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Venice Weather in December

Venice in December

December brings Christmas enchantment to Venice — holiday markets, illuminated canals, mulled wine and Carnival preparations beginning. Cold but magical.

Christmas in Venice Holiday markets and illuminations.
Cold winter Near freezing possible.
Carnival previews Early mask shopping.
Holiday pricing Rises around Christmas/NYE.
Quick answer

Is December a good time to visit Venice?

Magical for Christmas atmosphere. Ice skating in Campo San Polo, holiday markets and winter light on the lagoon. Cold but unforgettable.

Average daytime high 7°C Cold winter days

Cold and damp.

Sea temperature 12°C Cold Adriatic

Too cold for swimming.

Rainy days 7 rainy days

Rain possible; occasional fog.

Weather data

Venice weather averages in December

Use these December numbers as a practical guide, not a guarantee. Coastal areas, downtown and inland areas can differ on the same day.

Weather metric Typical December value What it means
Daytime temp~7°CCold.
Nighttime temp~1°CNear freezing.
Sea temperature~12°CCold.
RainfallmoderateRain and fog.
Daylight~8.5 hoursShortest days.
What December actually feels like

What December actually feels like

December in Venice is best understood through four moments of the day — morning, midday, beach time and evening.

Morning Cold, misty

Atmospheric.

Midday Cold

Christmas markets.

Afternoon Cold, festive

Hot chocolate.

Evening Very cold

Candlelit dining.

See packing checklist ↓

Where to stay

Best areas to stay in Venice in December

The best December base depends on what matters most to you — beach access, snorkeling, nightlife, culture or budget.

San Marco

St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs.

Best for landmarks

Dorsoduro

Accademia and Guggenheim galleries.

Best for art

Cannaregio

Local Venetian life, Jewish Ghetto.

Best for local atmosphere

Rialto / San Polo

Rialto Bridge, fish market and cicchetti bars.

Best for food & markets

Giudecca

Island views of San Marco. Quieter.

Best for views & value

Murano / Burano

Glass workshops and colorful houses — day trips.

Best for day trips
Packing

What to pack for Venice in December

Packing for December should match the reality: daytime heat, humidity levels, beach conditions and any rain risk.

  • Warm waterproof coat
  • Layers
  • Waterproof boots
  • Scarf and gloves
  • Umbrella
  • Warm socks
  • Smart evening outfit
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Camera
  • Museum pass
Hotel picks

Best hotel types in Venice in December

In December the type of hotel matters — it shapes your daily comfort, flexibility and overall experience.

🏛️

Palazzo hotels

Historic palazzo at winter prices.

View palazzo hotels →
🎨

Art hotels

Walk to galleries.

View art hotels →
💰

Budget-friendly

Low-season rates.

View budget options →
🏢

Modern hotels

Reliable comfort.

View modern hotels →
💑

Romantic hotels

Winter romance.

View romantic hotels →
🍽️

Hotels with restaurants

Cozy dining.

View dining hotels →
Compare months

December compared with nearby months

This helps visitors decide whether to travel now or shift their dates slightly.

November
Day11°C
Sea15°C
🌧8
January
Day6°C
Sea10°C
🌧7

View all 12 months →

Ready to pick where to stay in December?

Start with hotels matched to December conditions — filtered by type, area and traveler reviews.

Compare Venice hotels on Booking
FAQ

Venice Weather in December: common questions

Is December good?

Magical for Christmas atmosphere and winter Venice.

Is it very cold?

Around 7°C — full winter gear needed. Fog adds atmosphere.

What about New Year's Eve?

Celebrations in St. Mark's Square with fireworks over the lagoon.

Data based on ARPAV and ISPRA climate normals, local weather stations and editorial review.

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