Winter In Venice Travel Guide: Things To Do In Venice In Winter

Visiting Venice in winter may seem risky – the frigid winds sweeping off the water, combined with the famous Acqua alta floods, might make you think it’s better to come back in sunnier seasons.

But we found that to be far from the truth. The reality is that with proper preparation and the right mindset, your winter trip to Venice can actually be truly memorable.

So, we have a travel guide here to help you prepare for your Venice getaway and make it as enjoyable as ours. 

We will cover everything you need to know – the weather, good food, how to get around, easy day trips out of the city, and the best things to do in Venice.

So pack your warmest clothes and get ready to fall in love with Venice in the winter!

Weather in Venice During Winter

Venice doesn’t get too harsh in winter, thanks to its nearby Adriatic Sea. But it can be chilly, damp, and sometimes foggy in the winter.

It’s not bone-chilling like in some other European cities, though—nowhere near the levels of Svalbard or Ust-Shchuger.

So, from November to February, you can expect an average temperature of around 9.2°C (48.6°F).

So, packing-wise, think layers, waterproof stuff, wool coats, scarves, thermal underwear, and an umbrella. 

Just remember, the hot chocolate in Venice is practically perfect during this time, and you’ll get bonus points for photos in the fog!

How Long Does the Sun Rise in Venice During Winter?

From November to February, Venice has some pretty cool sunrises that usually start around 7:10 am to 7:45 am.

Then, the sunrise in the winter gets earlier compared to summer, hitting between 4:30 pm to 5:35 pm.

Catching those Venetian winter sunrises and sunsets was really memorable for us. And if you want to make the most of your winter, February is the time to shine.

It rolls in with the longest daylight hours of the season, handing you a solid 10.3 hours of daylight to work with.

That was more than enough time for us to wander, get lost on purpose, and soak up the atmosphere without rushing around. 

Does It Rain In Venice During Winter?

Expect some rain in Venice from November to February. 

But you won’t necessarily deal with rain every single day, just around 5 to 7 days each month.

So, no matter where you go, just keep a prepared mindset and bring along the right rain gear (jackets, boots, hats, and umbrellas) to make sure your time in Venice is a good one, rain or shine.

Does It Snow in Venice?

Snow in Venice is a rare sight, and you can’t really expect it to happen every year.

If you’re keeping an eye out for it, the period from December to February is when you might have a shot.

But even then, it’s not like the snow hangs around for too long.

Winter Temperature in Venice

Winter in Venice isn’t a total deep freeze unless you’re really sensitive to the cold.

Daytime temperatures hang out around 9.2°C (48.6°F), with December being the coldest. Then, nights have an average temperature of around 5.4°C (41.8°F). 

So, when you’re gearing up for a winter visit, layers are your best buddies here. 

Month             Min Temp (°C)       Max Temp (°C)     Average Temp      Precipitation (mm)

November        6.1°C(43°F)          16.1°C(61°F)        12.2°C(54°F)          71.1mm(2.8in) 

December       3.9°C(39°F)           12.2°C(54°F)         7.8°C(46°F)            50.8mm(2in) 

January            5°C(41°F)            11.1°C(52°F)           8.3°C(47°F)          38.1mm(1.5in) 

February         3.9°C(39°F)           12.8°C(55°F)          8.3°C(47°F)          43.2mm(1.7in) 

Best Things To Do In Venice In Winter

Winter in Venice is pretty awesome for exploring – way fewer people and not too chilly. 

From unique landmarks to cozy canals, there are plenty of wonderful sights to see in Venice.

So, for a more enjoyable and memorable visit, here are the best things to do in Venice in winter:

Discover the Iconic Landmarks of Venice

Venice has these famous landmarks scattered everywhere. Winter is actually the best time to hit them up – fewer people, more relaxing. 

So, if you’re planning a visit, these are the spots that you shouldn’t miss:

Gaze up at the Intricate Gothic Facade of Doge’s Palace

Doge’s Palace is a spot you don’t want to miss in Venice. Skip the usual tourist hustle and bustle and head there to check out its killer Gothic facade. 

The detailed carvings, arches, and loggias of the Doge’s Palace left quite an impression on us.

Inside, there are lots of grand artworks that will surely amaze you.

What makes visiting in the winter even better is that it’s quiet, and you can really take in the palace’s details without the usual tourist swarm.

This is a popular tourist spot in Venice, so we greatly advise you to book your tickets ahead of time to save you from any last-minute hiccups.

