Venice in December: how to see a city without crowds and in its authentic mood
Venice in December is not a tourist route, but a personal experience of the city.The canals are almost empty, the fog is spreading over the water, and the cafe smells of vin brulé. This is the time when Venice once again becomes a city for residents, not for excursions. If you are looking for an atmosphere, not a photo against the background of the Doge’s Palace, December is perfect.
Why you should choose Venice in December
– Tourist flows are decreasing by 60% compared to autumn.
– Housing prices decrease by 35-45%, especially after December 10.
– In museums and basilicas, you can linger at the masterpieces without crowding.
– Locals are returning to everyday life and are more willing to communicate with guests.
Please note: acqua alta is possible in December, but their frequency is lower than in November.
Forecasts are published on official websites in 48 hours — it’s easy to plan your movements.
What is a must-see in Venice in December
– Mercatino di Natale on Campo Santo Stefano — Christmas shops with crafts and sweets.
– The illuminated Ponte di Rialto in the evening — reflection in the water creates the effect of a double bridge.
– Basilica di San Marco without queue: admission is free until 11:30 and after 16:00.
– Palazzo Ducale — in December, they hold night openings with an audio guide in Russian.
Many galleries are changing exhibitions at this time — for example, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is launching a winter program with an emphasis on Italian modernism.
How to dress and how to get around the city
– Take waterproof shoes: the paving stones are slippery after the rain and during the acqua alta.
– Warm clothes under the jacket — ideal for moving from the street to heated rooms.
– Use a vaporetto, not a taxi: there is almost no queue in December, the fare is € 9.50 for 75 minutes.
– Avoid walking in the Piazza San Marco area in the morning — the water rises there most often.
If you plan to visit museums, buy a Museum Pass online — it gives priority entry and saves up to €25.
Places to stay in Venice in December
– Cannaregio is a quiet neighborhood with an authentic atmosphere and prices 20% lower than in the center.
– Dorsoduro — proximity to museums and university, fewer tourists, more local cafes.
– Castello — quiet streets, views of the lagoon and convenient access to the ferry at the Lido.
Avoid hotels on the ground floor in the center — there is a higher risk of flooding at acqua alta.
To find a place with trusted owners, we recommend using the rental service from Italiatut.
How to avoid the most common mistakes in December
– Do not ignore the acqua alta forecast — at a level above 110 cm, part of the city is inaccessible.
– Do not leave the purchase of souvenirs at the very last moment — the best workshops are closed for the holidays.
– Do not plan dinners in restaurants without reservations — even in December, the tables are occupied in the evening.
If you are traveling to Venice for the first time in winter, study the vaporetto scheme in advance.
Many lines operate on a reduced schedule in December, especially on Christmas days.
For those who want not just to see Venice, but to understand it, the GIDtut team offers guided tours.
If you still have any questions or don’t know where to start, write to us on Telegram.
Our experts will help you choose your accommodation, plan your itinerary and prepare you for a stress-free trip.
