Venice in March: weather and travel tips

Planning to visit Venice in March? You’re in the right place. Alongside running through what to expect of the weather in Venice in March, and how big the crowds might be, here we also share other useful tips for visiting Italy. They might just inspire you to take an early spring break that's big on culture, romance and fabulous food, without the big crowds that head to the city later in the year.

Is March a good time to visit Venice?

If you’re in the market for a magical spring trip, March city break in Venice is a good choice. Though you’ll definitely still need a coat, March means less bitter weather than you’ll experience during the first months of the year.

The Carnival season might still have some lingering festivities, adding a touch of vibrancy to the city's atmosphere. As spring blossoms, the charm of Venice's canals and architecture takes on a new appeal, making March a promising time to explore this iconic Italian destination.

Early spring is also a good time to visit Venice if you want to avoid the huge crowds the city attracts to its stunning shores through the heady summer months. But note that even though March sits outside the city’s super-peak, super-expensive season, you’d be wise to book accommodation well in advance. With that in mind, read up on where to stay in Venice, and make that booking as far ahead as you can.

Thinking of visiting Venice in March? Browse our inspirational Italy itineraries to start planning your perfect trip.  

The weather in Venice in March

In March, Venice begins to transition from winter to spring. While there might still be a chill in the air, you can expect milder days and longer daylight hours.

Rainfall is common, so having waterproof clothing and an umbrella is advisable. Despite the possibility of rain, March in Venice offers a quieter and more intimate experience compared to the peak tourist months.

Still not quite sure when you want to go? Reas about weather in Venice in February and Venice in April.

Air and sea temperatures in Venice in March 

When it comes to the average temperature, it is about 12°C . Note that this drops to an average of 4°C at night.

As for the sea temperature, the average high in March is just 11°C. For context, this compares with an average of 13.3°C in April, and a rise to 25.3°C in July. So, if you visit Venice in March, don’t expect to be able to enjoy a comfortable dip!

For more info, read up on the weather in Italy in March and when to go to Italy.

Is it warm in Venice in March? 

From our run-down of the city’s average temperatures, you’ll have spotted that the weather in Venice in March isn’t exactly warm and balmy. While the peak bitterness of winter has passed, expect moody mists and clouds. So, you’ll need to wrap up warm if you’re planning to spend a lot of time outdoors.

Note also that you’re likely to experience some rain. Just bring a brolly and raincoat, and you’re set to explore the city — all the more rewarding when there’s fewer crowds and smaller queues.

Fancy treating yourself to a trip in March? Discover more of the best places to visit in March. 

What about the crowds and costs?

One of the reasons March is a good month to visit Venice is the relative lack of crowds. While we can’t ignore that fact that Venice lures travellers around the year, it is true to say that March is noticeably quieter on the visitor front.

This is all the better for visiting the city’s top galleries and museums, among them the Museo Leonardo da Vinci, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. It’ll also make seeing St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace more pleasurable.

In good news if you’re travelling on a budget, March also means lower costs than you’ll be forced to fork around the city’s February carnival, and through the peak summer months.

Unforgettable, fully customisable Venice itineraries   

Longing to take trip that'll put a spring in your step in March? Look no further than our tailor-made Italy itineraries, some of which shine a sparkling light on Venice.

As with all Rough Guides’ trips, these can be tailored to suit your preferences, with a local Italy travel expert on hand to offer insider tips, and take the hassle out of planning.

• Romantic Venice: want a cockle-warming weekend break? Including a grand gondola ride and immersive walking tour, our Romantic Venice trip is the ideal way to soak up Venice’s magical ambience.
• Treasures of Italy: this immersive three-city trip covers Venice, Florence and Rome and unveils some of Italy’s top attractions in around a week.
• Grand Tour of Northern Italy: covering Venice, Milan, and Florence, our Grand Tour of Northern Italy itinerary offer travellers a culture-rich, two-week experience. Of course, it can be tailored to include as many days as you like.

What to do in Venice in March

Given everything we’ve said about March meaning fewer crowds, this is an ideal month to really discover the galleries, museums and attractions that draw the biggest numbers.

While we still suggest pre-booking skip-the-line tickets for the likes of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, you can truly take advantage of having more space. With that in mind, read on to discover more recommended things to do in Venice in March.

Take a walking tour

March is a top time to take a guided walking tour of the city. First up, you won’t struggle to book your preferred route and theme. Secondly, your tour is less likely to be over-subscribed — all the better for making the most of your guide’s knowledge.

You could opt for a food-themed tour, or an experience focussed on art or history. Either way, it’s likely to be more pleasurable than trying to navigate the city’s streets (and hear your guide) in the peak summer.

Visit Venice’s islands

While Venice’s awe-inspiring islands won’t be bathed in the dazzling sun of later months, March is a pretty great time to visit them. Take your pick from San Michele, Murano, Burano and Torcello. Better still, if you have time, take an island-hopping excursion.

Enjoy Easter 

When Easter falls in March you’ll get to witness city-wide (mostly religious) events from Maundy Thursday. Come Friday, you’ll see processions through the streets.

Feeling inspired to visit Venice? Get yourself a copy of The Rough Guide to Venice and the Veneto to start planning your dream trip. Alternatively, if the idea of planning and booking leaves you cold, browse our customisable Italy itineraries.