biennale, which has been celebrating visual arts since 1895. June is the start of high season and tourists begin to pour in, especially once schools officially close down for summer break around the middle of the month. If the main tourist spots get too much, consider seeking out one of Venice's less-trafficked neighborhoods .

Even though the weather will begin to feel stifling in July, Venice is still bustling – get yourself a good spot among the other visitors for the Festa del Redentore (third Sunday of July) fireworks. If the crowds really get too much, consider a day trip outside the city . A good way to deal with the sun beating down on your head is to make the most of it while lying down at one of the many beaches of the Lagoon, both in and around Venice . 

September is one of the best months of the year – the heat dwindles, but the weather is still great, and it makes for an excellent set-up to enjoy the last moments of the warm season. Then, come October, fall has arrived. There are some good days, but it’s also when the possibility of acqua alta looms on the horizon. Pack rain boots just in case.

Go in March to April for cooler weather

If you thought the city emptied out after the revelries of the Carnevale, think again. With days getting longer and the weather getting warmer, people are again out and about on the bridges and canals. The spring months are the best choice if you want to do plenty of exploration without too much sun beating down on your head (and don’t mind getting caught in the occasional rain shower).

April is the true start of the spring season. Centuries-old celebrations like St Mark’s Day make for quite the photogenic stay. A trip around Easter time will also ensure you see your fair share of the best Venice has to offer , as the days of the Holy Week are always dotted with celebrations and ceremonies – but keep in mind that schools close in Italy for Easter, and there might be a lot of tourists coming in for a weekend trip.

November to February is the best time for budget travelers

With the exceptions of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the colder months are as empty as they can be in a city like Venice – with school and work in full swing, tourist numbers are much lower than they are in June and July.

A lack of travelers doesn’t mean the city is less lively. The Festa della Madonna della Salute brings the lagoon alive in late November, where stalls line the canals and a candlelit procession crosses a bridge of boats to reach the Salute.

Over Christmas the area around the Rialto Bridge glimmers with lights and markets, but it is in January for the Regata delle Befane – the boat race where participants dress as witches – that visitors will want to find a viewing spot on the infamous Ponte di Rialto.

The costumes continue at the world-famous Carnevale, a riot of color and concealment, the February coming together is the final throes of winter before the mask slips and spring in the city begins to unfurl.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated May 2023

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Discover the Magic of Venice in November

Are you wondering how Venice in November looks like? Gorgeous! November is one of the best times to visit Venice. And if you’re lucky enough to have a foggy day, you’ll discover why November in Venice can be true magic.

“ How about a weekend in Venice? “

I immediately accepted because I love spending time with Stefano, my travel pal on the few occasions when I’m not traveling solo. The “where” and the time of the year were not relevant. I was happy to enjoy a couple of days with my best friend.

To tell you the truth, though, at first, I felt a little puzzled at the idea of spending a weekend in Venice in November.  I always thought that November is possibly the worst month to travel (at least in the Northern hemisphere). Days are short, the weather is often wet and humid, and I overall wish I was a bear, going to hibernation and waking up at the first signs of Spring. Thinking of strolling along Venice canals as winter approached, I feared I would feel chilled to the bone and oppressed by a dull sky.

I was so wrong.

Read also: One day in Venice. Best things to do .

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How does Venice in November look like?

Shrouded in fog, venice in november is incredibly romantic.

I soon found out that without the crowds and shrouded in fog, Venice in November is magical and more charming than under a bright blue sky. And I thought it was incredibly romantic.

Too often I chose a destination based on weather conditions, and only recently I realized how much I have been missing in the past years. Certainly, given the choice, no one would visit a country during the monsoon season, or risk getting caught in a typhoon or a tornado.

Still, some countries are blessed with more sunny and warm days than others, and since I live in Italy and benefit from the Mediterranean climate, I try to avoid as much as possible rainy and gloomy days.

That’s what prevented me for years to visit Scotland and Northern Ireland.  For the same reason,  I wouldn’t have spontaneously envisaged a weekend in Venice in November, during what I consider the worst month of the year.

After the recent long-distance hike along the West Highland Way in Scotland and a fantastic road trip in Northern Ireland , I had to admit that I was biased and that some places get even more beautiful under certain weather conditions.

That was my first thought when we woke up on a Saturday morning at the Giudecca and saw Venice shrouded in fog. The main island was barely visible, and the pretty lampposts, with their pink-purple glass, stood amid the thick mist like pastel-colored brush strokes.

We went for a walk along the deserted streets of La Giudecca, listening to the muffled sound of the sea and the cries of the seagulls.

November in Venice, when there are fewer tourists, is all the most enjoyable

After a short ferry ride to San Marco, we started to roam around, enchanted by the sight of the fog almost swallowing up the top of San Marco’s tower bell and wrapping the famous lion, which looked like floating in the sky. Along the Grand Canal, the exquisitely carved old buildings looked softened, their colors more pastel, the shapes delicately dissolving in the white mist.

The atmosphere became even more suggestive away from the landmarks and most famous spots. Beautiful squares (called “ Campi ” or “ Campielli “) without a soul, gondolas silently appearing and slowly gliding on the emerald water of the narrow canals, a few locals greeting each other in the streets in Venetian dialect.

We stopped for a light lunch in Cannareggio, sipping a glass of wine and savoring a few cicchetti , small bites similar to tapas in Spain. Farther from the main Venice attractions and off-season, we sat with a few locals enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. 

At sunset, Venice became a kaleidoscope of colors.

Later in the afternoon, the fog dissolved, and as the sun began to set the sky turned golden and then orange, wrapping the houses with a wonderful warm light, their colors more vivid. The dim glow of the lampposts added even more charm, and I imagined people wrapped in a large black cape, wearing the typical spiked Venetian hat, silently and suddenly appearing from a corner, like mysterious characters.

I think I never loved Venice more than on that late Autumn foggy day when the city looked as if time had stopped, crystallized in eternal beauty. Venice in November, as I found out, can bring incredible emotions. And I owe all this to Stefano. A weekend of beauty and friendship!

What to do in Venice in November?

While in many respects November is one of the best months to visit Venice (at least, in my opinion), there are a few downsides. As mentioned before, the weather can be unpredictable, ranging from a bright, clear blue sky to a white blanket of fog, or rain. Furthermore, the days are short, but that’s also an opportunity to enjoy more Venice at night when the city is enveloped by a unique charm.

Actually, you may want to spend more time indoors, visiting some most popular landmarks in Venice, and maybe having some unusual experiences in Venice.

Here are a few suggestions of things to do in Venice in November:

A guided visit to the Doge’s Palace and St. Marks Basilica , including access to the terrace, is almost a must-do in Venice, as they’re two of the main landmarks in Venice.

Traditional local food is another fantastic way to discover what makes Italy unique. Thus, why not have a small-group walking tasting tour ?

If you like opera, you could have a special night in Venice, attending an opera performance in a beautiful 15th-century palace .

There’s nothing like a walking tour with a local to discover the secrets of hidden Venice , exploring lesser-known districts.

What to do in Venice when it rains? A fun option is to take a short class and learn how to make Venetian masks . Also, a perfect activity if you’re visiting Venice with kids. Alternatively, how about learning how to create your own glasswork with a local artisan ? Another fantastic thing to do in Venice if it rains is taking a cooking class in a Venetian home , either at lunch or at dinner.

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Venice: Practical Information

Venice: getting there and getting around.

Getting there by air: Venice Marco Polo airport has several domestic and international connections with European cities. 

From/to Venice airport : A regular bus service connects the airport to Piazzale Roma and the ferries. Duration: about 20 min. Cost: Euro 8. Timetable: every 20 minutes, from 5:20 am to 0:50 am. 

Getting to Venice by train : Frequent trains travel to Venice Santa Lucia from the main Italian cities. It takes 3h 45 min from Rome to Venice by train. Also, from Venice to Florence it’s just above 2 hours and in 2 1/2 hours, you get from Milan to Venice. High-speed trains are frequent, and if you purchase your ticket in advance, you can get good bargains.

Getting around

There’s no better way to explore Venice than walking and getting lost along the canals. However, although the city is small, you often have to walk a long way in the maze of alleys and canals, ending up feeling tired. Add to this that Venice in November can get quite chilly, and at some point, you’ll be happy to rest and enjoy the views from the ferry.

Public transportation in Venice is expensive, and the best option is to buy a 24h, 48h, or 72h ticket , allowing you unlimited access to the ferries. Don’t miss taking Ferry N. 2 for a scenic ride along the Canal Grande.

November weather in Venice

If you travel to Venice in November, you can expect almost every kind of weather. From a perfect blue sky to thick fog. From chilly winds to floods, the infamous “ acqua alta “.

What to wear in Venice in November? I suggest you pack at least a warm fleece  (better with a zip), a waterproof and windbreaker long jacket , quick-dry pants, Gore-Tex comfortable shoes.  Don’t forget a scarf , a beanie cap , and gloves to protect you from the wind when riding the Vaporetto. Also, I advise you to bring with you a portable windproof umbrella , in case of rain.

Where to Stay in Venice

I stayed at the Hilton Hotel Molino Stucky at La Giudecca. An old flour mill totally refurbished, Molino Stucky is a perfect solution if you want to escape from the crowds, and the hotel has a regular taxi service to San Marco Square.

If you’d rather stay on the main island, here are a few great places to stay in Venice. Aside from enjoying the city when it’s definitely less crowded, another reason to visit Venice in November is that hotels are much cheaper and you can get to stay at a beautiful place without breaking the bank.

Ca’Patron is a lovely budget accommodation close to Rialto bridge and St. Mark’s Basilica.

The modern and stylish guesthouse La Finestra sulle Beccarie is located in the charming district of San Polo, close to Venice most popular attractions.

The guesthouse Cinqueteste Luxury Home combines ancient furniture with a modern touch and is a lovely place for a romantic weekend in Venice.

At the Hotel Ca’ Bonfadini Historic Experience you’ll immerse yourself in the Venetial atmosphere. Ca’ Bonfadini is set in a building from the 16th century, in the charming district of Cannaregio.

Where to Eat in Venice

Venice is expensive – sometimes even outrageously expensive – and so touristy that finding a really good restaurant is not easy.

Trattoria Altanella , La Giudecca: small and cozy, we had excellent fish and seafood local dishes. Ask for advice on the house specialties, which change according to the season and available products, you won’t get wrong. Prices are on the high end, like almost everywhere in Venice, but the dishes are really excellent.

For something more informal and yummy, stop for lunch or dinner at one of the many “ Cicchetti ” bars. “ Cicchetti ” are small bites, similar to the Spanish “ Tapas ” or “ Pintxos “: pieces of bread covered with delicious ingredients, usually washed out with a glass of good wine. Don’t miss the codfish (baccalà), it’s heavenly! Avoid the ones in the touristy areas, and head to the charming Jewish Ghetto .

This post contains a few affiliate links to carefully selected services. Should you buy any of them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost for you.

Wild About Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Travel addict and passionate about photography, Simon Falvo started Wild About Travel back in 2009. Leveraging her strong PR background, she developed an extensive knowledge of Digital Communications and Content Creation. Besides travel writing Simon holds workshops and trainings, she collaborated with tourism boards for digital marketing campaigns and participated as a speaker at several events.

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• What to do in Venice in November 2024

Why you should visit Venice in November

Venice weather in november, venice events in november.

• Venice's top places to visit in November

Flights, tours, and hotels in Venice

Video guide.

