What to do in october in Venice

Venice is a city of magic. Its canals, bridges and ancient palazzos are timeless. Millions of visitors come every year. But if you really want to see Venice at its best, October in Venice is the time.

The crowds disappear, the air cools and the city shows its more intimate face. Whether you’re looking for the popular spots or the hidden gems, this is what to do in October in Venice.

Why October is the best time to visit Venice

Before we get to the where to go and what to do, let’s start with why October in Venice is so good.

The summer crowds that turn St. Mark’s Square into a sea of tourists are gone. Instead you’ll find Venice much more laid back and peaceful. The cooler weather means you can walk the narrow streets, visit museums or sit at a café without breaking a sweat. The autumn light paints the city in warm colours, it’s a photographer’s dream.

And then there’s the mist. In the mornings of October Venice is often shrouded in fog. It’s a side of Venice that few get to see and it’s magical.

So what to do in October in Venice? The answer is: everything. From the iconic to the off the beaten path, October is the month to get into the heart of Venetian culture, art, food and history.

1. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica in peace

You can’t visit Venice without seeing the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica and visiting in October allows you to really see this masterpiece without the summer crowds. One of the most iconic buildings in Italy, the basilica is a work of art. With shorter queues in October you can spend more time admiring its beauty.

Inside the shimmering mosaics will take your breath away, especially when the soft autumn light filters through the windows. If you’re lucky you might catch a quiet misty morning where the basilica seems to be floating on a cloud, adding to its magic.

If you like history consider taking a guided tour. You’ll learn about the Byzantine influences, the stories behind the construction and even the hidden treasures. Visiting St. Mark’s Basilica in October is not just a sight to see but an experience that will stay with you.

2. Get lost in the hidden alleys of Dorsoduro

While many visitors flock to Venice’s main attractions, one of the best ways to see the real Venice is to get lost in its lesser known neighbourhoods. Dorsoduro is one of those areas that has artistic flair and local life.

In October the area has a different atmosphere: quieter, more contemplative and romantic. The sun filters through the water as it flows past the many galleries and small bridges that make Dorsoduro special.

Be sure to visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia, which has an incredible collection of Venetian art. October in Venice is the perfect time to spend an afternoon in the museum’s vast halls. With fewer tourists around you’ll have more space to enjoy works by Titian, Tintoretto and Veronese at your own pace.

If you want something off the beaten path Squero di San Trovaso, one of the oldest gondola workshops in Venice is a secret gem. Still a working boatyard it feels like stepping back in time. You can often see craftsmen working on gondolas, a fascinating insight into one of Venice’s most iconic traditions.

3. Get into the food scene with fall flavours

One of the best things about Venice in October is the chance to taste the seasonal Venetian food. The fall harvest brings fresh local produce to the markets and restaurants.

Go to Mercato di Rialto, the market near the Rialto Bridge and get lost in the autumn colours. Squash, wild mushrooms, fresh fish and chestnuts are just a few of the seasonal delights you’ll find. A great place for foodies to discover local specialties.

In the evening visit a traditional bacaro (a local wine bar) and experience the real Venetian aperitif culture. Order a glass of Prosecco or Spritz and try some cicchetti, small tapas-style snacks that include seasonal bites like fried pumpkin flowers, anchovies and polenta with wild mushrooms.

One restaurant to try in October is Osteria, famous for its seafood. In October you’ll be able to try special seasonal dishes like baccalà mantecato (a creamy whipped salt cod) and grilled sardines with autumn vegetables. For dessert don’t miss the chance to try the castagnaccio, the traditional chestnut cake that’s only available in autumn.

4. Get lost in the quiet of Burano and Torcello

If you’re wondering what to do in October in Venice and looking for a day trip to get out of the city head to the colourful island of Burano. Famous for its brightly painted houses and lace making Burano in October is peaceful. The colours of the buildings stand out against the softer autumn light making it the perfect time for photography.

October also brings tranquility to the island which is otherwise swarmed with day trippers in the summer. You can take your time to stroll along the canals, watch the lace makers at work or sit at a small café by the water and enjoy the quiet.

While you’re in the area visit the nearby island of Torcello. Often overlooked by tourists Torcello is one of the oldest inhabited islands in the Venetian lagoon and gives a glimpse into the city’s ancient past. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its Byzantine mosaics is particularly beautiful in the autumn light.

5. Venetian art and culture in october

October is the start of the quieter cultural season but there’s still plenty to do for art and history lovers. Venice has always been an artists’ city and its galleries and museums are open all year round.

