Located in northeastern Italy on a group of small islands, Venice has a subtropical climate with cold winters, warm springs, rapid falls, and hot, humid summers. Although it doesn’t rain much in general (rainfall averages less than 30 inches per year), the atmosphere is always humid, given that the city is built on a shallow lagoon.
During the rainy seasons (especially fall and winter), the effect of high water (high water) can present challenges for visitors. Snowfall is unusual, but if it does occur, it rarely accumulates for more than a few hours or, at most, a few days. Because the weather tends to be fickle, it is likely to change from hour to hour, difficult to predict, so be prepared for anything.
Fast weather data
- Hottest Months: July, 82 F (28 C) / 65 F (18 C)
- Coldest Month: January, 44 F (7 C) / 32 F (0 C)
- Wettest Month: June, 3.1 inches (8 cm) of rain
Spring in venice
Spring is the best time for sightseeing in Venice, with long, sunny days followed by cool, pleasant nights. Spring is also the beginning of the peak tourist season (after Easter) which offers many festivals and outdoor events to enjoy. But with good weather comes an increase in the number of visitors and an increase in accommodation prices. Budget travelers are more likely to find deals and discounts if they plan a trip in early to mid-March (as long as Carnivale doesn’t drop in March). By April, temperatures turn warmer but crowds are still manageable.
As for the holidays and events to attend in spring, International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8, the Feast of San Marco on April 25, and Labor Day on May 1.
What to pack: Days tend to be long, bright, and comfortable, but it can get cool and windy when the sun goes down. Bring light pants, long-sleeved shirts, and put a sweater in your bag in case there is an unexpected drop in temperature. A medium-weight jacket is recommended for evening rides or gondola rides, as well as a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from the sun while waiting in line at museums and attractions.
Average temperatures per month
- Marzo: 54 F (12 C) / 39 F (4 C)
- Abril: 61 F (16 C) / 46 F (8 C)
- Mayo: 71 F (21 C) / 55 F (13 C)
Summer in Venice
Summer is the hottest and wettest season of the year in Venice, with the mercury capable of rising to 95 F (35 C) or more. It is also the busiest season. Hotels charge a premium for rooms and the canals are packed with gondolas packed with tourists, day and night. Not only can the heat be intense, especially at noon, but the gutters can give off a rather stale odor and the mosquitoes are in full force. Fortunately, rainy days are likely to drop temperatures for a while.
Having said all that, there are some advantages to visiting in the summer. On the one hand, it is the beginning of the International Biennale: a spectacular contemporary art during which Venice hosts art exhibitions, concerts, colloquia and other interesting events throughout the city. Another great reason to visit in July is the Festa del Redentore , a celebration in which a makeshift barge bridge is built connecting Venice to Giudecca Island. A fireworks display culminates the event.
What to pack: Long shorts, sundresses, and cotton T-shirts are in order, but don’t forget to bring something to cover your shoulders as churches have modest dress codes. A raincoat will come in handy during frequent thunderstorms and comfortable slippers or thick-soled sandals are recommended to inevitably walk all day.
Average temperatures per month
- Junio: 77 F (25 C) / 61 F (16 C)
- Julio: 82 F (28 C) / 65 F (18 C)
- Agosto: 81 F (27 C) / 64 F (18 C)
Fall in venice
With a dwindling crowd and lower prices for accommodation, fall is a wonderful time to visit Venice. Note that this is also the period when acqua alta (flooding or » high tide «) is most likely to occur.
September can be quite warm and sunny during the day and cooler at night. On the first Sunday of the month, the historic regatta, an elaborate boat parade and rowing races along the Grand Canal, should not be missed. October sees cool, clear afternoons with windy nights to follow. You will find Italian children celebrating Halloween at the end of the month. As for November, the Festa della Salute on the 21st commemorates the end of the plague in 1631. As the month progresses, it gets colder with a pinch in the air that tells residents and visitors that winter is coming. .
What to pack: Dressing in layers will prepare you for the climatic ups and downs of a fall in Venice. Leave your shorts at home, replacing them with warmer pants and long-sleeved tops or sweaters. Rain resistant shoes or boots, stylish and warm scarves, and hats are also recommended in colder temperatures. If you’re packing skirts and dresses, add some tights, just in case.
Average temperatures per month
- Septiembre: 74 F (23 C) / 58 F (14 C)
- Octubre: 64 F (18 C) / 49 F (10 C)
- Noviembre: 53 F (12 C) / 39 F (4 C)
Winter in venice
Winters in Venice can be very cold and soggy to the bone, although temperatures rarely drop below freezing in December. January is almost as cold, ranging from 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 C) to 34 degrees F (1 C), not counting the wind chill factor caused by winds blowing from eastern Europe.
From time to time rain and snow are expected, and high waters, a climatic phenomenon that combines rain, strong winds and high tides, can cause flooded streets and squares. When this happens, wooden walkways are built to allow pedestrians to move through the city. Winter ends with the famous Carnevale or Carnival of Venice, the largest festival in the city.
What to pack: Bundle up with a heavy winter coat (if it’s waterproof, even better), a warm hat and gloves, and a thick scarf to protect yourself from the strong winds blowing across the Adriatic. Expect lots of sunny days when a light jacket and sweater may suffice, but experiencing snow is not uncommon. Layering is best, and if you can bring waterproof boots in anticipation of high-frequency periods, so much the better.
Average temperatures per month
- Diciembre: 45 F (7 C) / 33 F (1 C)
- Enero: 44 F (6 C) / 32 F (0 C)
- Febrero: 48 F (9 C) / 33 F (1 C)
For a longer list of events in Venice, month by month, click here.
