Christmas in Venice: 10 Magical Things to Do During the Holidays

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There’s no season more enchanting than Christmas in Venice. As festive lights shimmer across the canals and centuries-old traditions fill the air, La Serenissima becomes a winter wonderland that blends magic with authenticity.

Whether you're planning a romantic escape or a cultural adventure, here's your top 10 list of things to do in Venice during Christmas, plus insider tips on where to stay for Christmas.

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1. Enjoy a Christmas Concert at Teatro La Fenice

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The legendary Teatro La Fenice hosts a lineup of classical concerts and opera performances throughout December. These events are highly sought-after, so book in advance. For a more intimate atmosphere, consider candlelit concerts in churches like San Vidal or Santa Maria della Pietà.

Tip: Attend the New Year’s Eve concert at La Fenice for an unforgettable musical evening.

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2. Discover Natale di Vetro in Murano

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Murano celebrates its world-famous glass-blowing tradition with Natale di Vetro (Christmas of Glass). Walk through streets adorned with glowing glass sculptures, take part in live demonstrations, and even try your hand at creating your own piece in a glass workshop.

Great for families and creative travelers.

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3. Watch Saint Nicholas Arrive by Gondola

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On December 23rd, Saint Nicholas arrives in Venice by gondola at Campo San Vio. Dressed gondoliers welcome him in true Venetian style. Children are treated to hot chocolate and sweets in this heartwarming local tradition just minutes from Il Palazzo Experimental.

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4. Visit Artisan Christmas Markets

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Venetian Christmas markets are filled with character and craftsmanship. Don't miss:

• Campo Santo Stefano for traditional food and gifts
  
  
• Ca’ Zenobio Palace for upscale artisan products and mask-making workshops
  
  
• Campo San Bortolo and Campo dei Santi Apostoli for local flavors and festive ambiance
  
  

Perfect for picking up Murano glass gifts, panettone, or Burano lace.

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5. Glide Across the Ice at Campo San Polo

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Venice’s largest skating rink is set up in Campo San Polo every December. Surrounded by historic buildings and festive food stalls, it’s a fun break from sightseeing, especially for families or couples.

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6. Countdown to the New Year at St. Mark’s Square

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Spend New Year’s Eve in Venice surrounded by locals in Piazza San Marco, where fireworks reflect across the lagoon. Enjoy a live choir, toast with prosecco, and follow the Italian tradition of eating lentils for good fortune.

Be sure to book your dinner in advance at a top Christmas restaurant in Venice like Ristorante Adriatica inside Il Palazzo Experimental.

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7. Cruise the Grand Canal Under Christmas Lights

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A Christmas gondola ride or small-group boat tour at night offers a magical view of the city’s bridges, palazzi, and churches glowing with festive lights. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Venice during the holidays.

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8. Cheer on the Santa Claus Race

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Each December, hundreds of runners dressed as Babbo Natale (Santa Claus) dash through Venice in a fun and spirited event. Even if you're not running, watching the spectacle — especially as the crowd reaches St. Mark’s Square — is a joyful experience.

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9. Witness the Regata della Befana on January 6

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Celebrate the Epiphany by watching the Regata della Befana, where rowers dressed as the good witch Befana race along the Grand Canal. It's a festive, quirky event you’ll only find in Venice, complete with live music and sweet treats.

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10. Experience Venice Without the Crowds

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One of the best parts of spending Christmas in Venice is the peaceful atmosphere. With fewer tourists, you can:

• Visit the Basilica di San Marco without long lines
  
  
• Stroll through the Doge’s Palace at your own pace
  
  
• Enjoy quiet aperitivos along the Canal della Giudecca
  
  

Pro tip: Stay in Dorsoduro for a more local, authentic vibe.

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Where to Stay for Christmas in Venice: Il Palazzo Experimental

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For those searching where to stay for Christmas in Venice, Il Palazzo Experimental in the tranquil Dorsoduro district offers a perfect blend of refined design, cozy comfort, and a prime location. The boutique hotel features 32 rooms and suites, many with captivating views over the Canal della Giudecca or the hotel’s serene secret garden, creating a peaceful retreat after days spent exploring the city’s festive offerings.

The hotel elevates the holiday experience with seasonal dining at Restaurant Adriatica, where a carefully curated menu highlights local ingredients and festive dishes. The restaurant is open on both Christmas and New Year’s Eve, making it an ideal place to celebrate. After dinner, guests can head to the Experimental Cocktail Club Venice, where signature holiday cocktails crafted with local ingredients are served in a stylish lounge atmosphere.

Winter arrivals are made smooth and memorable thanks to private boat transfers, offering a scenic and comfortable journey straight to the hotel’s own canal-side pontoon. Nestled in a quieter area just minutes from Venice’s iconic sites, Il Palazzo offers proximity to the city’s highlights like St. Mark’s Square and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, without the crowds that typically fill the more tourist-heavy neighborhoods.

Explore rooms & suites at Il Palazzo Experimental.

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Travel Tips for Christmas in Venice

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December in Venice is beautifully festive but cold, with temperatures between 0°C and 8°C. The lagoon’s humidity makes it feel colder, so warm, waterproof clothing is a must. A thick coat, gloves, and a hat will keep you comfortable during your winter strolls.

Footwear should be waterproof and grippy, perfect for wet cobblestones and potential acqua alta. Rain boots are useful if tides rise, though flooding is usually brief.

To make the most of your stay, book your hotel, dining, and event tickets in advance, especially for holiday dates. Vaporetto lines run all season, and guests at Il Palazzo Experimental can also use the hotel’s private boat transfer service for added convenience.

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