> Get This Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Ticket

Marvel at the Stunning Spiral Staircase of Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo

The Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo in Venice is a bit of a hidden wonder, especially in the winter. 

This cylindrical brick tower has an external staircase that winds its way up.

We gotta say, even though it was a bit of a trek, the views from the top made it so worth it.

So, come by Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo any day between 9:30 am and 5:30 pm.

> Snag This Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo Entrance Ticket

Step Inside Breathtaking St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica has been standing since the 9th century.

This church is well-known to all tourists, so we greatly suggest you go here early to avoid the crowds. 

Once you’re in, you get to witness over 8,000 square meters of Byzantine mosaics. 

One of the details that really caught our attention was the church’s marble columns, which have a mix of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance vibes.

And don’t rush off without laying eyes on the Pala D’Oro altarpiece. It is Jewel-crusted and has over 2,000 precious stones – indeed a showstopper. 

Good news – no entry fee. But here’s a tip: avail yourself of the skip-the-line tickets to save you time and hassle. 

Also, make sure to pack in the layers and waterproof shoes – Venice can get a bit damp during this time.

> Join the St Mark’s Basilica Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

View the City From the Top of St Mark’s Campanile Bell Tower

If you’re looking for a spot for the ultimate view of Venice, look no further than St Mark’s Campanile Bell Tower. 

This 330-foot brick giant tops our list for getting a stellar view of the city – Venice’s iconic rooftops, domes, and spires. 

No need to worry about tired legs here! An elevator gets you most of the way up, but be ready for a bit of stair-climbing action to reach the open-air balcony. 

Pro tips for your winter visit: Pick a clearer day for better views and go early, as winter days are shorter.

Admire the Church of the Pietà – Vivaldi Church

The Church of the Pietà is a great spot that gives a delightful experience when the city is quieter and has fewer tourist crowds.

One of the striking features of the church is the white marble facade, which really makes it look bright and welcoming.

And if you’re a music lover like us, the church holds some classical concerts that will surely impress you.

We had the chance to catch a performance here, and we can really vouch for the heavenly acoustics of the church.

> Get Your Hands on This Four Seasons Concert Ticket at Vivaldi Church

For practical details during winter visits, the church is open from Tuesday to Sunday, welcoming visitors from 10:30 am to 6 pm. 

And there’s a brief noon break from 1 pm to 2 pm, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.

Immerse Yourself in Captivating Shows

Even if the canals are freezing and the main squares are a bit emptier during winter in Venice, the theater and arts scene keeps going. 

Inside cozy venues, you’ve got theaters and concert halls putting on some awesome shows – think classic opera and orchestral gigs. 

Here are a few spots you might want to hit up:

Watch Breathtaking Performances at Teatro La Fenice

If you’re up for some cultural vibes in Venice, you’ve got to check out the La Fenice Opera House during the chill winter months. 

This place has been around since 1792, and it’s one of Europe’s top-notch opera houses. 

Just a little info: La Fenice Opera House used to be all about opera, but now it hosts everything from classical music to ballet. 

You get to see five-tiered boxes here, all decked out in gold trim and plush red seats (over 1000 seats), that are just so stunning.

And we can really say that they have the top-notch acoustics.

If you want more details about the Opera House, we definitely recommend the audio tour, especially if it’s your first visit.

> Avail of the La Fenice Opera House Entry Ticket with Audio Guide

See Amazing Concerts at San Vidal Church

Winter Music Series at San Vidal Church is a must-see during winter in Venice. It’s just steps away from Piazza San Marco; you can’t really miss it. 

You get to see world-class musicians here, rocking the Baroque and Classical eras in a visually stunning, acoustically splendid Baroque-style church.

The intimate vibe at San Vidal Church lets you get up close and personal with the performers.

Here’s a heads-up for you: arrive a bit early to snag a good seat.

> Witness the Interpreti Veneziani Concert at the Church of San Vidal

Explore Fascinating Museums

If you find yourself strolling through Venice in the winter when the tourist hustle takes a breather, there’s a solid lineup of museums worth checking out. 

They’ve got the details of Venice’s history, art, and culture. So, make sure not to miss them out.

Take in the Renowned Art Collections at Gallerie Dell’Accademia

Gallerie Dell’Accademia is the perfect indoor activity in Venice you won’t want to miss. 

Imagine wandering through a former monastery complex – that’s your setting. 

What we really loved here was exploring all the different halls and chambers.