November is a wonderful time to visit Venice , as the city experiences fewer tourists, allowing for a more authentic experience. The crisp fall air adds to the romantic atmosphere, and the city’s enchanting canals and architecture are stunning against the autumn backdrop. With fewer crowds, you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Venice . Plus, the weather is milder, making it perfect for exploring on foot and enjoying the local cafes and restaurants.

In November, Venice experiences cooler temperatures and less rainfall compared to the peak summer months. The average high temperature hovers around 12°C (54°F), while the lows can reach around 5°C (41°F). It’s advisable to pack warm clothing and a waterproof jacket to be prepared for the occasional rainfall. The pleasant weather allows for comfortable exploration of the city’s attractions without the summer heat or winter chill.

Biennale Architettura 2020

The 17th International Architecture Exhibition, organized by La Biennale di Venezia, is a must-see event in November. This global event showcases innovative architectural designs and ideas, providing a unique insight into the world of architecture, with exhibitions and installations spread across the city.

Festa della Salute

Celebrated on November 21st, Festa della Salute is a traditional Venetian festival that holds great significance in the local culture. The occasion is marked by religious processions and ceremonies at the Basilica of St Mary of Health, and it provides a fascinating glimpse into Venetian traditions and customs.

Art Night Venezia

Art Night Venezia, held in late November, is a captivating event that turns the entire city into an open-air gallery. Visitors can explore art installations, exhibitions, and performances throughout the historic streets and squares, creating a unique and immersive art experience.

Venice’s top places to visit in November

Piazza san marco.

In November, the iconic Piazza San Marco is less crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience. Take the time to admire the stunning architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and enjoy a peaceful gondola ride along the nearby canals.

Rialto Market

November is an ideal time to visit the Rialto Market, where you can explore the vibrant stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. The market offers a glimpse of authentic Venetian life and is perfect for food enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Grand Canal Cruise

Embark on a leisurely cruise along the Grand Canal to admire the enchanting palaces and churches that line its banks. In November, the canal is adorned with autumn colors, creating a picturesque setting for a memorable boat ride through the heart of Venice .

Gallerie dell’Accademia

The Gallerie dell’Accademia houses an outstanding collection of Venetian art, including works by renowned artists such as Titian and Tintoretto. In November, visitors can explore the museum at a more relaxed pace, appreciating the masterpieces without the usual crowds.

Tours in Venice

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Why November is a great month to visit Venice

• Post author: Avoid Crowds
• Post published: October 14, 2023
• Post category: Venice
• Post comments: 0 Comments

At Avoid Crowds, we pride ourselves on providing valuable insights into tourism trends. A few years back, we highlighted October as an optimal month for a Venice visit . However, the ever-evolving travel landscape and climate patterns now bring November into the spotlight.

What to expect in Venice in November

Weather: 🌦️ November typically experiences cooler temperatures, ranging from 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F), with a higher chance of foggy mornings 🌫️ and occasional rain showers, enhancing the city’s mystical charm.

Crowds: 🚶‍♂️ Tourist numbers drop significantly in November compared to the peak summer months, offering a more peaceful and authentic Venetian experience.

Prices: 💰 As it’s outside the peak season, travelers can often find more competitive prices for accommodations and some attractions, making it a more budget-friendly month to visit.

Acqua Alta: 🌊 November is one of the months where Venice might experience “Acqua Alta” or high water, leading to temporary flooding in some areas. Though it’s a unique phenomenon to witness, travelers should be prepared with waterproof shoes or boots.

Local Cuisine: 🍝 November is a great time to indulge in Venetian autumn delicacies like roasted chestnuts, wild game dishes, and seasonal seafood, capturing the essence of Venice’s culinary heritage.

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Venice's Extended Shoulder Season into November

Tourist seasonality in Venice continues to adapt. Where once October was the sweet spot between peak and off-peak, November is now stepping into this role. The peak season, traditionally spanning June to September, has seen October getting busier with each passing year. This shift has nudged the shoulder season into November, making it the new ideal time for those aiming to dodge dense crowds yet still enjoy decent weather.

While September’s popularity has surged, early November offers a breather before the holiday rush of late November and December. And, much like October in previous years, November benefits from fewer European public holidays, leading to fewer continent-based tourists.

November's Weather Transformation

Climate change’s grip on global weather patterns has meant warmer autumns for Europe. Venice, specifically, is experiencing prolonged warmth. Once, October boasted of an average maximum temperature of 18°C (64°F). Now, such temperatures, and even warmer ones, extend into November. Recent years saw late November days comfortably reaching over 20°C (68°F).

It’s crucial to approach this with a measure of caution. November 2019 witnessed Venice grappling with severe floods . Although such extremes aren’t the norm for November, being informed is vital for prospective visitors.

Embrace November’s Venice

Considering Venice? Think November. This month provides a blend of manageable tourist numbers and pleasant weather, setting the stage for an enchanting Venetian experience. With the city’s timeless allure, coupled with the perks of November, you’re poised for a memorable trip.

Five Fun Things to do in November

• 🚣‍♂️ Explore the city via gondola: Experience the calm, cooler canals while witnessing Venice’s historic beauty up close.
• 🎨 Visit the Doge’s Palace and other museums: Dive into the Venetian history and art without the usual crowds. Book tickets online nonetheless. 
• 🌉 Take a stroll on the Rialto Bridge: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Grand Canal, especially during the serene November evenings.
• 🍷 Savor seasonal Venetian cuisine: Warm up with rich risottos, fresh seafood, and local wines in cozy, historic trattorias. We recommend booking the famous Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings
• 🎭 Experience Venice’s theatre scene: Catch a November show or opera in the city renowned for its theatrical heritage.

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Best Time to Visit Venice: Month-by-Month Guide

While it is one of the most beautiful, romantic cities in the world, Venice’s huge crowds and high prices can sometimes make visiting a little less special. What’s going on in the city and its weather also has a massive impact on people’s experience exploring La Serenissima.

As it is a must-see destination for many, Venice is often inundated with visitors – just like its streets and squares in winter when they often flood. While the canals, bridges, churches and palaces always look incredible, there are, of course, quieter, calmer times to visit. Summer now is almost too full with its scorching heat also making walking around uncomfortable.

To help you plan your trip, let’s take a look month-by-month at what to expect in the Queen of the Adriatic in terms of its climate, crowds and cultural events.

What’s the Weather Like in Venice?

Lying in Northeastern Italy in the Veneto region, Venice is built atop 118 islands in a lagoon, adjoining the Adriatic Sea. As it is surrounded by water, it is not uncommon for everywhere to flood for a few hours at high tide during the winter months. This is known as acqua alta.

Apart from this phenomenon, the city sees regular rainfall throughout the year, each month averaging between 9 and 13 days. While its winters are cold, grey and foggy, summers are hot and humid. Temperatures in July and August average around 27 to 28°C (80 to 82°F) with their highs often being unbearable.

With ample sunshine, lots of hours of daylight and warm temperatures, spring and autumn are perhaps more comfortable weatherwise. They are not as good though for sunbathing or swimming at the Lido.

Best months to visit Venice

Although July and August are the most popular months to visit due to the summer holidays, the high heat, humidity and crowds can make exploring the city unpleasant. Its main sights, squares and museums are all packed with hotel rates and airfares being more expensive.

As they are a bit calmer and cheaper but the weather is still good, both spring and autumn are great times to visit. There is still a very vibrant feel about town with numerous festivals also taking place.

Other high points of the year include both Christmastime and carnival. Around these hugely important events, thousands of people pour in, come to celebrate and partake in all the fun festivities.

Venice in January

As it lies in between Christmas and carnival and is cold, foggy and grey, January is the least popular month to visit Venice. If you don’t mind the weather, exploring the almost deserted city can be very atmospheric in the gloom. At times, you may have to make your way about raised walkways if the acqua alta floods its lower areas.

Besides benefiting from the cheaper hotel prices, there are no crowds in the alleys or at any of its attractions. Some may have reduced opening hours, however. Aside from a couple of Christmas markets that are still around the first week, there is the Feast of the Epiphany to attend. Bonfires and concerts are held while a rowing regatta races along the Grand Canal.

Venice in February

February in Venice is all about one thing: its world-famous carnival. For two weeks, colourful costume-clad partygoers wearing masks amble about the city with opulent balls, boat parades and street fairs all taking place. Prices shoot up around this time as millions of people come to enjoy the unforgettable event.

As temperatures hover around 9°C (48°F), you’ll have to wrap up warm when exploring the Floating City. While it is the driest month, the bora winds create quite a chill, coming off the cold canals. At Campo San Polo, you can even ice skate if you like! Apart from carnival, February is the off-season so there are fewer crowds and prices are cheaper.

Venice in March

As the weather starts to improve, tourists slowly start to trickle back to Venice. March is the last quiet, more affordable month before the city is overrun at Easter and in summer. With a bit more sunshine and warmth to its days, spring can be a wonderful time to visit. You’ll still need to layer up though with many sights also still closing earlier.

Other than making the most of the shorter lines and relaxed atmosphere, it’s not a bad idea to take trips to popular places like Lake Garda and Verona before they get too busy. You can also hop on a vaporetto to Murano or Burano and enjoy gondola rides about its canals. After this, the region’s boats, trains and city centers are much more crowded.

Venice in April

Once the Easter holidays arrive, the peak season starts with the number of tourists in Venice only subsiding in November. Hotel prices and airfares are much higher with queues forming outside its main attractions and museums. While there is an excited buzz about the city, its narrow alleys do start to feel a bit crowded.

Coupled with its longer, sunnier days, averages of 17°C (62°F) are great for strolling about its stunning streets and squares. Parades and concerts take place for the Feast of San Marco while its prestigious Art Biennale also begins, carrying on til the end of November. Although it is a bit wetter than the winter months, its 12 days of rain shouldn’t put much of a damper on your trip.

Venice in May

Along with April, May is one of the best months weatherwise to visit Venice. Temperatures of around 21°C (70°F) are perfect for wandering about the city before the summer heat kicks in. This is also a good time to explore some other islands and cities in Veneto before they’re completely overwhelmed.

While many museums, shops and restaurants shut for Labour Day, there are some exciting regattas to watch later on in the month. These are for both the Vogalonga – a long-running competition – and the Feast of the Ascension. Although there are loads of crowds around, prices are still more affordable than in summer.

Venice in June

With average temperatures rising to 25°C (77°F), Venice starts to feel a bit hot and stuffy, especially with the hordes of tourists thronging about its streets. The weather is finally good enough though to sunbathe and swim at the Lido. Other than all its Art Biennale exhibitions, June is the last month to catch an opera at La Fenice Theatre before the summer break.

As each day has around 16 hours of light, there is ample time in which to sightsee or sit and sip a spritz at its outdoor cafes. June is one of the rainiest months though, along with August and November. While prices are more expensive, concerts, dances and exhibitions also take place for the Feast of St. John in Bragora and Feast of San Pietro de Castro.

Venice in July

July and August are the absolute peak season in Venice when everywhere is packed and all its shops, restaurants and bars are at their busiest. You’ll have to queue at many of its main attractions and museums with the vaporetti to Murano and Burano also being full. To avoid the astronomical accommodation prices, it’s worth having a look for hotels in nearby Mestre.

The hottest and sunniest month of the year, July’s high averages of 28°C (82°F) are actually rather unpleasant. While wandering about is a hot and sticky affair, it’s the perfect weather to lounge on the beach at either the Lido or Jesolo. The city has a lovely, lively atmosphere about it with regattas and firework displays also being held for the Feast of the Redeemer.

