{"id":6009,"date":"2013-12-14T13:32:58","date_gmt":"2013-12-14T13:32:58","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/walks.friday.ie\/?p=6009"},"modified":"2025-11-18T11:21:45","modified_gmt":"2025-11-18T11:21:45","slug":"at-christmas-in-venice","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice","title":{"rendered":"Christmas in Venice: Markets, Midnight Mass &#038; Murano Glass"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Christmas in Venice? Crisp winter weather, uncrowded streets \u2026 and magical atmosphere! With Venice&#8217;s already-gorgeous canals, piazzas and ornate architecture lit up with Christmas decorations, the streets less crowded than in the height of the tourist season, and the locals doing their Christmas shopping, the holidays make for a fantastic time to visit.<\/p>\n<p>Highlights of December and January include shopping for gifts (world-renowned hand-blown glass or lace, anyone?), Midnight Mass at St. Mark&#8217;s and fireworks on New Year&#8217;s Eve!\u00a0Read on for our guide to making the most of Christmas and New Year&#8217;s in Venice.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18136\" style=\"width: 1033px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18136\" class=\"wp-image-18136 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/ad7e58ec-c44e-4417-a90b-c5290e839757.jpg\" alt=\"Venice's Festa del Redentore is celebrated during summer in Venice\" width=\"1023\" height=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/ad7e58ec-c44e-4417-a90b-c5290e839757.jpg 1023w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/ad7e58ec-c44e-4417-a90b-c5290e839757-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1023px) 100vw, 1023px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18136\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The sky over Venice lit up with fireworks. Photo credit: Gianni Torre<\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Holiday_celebrations\" >Holiday celebrations<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Christmas_in_Venice\" >Christmas in Venice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Hannukah_in_Venice\" >Hannukah in Venice<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Christmas_Shopping\" >Christmas Shopping<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Christmas_markets\" >Christmas markets<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Famous_Murano_Glass\" >Famous Murano Glass<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Opening_hours_in_Venice_over_Christmas\" >Opening hours in Venice over Christmas<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Visiting_museums\" >Visiting museums<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Shops_restaurants_and_public_transport\" >Shops, restaurants and public transport<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Celebrating_Christmas_like_the_Venetians\" >Celebrating Christmas like the Venetians<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Ringing_in_the_New_Year_in_Venice\" >Ringing in the New Year in Venice<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Swimming_in_the_Lido_a_Venetian_New_Years_tradition\" >Swimming in the Lido: a Venetian New Year&#8217;s tradition<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Heading_for_the_mountains\" >Heading for the mountains<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#FAQ%C2%B4s_%E2%80%93_Christmas_in_Venice\" >FAQ\u00b4s &#8211; Christmas in Venice<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#What_is_the_weather_like_in_Venice_at_Christmas\" >What is the weather like in Venice at Christmas?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#Is_Venice_more_expensive_during_the_Christmas_holidays\" >Is Venice more expensive during the Christmas holidays?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/things-to-do\/at-christmas-in-venice\/#How_easy_is_it_to_get_around_Venice_in_December\" >How easy is it to get around Venice in December?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Holiday_celebrations\"><\/span>Holiday celebrations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Christmas_in_Venice\"><\/span>Christmas in Venice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The magical city gets well, even more magical during the Christmas holidays! You&#8217;ll find lights and gorgeous decorations\u00a0all over Venice, even on the gondolas. (Here&#8217;s more about <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=2&amp;ved=0CDoQFjAB&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwalks-old%2Fblog%2Ftravel-tips%2Fvenice-gondola-tradition-tips-advice-italy&amp;ei=OkysUsOmLKWFyQPk8YDgDg&amp;usg=AFQjCNFLZDkJKNHofo9S0jh4qSTKMDMyMw&amp;sig2=JjPckWi4DbQ8WPpltqlq8w&amp;bvm=bv.57967247,d.bGQ&amp;cad=rja\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">taking gondolas in Venice<\/a>!). Festive songs are sung at special concerts in churches and piazzas throughout December, and church bells are rung all day on Christmas Day from the famous bell tower at St. Mark&#8217;s.