Venice, being by the sea, rarely suffers from frost in winter, but summers in the city can be unbearably humid. In spring the weather is often crisp and clear and the temperatures pleasant.
The mountains and sea combine to give Venice and the Veneto higher rainfall than is normal in the rest of Italy. The first half of winter sees heavy rainfall, with flooding most likely in November and December.
The driest months are February and July. Midsummer is the worst time of year to be in Venice – average daytime temperatures hover around 27° C/90° but can go higher. December and January are the coldest months, with average temperatures hovering between 0°C and 7°C/36-45F, and often clear skies.
Because of the city’s position on the lagoon, snow is a rarity.
Acqua Alta, the famous phenomenon that takes place in Venice usually occurs between Nov-Apr. with San Marco Square being the most heavily affected area. The floods usually only last a few hours, but you will most likely want to have a pair of Wellington boots to stay dry. Raised walkways are set up in S. Mark’s Square and other major tourist areas affected so that you can still get around the city.
A series of alarms throughout the city will be heard several hours before the impending floods arrive. These sirens are becoming a common occurrence of the Venetian winter due to global warming.
WHAT TO WEAR?
It i s recommended for all tourists to wear comfortable shoes, suitable attire in particular for entrance to churches, i.e., shoulders and legs covered. No large rucksacks and bags are allowed inside the Basilica.
Since Venice has so many bridges and stone streets, don’t bring your high heels for daily walking, bring your most comfortable shoes and maybe even some bandaids/plasters too! Believe us. Please try not to wear big backpacks in stores.
Many shops are very small and carry breakable items and the shop owners can get annoyed. Remember the Summers are HOT and the Winters are COLD, so keep this also in mind when packing.