Venice in August

While many Italians take their holidays in August, business continues as usual in Venice with most shops and restaurants remaining open. The Rialto Bridge and streets near Piazza San Marco are absolutely rammed. To escape the crowds, consider heading to less popular areas like Dorsoduro and Cannaregio.

The sweltering weather and slow-moving throngs of tourists can make sightseeing tiring and a bit frustrating. You can always cool off though at the beach or in one of its countless quiet churches. Besides the Festival of Santo Stefano’s sports competitions and dance shows, the world-renowned Venice International Film Festival starts, continuing into September.

Venice in September

Once the school holidays are over, things are finally a bit quieter, calmer and cheaper in the city – that’s not saying much though! Prices remain high and massive groups of tourists still mill about its streets. As it is a few degrees cooler, ambling around is more comfortable with the days being dry and sunny.

Aside from the International Film Festival at the Lido, there is the fascinating Regata Storica and all its historic boats to watch along the Grand Canal. The opera season also opens again at La Fenice Theatre. As the weather is still warm, you can always sunbathe and swim at its beaches. Most nearby day trip destinations will still be quite busy though.

Venice in October

As October has fewer big events going on, accommodation is finally a bit more affordable with the city being much quieter the further you stray from Piazza San Marco. For the most part, the weather is quite warm and dry, though the days are shorter. Its 5 hours of sunshine and averages of 18°C (64°F) are still lovely for sightseeing but a bit too cool for the beach.

Before things turn cold, wet and grey in November, it’s worth taking trips to historical cities like Padua, Vicenza and Verona. You also no longer have to fight for space on its vaporetti to Murano and Burano. At the end of October, thousands visit for its marathon which passes by its scenic canals over little old bridges.

Venice in November

With just 3 hours of sunshine, much more rain and temperatures of 12°C (53°F), November is well and truly the off-season in Venice. Blissfully crowd-free, its reduced hotel prices and airfares can make a trip tempting. You’ll have to pack an umbrella though and listen out for sirens signalling acqua alta’s impending arrival!

While many of its attractions have reduced opening hours and there are fewer daylight hours in which to explore, Venice looks incredible at any time of year. Traditional events such as its Feast of St. Martin and Feast of Our Lady of Health also take place. At these, you can watch religious parades and sample local delicacies. Its Art Biennale also finally comes to a close in November for the winter.

Venice in December

A bit drier and colder than November, Venice has a wonderful, relaxed feel to it in December with the Christmas holidays also bringing some festive cheer. While the chance of fog, wind and acqua alta is higher, exploring its deserted alleys is still magical if you wrap up warm.

Still very quiet in comparison with the spring, summer and autumn months, it sees a spike in visitors around Christmastime. Hotel prices of course rise around the holidays. Other than perusing its cozy markets, you can shoot about the ice rink at Campo San Polo. To welcome in the New Year, you can enjoy concerts and firework displays in Piazza San Marco or attend a special performance at La Fenice Theatre.

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Best Time to Visit Venice

Wondering when is the best time to visit Venice? Venice is so special that every time of year is perfect for a trip! Every season has something different to offer, both in terms of weather and events.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Go to Venice in Brief

Best months to go in Venice for sightseeing: April, May, September, October Best months to visit Venice for some outdoor activities : April, May, June Best weather in Venice: April, May, September, October Best time to visit Venice for the events : February, August, September, December

Best Time to Visit Venice by Season

High season in Venice: summer. Though Venice can get really crowded and expensive between June and late August, there are no significant changes in comparison to the other seasons. The weather is generally hot and humid, so it’s not the best time to go sightseeing. 

Low season in Venice: winter. Even if between November and March there are fewer visitors in town, there are two exceptions: February and December. Prices are not particularly lower except in late November and late January. The weather is generally cold and rainy.

Shoulder season in Venice : March, April, September, and October. These months are definitely the best ones to visit the city because of the overall lovely weather conditions. April tends to be crowded due to the Italian Easter holidays/Spring Break.

Let’s see why you shall visit Venice in every month!

Best Time to Visit Venice by Month

Venice in january.

Max Temp: 7°C Min Temp: 0°C Rainy days: 10

January is the coldest month of the year in Venice and the perceived temperature can be considerably lower due to high humidity. 

Events in Venice in January: Jan 6th: Epiphany. The main event is the so-called “Befana Boat Race”, where all the participants are dressed up like the famous Italian folk character.

What to do : visiting a museum is the best activity to escape the cold, but you can also simply lounge at a restaurant and taste all the typical dishes without rushing your meal. In January, you can also go ice-skating in Campo San Polo.

Why January : plan a weekend off in the second half of the month to benefit from lower fees and fewer tourists around.

Perfect time for: art lovers and foodies

Venice in February

Max Temp: 9°C Min Temp: 1°C Rainy days: 11

It’s often quite cold and rainy, but weather gets better towards the end of the month.

Events in Venice in February:

Carnival: one of the main local events takes place in February, which is also one of the busiest months in Venice. Many tourists from all over Europe go there to attend local parties, parades or simply be immersed in local folklore.

St. Valentine’s Day: a weekend for two in Venice is something you shall experience once in a lifetime!

What to do: sightseeing can be quite tiring in February, since there are many people everywhere. For this reason, it’s best to book your visits in advance, either joining a guided tour or buying a skip-the-line ticket. Don’t miss a masked ball or a special Carnival event (check the list of the main events and their schedule here Carnival of Venice – parties and masquerades balls).

Why February : to experience the liveliest time of the year in Venice

Perfect time for: having fun

Venice in March

Max Temp: 13°C Min Temp: 8°C Rainy days: 11

Venice can be rainy all year long, but weather gets warmer and sunnier in March.

Events in Venice in March:

March 8th: Women’s Day. Local museums and art exhibitions are free for women.

What to do: you can plan one or more day trips to explore the areas nearby. Start with a tour of the islands and discover their traditions and landscapes.

Why March : to celebrate the arrival of spring

Perfect time for : a girls’ weekend

Venice in April

Max Temp: 17°C Min Temp: 12°C Rainy days: 12

Climate varies a lot in spring and you shall dress in layers and bring an umbrella with you to be ready for any kind of weather conditions.

Events in Venice in April:

Easter: a typical holiday period for Italians often choosing to spend a few days in a city of art like Venice. A typical local tradition is having a fish lunch and you can taste all the local specialties in a cozy restaurant overlooking Canal Grande.

April 25th: Italian Liberation Day and St. Mark’s Day, that is the patronal feast of Venice. On this day, men are used to offering a rose bud to their girlfriends and wives and the city center is full of rose vendors filling the air with spring scents.

What to do: April is one of the busiest months in Venice due to Italian Spring Break, so you shall plan your visits in advance and get your skip-the-line tickets whenever possible. It’s also a great time to take some beautiful pictures, thanks to the perfect spring light and the clear water of the canals. If you want to avoid large crowds, focus on less popular but equally interesting neighborhoods like the Jewish Ghetto or Castello district.

Why April : for a Spring Break in Italian style

Perfect time for : photographers/travel bloggers/influencers and visitors who like being surrounded by people

Venice in May

Max Temp: 21°C Min Temp: 15°C Rainy days: 12

Weather is generally warm and pleasant, but rainfalls are frequent.

Events in Venice in May:

May 1st: Labor Day. A typical weekend off for Italians who often choose Venice as a base.

What to do: on a bright and warm day, you shall definitely enjoy a boat tour, whether on the picturesque Canal Grande or in the Lagoon. In May, you can also spend some nights out thanks to local mild weather and a gondola ride in the evening could be a good idea to watch the city lights on the canals.

Why May : to spend your time outdoor and to enjoy some warm spring nights

Perfect time for : a boat or gondola ride

Venice in June

Max Temp: 25°C Min Temp: 20°C Rainy days: 10

Summer is generally hot and humid, but weather is still pleasant in June.

Events in Venice in June:

First Sunday of the month: Vogalonga boat race. It’s a 30Km regatta which is really spectacular to watch from the canals’ banks.

What to do: of course, summer is the ideal time for your day trips! You can also spend a day on the beach in Lido neighborhood, which is easily accessible by waterbus (it takes about 40 minutes from the city center).

Why June: despite being a sunny and warm month, there are not too many tourists around

Perfect for : combining sightseeing and relax on the beach

Venice in July

Max Temp: 27°C Min Temp: 20°C Rainy days: 10

Summer is often muggy because of high humidity.

Events in Venice in July:

Third Sunday of the month: Redentore Festival. It celebrates the end of the plague in 1577 and the highlight of this day is the firework display in the lagoon.

What to do: escape the heat inside a cool museum or take a dip in the sea. Enjoy a romantic gondola ride at sunset and join locals at a bacaro for an aperitivo based on Spritz and cicchetti (local tapas).

Why July : it’s not the best month to go sightseeing, but you could plan a beach holiday in a nice seaside resort and plan a day trip or a whole weekend in Venice.

Perfect for: people who are not bothered by high temperatures and humidity

Venice in August

Max Temp: 28°C Min Temp: 20°C Rainy Days: 10

Events in Venice in August:

August 15th: Ferragosto. This mid-summer celebration brings many tourists to Venice, even just for a weekend. There are also many entertainments offers and music festivals around that time.

Film Festival: one of the most eagerly awaited events takes place between the end of August and the beginning of September in Lido neighborhood.

What to do: August is another muggy month in Venice. Spend your time visiting some museums, relaxing on the beach and walking in nature visiting local beautiful gardens like the Biennale ones, where you’ll also find a few summer art exhibitions.  

Why August: to attend the famous Film Festival and spot some celebrities

Perfect for: movie lovers

Venice in September

Max Temp: 25°C Min Temp: 18°C Rainy days: 9

Weather is at its best: warm, sunny and dry

Events in Venice in September:

Film Festival: it usually ends around Sept 6 th -10 th

Historical Regatta: on the first weekend of September, a water parade of costumed character crowds the Canal Grande

What to do: in the second half of the month, there are fewer tourists around and the city gets quieter, so it’s the perfect time to explore the calli at your own pace and to enjoy the beautiful monuments and the many churches of Venice.

Why September: lovely weather

Perfect for: movie lovers and people who like wandering around the streets and be immersed in the local atmosphere

Venice in October

Max Temp: 18°C Min Temp: 13°C Rainy days: 10

Autumn is generally cool but there are still many sunny days in October. Towards the end of the month, the mist is quite common and you can already experience the typical phenomenon of Acqua Alta (partial floods due to high tide and winds).

Events in Venice in October:

October 31st: Halloween. You can find many themed tours in town: Venice: 2-Hour Legends and Ghosts of Cannaregio Tour.

What to do: October is one of the quietest months in Venice, so you can plan a thorough visit and spend several hours visiting all the monuments, churches, and museums at your own pace. The weather is generally good until the end of the month, so a walking tour can be a good idea too.

Why October : nice weather and no crowds

Perfect for: enjoying a thorough and quiet visit

Venice in November

Max Temp: 13°C Min Temp: 8°C Rainy days: 13

Heavy rainfall is relatively common as well as fog and Acqua Alta.

Events in Venice in November:

November 1st: All Saints. Avoid the closest weekend to this celebration if you don’t like crowds.

November 21st: Feast of Madonna della Salute. It celebrates the end of the plague and locals are used to going to mass in the homonymous church reachable by a votive pontoon bridge.