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hannukah_in_Venice\"><\/span>Hannukah in Venice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Hanukkah is also celebrated by Venice&#8217;s large Jewish community with beautiful decorations like large, illuminated menorahs\u2014especially in the <em>sestiere\u00a0<\/em>of\u00a0Cannaregio, historic home to Venice&#8217;s Jewish Ghetto. (Find out <a href=\"http:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/blog\/venice\/where-to-stay-in-venice-sestieri\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">more about the\u00a0<em>sestieri,\u00a0<\/em>or neighborhoods, of Venice!).<\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Christmas_Shopping\"><\/span>Christmas Shopping<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_13688\" style=\"width: 1610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13688\" class=\"wp-image-13688 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/christmas-decorations-on-trentino-alto-adige-PLTJPX7.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/christmas-decorations-on-trentino-alto-adige-PLTJPX7.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/christmas-decorations-on-trentino-alto-adige-PLTJPX7-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/christmas-decorations-on-trentino-alto-adige-PLTJPX7-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13688\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Colorful Christmas decorations can be found in the Italian Christmas market<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Christmas_markets\"><\/span>Christmas markets<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Venice is a wonderful city for Christmas shopping, thanks to its unique handmade gifts like glass ornaments and lace decorations. We especially love Campo San Polo&#8217;s small Christmas market, with its stands of local treasures and ice skating rink!<\/p>\n<p>With Carnival right around the corner, you&#8217;ll also find lots of decorative masks at the market (and, of course, in the shops). (Don&#8217;t miss our <a href=\"http:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/blog\/venice\/all-about-carnival-in-venice-venetian-masks-and-more\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">guide to Carnival and where to buy Venetian masks<\/a>!).<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_22102\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22102\" class=\"wp-image-22102 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Devour_Venice_Sunset-Food-Tour_0067.jpg\" alt=\"A large Venetian mask in the form of a smiling sun hanging from ceiling.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Devour_Venice_Sunset-Food-Tour_0067.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Devour_Venice_Sunset-Food-Tour_0067-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-22102\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Venetian masks for Carnival can be found across the city in shops and markets.<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Famous_Murano_Glass\"><\/span>Famous Murano Glass<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>For a truly unforgettable shopping experience, we recommend a <a href=\"https:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/venice-tours\/murano-burano-tour\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">day trip to the nearby island of Murano<\/a> for the\u00a0<em>Natale di Vetro <\/em>(Christmas of Glass) celebration, with lots of great glass gift options.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_950\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-950\" class=\"wp-image-950 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/07\/Glass-blower-forming-a-piece-of-decorative-glass.-Murano-Italy-.jpg\" alt=\"Famous Murano Glass, Venice\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/07\/Glass-blower-forming-a-piece-of-decorative-glass.-Murano-Italy-.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/07\/Glass-blower-forming-a-piece-of-decorative-glass.-Murano-Italy--768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-950\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Treat yourself, or a loved one to a piece of world famous Murano Glass.<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Opening_hours_in_Venice_over_Christmas\"><\/span>Opening hours in Venice over Christmas<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Visiting_museums\"><\/span>Visiting museums<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you&#8217;re an art-lover and heading to Venice over the holidays, you&#8217;re in luck: It&#8217;s the perfect time to enjoy centuries-old churches and masterpieces without the large crowds. However, keep in mind that the city&#8217;s churches are closed to visitors on Christmas Day and open only around the Mass schedule.<\/p>\n<p>Venice Museums are closed on the following days:<br \/>\n<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/florence-tours\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> Doge&#8217;s Palace<\/a><\/strong>: The Gothic palace of the former Venetian leading family is closed on December 25th and\u00a0January 1st.<br \/>\n<strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.gallerieaccademia.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> Galleria dell&#8217;Accademia<\/a>:<\/strong> Home to\u00a0pre-19-century art and Da Vinci&#8217;s &#8220;Vitruvian Man&#8221; (which is occasionally on display), the gallery is closed on Dec. 25 and\u00a0Jan. 1.