Why You should visit Venice in December

Venice, the city of canals and timeless romance, is a destination that needs no introduction. But have you ever considered what it could be like to visit this famous city in December? While Venice is captivating year-round, we visited Venice in December and loved it! The winter months can be an entirely different and magical experience. In this article, we'll delve into the compelling reasons why December is the perfect time to explore Venice's charm, from the glistening canals to the festive holiday spirit that fills the air. We will share our best tips and inspiration for your next visit to beautiful Venice. 

Weather and Packing Tips for December

While Venice is beautiful year-round, December brings a unique and enchanting atmosphere to the city thanks to its winter climate.

Mild Cold and Crisp Days December is characterized by mild cold temperatures that make the city feel crisp and invigorating. Daytime temperatures typically range from 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F), so you'll want to bundle up in layers to stay warm.

Occasional Rainfall Venice experiences some rainfall in December, so it's a good idea to pack an umbrella or rain jacket. While rain can be somewhat unpredictable, it rarely lasts for days on end.

Lower Humidity One advantage of visiting Venice in December is the lower humidity levels compared to the muggy summer months. This means you'll enjoy clearer skies and better visibility for taking in the stunning architecture and scenery around the city.

Shorter Daylight Hours One thing to note is that December offers fewer daylight hours, with the sun setting quite early in the afternoon. This can be a plus for those seeking a romantic and cozy atmosphere, as Venice truly shines when it's lit up with twinkling lights in the evening.

Foggy Mornings Venice is known for its occasional morning fog, especially during the winter months. While it can obscure some views, it also adds a mystique to the city's landscape, making it a favorite subject for photographers. Be sure to rise early and capture the dreamy scenes before the fog dissipates.

Transportation and Getting Around

Getting to Venice

By Air: The closest major airport to Venice is Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE). From there, you can reach the city center by taking a water taxi, water bus (vaporetto), or the Alilaguna shuttle service.

Another option is Treviso Airport (TSF), which is further from Venice but still accessible by bus or taxi.

By Train: Venice is well-connected by train, with Venezia Santa Lucia being the main train station located in the heart of the city. If you're traveling from other Italian cities or European destinations, taking the train can be a scenic and convenient option.

By Car: If you're driving to Venice, you can park your car in one of the parking garages (Tronchetto Parking) located on the mainland (after the bridge) and then take a water taxi or Vaporetto to reach the cit's historic center. Since we arrived by car and had done some research, we found a less expensive option and decided to park our car before crossing the bridge (which is called Ponte della Liberta). There are several parking lot options before the bridge, often at a much lower cost and with walking distance to the bus or train taking you across the bridge to Venice Station.

Tip: It can be complicated to drag a huge suitcase around from a parking lot to your hotel (if you are staying overnight in the city). A lighter suitcase or backpack is recommended, since there might be a LOT of walking included.

Getting Around Venice

Venice is a pedestrian-friendly destination, and exploring its streets and canals by walking is the best way to explore and take everything in at your on pace. Here are some tips for navigating Venice: Vaporetto (Water Bus): Venice has an extensive water bus network known as vaporetto lines.
These boats provide transportation along the Grand Canal and to various islands. They are a practical way to get to different parts of the city and can be used with single tickets, day passes, or multi-day passes. We only took the Vaporetto from the main station to our hotel area (near St.Mark's square) and then spent our days walking for hours in this magical place.

1. Water Taxis: Water taxis are a more private and direct means of transportation. They can take you directly to your destination and are especially convenient if you have heavy luggage.
   However, they are much more expensive than Vaporettos.

2. Walking: Venice is best explored on foot. The city's intricate network of narrow streets and picturesque bridges makes it a delight for pedestrians. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be covering a lot of ground during your visit. Also, don't forget warm clothes. We had packed a light down jacket, mittens, hats and scarves.

3. Gondolas: While gondolas are a quintessential symbol of Venice, they are primarily used for short, scenic rides and special occasions. They are quite pricey, so consider them as a unique experience rather than a practical means of transportation.