You can expect here the mesmerizing painting of Titan and the famous Paolo Veneziano’s room.

Also, don’t miss out on the paintings of Tintoretto, Veronese, Bellini, and Carpaccio that are spread throughout the museum’s collection.

It is open every day from Tuesday to Sunday, 8:15 am to 7:15 pm. But note that they close early every Monday at 2 pm.

And make sure to set aside €15 for the museum entrance fee. 

We guarantee that you can easily find the museum as it is located on Calle della Carità, close to the Accademia Vaporetto stop.

And here’s a tip: winter months mean smaller crowds, so you get to appreciate the art without the hustle and bustle. 

Marvel at the Paintings Inside Scuola Grande Di San Rocco

The Scuola Grande di San Rocco has some incredible 16th-century paintings by Tintoretto that tell stories about Christ’s life and St Roch.

We were really in awe of his masterpieces, especially the intense Crucifixion scene – make sure you catch it during your visit.

Now, about getting in – it’s €10 for adults and €8 for ages 65 and up. 

When planning your trip, it’s wise to snag your tickets ahead of time, especially during the busier winter times.

Go on a City Tour

There are lots of ways to get around Venice and hit up the must-see spots.

From hopping on a bus to cruising in a boat, it’s all about what floats your travel boat. 

Here, we’ve got the details on each mode of transportation for you to consider.

Explore the City by Hop on Hop off Boat Tour

If you’re thinking about checking out Venice during winter, we greatly advise you to hop on and off those Boats – it’s the way to go. 

You get to hit up spots like the island of Murano, Punta Sabbioni, the islands of Burano, and many more.

Pre-purchase those tickets to skip the lines; it’s a must. And just make sure to layer up because it gets chilly. 

> Join the Lagoon Islands Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour

Cruise the Grand Canal Through a Gondola Ride

Riding a Gondola along the Grand Canal is one of our favorite activities in Venice. 

You get to experience a serene journey with mist-kissed canals, giving you a more relaxed and less crowded vibe. 

Some of the famous spots that you can see during your Gondola ride are the Gritti Palace, Punta della Dogana, and Salute Church.

Quick tip, though – Book your gondola ride in advance since these tend to sell out fast.

> Get Your Hands on This Grand Canal Gondola Ride With App Commentary

Wander Venice’s Winding Alleys and Bridges on Foot

The city takes on a whole new vibe, especially during winter. And the best way to experience that is by strolling through the streets of Venice.

The must-see spots that you should hit up are the Rialto Bridge and the nearby Rialto Market.

But don’t just stop there; wander off the beaten path a bit and explore places like Campo San Polo and Santa Croce, too – you’ll stumble upon some hidden spots there for sure.

Just a heads up: Venice isn’t always a walk in the park – it can get a bit slippery, so watch your step during your walking tour.

> Experience a Walking Tour in Venice

Indulge in Relaxing Activities

The chilly breeze and quieter streets create a perfect vibe for kicking back and recharging in Venice.

Here are some truly chill and relaxing activities you can do in the winter:

Attend a Mask Crafting Class

Explore the enchanting side of Venice during winter by joining a mask crafting class, an age-old tradition deeply rooted in the city’s history. 

In this workshop, skilled artisans will guide you through the techniques of crafting paper-mâché masks. 

You’ll get hands-on experience with cutting, shaping, and adding the finishing touches with paint and feathers.

We even displayed the beautiful masks we made in our living room – great souvenirs from our memorable trip to Venice.

So, depart with not only a wearable work of art but also a deeper understanding of local culture. 

> Join the Carnival Mask Workshop

Enjoy a Photoshoot Along Piazza San Marco and the Canals

To capture the beauty of Venice, consider a photo shoot with an expert along Piazza San Marco and the canals.

Just so you know, winter is the best time to do this activity – less crowded. 

We even witnessed a sweet engagement photoshoot here, and they nailed it with the best outfits and some seriously stunning shots with the canals in the background.

So, whether you’re into iconic squares or misty canals, Venice in winter has it all. Make sure to enjoy capturing those enchanting corners!

> Have a Photoshoot at Piazza San Marco and the Canals

Soak in the Iconic Views From the Famous Rialto Bridge

When you hit up the Rialto Bridge during winter, you’re in for some amazing views minus the crazy crowds.

And for those Insta-worthy shots, we greatly advise you to visit the bridge in the late afternoon to catch the sunset. 

No doubt, Rialto Bridge is where it’s at for that timeless Venetian charm—you won’t be disappointed.