<br \/>\n<strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.guggenheim-venice.it\/inglese\/default.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> Peggy Guggenheim Collection<\/a>:<\/strong> \u00a0The 20th-century art collection is closed on Dec. 25, but it&#8217;s one of Venice&#8217;s only museums open on New Year&#8217;s Day.<br \/>\n<strong><a href=\"http:\/\/carezzonico.visitmuve.it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Ca&#8217;Rezzonico<\/a>:<\/strong> The 18th-century Venetian art museum is closed on\u00a0Dec. 25 and\u00a0Jan. 1.<br \/>\n<strong><a href=\"http:\/\/correr.visitmuve.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> Museo Correr<\/a>:<\/strong> Venice&#8217;s art and history museum is closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_18055\" style=\"width: 1610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18055\" class=\"wp-image-18055 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/120-Venice_Alone-in-St-Marks-and-Doges-16x9-0015.jpg\" alt=\"Alone in St Marks and Doges tour with walks of italy\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/120-Venice_Alone-in-St-Marks-and-Doges-16x9-0015.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/120-Venice_Alone-in-St-Marks-and-Doges-16x9-0015-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/120-Venice_Alone-in-St-Marks-and-Doges-16x9-0015-1536x864.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18055\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Enjoy the sights in a more tranquil way on the &#8220;Alone in St Marks and Doges Tour&#8221; with Walks of Italy<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Shops_restaurants_and_public_transport\"><\/span>Shops, restaurants and public transport<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Most stores and restaurants are closed on Christmas Day so locals can celebrate with loved ones over a large lunch.\u00a0Still, there are a few great options for a traditional meal like\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.osterialletestiere.it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Alle Testiere<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.cortescontavenezia.it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Corte Sconta<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.osterianicestellato.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Anice Stellato<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Restaurant_Review-g187870-d716282-Reviews-La_Furatola-Venice_Veneto.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Trattoria La Furatola<\/a>. (Just remember to book as soon as possible!). The same will be the case for New Year&#8217;s Day.<\/p>\n<p>The<em>\u00a0vaporetto<\/em>\u00a0(water bus) schedule runs on a limited schedule over the holiday season, so be sure to check the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.actv.it\/en\/movinginvenice\/waterbusservicetimetable\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">timetable<\/a> before planning your trip around the city. Private water taxis can be rented, but will be even more expensive on Christmas than other days.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_22110\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22110\" class=\"wp-image-22110 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Devour_Venice_Sunset-Food-Tour_0102.jpg\" alt=\"A long canal with buildings on other side and a bridge spanning over the water.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Devour_Venice_Sunset-Food-Tour_0102.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Devour_Venice_Sunset-Food-Tour_0102-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-22110\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The canals are beautiful in the winter too!<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Celebrating_Christmas_like_the_Venetians\"><\/span>Celebrating Christmas like the Venetians<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Venetians celebrate <em>la\u00a0vigilia,\u00a0<\/em>Christmas Eve, with a multi-course fish dinner. Many follow the meal with a midnight Mass at Saint Mark&#8217;s Basilica with services in Italian, English, French and German. Midnight Mass technically starts at 11:30pm, and we suggest getting there a few hours early to reserve a seat!<\/p>\n<p>Christmas Day is usually celebrated with a large lunch with family and opening presents. (Don&#8217;t miss our post on <a href=\"http:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/blog\/how-to\/christmas-food-traditions-in-italy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">how to eat like an Italian over Christmas<\/a>!). After the Christmas celebrations are over, Italians also celebrate Santo Stefano, December 26, with a national holiday. We recommend following the Venetians to the free concert at the Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari church at 4pm\u2014the perfect way to enjoy the choir and historic church.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_2130\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-2130\" class=\"wp-image-2130 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Santa-Maria-Gloriosa-dei-Frari-Venice.jpg\" alt=\"In the district of San Polo in Venezia\" width=\"1000\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Santa-Maria-Gloriosa-dei-Frari-Venice.