
What Should You Pack for Venice?
Venice’s weather can vary depending on the season, so it’s important to pack accordingly. In spring and fall, layering is key—pack sweaters, long sleeves, and a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings. Summers are hot and humid, so breathable fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal, along with comfortable walking shoes for exploring Venice’s winding streets. In winter, you’ll need a warm coat and accessories like scarves and gloves to stay cozy while strolling through Venice’s foggy alleys. And don’t forget comfortable shoes for all the walking!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting St. Mark’s Basilica, exploring the Doge’s Palace, taking a gondola ride through the canals, strolling along the Rialto Bridge, and enjoying local Venetian cuisine.
Dress Code
Venice has a classic and elegant style, so packing smart-casual outfits will help you fit in with the locals. For sightseeing and casual meals, light, comfortable clothing works well, especially in the summer. If you plan to dine at nicer restaurants or visit cultural sites like the opera, consider packing a stylish dress or dress shirt. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as Venice’s streets and bridges can be uneven. Keep in mind that when visiting churches or religious sites, modest attire (like covering shoulders) is expected.
*This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.
Spring
50 – 65°F
(10 – 18°C
)
Summer
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Fall
55 – 70°F
(13 – 21°C
)
Winter
35 – 50°F
(2 – 10°C
)
Spring: Cool, with mild afternoons and occasional rain
Summer: Hot, with high humidity and sunny skies
Fall: Cool, crisp, some rain
Winter: Cold, with fog and occasional rain
Spring
2.5 inches of rain
Summer
3.0 inches of rain
Fall
3.3 inches of rain
Winter
2.1 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for warm summer days exploring Venice—I really liked these for their versatility!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for layering during cooler mornings or when visiting churches.
3. Sweaters: Great for cool mornings in spring and fall while walking along Venice’s canals.
4. Casual Jacket: Perfect for breezy evenings and visiting outdoor cafes.
5. Rain Jacket: Handy for unexpected rain showers, especially in fall.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and perfect for walking tours and visiting museums—I really liked these for the balance of style and practicality!
2. Leggings: Great for layering or casual sightseeing days spent in Venice’s cafes.
3. Shorts: A great option for hot summer days while exploring Venice’s streets.
4. Dresses: Ideal for dining out or visiting Venice’s cultural events like the opera.
5. Skirt: Perfect for stylish outings along Venice’s canals.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for Venice’s cobblestone streets and bridges—this was especially practical because Venice requires a lot of walking!
2. Flats: Great for dressing up while still being practical for walking around Venice’s neighborhoods.
3. Sandals: Perfect for warm summer days spent enjoying Venice’s piazzas.
4. Scarf: A stylish and functional accessory that adds warmth and elegance to your outfit.
5. Sunglasses: A must for sunny days while walking along the canals and bridges.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a short trip to Venice, with enough space for essentials while exploring the city.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying water and snacks while strolling through Venice’s narrow streets or taking a gondola ride.
3. Purse: A stylish yet practical purse for keeping your personal items secure while visiting Venice’s cafes and restaurants.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying extra layers or souvenirs as you explore Venice’s markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: Venice’s spring and fall weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers will help you stay comfortable.
- Comfortable shoes: Venice is a walking city with lots of bridges, so bring shoes that can handle uneven streets.
- Stylish attire: Venice is a sophisticated city, so smart-casual outfits are great for sightseeing or dining out.
- Modest clothing: When visiting churches, it’s respectful to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.

Venice Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VENICE?
May is the best month to visit Venice. May’s also great because the weather is mild, perfect for outdoor sightseeing, and it’s less crowded than peak summer months. You can explore the canals, piazzas, and landmarks with more ease and enjoy the blooming gardens.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN VENICE?
Carnevale di Venezia (February): A famous tourist attraction with elaborate masks, costumes, and parades—great for couples and friends.
Venice Film Festival (September): One of the world’s oldest and most prestigious film festivals, ideal for solo travelers or film enthusiasts.
Festa del Redentore (July): A traditional celebration with fireworks and gondola regattas, perfect for families and couples.
Biennale di Venezia (May-November, odd years): A world-famous art exhibition held every other year, ideal for art lovers and creatives.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN VENICE?
Venice is full of stunning landmarks and hidden gems. Start with St. Mark’s Basilica in Piazza San Marco for a breathtaking view of Venetian architecture. One of my favorite spots is the Doge’s Palace, where you can explore Venice’s rich history. Don’t miss a gondola ride through the canals, a walk across the Rialto Bridge, and visiting the island of Murano for its famous glassmaking. Venice’s charm also lies in its narrow streets and bridges, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT VENICE?
3-4 days is ideal to fully experience Venice’s main attractions, including St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and a gondola ride. A weekend can cover the highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, followed by a walk along the Rialto Bridge. On day two, explore the island of Murano for glassblowing and take a gondola ride through the canals.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for modern art, and stroll through the Dorsoduro district. Spend day four exploring the quieter Cannaregio district and visiting the Jewish Ghetto. On day five, take a boat to Burano Island, known for its colorful houses and lace-making.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, explore the Accademia Gallery and visit the nearby Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. On day seven, relax with a sunset walk along the Zattere promenade, enjoying views of the Giudecca Canal.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the island of Torcello for a peaceful retreat and explore its ancient churches. Spend day nine visiting the Teatro La Fenice for a tour or opera performance. On day ten, take a day trip to Verona or Padua for a mix of culture and history.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, spend time in Venice’s lesser-known neighborhoods like Castello. For days twelve to fourteen, take trips to nearby cities like Vicenza, Treviso, or even the Dolomites for nature and culture.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN VENICE?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 4 Dresses
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR VENICE?
High heels: Venice’s cobblestone streets and bridges make heels impractical.
Heavy winter coat: Venice’s winters are cold, but a medium-weight jacket with layers is usually sufficient.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO VENICE ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on your starting location and the season. Prices are higher in summer and during Carnevale.
Accommodation: $150-$400 per night, especially in San Marco or Dorsoduro during peak seasons.
Transportation: $30-$60 for public transport and water taxis. Venice is walkable, but water taxis can be helpful for getting around.
Meals: $40-$80 per day depending on whether you eat at casual trattorias or upscale restaurants.
Activities: $30-$60 per day depending on whether you visit museums, take gondola rides, or explore nearby islands.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN VENICE? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is appreciated but not expected in Venice. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) at restaurants is common.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VENICE BEFORE I VISIT?
- Stay hydrated: Venice can get warm and walking around can be tiring, so carry a water bottle.
- Avoid tourist traps: Stay away from restaurants with “tourist menus” and look for local trattorias for authentic Venetian cuisine.
- Use public water taxis: Venice is walkable, but the vaporetto (water bus) is an affordable way to get around the islands.
- Visit early: Major attractions like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace can get crowded, so visit early to beat the lines.