What to do: keep your camera at end and take plenty of pictures of a foggy and mysterious evening, a reddish sunset or a flooded square. Bring rubber boots, umbrella and raincoat with you since Acqua Alta is common in November!

Why November: to experience the foggy and wet yet romantic Autumn in Venice

Perfect for: artists, poets, photographers and romantic people

Venice in December

Max Temp: 10°C Min Temp: 6°C Rainy days: 11

Weather is generally cold and grey.

Events in Venice in December:

December 8th: Feast of the Immaculate Conception. It marks the official start of the Christmas season in Italy

December 25th: Christmas

December 31st: New Year’s Eve. If you can stand spending long hours out in the cold, there is a free concert in Piazza San Marco and some fireworks at midnight.

What to do: weather is not so good in December, but local Christmas magic is definitely worth the trip. December is one of the most expensive months (Venice is always expensive!) due to the high affluence of both national and international visitors. The main December activities in Venice are: going to La Fenice Theater to enjoy one of the best shows of the season, ice-skating in Campo San Polo, admiring the nativity scene in the Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, go shopping at the Christmas market in Campo Santo Stefano.

Why December: to experience local Christmas magic

Perfect for: people who are not bothered by cold and humid weather and high-budget travelers

Planning a trip to Venice? You might also like: How many days in Venice? How to spend 2 days in Venice Venice in winter Best day trips from Venice Interesting facts about Venice Venice or Rome?

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Compass & Pine

The Ultimate Travel Guide

Best Times to Visit Venice

If you’re considering a trip to Venice, you might wonder when to visit. The answer, of course, depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to experience the city’s busiest and most vibrant, you’ll want to come during peak season. But be warned: Venice can be incredibly crowded during this time. If you’re looking for a more relaxed vacation, shoulder season or even off-season may be a better bet. Keep reading to learn more about the different factors that can affect your decision on when to visit Venice.

Venice’s Weather by Month

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The National Centers for Environmental Information (NOAA) reports that Venice’s climate has typically ranged from a freezing 30°F (-1C ) to a comfortable 86° F (30C) over the past several years.

Remember that these are only monthly average temperatures; hotter or colder days could happen during the month.

For example, although the monthly average temperature for Venice in July is 86° F, don’t be fooled into thinking the temperature remains consistent the whole month. You will likely experience some days above 90 degrees and others in the 70s.

Similarly, in colder months, don’t expect the temperature to always stay cold; you may find yourself suddenly surprised by warmer conditions than anticipated.

For those who prefer a moderate climate, rejoice! Venice is an excellent place for you. Every time I’ve been to this beautiful city, it has provided me with an ideal temperature – never too hot or cool. I find Venice’s average temperatures to be a great mid-point.

When it comes to weather, though, rain, wind, and humidity will all contribute to the perceived temperature. Make sure you have at least one outfit for each occasion.

(March-May and September-November)

Experience the beauty of Venice during its shoulder season and reap the rewards! Prices for hotels and flights are substantially lower than during peak season, helping you explore the city on a budget.

Furthermore, you can explore Venice and everything it has to offer with significantly fewer crowds. Despite a potential dip in average temperature or an unforeseen shower, visiting Venice in shoulder season is undoubtedly worth it.

Shoulder season in Venice generally runs from mid-March to early May (spring) and late September to November (autumn).

If you visit Venice in the spring, you’ll be treated to warming temperatures and longer days. The downside is that it can still be chilly, so pack a light jacket or sweater.

Autumn is also a beautiful time to visit Venice. The weather is cool but not cold. Just be prepared for some rain.

(Late May-August)

Peak season (or high season) in Venice runs from late May to August when the average temperature is warmest, and the city experiences the least rain. This is the most popular time to visit Venice, so expect high prices and large crowds.

Book your hotel and flights well in advance if you plan a trip to Venice during the high season. Prices will be increased during this time of year, and accommodation may fill up quickly. We recommend booking a place in the Cannaregio district as hotel rates are often the most affordable and the district is quiet (i.e., further from the touristy sections).

On the plus side, there’s a lot to do in Venice’s high tourist season: outdoor cafes, restaurants with outdoor seating, gondola rides, festivals, famous Venetian churches to explore, and more.

While they’ll be very crowded during peak season, you should visit Burano, Murano, Lido, and Torcello. We wrote guides on the Best Things to Do In Burano , the Top Things to Do in Murano , and the Best Things to Do in Torcello .

Plus, have you really been to Venice if you didn’t go during the hustle and bustle of tourist season?

(December-February)

Winter is Venice’s low season and the best time to visit if you don’t mind the cold and like to explore places without crowds. From December through February, temperatures are at their lowest. However, I can assure you that Venice still has plenty of activities during this time.

The first time I took a tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace was in January 2018, and it was fantastic. Low crowds meant I got to interact with our guide, ask questions, and request to visit certain areas of the museums.

The canals may be a bit chilly, but with fewer crowds in the city, you’ll get to explore more at a slower pace and take in all the details that Venice has to offer. Plus, there’s nothing like walking through Saint Mark’s Square uninterrupted and alone.

The one exception to the low season is Venice’s carnival. Thousands gather to participate in parades, parties, and other unique festivities – like wearing traditional masks and garb. Read our guide to the Venice Carnival – including tips on food, parades, and the history of this event.

Events and Holidays in Venice

New Year’s Day concert at Teatro La Fenice. You’re in for a treat if you don’t know anything about La Fenice. It made our list of the top 10 things to do in Venice . This majestic opera house, renowned for featuring some of the greatest singers and composers from Italy and Europe, is one of the most revered venues in the world. Boasting a storied history, it has held countless performances that have captivated audiences for centuries.

Carnevale – Now a national holiday, this is the most significant event in Venice and one of the largest in Italy. Throughout February and March, you’ll find an abundance of revelry and traditional masks everywhere you turn. As part of this festival, visitors can partake in parades, parties, fireworks shows, concerts, food markets, and more! If you want to learn more, we wrote an in-depth guide to Carnival in Venice . Keep in mind that hotel rates are at their highest during carnival.

Su e zo per i ponti (“Up and Down the Bridges”) – a non-competitive walk that starts in the Piazza San Marco, in front of the Doge’s Palace, and follows designated routes throughout the city that leads walkers through calli (streets), campi (squares) and ponti (bridges).

Celebrated annually on April 25th, St. Mark’s Day honors Venice’s beloved patron saint, Mark the Evangelist. Popularly known as the Feast of Saint Mark or Rosebud Festival, it is a day cherished by Venetians and Sardinians.

Biennale di Venezia (“Venice Biennale”) – an art exhibition that has been held since 1895 and showcases modern and contemporary works of art and architecture from the best international talent. The year’s focus rotates annually between art and architecture (hence the name biennial).

Vogalonga – an event where Venetians and visitors participate in rowing races throughout the canals of Venice in protest of wave damage caused by motor boats and lagoon degeneration. Venetians are not alone in this plight; people from all corners of the globe have come to offer their support and bring enlightenment.

Salone Nautico – Venice’s primary boat show. Held at the Arsenale of Venice, it features a wide variety of luxury yachts, super yachts, sailboats, and some of the world’s most impressive vessels.

Festa de San Pietro de Casteo – The first of the summer holidays is a a festival celebrating the end of June and the arrival of summer. This event is a feast for the Saints Peter and Paul, who are venerated in the basilica of San Pietro. It celebrates Venetian culture and features musical shows, games, and food festivals.

Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare (“Palio of the Historical Maritime Republics”) – a historical re-enactment aimed at recalling the rivalry of the most famous Italian maritime republics: the republics of Amalfi, Pisa, Genoa, and Venice. Four rowing crews representing each republic compete against each other to bring honor to their city.

Festa del Redentore – a religious holiday in which Venetians commemorate the end of a terrible plague in 1576, which killed 50,000 people, and ended the lives of several prominent figures, including renaissance painter Titian.

This celebration features fireworks and boat parades throughout Venice’s canals every year. The highlight is visiting Il Redentore church, one of the oldest and most beautiful cathedrals in Venice , designed by famed architect Andrea Palladio to commemorate the end of the plague.

Ferragosto – A traditional Italian holiday that started with Feriae Augusti, commemorating Emperor Augustus’ decision to designate the 1st of August as a day of rest for those who had worked tirelessly in the agricultural sector.

Venice Film Festival – Hosted at the Venice Biennale on Lido Island , this event is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. It features screenings of over 100 international films and documentaries each year, as well as awards ceremonies and special events.

Regata Storica – a traditional boat race that takes place on the Grand Canal and is intended to evoke Venice’s maritime history. The Regata Storica features elaborately decorated boats and pageantry.

Venice Marathon – held annually since 1986; this course starts in Stra and passes through Mestre, Parco San Giuliano, and Ponte della Libertà before ending at Riva dei Sette Martiri in Venice.

Festa della Madonna della Salute – a religious event that commemorates the end of the Great Plague in 1630. During this day, Venetians and tourists gather at this beautiful Venice cathedral to pay homage to the Virgin Mary and give thanks for her protection.

Christmas – the highlights are the markets around the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco. Find traditional dishes, fireworks, and novena scenes that rival those in Rome. Expect smaller crowds at Christmas but larger crowds the closer you get to New Year’s Eve. The same applies to hotel rates: they’re cheaper before Christmas and more expensive near New Year’s.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of a vacation in Venice can vary widely depending on the time of year, activities, and accommodation. Generally speaking, prices range from €50 to €200 per day for budget travelers. Prices can go up significantly for those looking for more luxurious accommodations or experiences (like guided tours or visiting neighboring islands Murano , Torcello, and Burano ).

The cheapest month to go to Venice is usually December or January, when the city has fewer tourists and accommodation prices are lower. February is also more affordable, but prices will increase the closer you are to Venice’s carnival.

If you’re looking to visit Venice on a budget, try to travel during the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) or the low season (December-February) when average temperatures drop. Be sure to bring warm clothes.

It really depends on what you’d like to do during your stay in Venice, but you should budget for anywhere between €150 to €200 per day. This includes hotel accommodations, food, transportation, and recreational activities.

For budget-conscious travelers, the best location to stay in Venice is Cannaregio . It’s a beautiful and very old section of the city that doesn’t generate as much foot traffic, so hotels are the cheapest in this area. It’s also home to some of the best restaurants in Venice .

If you want to be right where the tourist sites are, you should try to book a hotel in San Marco or San Polo. These locations are home to the most significant sites in Venice (Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and Saint Mark’s Basilica).

Regardless of where you choose to stay, Venice is a very small city , and it only takes around one hour to walk from one end to the other. So you’ll always be within walking distance of something fun to do and see (read our guide on the 10 best things to do in Venice ).

Tired of walking? Explore our guide to using the Venetian Water Taxi and Vaporetto system .

We recommend a minimum of two days to visit Venice. This will give you enough time to see the major sites and explore a few side streets. However, if you have more time, we recommend extending your stay for at least three days. Then you can spend more time exploring churches, museums, and neighboring islands Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

Yes, most locals in Venice are very familiar with English, and you should be able to communicate easily. However, learning a few polite phrases in Italian (like ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’) is always good practice to show respect for the culture.

Venice’s famous acqua alta (high water) usually occurs in late autumn and winter. The highest tides are usually seen in December, January, and February. While the city doesn’t flood like it used to, thanks to the new MOSE barrier system, check the tide forecast before planning your trip. If it does flood for some reason, souvenir shops sell boots (at a premium).

Venice’s ‘rainy season’ runs from March through November, but the most rainfall is in May and June. If you plan to visit during this time, bring a lightweight raincoat or umbrella!