A Second Tip on Walking:

It's important to be prepared for a significant amount of walking in Venice. The city's layout and lack of cars make walking the most efficient way to explore. Be sure to wear comfortable footwear and dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you plan to stroll along the canals or explore historic sites.

Where to stay

In Venice, there are three main areas that are popular for accommodation and with possibilities to do some shopping:

1. San Marco: This is the heart of Venice and home to iconic attractions like St. Mark's Square, the Doge's Palace, and St. Mark's Basilica. It's a bustling area with numerous shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks, making it a top choice for first-time visitors.

2. Cannaregio: Known for its more relaxed and local atmosphere, Cannaregio offers a quieter experience. It's home to the historic Jewish Ghetto (read more about it’s interesting story here) and a network of charming canals. This area provides a glimpse into authentic Venetian life while still being accessible to major attractions.

3. Dorsoduro: Dorsoduro is an artsy and picturesque neighborhood known for its cultural institutions like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Accademia Gallery. It's a great choice for art enthusiasts and those seeking a more tranquil stay along the Grand Canal. We enjoyed strolling around the area of Dorsoduro a lot and there were cute little cafés to enjoy a rest and a drink after many hours of walking. This area has a different feel to it and is well worth a visit.

When we visited Venice we were very satisfied with our chosen location of San Marco which really is the heart of Venice. You can enjoy walks through narrow streets by crossing little bridges and canals while being entertained by Gondolas passing by with enthusiastic gondoliers (the “pilot) and tourists. In San Marco, you'll discover a treasure trove of high-end boutiques and artisanal shops offering a wide range of unique and exquisite items. Luxury fashion stores, such as Gucci and Prada, line the famous shopping street known as Calle Larga XXII Marzo, where you can find the latest Italian designs and accessories. Additionally, for art enthusiasts, there are galleries and antique shops showcasing Venetian art, Murano glass, and intricate handcrafted masks—perfect for bringing a piece of Venice's artistic heritage home with you. Whether you're seeking fashion, art, or one-of-a-kind souvenirs, the San Marco area offers a sophisticated shopping experience.

We stayed at “Hotel Dell’Opera” and had a most romantic room (and a Prosecco waiting at arrival) with a small balcony overlooking the canal and were entertained by passing gondoliers singing opera and playing accordion. Our hotel offered breakfast and there were many restaurants, Trattorias, Osterias, Pizzerias and Enotecas to be found nearby (Yes! It can be confusing with all the different names and places for food and drinks, and we will get to that in another post about Italian food - our favourite!)
Depending on your budget it can be tricky to find a place to stay in the center of Venice, but visiting in December might give you better offers than the busy summer season

. Tip! We usually compare booking.com, Google and also check offers at Secret Escapes or AirBnB, but for Venice we recommend doing your own research and compare for good deals since prices constantly changes and vary. Of course, on a limited budget you can choose to stay outside the main island and take day-trips to the center, but we highly recommend to try and explore while living like a Venetian in Venice!

Embracing the Magic of Christmas

During the holiday season the narrow streets are lit up by twinkling lights and festive decorations. We found it especially enchanting to walk around in the evening, and there were possibilities to visit markets and also experience people celebrating Christmas mass in the San Marco Basilica. There is live music and performances that contributes to the romantic vibe.

Christmas markets in Venice

One of the most delightful experiences in Venice during December is exploring the Christmas markets that pop up around the city. Likely dates for 2023: 29th November to 24th December

Here are a couple of must-visit markets that are generally open from 9am to 7pm:

• Mercatino di Natale in Campo Santo Stefano: Campo San Stefano in San Marco municipality becomes the center for Christmas shopping. The Christmas Market consists of about 30 wooden chalets with local food produce and authentic crafts on display. Vendors offer a variety of items that are unique to Venice: from Murano stained glass to beautiful carnival masks, jewelry, and various artwork. Entertainment includes live music, kids' activities, and street artists. Many stalls offer traditional sweets like almond nougat, panettone, and truffles. Also, there is a selection of popular Italian foods, like olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

  Tip! If you want to visit the Christmas market in San Marco, you should consider staying in the San Marco neighbourhood or nearby areas such as Castello or Cannaregio. These neighbourhoods are within walking distance of the market and have a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options.

