Venice is a magical city that has something to offer all year round, but visiting in December is a particularly special experience. The festive atmosphere is in full swing, making this month a great time to explore the city’s treasures. Here are some of the top activities to enjoy during your visit to Venice in December.

Christmas Markets and Shopping

Venice has several Christmas markets that open in December, selling traditional festive items such as nativity scenes, decorations, and food. The most famous market is the one in Campo Santo Stefano, where you can also find live music, street performers, and food stalls. For more upscale shopping, head to the boutiques in the Santa Croce and San Polo neighborhoods. You can find unique gifts and souvenirs to take back home.

Campo Santo Stefano Christmas Market

The Campo Santo Stefano Christmas Market is a must-visit attraction. The market opens in early December and lasts until early January. The market is located in the heart of Venice, and it’s a great place to sample traditional Venetian food and drinks.

Santa Croce and San Polo Shopping Districts

If you’re looking for something more upscale, head to Santa Croce and San Polo. These neighborhoods are home to some of the best shops in Venice. You can find everything from handmade jewelry to high-end fashion.

Attend a Concert or Opera

Venice is renowned for its music scene, and you can enjoy some of the best performances in December. The city’s famous opera house, La Fenice, puts on several shows during the month, including traditional operas and ballets. Many of the churches in the city also hold Christmas concerts, featuring choral music and traditional carols.

La Fenice Opera House

La Fenice is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. The venue holds several performances during December, including Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” ballet.

Church Concerts

Many of the churches in Venice put on Christmas concerts featuring choral music and traditional carols. Some of the best include the Chiesa di San Vidal, the Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto, and the Chiesa di San Giovanni Elemosinario.

Visit the Museums and Galleries

Venice is home to some of the most important museums and galleries in Italy, and many of them are open during December. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which houses modern art from the 20th century, is a must-visit. The Galleria dell’Accademia, which has an impressive collection of Renaissance art, is also worth a visit.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is one of the most important modern art museums in Italy. The museum houses works by famous artists such as Picasso, Dalì, and Pollock.

Galleria dell’Accademia

The Galleria dell’Accademia is a must-visit for art lovers. The gallery has an extensive collection of Renaissance art, including works by Bellini, Titian, and Canaletto.

In conclusion, Venice is a city that offers something for everyone, and December is a great time to visit. From Christmas markets to concerts and museums, there’s plenty to see and do. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Venice is sure to enchant you with its unique charm and beauty.