Venice Weather in December

December weather in Venice

December feels cold, damp and often grey. Expect daytime highs around 9°C and lows near 5°C, with rain on several days. Short daylight hours leave less time for wandering, and evenings feel chilly along the canals.

You can still enjoy indoor sights like the Doge's Palace and the Gallerie dell'Accademia, then warm up over cicchetti, Venice's small bar snacks. A vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal is lovely when the weather turns, too. Long beach days and exposed walks on the Lido are less appealing; save those for warmer months.

Christmas and New Year

Venice marks the Immaculate Conception on 8 December, and Christmas brings church services, lights and seasonal markets. Around Campo Santo Stefano, you may find stalls selling crafts and local treats. New Year's Eve draws people to the waterfront near St Mark's Basin for celebrations and fireworks.

Travelling with kids? Keep indoor stops in mind for rainy afternoons, and leave time for a warm drink near Rialto between walks.

Crowds and practical tips

December is generally quieter and often less costly than the June-to-October high season. The weeks around Christmas and New Year are busier, though, and hotel prices can rise for those dates. If you hate crowds, visit St Mark's Square early in the day and explore Cannaregio later.

High water can affect low walkways, so check local notices before heading out. If the route to St Mark's is flooded, raised walkways may be in place; waterproof boots make crossing easier. For a cosy stop, order a bowl of sarde in saor, sweet-and-sour sardines, at a bacaro in Cannaregio.