Ultimately, the best time to visit Venice depends on your goals and budget. Shoulder season provides a more low-key atmosphere and is usually less expensive than peak season. For those looking for an authentic Venetian experience, the off-season is ideal as there will be fewer tourists around, although you’ll face cold winters. High season is Venice at its peak, with plenty to do, beautiful weather, and other tourists.

No matter when you decide to visit, Venice is sure to be a magical destination. With its charming canals, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why so many travelers flock here year after year. Bon voyage!

Have you been to Venice? What do you consider the best time to visit? Let us know in the comments below!

About Todd O'Rourke

Todd is an award-winning writer and filmmaker who co-founded Compass and Pine with his dog Leg. Together, they have traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, with their base of operations in Philadelphia.

He started Compass and Pine after living in Vicenza, Italy for three years and falling deeply in love with the country, the people, and, of course, the food.

His favorite city is Florence, Italy, and his favorite National Park is Olympic in Washington.

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When is the best time to visit venice, italy.

Planning a trip to Venice, Italy ? One of the most important things to consider is the timing of your visit. Venice is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture, but it can get extremely crowded and very expensive during peak tourist season, which feels almost like it’s year-round these days.

To make the most of your trip, it’s important to know when is the best time to visit Venice . Your number one priority should always be avoiding crowds, no matter what your main reason is for visiting the city. This is because over-tourism is a major problem there and as responsible travelers, we all have an obligation to lessen the burden (or not go at all!). I’m assuming that last bit isn’t going to happen.

» Here is our 2-week Italy itinerary to help you plan your trip around Italy’s top cities . We also have a travel guide for Venice , a 3-day Rome itinerary , things to see in Florence , foodie things to do in Bologna , and a guide to the top landmarks in Italy . Learn about renting a car in Italy . Be sure to check out our 2-week Europe Itinerary .

If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather, consider visiting in the fall or winter. From October to November, tourists start to leave the city, and you can enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of Venice without feeling overwhelmed. If you prefer warmer weather and longer days, plan your trip for the spring months, March to April, though be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.

I would say to avoid the summer altogether. It can get amazingly hot in Venice and there’s generally not good air conditioning. Winter can get fairly cold, but if you don’t mind that and the fact that some things are closed in winter, it’s the best time to avoid crowds (except between Christmas and New Year).

Table of Contents

Understanding Venice’s Seasons

Venice is a city that is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Understanding the seasons in Venice can help you plan your trip accordingly.

Spring in Venice

Spring in Venice, from March to May, is characterized by beautiful sunny days and temperatures that may be warm. You can also experience some temperatures dropping, rainy and windy days. But that’s all part of spring weather. The average temperatures range from 54°F to 68°F (12°C to 20°C). You’ll find fewer crowds during this season, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s attractions.

Summer in Venice

Summer, from June to September, is the hottest time of the year. The average temperature is around 84°F (29°C), though it can get as high as 100°F (38°C), and humidity is high. You can expect sunny days with occasional thunderstorms. The city is bustling with tourists during this season, so be prepared for crowds. If you don’t mind the heat and crowds, summer is a great time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.

See our Europe summer packing list to know what to bring on your trip.

Fall in Venice

Fall, from October to November, is a great time to visit Venice. The temperatures are pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. The average temperatures range from 50° F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C). You can also experience some rainfall during this season, but it’s not as frequent as in the spring. You can enjoy the beautiful colors of the leaves changing in the parks and gardens.

Winter in Venice

Winter, from December to February, is the coldest time of the year. The average temperature is around 40°F (4°C), and it can get below freezing at night. You can expect some foggy days during this season. The city is less crowded during this season, and you can enjoy the beautiful Christmas decorations and markets.

Venice’s Tourist Seasons

Venice is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy , and as such, it has its own tourist season. Knowing when to visit Venice can help you avoid crowds, save money, and have a more enjoyable experience. Here are the two main tourist seasons in Venice:

Peak Tourist Season

The peak tourist season in Venice runs from April to October, with July and August being the busiest months. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the city is bustling with tourists from all over the world. If you visit Venice during the peak season, you can expect long lines, crowded streets, and high prices for hotels and restaurants.

Off-Season in Venice

The off-season in Venice runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is cooler , and there are fewer tourists in the city. If you visit Venice during the off-season, you can expect to find lower hotel rates, shorter lines, and a more relaxed atmosphere. However, you should be prepared for colder weather, especially in December and January.

Many tourists desert the city during the off-season, so you can have the city to yourself. If you want to experience the famous Carnival of Venice , which takes place in February, you should plan to visit during the off-season. The carnival is one of the most popular events in Venice, and it attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Venice’s Key Events and Festivals

If you’re planning to visit Venice, Italy, you might want to consider attending one of its key events and festivals. These events offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Here are some of the most popular festivals to look out for:

Carnival of Venice

The Carnival of Venice is one of the most famous festivals in the world, attracting thousands of visitors every year. It usually takes place in February, just before the start of Lent. During the carnival, people dress up in elaborate costumes and masks and parade through the streets of Venice. There are also plenty of events, such as concerts, parties, and masquerade balls, taking place throughout the city.

Festa del Redentore

The Festa del Redentore is a religious festival that takes place on the third Sunday of July. It commemorates the end of the plague that ravaged Venice in 1576. During the festival, a temporary bridge is built across the Giudecca Canal, and people cross it to reach the Church of the Redeemer. There are also fireworks displays and boat races taking place throughout the weekend.

Historical Regatta

The Historical Regatta is a boat race that takes place on the first Sunday of September. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious events in Venice, dating back to the 13th century. During the regatta, boats of all shapes and sizes, each with its own team of rowers, compete against each other. There are also plenty of other events taking place throughout the day, including a parade of historical boats and a fireworks display.

Festa della Madonna della Salute

The Festa della Madonna della Salute is a religious festival that takes place on November 21st. It commemorates the end of the plague that ravaged Venice in 1630. During the festival, people walk across a temporary bridge to reach the Church of the Madonna della Salute. There are also plenty of other events taking place throughout the day, including a boat procession and a fireworks display.

Climate and Weather Conditions

When planning a visit to Venice, it is important to consider the climate and weather conditions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Venice has a subtropical climate with cold winters, warm springs, brisk falls, and hot, steamy summers. The atmosphere is always humid, given that the city is built on a shallow lagoon.

Rain in Venice

Venice experiences high levels of rainfall throughout the year, with November being the wettest month. Visitors should be prepared for rain during their trip, especially during the fall and winter months. It is recommended to bring rain boots and an umbrella to stay dry. Additionally, high water (acqua alta) can occur during periods of heavy rain, causing flooding in the city.

Hot Weather

Summers in Venice can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the upper 80s Fahrenheit. July is typically the hottest month with high humidity levels. Visitors should dress comfortably and bring sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun.

Cold Weather

Winters in Venice can be cold and damp, with temperatures ranging from the upper 30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit. January and February are the coldest months, with occasional light frosts and fog. Visitors should bring warm clothing and dress in layers to stay comfortable. When the bora wind blows, the air feels colder than it actually is because of the wind chill.

Accommodations in Venice

When planning your trip to Venice, finding the right accommodations is key to a comfortable and enjoyable stay. There are many options available, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.

Peak Season Hotel Rates

If you plan to visit Venice during the peak season, which runs from April to October, you can expect to pay higher hotel rates. During this time, the city is bustling with tourists and hotel rooms can be in high demand. It is recommended to book your accommodations well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Luxury hotels in Venice can cost upwards of €500 per night during peak season, while mid-range hotels can cost around €200-300 per night. Budget-friendly options such as hostels and guesthouses can be found for as low as €30-50 per night.

Off-Season Hotel Rates

If you are looking to save money on accommodations, consider visiting Venice during the off-season, which runs from November to March. During this time, hotel rates are generally lower and there are fewer crowds.

Luxury hotels in Venice can cost around €200-300 per night during the off-season, while mid-range hotels can cost around €100-200 per night. Budget-friendly options such as hostels and guesthouses can be found for as low as €20-30 per night.

Preparation Tips for Venice

When planning a trip to Venice, there are several things to consider to make the most of your visit. Here are some preparation tips to help you have an enjoyable experience:

Choose the Right Time to Visit

The best time to visit Venice is during the winter months between November and February when tourist numbers are low, and the city is less crowded. The temperatures can be chilly, but you can stay warm by wearing layers and comfortable boots. If you prefer a warmer climate, the best time to visit is between April and June or September and October when the weather is temperate.

Plan Your Itinerary

Venice has many attractions, and it’s essential to plan your itinerary in advance to avoid missing out on the must-see sights. Some of the top attractions include St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace , the Rialto Bridge, and the Grand Canal. If you’re interested in contemporary art, visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection , and if you love music, attend a concert at the famous La Fenice Opera House .

Consider a Day Trip to the Lagoon Islands

If you have extra time in Venice, consider taking a day trip to the nearby lagoon islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Murano is known for its glassmaking, Burano for its colorful houses and lace-making, and Torcello for its ancient cathedral.

Be Aware of the Opening Hours

Most of the museums and attractions in Venice close on Mondays, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Also, keep in mind that some attractions have different opening hours during the winter months.

Save Your Energy

Venice is a city of canals, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. To save energy, wear comfortable shoes and avoid carrying heavy bags. You can also take a vaporetto (waterbus) to get around the city.

Dress Appropriately

Venice is a city of fashion, and you’ll want to dress appropriately. Avoid wearing shorts and flip-flops, and instead, opt for smart casual attire. If you’re planning to visit religious sites such as St. Mark’s Basilica, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit venice to avoid flooding.

Venice is known for its high water or “acqua alta” that can flood the city, especially during the winter months. The best time to avoid flooding is during the summer months, from June to August when the tides are lower. However, keep in mind that these months are also the busiest and most expensive times to visit Venice.

How many days do I need to visit Venice?

To fully experience Venice, it is recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in the city. This will give you enough time to explore the famous landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, take a gondola ride through the canals, and wander through the charming streets and bridges of Venice. However, if you have more time, you can also explore the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

What is the most crowded month in Venice?

The most crowded month in Venice is August, when many Europeans are on vacation and the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the time when many festivals take place, such as the famous Venice Film Festival. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to visit Venice during the shoulder season, from April to May or September to October, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are smaller.

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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Venice Art Biennale 2024: a guide to what to see in and around the city

As the Venice Art Biennale kicks off (20 April - 24 November 2024), here is an ever-growing list of what to see in and around Venice.

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At the Venice Art Biennale, countries from all over the world gather to showcase contemporary artists. In the main show, the world’s best curators give their take on the most prescient art being made today. The drama is high, the events are many: this is a chance to see some of the best, most relevant art around in an incomparable setting. 

This year the biennale’s 60th edition is guided by the main exhibition’s title is ‘Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere’ inspired by the Palermo collective Claire Fontaine. At the world’s most famous national art exhibition we are being asked questions about internationality, belonging, identity, nationalism and acceptance. No small remit in today’s world.

“Artists have always travelled and moved about, under various circumstances, through cities, countries and continents, something that has only accelerated since the late 20th century—ironically a period marked by increasing restrictions regarding the dislocation or displacement of people,” read curator Adriano Pedrosa. “The Biennale Arte 2024’s primary focus is thus artists who are themselves foreigners, immigrants, expatriates, diasporic, émigrés, exiled, or refugees—particularly those who have moved between the Global South and the Global North. Migration and decolonization are key themes here.”