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Santa-Maria-Gloriosa-dei-Frari-Venice-768x521.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-2130\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Beautiful Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, located in the sestiere of San Polo<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ringing_in_the_New_Year_in_Venice\"><\/span>Ringing in the New Year in Venice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>New Year&#8217;s Eve in Venice usually starts with an elegant meal that ends just in time to catch the fireworks at midnight! Reservations for dinner should be made well in advance; some of our favorite spots open on New Year&#8217;s Eve include\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.danielihotelvenice.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Terrazza Danieli<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.abeccafico.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A Beccafico <\/a>and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.laportadacqua.it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">La Porta D&#8217;Acqua<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>St. Mark&#8217;s Square gets lively once the sun goes down, with a masquerade-themed party complete with live DJs and performances, and colorful fireworks at midnight. The piazza is packed with people, so head to Piazza Ferretto de Mestre or Punta della Dogana for a less crowded celebration.<\/p>\n<p>Or, if you&#8217;re looking for a unique way to ring in the new year, head to the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.teatrolafenice.it\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">La Fenice Theatre<\/a> for an elegant opera the evening of the 31st.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_5532\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5532\" class=\"wp-image-5532 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Detail-of-facade-of-Saint-Marks-cathedral-in-Venice-Italy-with-Holiday-fireworks-exploding-in-the-background..jpg\" alt=\"Detail-of-facade-of-Saint-Marks-cathedral-in-Venice-Italy-with-Holiday-fireworks-exploding-in-the-background\" width=\"1000\" height=\"665\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Detail-of-facade-of-Saint-Marks-cathedral-in-Venice-Italy-with-Holiday-fireworks-exploding-in-the-background..jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Detail-of-facade-of-Saint-Marks-cathedral-in-Venice-Italy-with-Holiday-fireworks-exploding-in-the-background.-768x511.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-5532\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The facade of Saint Marks Cathedral is even more special when it is lit up by fireworks!<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Swimming_in_the_Lido_a_Venetian_New_Years_tradition\"><\/span>Swimming in the Lido: a Venetian New Year&#8217;s tradition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>As per tradition, brave swimmers head to the Lido for a winter swim, starting the year off with a burst of energy!<\/p>\n<p>Another unique tradition? On Jan. 6, Venetians celebrate\u00a0<em>la befana\u00a0<\/em>by dressing up as the beloved &#8220;good witch&#8221; and competing in a rowing race on the Grand Canal. (Don&#8217;t miss our post on\u00a0<em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/food-and-wine\/italian-christmas-legends-folklore\">la befana<\/a>\u00a0<\/em>and who she really is!).<br \/>\n<del><\/del><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_21696\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-21696\" class=\"wp-image-21696 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/who-is-la-befana.jpg\" alt=\"A woman dressed up as the Italian witch called La Befana.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/who-is-la-befana.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/who-is-la-befana-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-21696\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Learn more about the fabled Italian witch, La Befana, who brings gifts at Christmas<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Heading_for_the_mountains\"><\/span>Heading for the mountains<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Want to take a short break from the holidays in the city and enjoy the picturesque mountains? The picturesque Dolomites are nearby, perfect for a day or weekend ski trip! We recommend renting a car to reach the mountains as shuttles may run on limited holiday schedule.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_1841\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1841\" class=\"wp-image-1841 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/sunrise-over-Presanella-in-the-National-Park-Adamello-Brenta-Italian-Alps-.jpg\" alt=\"The Dolomites are beautiful\" width=\"1000\" height=\"630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/sunrise-over-Presanella-in-the-National-Park-Adamello-Brenta-Italian-Alps-.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/sunrise-over-Presanella-in-the-National-Park-Adamello-Brenta-Italian-Alps--768x484.