Venice in December
A Different Side to Venice
There are few cities as romantic and atmospheric as Venice, but seeing “La Serenissima” in December is something truly special. While summer crowds often fill the grand piazzas and gondolas, winter transforms Venice into a quieter, more intimate escape, allowing you to discover her secrets at a gentler pace.
Arriving in Venice in December, I was instantly captivated by the mood. The misty light gave the canals a dreamlike quality, and the peacefulness was a breath of fresh air. With fewer visitors, I felt as though the city was truly mine to discover: no jostling for photos on the Rialto Bridge, no hour-long queues for vaporetto rides, just the gentle sound of water and footsteps echoing through labyrinthine streets.
My favourite thing about Venice is getting lost in her little winding streets. Each twist and turn reveals something delightful: tucked-away shops selling handmade masks and delicate stationery, traditional bakeries with the scent of fresh pastries, and cosy bacari (Venetian wine bars) where the locals linger over cicchetti and a glass of Prosecco. Exploring without an agenda, I found myself stumbling upon artisans at work and tiny family-run trattorias, their windows glowing with warmth and promise. These local eateries serve the kind of soulful food that tastes best after a crisp winter wander think creamy risottos, fresh seafood, and the richest hot chocolate you’ll ever have.
The Magic of Murano and Burano.
No trip to Venice is complete without venturing across the lagoon to its storybook islands. A boat trip to Murano offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the world-famous glassmaking tradition. Watching local artisans deftly turn molten glass into shimmering works of art is mesmerising, each vase or ornament a testament to centuries of talent and creativity.
Then there’s Burano: instantly captivating with its explosion of colour. Every house is painted a different brilliant hue, the scene reflected in the peaceful canals. Burano has its own magic—legendary lacework, quaint craft shops, and photo-perfect corners at every turn. It’s the perfect counterpart to Venice, offering a tranquil, cheerful escape and a slower slice of island life.
What makes December so memorable is having space to pause and savour. There’s a gentle magic about Venice in the cooler months, fewer crowds, a more authentic rhythm, and the joy of seeing this legendary city and its islands through a new lens.