The Venice Biennale 2024: the pavilions

Pedrosa’s main show will include art by 332 living and late artists, most of whom are from Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East. He is the artistic director of Museu de Arte de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand (MASP) and has staged a number of exhibitions focusing on art made by indigenous artists, both historic and contemporary.

If you are heading over to The Floating City then national pavilions vying for the coveted Golden Lion are John Akomfrah who works mainly in film installation ‘ Listening All Night To The Rain’ for Britain which is one of the most hotly anticipated exhibitions as is Kapwani Kiwanga: TRINKET representing Canada and Wael Shawky known for his considered film work is presenting the musical film Drama 1882 for Egypt. Veteran artist Gülsün Karamustafa will represent Turkey, France is being represented by sculptor French-Jamaican Julien Creuzet, emerging painting star Tesfaye Urgessa will be showing for Ethiopia and Eimear Walshe is representing Ireland with ‘Romantic Ireland’.

There is a high number of artists from indigenous communities being showcased in this edition, namely Jeffrey Gibson representing the United States, Greenlandian artist Inuuteq Storch will be exhibiting for Denmark, Archie Moore for Australia and Glicéria Tupinambá will be exhibiting for Brazil.

There are also a number of collectives and group pavilion exhibitions this edition with Renzo Martens working with Cercle d’Art des Travailleurs de Plantation Congolaise (CATPC) for the Netherlands, musician Andrea Mancini and Brussels-based design collective Every Island presenting for Luxembourg, Aindrea Emelife curating the Nigerian pavilion in a group show include Yinka Shonibare . Precious Okoyomon and Toyin Ojih Odutola, the Ukrainian artist’s collective, will be staging a collective portrait of witnesses of the war in Ukraine be curated by Marta Czyż, and Azu Nwagbogu curates artists Chloé Quenum, Moufouli Bello, Ishola Akpo, and Romuald Hazoumè for the Republic of Benin. See all the artists exhibiting at the pavilions .

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The Venice Biennale: collateral events around the city

In addition to the biennale and the exhibitions opening around Venice next week there are a number of collateral events, and these can often be some of the most exciting and surprising shows at the biennale. Rebecca Ackroyd is showing Mirror Stage at Fondaco Marcello, British Pakistani artist Osman Yousefzada is putting on Welcome! A Palazzo for Immigrants at Palazzo Cavalli-Franchetti, Fondation Louis Vuitton is exhibiting Ernest Pignon-Ernest, the Chanakya Foundation is staging Cosmic Garden a show of textile works made in India, the feminist show Breasts is opening at APC Palazzo Franchetti and Ewa Juszkiewicz’s solo show is at Palazzo Cavanis. Peter Hujar: Portraits in Life and Death is at Istituto Santa Maria della Pietà, and Artists and Allies x Hebron is exhibiting  South West Bank: Landworks, Collective Action and Sound, a group show of work made in the region at Magazzino Gallery.

 Outside the biennale, exhibitions in Venice’s stunning institutions never fail to impress with the hotly anticipated Willem De Kooning E L'italia at the Accademia, Julie Mehretu: Ensemble, a film installation by Edith Dekyndt and Liminal by Pierre Huyghe presented by the Pinault Collection at Palazzo Grassi, Fondazione In Between Art Film in its second edition, Nebula at Complesso dell’Ospedaletto and Re-Stor(y)ing Oceania at TBA21: OCEAN SPACE, Martha Jungwirth: Herz der Finsternis at Galleria Palazzo Cini Alex Katz’s ‘Claire, Grass and Water’ at Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore and the Guggenheim is showing an exhibition of work by Jean Cocteau.

Criticisms have often been levelled at the biennale for its inherently nationalistic set up, but this time many countries have taken an interesting tack on national representation, foregrounding indigenous artists and collectives. The main exhibition’s tilt towards the oft called Global South will also mean that here in the Europe we are being introduced to artists and ideas we know little about. All this promises an interesting show for our troubled times.  

The 60th Venice Biennale runs throughout the city until November 2024

Venice Biennale 2024 in depth: Wallpaper* must-sees

Josèfa ntjam on her surreal utopias in venice.

For Josèfa Ntjam, a utopian world becomes a surreal lens through which to consider themes of domination woven throughout history. It is a concept she has returned to for ‘swell of spæc(i)es’, a collateral event with LAS Art Foundation at the Venice Biennale 2024.  

Writer: Hannah Silver

Read more here

Les Lalanne’s world takes over Venice

Les Lalanne’s surreal take on naturalism is coming to the Venice Biennale 2024, with one of the largest exhibitions to date of works by the late artist couple Claude and François-Xavier Lalanne, uniting more than 150 photographs, rare artworks and objects at the historic Palazzo Rota Ivancich.

Aindrea Emelife on bringing the Nigerian Pavilion to life at the Venice Biennale 2024

Aindrea Emelife is the British-Nigerian curator spearheading a new wave of contemporary artists, and presently also the curator behind the second-ever Nigerian Pavilion at the Venice Biennale 2024 .  When we get on a call ahead of the event’s opening (on 20 April), she’s in Venice, working with a team on the installation. As she speaks, I can sense the excitement in her voice: ‘We are working towards the installation’s completion and it's been going really well. I'm looking forward to the reveal.’

Writer: Ugonna-Ora Owoh

Berlinde De Bruyckere’s angels without faces touch down in Venice church

Belgian artist Berlinde De Bruyckere has visited Venice numerous times in the past and exhibited her work during different editions of the biennale. She also represented Belgium in 2013, with an installation of a gargantuan fallen cripple wood tree (a species known and named for its twisted branches).

An architectural characteristic the artist has long found interesting about the city is hidden in the details. ‘During my walks around Venice, I have always been intrigued by how the walls are full of water and show the wounds caused by this containment,’ De Bruyckere tells Wallpaper*. For her Belgian Pavilion installation, she had marked those wall wounds inside the space by scratching them onto the canvas.

Writer: Osman Can Yerebakan

Elias Sime reflects on the destructive nature of technology in Venice

At a glance, Elias Sime's visually appealing large-scale wall works look like painted art pieces.

The work is made from repurposing electronic parts, including electrical wires, keyboards, and motherboards. The materials are mainly sourced from Mercato, the biggest open-air market in Africa, in the Ethiopian artist’s hometown of Addis Ababa. (The market is one of the places where the West dumps its technological waste on the continent.)

Writer: Gameli Hamelo

Kapwani Kiwanga considers value and commerce for the Canada Pavilion at the Venice Biennale 2024

Paris-based, Canadian artist Kapwani Kiwanga draws on her anthropological training for pieces that criss-cross a multitude of mediums at the Venice Biennale 2024. From performance and embroidery to sculpture and installation, her work considers the political implications of material, from the impact of the agricultural revolution to the consequences of alien species crossing continents.

Lap-See Lam’s giant dragon head and tail takes over the Nordic Pavilion at the Venice Biennale

This year, artist Lap-See Lam is leading an especially bold exhibition for Norway, placing a huge bronze dragon’s head and tail outside and filling the interior space with a floor-to-ceiling grid of bamboo poles. This commanding installation plays host to her hour-long ‘The Altersea Opera’, created with composer Tze Yeung Ho, with LED screens showing pre-recorded performances and multiple speakers throughout the space.

Writer: Emily Steer

Guglielmo Castelli considers fragility and violence with painting series in Venice

Guglielmo Castelli’s exhibition ‘Improving Songs for Anxious Children’ at Palazzetto Tito, Venice, explores childhood as the genesis of discovery. Bringing together a series of paintings, maquettes, textiles and knitted sculptures, the show explores the body, relationships, death and the dance between success and failure. Inside Castelli’s canvases, figures bend and contort in ways that defy anatomy, and are set against familiar domestic backdrops. The works portray a metaphysical realm, one that explores ideas of fragility and violence, carelessness and attentiveness, and morality and corruption.

Writer: Sofia Hallstrom

Tesfaye Urgessa is the artist behind the first-ever Ethiopian Pavilion at the Venice Art Biennale

As the selected artist for the first-ever Ethiopian Pavilion at a  Venice Art Biennale , Tesfaye Urgessa’s commission comes with more than the average amount of pressure. Urgessa, however, is taking it in his stride, appreciating the timing of the project, which coincides with a personal and professional full circle. After beginning his career in Ethiopia, studying under painter Tadesse Mesfin, he enrolled in the Staatlichen Akademie in Stuttgart, a move that saw him hone a style that juxtaposes Western and African references.

What’s the big deal with breasts, ask artists at the Venice Biennale

Breasts have endlessly captivated artists – from the Old Masters to  Cindy Sherman , Richard Dupont to  Marcel Duchamp . Across the centuries, and through the mediums of sculpture, photography, film and painting, they have been a lens through which to dissect sexuality, illness, motherhood and politics, as well as igniting discussions on identity, class and race. They have also been fascinating, funny and fantastic, simply in their own right.

Now, a major new group exhibition in  Venice  asks why. Bringing together 30 established and emerging artists, curator Carolina Pasti is considering the issue at ACP Palazzo Franchetti. But where to begin?

John Akomfrah explores the sonic for the British Pavilion at the Venice Biennale 2024

John Akomfrah’s immersive and visual works consider migration and diasporic communities through the media of film. Now, in new work for the  Venice Biennale , commissioned and managed by the British Council, Akomfrah is dissecting a historical narrative through an auditory lens, putting sound at the centre of his new piece,  Listening All Night To The Rain . 

Amah-Rose Abrams is a British writer, editor and broadcaster covering arts and culture based in London. In her decade plus career she has covered and broken arts stories all over the world and has interviewed artists including Marina Abramovic, Nan Goldin, Ai Weiwei, Lubaina Himid and Herzog & de Meuron. She has also worked in content strategy and production. 

The proceeds of ’Vivienne Westwood: The Personal Collection’, running this June, will go to the charitable causes she championed during her lifetime

By Jack Moss Published 22 April 24

Montblanc takes design inspiration from its iconic writing archive for new collections of leather goods

By Simon Mills Published 22 April 24

Ray Phoenix housing project launches, designed by Johnston Marklee, who worked with Lamar Johnson Collaborative and artist Alex Israel, for property experts Ray and Vela

By Ellie Stathaki Published 22 April 24

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How this year's Venice Biennale is bringing outsider art into the fold

The 60th edition of the Venice Biennale is launching in April, with a focus on marginalised groups, immigration and decolonisation.

“No matter where you find yourself, you’re always truly, and deep down inside, a foreigner,” says Adriano Pedrosa, artistic director of the São Paulo Museum of Art and curator of this year’s Venice Biennale — the show’s first from the Southern Hemisphere. Held every two years, the six-month festival champions the world’s greatest artistic talent through exhibitions and national pavilions. For its 60th edition, opening on 20 April this year, Pedrosa has chosen the title Stranieri Ovunque — ‘Foreigners Everywhere’ — and favoured artists that have had no or little involvement in the Biennale before.  

Taking place in Venice’s Giardini parkland and Arsenale shipyard areas, the expo will be formed of two parts: the Nucleo Contemporaneo, focusing on marginalised groups such as Indigenous, queer and outsider artists, and the Nucleo Storico, which will showcase 20th-century works from Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, as well as the Italian artistic diaspora.

What to see at this year's Venice Biennale?

Exile is a Hard Job

Turkish feminist artist Nil Yalter, one of two winners of this year’s Golden Lion award for lifetime achievement, will present a new version of her ongoing project, Exile is a Hard Job, which started in 1975. The installation tackles the issue of social ostracisation afflicting those living in foreign lands, through the medium of photos and drawings. It will be the first time the octogenarian has ever shown work at the Biennale, and it’ll be displayed in the Central Pavilion at the Giardini.

