Venice Holidays

Book Flight

WHERE TO GO

City Break Holidays in Venice: Top 5 Things to Do, Best Time to Visit, and Climate

Venice, with its rich history, stunning canals, and grand architecture, offers an unforgettable city break. Here are the top five things to do when visiting this iconic Italian city, plus insights on the ideal time to visit and what to expect from Venice’s climate.

St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)

  • Location: Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square)
  • History and Highlights:
    • Built in the 9th century and completed in the 11th, St. Mark’s Basilica is one of Italy’s most significant examples of Byzantine architecture. Originally constructed to house the remains of St. Mark the Evangelist, the basilica is adorned with magnificent mosaics, intricate domes, and iconic bronze horses, which are believed to have been looted from Constantinople.
  • Must-See Features:
    • The Pala d’Oro, a golden altarpiece encrusted with jewels, and the extensive mosaics depicting religious stories are highlights.

2. The Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)

  • Location: Grand Canal
  • History and Highlights:
    • The Grand Canal, Venice’s main waterway, is a 2-mile stretch of winding canal lined with stunning palaces, reflecting the city’s former wealth and power. The iconic Rialto Bridge, originally built in the 16th century, is the oldest bridge across the canal and is known for its beautiful design and bustling market.
  • Must-Do Experience:
    • Take a scenic gondola ride or a vaporetto (water bus) to see the palaces from the water and cross the Rialto Bridge to explore the vibrant market and shops nearby.

3. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

  • Location: Piazza San Marco
  • History and Highlights:
    • Once the seat of the Venetian government and residence of the Doge, or ruler of Venice, the Doge’s Palace is a Gothic masterpiece completed in the 14th century. The palace showcases impressive art, architecture, and history, including the famous “Bridge of Sighs,” which leads to the prison cells.
  • Must-See Features:
    • The Hall of the Great Council, adorned with Tintoretto’s “Paradise,” is one of the largest paintings in the world. Visitors can also tour the former prison cells and imagine the lives of historical figures like Casanova, who famously escaped.

4. Murano and Burano Islands

  • Location: Venetian Lagoon, accessible by waterbus
  • History and Highlights:
    • Murano is renowned for its glass-making tradition dating back to the 13th century. A visit to this island offers insight into the intricate artistry of Venetian glass with opportunities to tour glass factories and see demonstrations. Nearby Burano is known for its vibrant, colorful houses and lace-making heritage, a tradition passed down for centuries.
  • Must-Do Experience:
    • Explore Murano’s Glass Museum to learn more about the history of glassmaking and visit the charming canals and colorful streets of Burano, perfect for photography.

5. Teatro La Fenice

  • Location: Campo San Fantin
  • History and Highlights:
    • One of the most famous opera houses in the world, Teatro La Fenice (The Phoenix) was originally built in 1792. Despite being destroyed by fire multiple times, it has always been rebuilt and remains a symbol of Venice’s resilience. The theater has hosted the premieres of famous operas by composers like Verdi and Rossini.
  • Must-See Features:
    • Attend a performance if you can, or take a tour of the opulent interior, with its gilded balconies, grand chandeliers, and richly decorated auditorium.

Best Time to Visit Venice

  • Spring (March to May): Ideal for mild weather and fewer crowds. Temperatures range from 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F), making it a pleasant time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Autumn (September to November): Another great season with cooler weather and thinner crowds. Temperatures average between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
  • Summer (June to August): Venice is hot and crowded in summer, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Accommodation prices peak during these months, and canals can sometimes emit an odor due to the heat.
  • Winter (December to February): Venice is often foggy and damp in winter, with temperatures between 0°C and 7°C (32°F to 45°F). However, this is the best time for experiencing the Venice Carnival, an event that draws visitors with its elaborate costumes and masks.

Venice Climate Overview

Venice has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. The city experiences high humidity levels, especially in summer, which can make the heat feel intense. Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable weather for travelers, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

Conclusion

Venice’s historical charm, iconic architecture, and unforgettable canals make it one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations. From exploring St. Mark’s Basilica to a leisurely gondola ride down the Grand Canal, there’s no shortage of experiences that bring Venice’s storied past to life. Visit during the spring or autumn to enjoy comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere in this enchanting city.

Things TO DO in Venice