Explore the Piazza San Marco

Venice’s Piazza San Marco is one of the go-to places for most tourists.

You’ll get to see some famous landmarks here, such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile bell tower.

And if you want to warm up, Historic cafés like Caffè Florian and Grancaffè Quadri have your back.

Keep in mind, though, that Acqua alta floods can happen, so pack waterproof boots for your exploration.

Join the Exciting Winter Activities

Here are some must-do winter activities that will make your visit memorable:

Go Ice Skating in Campo San Polo

If you’re heading to Venice between December and February, swing by Campo San Polo to experience ice skating! 

The rink’s open every day from 11 am to 8 pm, and it’s right in the center of Venice, close to the Rialto Bridge.

Just hop off at the San Silvestro Vaporetto stop, and you’re there. We really had fun gliding here with the stunning backdrop of Gothic houses.

For the practical stuff, it’ll cost you €12 if you’re an adult and a non-resident. Then, €10 for kids under 12.

Pro tip: Hit the rink early in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. And, dress warmly – Venice can get chilly. 

Experience the Festive Atmosphere at the Christmas Markets

To complete your visit to Venice in the winter, you’ve got to hit up the Christmas markets.

You’ve got lots of options – Christmas Markets on Piazza San Marco, Campo Santo Stefano, Campo San Bortolo, and Campo dei Santi Apostoli.

Wooden stalls here are decked out with lots of souvenirs. And if you’re looking for one, look for carnival maska and gondola magnets – they’re unique keepsakes.

As for the foods, we greatly advise you to try their hot chocolate, almond biscuits, and Panettone.

Most markets don’t charge an entrance fee, but it’s better to double-check their websites for a heads-up.

Winter Season In Venice

Even though the nights get longer and the canals get colder, winter still shows how great Venice is with its special events.

So, make sure not to miss the different activities every month during winter in Venice.

Venice in November

November in Venice has a cool vibe, with temperatures hanging around 6.1°C to 16.1°C (43°F to 61°F).

Visiting the city during this month is a savvy move, too. With fewer tourists around, It is an ideal time to experience some of Venice’s top annual events:

Festa della Madonna della Salute

November 21st is when Venetians celebrate the Festa della Madonna della Salute.

This event is their nod to Our Lady of Health for saving them from the plague in 1630.

You can expect parades here from San Marco to Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute.

It was incredible seeing the locals tote flowers, candles, and a whole lot of gratitude – indeed, a moving spectacle of faith and tradition.

La Biennale di Venezia

Whether you’re a certified art buff or just down for soaking in Venice’s creative mojo, the La Biennale di Venezia is a must-see in November.

This event is a famous art scene in Venice. You’ll get to witness lots of avant-garde works by big-shot artists from all corners.

We are definitely not art experts, but we had a blast checking out this event.

Christmas Markets

Starting in late November, Venice has these Christmas markets popping up at Campo San Polo and San Francesco della Vigna. 

It’s like a temporary festive bazaar. You can grab some mulled wine here and check out the crafts and local snacks – definitely a great way to enjoy the season.

Venice in December

Venice in December isn’t too shabby weather-wise – decent for wandering around.

Expect highs to hang around 12.2°C (54°F) and lows hitting about 3.9°C (39°F).

It’s not packed with tourists, and hotels might cut you a deal. Plus, there are a few events you might wanna check out.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

On December 8th, there’s the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. It’s a Catholic activity celebrating the Virgin Mary’s sinless conception. 

The whole city usually shuts down for the day. They also roll out a public mass with music in the mix for the celebration.

New Year’s Eve

We can really say that Venice knows how to have a great New Year’s Eve. 

You’ve got lots of options to celebrate – cruise, masquerade balls, and concerts. Restaurants are also doing special feasts with live tunes. 

But note that when the clock’s about to hit midnight, head over to either St Mark’s Square or the banks of the Grand Canal for some stunning fireworks display.

Venice in January

January in Venice is a quieter scene, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Temperatures usually hang around 8.3°C(47°F), so bundle up. 

It’s not your typical lively scene, but there’s something about Venice in January that’s worth experiencing.

You’ll get to see the La Befana Regatta on January 6th. But, Venice does it differently, though.

They throw a race on the Grand Canal where guys are dressed up as the witch La Befana, rowing their hearts out in boats. It was totally wacky but so much fun.

Venice in February

Venice has pleasant weather in February, hitting around 8.3°C(47°F).