Cosmic Garden

Indian artists Madhvi and Manu Parekh have collaborated with Mumbai’s Chanakya School of Craft, which focuses on empowering women, for this showcase at Venice’s Salone Verde. Paintings and sculptures inspired by Indian culture will be centred around expressionism, modernism and female deities, and will be presented along with reimaginings of the works as hand-embroidered pieces. Some 320 female artisans have been involved in handcrafting the works, which use organic materials such as silk.

Ka’a Pûera: we are walking birds

The Brazil Pavilion will be renamed the Hãhãwpuá Pavilion this year, for a takeover by Glicéria Tupinambá — an artist, activist and representative of the Tupinambá Indigenous community of Serra do Padeiro and Olivença, from Southern Bahia — along with two other Indigenous artists, Olinda Tupinambá and Ziel Karapotó. Hãhãwpuá is an Indigenous name for the lands that became Brazil, and the exhibition will confront the marginalisation of Brazil’s Indigenous communities since colonisation.

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On the Ground at the Venice Biennale

Scenes from the pivotal art event.

The performance “This Is Not a Drill” at the Re-Stor(y)ing Oceania exhibition at Ocean Space Venice. The work was choreographed by Latai Taumoepeau, center, with Venetian athletes. Credit...

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Photographs by Gus Powell

Reporting from Venice

• Published April 17, 2024 Updated April 22, 2024

The exhibitions have been installed. The artists have arrived. The city of Venice is prepared to welcome throngs of visitors from across the world.

The 2024 Venice Biennale, featuring work by more than 330 participating artists from some 90 countries scattered throughout the city, opens to the public on Saturday. And before that came the pre-opening celebrations, early viewing opportunities — and at least one act of protest.

Gus Powell, a photographer for The New York Times, is on the ground covering the spectacle that makes the Biennale one of the premier events in the art world’s global calendar.

Visitors to the two-pronged show aiming to capture the zeitgeist of contemporary art, “Foreigners Everywhere.”

JR, the artist, having a cappuccino before the debut of the sleeper carriage “l’Observatoire.” It will be moored in the water, appearing to float in the Venetian canal.

Workers near the sleeper carriage, which was brought by boat to the lagoon in Venice.

Umbrellas were a slight help during an unexpected storm.

Removing an unwelcome visitor from William Kentridge’s exhibition, one of the many collateral shows that pop up during the Venice Biennale.

Visitors who arrived on Tuesday were greeted with both beautiful skies and heavy downpours.

“The Museum of The Old Colony,” an exhibition with work by Pablo Delano, in the central pavilion at the Giardini.

A stylish accessory and sun blocker.

A performance by Carmine Caputo di Roccanova at the entrance to the Giardini exhibitions.

Viewing the Gabrielle Goliath show at the central exhibition space at the Giardini. The artist is from Johannesburg.

Viewing a placard near work by Dana Awartani in the Arsenale.

Making a quick call in the Giardini, where many countries have their national pavilions full of commissioned artworks.

Visitors at the “Re-Stor(y)ing Oceania” exhibition at Ocean Space.

Fliers left on the ground after a protest over the war in Gaza outside the Israeli Pavilion on Wednesday.

Viewing colorful abstract works in the central pavilion at the Giardini. The curator Adriano Pedrosa has mixed contemporary and historic 20th century art works that expand the idea of the “foreigner” to include queer, outsider and Indigenous people.

Workers who hand out maps to visitors taking a short break.

A glass of wine on the steps of the Ponte San Marziale at the end of the first full preview day.

The morning began with the Jingle Dance program, performed by the Colorado Inter-Tribal Dancers and the Oklahoma Fancy Dancers. Above, Nick Souksavath, one of the Colorado Inter-Tribal dancers, making his way to the start of the Jingle Dress performance via water taxi.

Kevin Connywerdy is the group leader of the Fancy Dancers.

The artist Jeffrey Gibson speaking with Tashina Red Hawk, a member of the Oklahoma Fancy Dancers group.

When Gibson saw Unpo Wicahpi Goodwill, a member of the Oklahoma Fancy Dancers, burning sage outside the American pavilion, he asked if she would do the same throughout the exhibition.

Passengers on the vaporetto discuss their favorite and least favorite exhibitions, speaking in both English and Turkish.

The exhibition, “Helmut Newton. Legacy,” at The Photography Rooms, Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore.

A visitor peers into an eye-shaped peephole to view the interior of “l’Observatoire,” a private sleeper carriage for the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, designed by artist JR.

Visitors sit near the lagoon; others stay on the move.

Resting at the Arsenale.

The U.S. pavilion transformed the Rialto Fish Market into a party venue.

Guests chatting near the bar.

Some sparkle on the dance floor.

Across town, Ireland and Iceland teamed up for their own party at the Institute of Marine Science.

Guests mingled and listened to the DJ until long after midnight.

An installation by Yael Bartana, part of the “Thresholds” exhibition at the German Pavilion.

A crowd gathering to hear statements from officials at the Venice Pavilion.

“Rehearsal for Swan Lake,” Anna Jermolaewa’s collaboration with Ukrainian ballet dancer and choreographer Oksana Serheieva, at the Austrian Pavilion.

John Akomfrah’s “Listening All Night To The Rain” at the British Pavilion.

Anna Jermolaewa’s “The Penultimate” at the Austrian Pavilion.

Work by Julien Creuzet at the French Pavilion.

A visitor looking at Ziel Karapotó’s installation, “Cardume (School of Fish)” at the Brazil Pavilion.

Catching the vaporetto at the Biennale stop.

A late-night traffic jam on the dock outside Palazzo Diedo, the new Berggruen Arts & Culture exhibition space.

Dev Hynes, seated at the piano on the left, performing with a group of musicians including Adam Tendler, right, during a musical program for the exhibition “Julie Mehretu. Ensemble.”

Visitors streaming into the Venice Biennale on the first day the shows were open to the public.

Work by Archie Moore, an Indigenous Australian artist who won the top prize at the Venice Biennale on Saturday.

Charting out a course of action.

Work by La Chola Poblete, who received a special mention during Saturday’s official awards.

More visitors arriving near the Arsenale.

Doruntina Kastrati and her work at Kosovo’s Pavilion, which received a special mention during Saturday’s official awards.

A group of children on the steps behind the Scandinavian Pavilion in the Giardini.

Work by Mataaho Collective, a New Zealand group which won the Golden Lion for Best Participant in the International Exhibition.

Resting near Lauren Halsey’s work “Keepers of the Krown” after a long day in Venice.

Inside the Venice Biennale

The 2024 venice biennale features work by more than 330 participating artists from some 90 countries scattered throughout the city..

Photos:  Our photographer is on the ground covering the spectacle that makes the Biennale  one of the premier events in the art world’s global calendar.

Critiquing and Representing the U.S.:  Jeffrey Gibson’s history-making turn at the Biennale  brings the gay and Native American artist center stage with works of struggle and freedom.

Protests Go On:  Israel’s exhibition was already closed after its artist refused to display her work  until there was a cease-fire and hostage deal in Gaza. But that didn’t calm the discontent .

Can Adriano Pedrosa Save the Biennale?:  Balancing diplomacy and geopolitics is hardly new for the first Biennale curator from Latin America. He isn’t scared to make a strong statement  on contemporary art.

A Match Made in Venice:  An American institution is sponsoring an exhibition by a Chinese artist in collaboration with a Japanese architect at a centuries-old Venetian building. Here’s how Tadao Ando and Zeng Fanzhi came together .

Criticism Meets Optimism:  The group show “Nigeria Imaginary” will be one of the most ambitious African presentations  ever at the Biennale.

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Venice's 60th Biennale opens on humanity and the fragile planet

Venice's 60th Biennale international art show has opened its doors, exploring humankind's relationship with the fragile planet, from Greenland's icecaps to deforestation in the Amazon.

Photographer Inuuteq Storch poses at Denmark's pavilion during the pre-opening of the Venice Biennale art show, on April 18, 2024 in Venice.

(Copyright: GABRIEL BOUYS / AFP)

The exhibition showcases artists from across the globe, including pavilions from Japan, Denmark, Brazil and the Czech Republic.

The Biennale Arte 2024, one of the world's leading international art exhibitions, runs until November 24.

- Makeshift solutions -

Japanese artist Yuko Mohri's work focussed on makeshift attempts to limit water leaks in Tokyo's underground stations, caused by frequent floods and earthquakes.

In a tribute to human invention, Mohri featured objects used to collect water in vain, including plastic bottles, buckets and pipes.

Decomposed fruits were linked to electrode wires, which control sound by adjusting the degree of humidity, appealing to all the visitor's senses. 

The artist aimed to show how "human creativity can really bring about some hopes and solutions when a lot of things are critical", said Sook-Kyung Lee, curator of the Japan pavilion.

To highlight the universality of the climate threat, the artist collected her materials from flea markets in Venice, which has also suffered from flooding. 

- Melting ice -

Denmark's pavilion displayed the work of photographer Inuuteq Storch in six series, including "Soon Will Summer Be Over", which documents the effects of climate change, colonisation, Inuit hunting and fishing traditions in the far north of Greenland. 

Visitors find nostalgic everyday scenes of the remote land where the sun never sets in the Summer.

Both colour and black-and-white photographs of land, skies and icecaps take visitors through the seasonal cycle in a reminder of the vulnerability of the poles.

"Climate change definitely has a presence," said Louise Wolthers, art historian and curator.

"He (Storch) tells us that hunters cannot practise so much the traditional hunting methods anymore because of climate change and the melting of ice and the more extreme weather conditions."

- 'Unscrupulous men' -

At the entrance to Brazil's pavilion, roots and seeds flowed from an imposing mound of earth to evoke different life forms: human veins, tree sap and Brazilian rivers seen from the sky.

Atop the installation, an old television showed a woman saying: "You have not learned from your mistakes and the forests continue to be torn down to serve unscrupulous men."

"I like to establish a contact between human beings to talk about the importance of an environmental issue, to think about it in a global way," said artist and Indigenous activist Olinda Tupinamba.

- Life and death of a giraffe -

A collaborative project from the Czech Republic, entitled "The heart of a giraffe in captivity weighs 12 kilos less", looks back at the tragic fate of Lenka, captured in Kenya in 1954 and transported to Prague Zoo, where she survived for just two years. 

With this installation, Czech artist Eva Kotatkova wanted to recreate the giraffe's insides and skeleton to attract public attention to the human relationship with nature and the violence inflicted on animals. 

The exhibit is also mean to provoke reflection, asking "what is my role in this story?", Kotatkova said.

The project resonates with the central theme of this year's event, "Stranieri ovunque-Foreigners Everywhere", in which some 90 countries are represented. 

Artist Ruth Patir's video installation had been due to open at Israel's national pavilion, but she said last week that her exhibit would remain closed until a ceasefire was in place and the hostages held captive by Hamas had been released.

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Venice to charge day-trip entry fee from this week in bold move to tackle overtourism

In world first, venice to charge visitors with day-trip entry fee from this week to curb mass tourism.

Venice will this week begin charging day trippers for entry, a world first aimed at easing pressure on the Italian city drowning under the weight of mass tourism .

On Thursday -- a public holiday in Italy -- day visitors will for the first time have to buy a five-euro ($5.3) ticket, monitored by inspectors carrying out spot checks at key points in the UNESCO world heritage site.