• Mercatino di Natale di Murano: Head to the island of Murano to discover a more intimate Christmas market. Here, you can witness the island's famous glassblowing artisans crafting beautiful glass ornaments and decorations, making for exceptional holiday gifts.

Visit St. Mark's Basilica: A visit to Venice would be incomplete without exploring the stunning St. Mark's Basilica. During December, this iconic cathedral becomes an integral part of the city's Christmas celebrations. Inside, you'll be greeted by beautifully adorned Christmas trees and nativity scenes. You find a short TikTok video from our magic visit if you click here. You can also climb the Campanile di San Marco for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city with its festive lights.

Venice Highlights and Facts - is it worth a visit?

We always say that we don’t like “touristic” destinations and “tourist traps”. But sometimes there is a reason why places get bombarded with tourists (which comes with negatives and positives). We believe Venice is one of those “MUST EXPERIENCE” and if you want to avoid huge crowds we cannot recommend visiting during the winter months more! You get to explore Venice without long lines and we often found ourselves walking the streets alone, as the sun was setting. It was magic AND romantic (Tip! bring your loved one ;)

10 interesting facts and highlights about Venice:

1. City of Canals: Venice is renowned for its intricate network of canals, with approximately 150 canals winding through the city. These canals serve as the primary means of transportation, with boats and gondolas used instead of cars.

Click photo to watch a gallery:

2. Floating City: Built on a collection of 118 small islands, Venice is located in northeastern Italy, within the Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic Sea. The islands are connected by numerous bridges, the most famous of which is the Rialto Bridge.

3. UNESCO World Heritage Site: The historic city of Venice and its lagoon have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. The city is renowned for its remarkable architecture, artistic heritage, and unique urban planning.

4. Piazza San Marco: One of the main highlights of Venice is the stunning Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square), often referred to as the "drawing room of Europe." It is home to iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Campanile (bell tower).

5. Gondolas and Gondoliers: Venice is famous for its elegant black gondolas, which have become an enduring symbol of the city. These traditional Venetian rowing boats are primarily used for transport and are steered by skilled gondoliers dressed in striped shirts and straw hats.

6. Venetian Masks: Venice has a rich tradition of mask-making. Historically, masks were worn during the annual Carnival of Venice, allowing people to conceal their identities and social status. Today, Venetian masks are popular souvenirs and are still used during festivals and masquerade balls.

7. Murano Glass: The nearby island of Murano is renowned for its exquisite glassmaking. Murano glass is highly regarded for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. Visitors can witness glassblowing demonstrations and explore the numerous glass shops and galleries in Murano.

8. Sinking City: Venice faces an ongoing challenge of subsidence and rising sea levels. The city is gradually sinking into the lagoon while also dealing with the impact of high tides, known as "acqua alta." Various measures, such as the MOSE project (Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico), have been implemented to protect the city from flooding.

9. Venetian Cuisine: Venice offers a unique culinary experience with dishes influenced by its maritime location. Traditional Venetian cuisine includes seafood specialties like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) and risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto). The city is also famous for cicchetti, small appetizers typically enjoyed with a glass of wine.

10. Biennale di Venezia: Venice is home to the renowned Venice Biennale, one of the world's most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions. Held every two years, it showcases a wide range of artistic disciplines, including visual arts, architecture, cinema, dance, and music.

These facts only scratch the surface of what makes Venice a fascinating and unique city to explore. Our final conclusion and BEST TIP is Visit Venice in December!

Thank you for visiting our blog! We hope you enjoyed this article.

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