With the summer crowds out of the picture and longer sunlight, it’s a solid time to explore the special events in Venice.

Venice Carnival

The standout event in February is the Carnival. It is a tradition dating back to 1162 that marks the victory of the Venice Republic over its adversary.

St. Mark’s Square is your go-to spot to witness the handcrafted masks and century-old outfits of Venetians.

Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day in Venice is a no-brainer for romance. Restaurants pull out special menus and wine pairings for candlelit dinners.

Cap off the evening at Florian Café in Piazza San Marco, a historic locale, for a sunset view. Our Valentine’s Day couldn’t get any better than spending it in Venice.

What To Eat In Venice In Winter

During the winter in Venice, the food gets heartier and more comforting, showcasing the region’s flavors. 

You’ll find rich seafood dishes, warming soups, and tasty seasonal produce. It’s definitely a great time to dive into Venice’s best culinary delights.

Baccalà Mantecato

Baccalà Mantecato is a creamy, whipped salt cod spread that’s a real Venetian classic. 

It’s a year-round hit, but it’s especially perfect for us in the winter. You can hit up the traditional wine bars in Venice; they’ve got it on the menu.

Bigoli in Salsa

You don’t wanna miss the Bigoli in Salsa during winter in Venice.

It is a thick whole wheat pasta with an onion and anchovy sauce, or salsa, as the locals say.

This dish is our cold-weather champion. The sauce, loaded with umami, really sticks to those hefty noodles. 

Top it off with a bold red wine, and you’ve got yourself a soul-warming combo.

For a top-notch taste, we greatly recommend you visit Osteria Bancogiro at Campo San Giacometto.

Frittelle

When you’re in Venice in the winter, make sure to try these fluffy Frittelle – sweet, yeasted dough fried to perfection and dusted generously with powdered sugar. 

You can try either the creamy zabaione or the one that’s packed with chocolate and raisins.

Seasonal fruit-filled Frittelle with apples or pears are also worth a bite.

Cartoccio di Pesce Fritto

If you’re in the mood for seafood, have a paper cone of Cartoccio di Pesce Fritto.

It is a mix of fried shrimp, sardines, and tiny soft-shell crabs. You can dip these crispy bites into spicy mayo or ketchup for an extra taste. 

It’s definitely the perfect finger food to keep you fueled as you explore the market stalls.

Sarde in Saor

The Sarde in Saor was a perfect starter to our Venetian feast that night – subtly sweet-and-sour sardines served on toast.

This appetizer is fried briefly and marinated with onions, raisins, vinegar, and pine nuts. 

And we won’t deny that we were pleasantly surprised by how good the flavors were.

Panzerotti

Don’t forget the panzerotti – a savory fried pastry stuffed with melty mozzarella and tomatoes.

It was the perfect food for warming us up during those chilly market nights. For quality Panzerotti, make your way to Muro San Stae in Santa Croce.

Getting Around Venice in Winter

Venice is a special city made up of more than 100 small islands connected by canals and bridges. 

Since the city center is a car-free spot, getting around involves using boats or walking through the city’s narrow paths and lovely bridges. 

So, we have here the main ways to travel in Venice during the colder months:

Ride the Vaporetto Water Buses

When you’re in Venice during winter, the Vaporetto water buses are your go-to ride. They’re like the city buses, but on water. 

Just hop on, and they’ll take you all around the islands. Don’t forget to layer up, though, because it can get a bit breezy with the open seating. 

For the tickets, you can grab them at the stops, the Tabacchi shops, or just use the AVM Venezia app.

Take a Water Taxi

If you’re feeling a bit fancy and want your own ride, go for a water taxi.

A bit pricier than the bus boat, but it’s like a private chauffeur on the water – no stops, just straight to where you want to be. 

They run 24/7, so no worries about being stranded. You can arrange it beforehand or just hail one when you see it. 

Keep in mind that the prices can jump at night or when everyone’s clamoring for a ride.

Water Taxi is also used to transfer from the Airport to the Venice city center. So, secure your spot now and skip the queues.

> Marco Polo Airport Water Taxi Transfer

If you prefer a more private ride, go for the option of a private water taxi. Reserve one now for a personalized and comfortable journey.

> Private Water Taxi Transfer to/from Venice

Walk the Streets and Bridges

Walking around Venice is cool, too. The city is all about pedestrian-friendly streets and plazas. 

But, heads up, you’ll be climbing about 400 bridges, so wear comfy shoes. And winter can throw some weather curveballs, though, so bundle up. 