Venice is one of the world's top tourist destinations, with 3.2 million visitors staying overnight in the historic centre in 2022 -- dwarfing the resident population of just 50,000.

Tens of thousands more pour into the city's narrow streets for the day, often from cruise ships, to see sights including St Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge.

The aim of the tickets is to persuade day trippers to come during quieter periods, to try to thin out the worst of the crowds.

Initially, tickets will only be required on 29 busy days throughout 2024, mostly weekends from May to July.

But the scheme is being closely watched as tourist destinations worldwide grapple with surging numbers of visitors, who boost the local economy but risk overwhelming communities and damaging fragile ecosystems and historical sites.

In Spain, the world's second-most visited country after France, tens of thousands of people protested in the Canary Islands on Saturday to demand limits on visitor numbers to the archipelago.

Luigi Brugnaro, the mayor of Venice, has described the city's scheme as "an experiment, and the first time it's been done anywhere in the world".

"Our aim is to make Venice more liveable," he told reporters earlier this month.

- UNESCO warning -

Venice, spread over more than 100 small islands and islets in northeastern Italy, is considered one of the world's most beautiful cities.

The UN cultural body UNESCO listed the city and its lagoon as a world heritage site in 1987, citing it as an "extraordinary architectural masterpiece".

But UNESCO threatened last year to put Venice on its list of heritage in danger, citing mass tourism and also rising water levels attributed to climate change.

Venice only escaped the ignominy after local authorities agreed the new ticketing system.

The idea had long been debated, but repeatedly postponed over concerns it would seriously dent tourist revenue and compromise freedom of movement.

During a debate on the plan last September, opposition councillors cast the measure as a hastily arranged concession to UNESCO that would not have any impact.

"Fifty euros might have done something," said one, Gianfranco Bettin.

In 2021, Venice had already imposed a ban on massive cruise ships from which thousands of day-trippers emerge daily, rerouting them to a more distant industrial port.

It has also introduced a tax for overnight visitors.

- No queues -

Venice's mayor has promised the new system will be imposed with a light touch with "very soft controls" and "without queues", rejecting speculation the city would be installing barriers or turnstiles in the streets.

Controllers will be stationed in and around the city's main entrances, notably the Santa Lucia train station, performing spot checks on visitors.

Tourists without their ticket will be invited to purchase one on arrival, with the help of local operators.

But they could also risk fines ranging from 50 to 300 euros.

The "Venice Access Fee" targets only daily tourists entering the old town between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm, with tourists staying in hotels, minors under 14, and the disabled among those exempt.

For the time being, there is no ceiling on the number of tickets -- downloaded in the form of a QR code from a website (https://cda.ve.it/en/), distributed each day.

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Venice Biennale titled 'Foreigners Everywhere' platforms LGBTQ, outsider and Indigenous artists

VENICE, Italy — Outsider, queer and Indigenous artists are getting an overdue platform at the  60th Venice Biennale  contemporary art exhibition that opened Saturday, curated for the first time by a Latin American.

Brazilian curator Adriano Pedrosa’s main show, which accompanies 88 national pavilions for the seven-month run, is strong on figurative painting, with fewer installations than recent editions. A preponderance of artists are  from the Global South , long overlooked by the mainstream art world circuits. Many are dead.  Frida Kahlo , for example, is making her first appearance at the Venice Biennale. Her 1949 painting “Diego and I” hangs alongside one by her husband and fellow artist, Diego Rivera.

Despite their lower numbers, living artists have “a much stronger physical presence in the exhibition,” Pedrosa said, with each either showing one large-scale work, or a collection of smaller works. The vast majority are making their Venice Biennale debut.

Visitors to the two main venues, the Giardini and the Arsenale, will be greeted by a neon sign by the conceptual art cooperative Claire Fontaine with the exhibition’s title: “Stranieri Ovunque — Foreigners Everywhere.” A total of 60 in different languages hang throughout the venues.

When taken in the context of  global conflicts  and  hardening borders , the title seems a provocation against intransigent governments — at the very least a prod to consider our shared humanity. Through artists with underrepresented perspectives, the exhibition address themes of migration and the nature of diaspora as well as  indigeneity and the role of craft .

“Foreigners everywhere, the expression has many meanings,’’ Pedrosa said. “One could say that wherever you go, wherever you are, you are always surrounded by foreigners. … And then in a more personal, perhaps psychoanalytic subjective dimension, wherever you go, you are also a foreigner, deep down inside.”

“Refugee, the foreigner, the queer, the outsider and the Indigenous, these are the ... subjects of interest in the exhibition,’’ he said.

Some highlights from the  Venice Biennale , which runs through Nov. 26:

Geopolitics at the Biennale

Facing the threat of protests, the  Israel Pavilion stayed closed  after the artist and curators refused to open until there is a cease-fire in Gaza and the  Israeli hostages taken by Hamas  -led militants are released.

Ukraine is making its second Biennale art appearance as a country under invasion; soft diplomacy aimed at keeping the world focused on the war. Russia has not appeared at the Biennale since the  Ukraine invasion  began, but this time its historic 110-year-old building in the Giardini is on loan to Bolivia.

For a short time during this week’s previews, a printed sign hung on the Accademia Bridge labeling Iran a “murderous terrorist regime,” declaring “the Iranian people want freedom & peace.” The venue for the Iranian pavilion was nearby, but there was no sign of activity. The Biennale said it would open Sunday — two days after the departure from Italy of Group of Seven  foreign ministers who warned Iran  of sanctions for escalating violence against Israel.

Golden Lions

The Golden Lion for best national pavilion went to Australia for Archie Moore’s installation “kith and kin,” tracing his own Aboriginal relations over 65,000 years. It’s written in chalk on the pavilion’s dark walls and ceiling and took months to complete. The Mataaho Collective from New Zealand won the Golden Lion for the best participant in Pedrosa’s main show, for their installation inspired by Maori weaving that crisscrosses the gallery space, casting a pattern of shadows and interrogating interconnectedness.

LGBTQ artists

As a queer artist born in South Korea and working in Los Angeles, Kang Seung Lee said he identified with Pedrosa’s “invitation to look at our lives as foreigners, but also visitors to this world.”

His installation, “Untitled (Constellations),” which considers the artists who died in  the AIDS epidemic  through a collection of objects, is in dialogue with spare paper-on-canvas works by British artist Romany Eveleigh, who died in 2020. “The works speak to each other, an intergenerational conversation, of course,’’ said Lee, 45, whose works have been shown in international exhibitions, including Documenta 15. This is his first Venice Biennale.

Nearby, transsexual Brazilian artist Manauara Clandestina presented her video “Migranta,” which speaks about her family’s story of migration. “It’s so strong, because I can hear my daddy’s voice,’’ she said. Clandestina, who hails from the Amazon city of Manaus, embraced Pedrosa during a press preview marking her Venice debut. She said she continues to work in Brazil despite discrimination and violence against transgender people.

Newer national participants

The Giardini hosts 29 national pavilions representing some of the oldest participating nations, like the United States, Germany, France and Britain. More recent additions show either in the nearby Arsenale, or choose a venue farther afield, like Nigeria did this year in Venice’s Dorsoduro district.

The Nigerian Pavilion, in a long-disused building with raw brick walls that exude potential, houses an exhibition that spans mediums — including figurative art, installation, sculpture, sound art, film art and augmented reality — by artists living in the diaspora and in their homeland.

“These different relationships to the country allow for a very unique and different perspectives of Nigeria,’’ said curator Aindrea Emelife. “I think that it’s quite interesting to consider how leaving a space creates a nostalgia for what hasn’t been and allows an artist to imagine an alternative continuation to that. The exhibition is about nostalgia, but it’s also about criticality.”

The eight-artist Biennale exhibition “Nigeria Imaginary” will travel to  the Museum of West African Art  in Benin City, Nigeria, where Emelife is curator, which will give it “a new context and a new sense of relevancy,’’ she said.

Breakthroughs

Ghana-born British artist John Akomfrah created eight multimedia film- and sound-based works for  the British Pavilion  that looks at what it is to be “living as a figure of difference” in the U.K. Images of water are a connecting device, representing memory.

“In the main, I’m trying to tease out something about collective memory, the things that have informed a culture, British culture let’s say, over the last 50 years,’’ Akomfrah told The Associated Press. “As you go further in, you realize we’re going further back. We end up going to the 16th century. So it’s an interrogation of 500 years of British life.”

Considering the question of equity in the art world, Akomfrah indicated the adjacent French Pavilion — where French-Caribbean artist Julien Creuzet created an immersive exhibition — and the Canadian Pavilion on the other side, featuring an exhibition examining the historic importance of seed beads by Kapwani Kiwanga, who is in Paris.

“I mean, this feels like a very significant moment for artists of color,’’ said Akomfrah, who participated in the Ghana Pavilion in 2019. “Because I’m in the British Pavilion. Next to me is the French one, with an artist, Julien, who I love a lot, of African origin. And then next to me is a Canadian pavilion that has a biracial artist, again, with African heritage.

“So that’s certainly not happened before, that three major pavilions have artists of color inhabiting, occupied, making work in them. And that feels like a breakthrough,’’ he said.

The Ukrainian Pavilion engaged ordinary Ukrainians to collaborate with artists on work that documents how they are experiencing, and in some ways adapting to the Russian invasion.

The artistic projects include silent video portraits of European actors styled by Ukrainians displaced by the war to represent an “ideal” refugee. In another, neurodiverse young adults show their linguistic flexibility in incorporating a new reality where niceties like “quiet night” have a whole new meaning. And a film installation has become a sort of archive, taken from social media channels that once chronicled pre-invasion pastimes but that turned their attention to documenting the war.

Co-curator Max Gorbatskyi said it was important for Ukraine to be present at the Biennale to assert its distinctiveness from Russian culture, but also to use the venue to keep the wider world’s attention.

“We wanted to look at stories of real people,’’ he said. “There was no way we were going to show some abstract paintings, maybe beautiful and interesting, but which only pose questions in the art discourse. Instead, we wanted to bring real people together with artists in a non-hierarchical way to tell their stories.”

Collateral events

Greek American George Petrides’ installation “Hellenic Heads” outside of Venice’s Church of Saint George of the Greeks and the Museum of Icons is among the many collateral events that spill over into the city.

Petrides’ created six oversized busts, each inspired by a significant period of Greek history, using family members as models. His mother, in turquoise blue, is in the classical style and his daughter represents the future in a golden hue. To withstand the weather, Petrides recreated an earlier series but this time from recycled plastic, using a digital sculpting software and a 3D printer, reworking details from hand.

“This space is unique. We have the Museum of Icons here, which is one of the most spectacular collections of icons in the world. We have a church started while Michelangelo was still alive, which any sculptor finds interesting. But further, this particular quarter is the Greek quarter,’’ he said, noting an influx after Constantinople fell to the Ottomans in 1453.

Across the city, at the base of the Accademia Bridge, the Qatar Museum’s installation “Your Ghosts Are Mine” presents clips of feature films and video art from the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia organized thematically and exploring issues such as migration, conflict and exile. Films will be screened in their entirety four days a week.

“These different thematics tell a story about all the congruences and the parallels that exist among filmmakers that may have never met or are from different parts of the global south,’’ said assistant curator and filmmaker Majid Al-Remaihi. “Some films were the first from their countries to premiere in Cannes or make it to the Oscars, so these are milestones and also part of our journey.”

The Associated Press