If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season, look no further than Venice, Italy. This ancient city, with its winding canals and stunning architecture, is the perfect backdrop for a magical winter adventure. Here’s what you can’t miss during your visit to Venice in December.
Explore the Christmas Markets
Venice is home to several Christmas markets, each with its own unique offerings. The largest market is held in Campo Santo Stefano, where you’ll find everything from handmade crafts to delicious local food. You can also visit the market in Piazza San Giovanni e Paolo, which offers a more traditional selection of gifts and treats. And if you’re looking for something truly special, head to the market in Campo San Polo, which has a charming carousel and a beautiful ice skating rink.
Taste the Local Cuisine
Venice is famous for its seafood, so be sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re in town. One of the most popular dishes is sarde in saor, a delicious combination of fried sardines, onions, and raisins. You can also indulge in fritto misto, a mixed seafood fry, or risotto al nero di seppia, a rich and savory squid ink risotto.
Take a Gondola Ride
No trip to Venice is complete without a ride on one of the city’s iconic gondolas. In December, the canals are especially magical, with festive lights and decorations lining the waterways. You can even book a private gondola ride with a musician on board to serenade you and your loved ones with traditional Venetian songs.
Attend a Concert or Opera
Venice has a rich cultural history, and there’s no better way to experience it than by attending a concert or opera. In December, you can catch performances of classic works like Verdi’s La Traviata and Mozart’s Don Giovanni at the Teatro La Fenice, one of the most renowned opera houses in Italy.
Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection
If you’re a fan of modern art, don’t miss the chance to visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This museum houses an impressive collection of works by artists like Jackson Pollock, Salvador Dali, and Pablo Picasso. In December, you can also enjoy the museum’s holiday decorations and special exhibitions.
See the Basilica di San Marco
The Basilica di San Marco is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice, and it’s especially stunning during the holiday season. The church is decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments, and you can attend special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day masses to experience the true spirit of the season.
No matter what you choose to do during your visit to Venice in December, you’re sure to be enchanted by the city’s beauty and charm. From the Christmas markets to the gondola rides, there’s something for everyone in this magical city.