Pedal a Bicycle

For a more local vibe, you can grab a bike. It’s not the most popular move in winter, but some folks still do it. 

Rent one from Venice Bike Rental, and you’re good to go. Remember that streets get crowded, especially on weekends, so pedal with caution.

Day Trips From Venice in Winter

Don’t limit yourself to just Venice – there’s a whole bunch of epic day trips waiting for you.

Day Trip to Murano

One of the smartest moves we made while in Venice was taking a winter trip to Murano. It’s just a quick 20-minute ferry ride, making it an easy spot for a day trip.

Despite the cold, Murano’s got this glass factory that’s worth checking out. We were really impressed by the live demos here.

Also, hit up Museo del Vetro – they’ve got some ancient glass art, even from the Roman and Byzantine eras.

For a relaxing vibe, take a stroll along the canals, check out the bridges, and appreciate the simplicity of the squares – it’s a sweet escape from the chaos in Venice.

Just be smart about the timing – some spots might be on a snooze mode with reduced hours. 

> Boat Trip: Glimpse of Murano, Torcello & Burano Islands

Milan Day Trip

Milan’s our top pick for a day trip from Venice—just a smooth 2.5-hour train ride away, and you’re in the mix.

There are lots of special attractions here, and one of the landmarks that you shouldn’t miss is the Duomo di Milano – that massive cathedral with all the Gothic vibes. 

What we really loved here is the views from the terraces – so stunning. So, make sure to hike up.

Next up, hit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a fancy 19th-century shopping spot with a glass roof that’s Instagram-worthy. 

And if you’re an Art buff like us, swing by the Pinacoteca di Brera for some classic Italian masterpieces. 

To cap off your day, make sure to try Milan’s food – think Risotto Alla Milanese and Panettone.

Quick tip for winter warriors: transport could be on a slim schedule, so plan ahead. 

Day Trip to Florence

If you’re looking to get to Florence quickly, the train is your best bet.

A smooth 2-hour ride, and you’re there. As for the tickets, the starting price is usually around €18. 

Start your day by visiting the impressive Duomo. This massive cathedral has a Renaissance dome that had us genuinely in awe when we saw it up close.

Also, don’t miss the Galleria dell’Accademia; the statue of Michelangelo’s David is a must-see here. 

Florence is indeed a city rich in history, art, and culture, so get out there and explore all it has to offer!

Bologna Day Trip

Consider a relaxing day trip to Bologna when you’re in Venice in the winter. This place is all about medieval vibes and good eats.

Start your day by checking out the Basilica of San Petronio and Palazzo d’Accursio at Piazza Maggiore to get a dose of history. 

Our favorite activity here was strolling through medieval streets like Via Clavature and Via Drapperie – lots of cool shops, and we found the cutest souvenirs for our loved ones.

And if you’re feeling hungry, Tagliatelle al Ragù and Tortellini in Brodo are the go-tos here. You can find them in most of the restaurants in Bologna.

Before calling it a day, swing by the Asinelli Tower. The climb is tough (about 498 steps), though, but the views of Bologna are 100% worth it.

Pro tip: comfy shoes are your best bet here – lots of walking ahead. Also, get to popular spots early to dodge the crowds.

Day Trip to Verona

Verona is also a solid choice for a day trip from Venice. The train ride’s about an hour and a half – not bad. 

Make your first stop at Piazza Bra, home to the famous Arena di Verona. Seeing that huge Roman amphitheater up close was incredible.

Then, make your way to Verona’s center – you can find cool squares and mixed architecture here. 

And, of course, if you’re a fan of Shakespeare like us, don’t skip Juliet’s balcony at Via Cappello. 

Quick heads up on the weather – winter here means rain. So, always keep an eye on the forecast before heading out.

Also, daylight hours are short. Plan your moves smartly so you can hit the must-sees before it gets dark.

Have We Inspired You to Bundle up and Visit Venice This Winter?

Venice may have a chance of rain, but it’s a whole different vibe during winter that you shouldn’t miss.

The city has this unique, calm atmosphere, plus all the cool activities to check out. 

You get to wander around, take in the sights, and catch some local events here.

As for their food, they have some hearty, warm dishes such as Baccalà Mantecato, Bigoli in Salsa, and Cartoccio di Pesce Fritto that will surely impress you.

So, if you’re into the idea of Venice minus the crowds, a bit of rain, and rocking some cozy clothes, winter is the perfect time for a visit.