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-1841\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Dolomites are simply a beauty to behold<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ%C2%B4s_%E2%80%93_Christmas_in_Venice\"><\/span>FAQ\u00b4s &#8211; Christmas in Venice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_weather_like_in_Venice_at_Christmas\"><\/span>What is the weather like in Venice at Christmas?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Winter in Venice is crisp, damp, and chilly. December temperatures typically range from 0\u00b0C to 8\u00b0C (32\u00b0F to 46\u00b0F), and foggy mornings are common \u2014 adding a moody, atmospheric touch to the canals. While heavy snow in the city is rare, pack warm layers, waterproof shoes, and a coat that can handle cool winds off the lagoon.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Venice_more_expensive_during_the_Christmas_holidays\"><\/span>Is Venice more expensive during the Christmas holidays?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Prices in Venice do rise slightly during Christmas and New Year, especially for hotels near major sights like St. Mark\u2019s. However, the city is still less expensive than during peak summer season. Booking accommodation and any special holiday dinners well in advance will help you avoid inflated last-minute prices. Budget-conscious travellers can find good deals in quieter neighborhoods like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_easy_is_it_to_get_around_Venice_in_December\"><\/span>How easy is it to get around Venice in December?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Public transport runs reliably but on a reduced holiday schedule, especially on December 25 and January 1. Vaporettos (water buses) still operate, but wait times may be longer. Walking is often the quickest option since Venice\u2019s main attractions are close together. Just be mindful that some bridges and alleyways can get slippery in cold, damp weather \u2014 comfortable shoes with grip are essential.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_6013\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/Illuminated-Rialto-Bridge.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6013\" class=\" wp-image-6013 size-full\" title=\"Christmas in Venice\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/Illuminated-Rialto-Bridge.jpg\" alt=\"Venice at Christmas\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/Illuminated-Rialto-Bridge.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/Illuminated-Rialto-Bridge-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6013\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Rialto Bridge, lit up for Christmas in Venice<\/p><\/div>\n<p>If you\u2019re spending the holidays in Venice, make your trip even more memorable by joining one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/venice-tours\/?datepicked=true&amp;calendarStartDate=2025%2F12%2F25&amp;startDate=2025%2F12%2F25&amp;endDate=2026%2F01%2F03&amp;curRange=0&amp;calendarEndDate=2026%2F1%2F3\"><strong>unforgettable tours available over the festive season<\/strong><\/a>. From quiet canals to iconic landmarks dressed in twinkling lights, <strong data-start=\"222\" data-end=\"240\">Walks of Italy<\/strong> offers expert-led experiences that bring the city\u2019s history, art, and magic to life.\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/venice-tours\/\">Check out the Venice Tours <\/a><\/strong>available at Christmas by adding your travel dates and treat yourself to a truly special Venetian holiday adventure.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Christmas in Venice? Crisp winter weather, uncrowded streets \u2026 and magical atmosphere! With Venice&#8217;s already-gorgeous canals, piazzas and ornate architecture lit up with Christmas decorations, the streets less crowded than in the height of the tourist season, and the locals doing their Christmas shopping, the holidays make for a fantastic time to visit. Highlights of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":28,"featured_media":5532,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[88,70,136,82],"ppma_author":[160],"class_list":["post-6009","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-things-to-do","tag-christmas","tag-traditions","tag-venice","tag-winter"],"authors":[{"term_id":160,"user_id":28,"is_guest":0,"slug":"walksofitaly-2","display_name":"Elena Ciprietti","avatar_url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9faa64906a691c0581a37e3599ce455d?s=96&d=mm&r=g","user_url":"","last_name":"","first_name":"Elena Ciprietti","job_title":"","description":""}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6009"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/28"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6009"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6009\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":24326,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6009\/revisions\/24326"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5532"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6009"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6009"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6009"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=6009"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}