For a special experience visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Situated on the Grand Canal in a beautiful palazzo this museum has one of the most important modern art collections in Europe. In October the museum hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection.

If you prefer contemporary art Punta della Dogana is another one to visit. Located in Dorsoduro this museum shows cutting edge contemporary art in a stunning modern setting. The crisp October air and the quiet atmosphere make it the perfect place to relax and explore.

6. Visit Venice in october: San Francesco della Vigna in october in Venice

One of the lesser known but still important festivals in Venice is the Festa di San Francesco della Vigna which takes place in early October. This festival celebrates the feast day of St. Francis and is a great way to experience the local culture off the beaten track.

The festival takes place at San Francesco della Vigna a beautiful Renaissance church in the Castello district. There are processions, traditional music and local food stalls creating a lively yet intimate atmosphere. This is a perfect example of how Venice manages to keep its community spirit even as a world famous destination.

Going to the Festa di San Francesco della Vigna is a chance to meet the locals and see a side of Venetian life that most visitors never get to see. It’s also a great opportunity to explore the Castello district one of the most authentic areas of Venice with its narrow streets, hidden gardens and quiet canals.

7. Gondola ride through the foggy canals

A visit to Venice wouldn’t be complete without a gondola ride but Venice in October offers a special experience. As the mornings and evenings get cooler a mist often rises from the canals and wraps the city in a soft fog.

Gliding through the Venetian canals in the early morning mist is an experience you’ll never forget. The quiet lapping of the water against the gondola, the gentle rocking of the boat and the foggy atmosphere make you feel like you’re floating in a dream. It’s a side of Venice that’s never shown in the travel brochures and one that’s best experienced in the quiet month of October.

For a more personal experience book a gondola ride in the Dorsoduro or Cannaregio districts. These areas are less busy than the Grand Canal and you’ll find yourself gliding through the narrow hidden canals and getting a glimpse into the daily life of the Venetians.

8. Venice’s haunted history on a ghost tour

Venice has a long and often dark history and October in Venice is the perfect time to explore it. As the nights get longer and the mist rolls in the city takes on a more eerie atmosphere making it the ideal time for a ghost tour.

Join a Venetian ghost tour and hear the spooky legends that haunt the streets and palaces of the city. You’ll hear of cursed houses, tragic love stories and restless spirits as you explore Venice’s darker side. Popular stops on these tours are the Palazzo Dario often called the “House of No Return” due to its tragic history and the Riva degli Schiavoni where ghostly apparitions are said to roam at night.

Whether you believe in the supernatural or just want to have fun learning more about Venice’s history a ghost tour is a great and slightly spooky way to spend an October evening in Venice.

9. Venice Biennale in october in Venice

If you’re in Venice during the biennale years October is the perfect time to visit this famous art exhibition without the summer crowds. The Venice Biennale brings together artists from all over the world showcasing contemporary art in all its forms from painting to performance art.

The Giardini della Biennale and Arsenale are the two main exhibition spaces but the biennale also spills over into palazzos, churches and outdoor spaces all over Venice. In October the crowds are much smaller so you can have a more personal experience with the art.

Whether you’re an art lover or just a visitor the Venice Biennale is a unique chance to be part of the global art scene in a beautiful Venetian setting.

10. Evening calm at St. Mark’s Square

As the sun sets and the day trippers leave St. Mark’s Square becomes a peaceful oasis. The autumn air is cool, the lights of the basilica warm and the soft music from the café orchestras fills the square.

An evening stroll through St. Mark’s Square in October is one of the most romantic things you can do in Venice. The quiet beauty of the square at night without the crowds feels like going back in time. It’s the perfect way to end your day whether you’re sipping a glass of wine at Caffè Florian or just sitting on a bench enjoying the atmosphere.

October in Venice

So what to do in October in Venice? Well you’re in luck. This month reveals a Venice that is often hidden from the summer crowds.

With fewer people, cooler weather and plenty of things to do October is the perfect time to get to know Venice. From the Grand Canal to a peaceful gondola ride there’s no shortage of ways to fall in love with the city.

San Marco (Saint Mark, Marks Square)

San Marco is the centre of Venice and a must see. Piazza San Marco is home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks including the beautiful Mark’s Basilica and the impressive Doge’s Palace.

This historic area is a must visit for beautiful architecture and a glimpse into Venice’s past. Don’t miss climbing the bell tower for a view of the city.

Gondola Rides

One of the most iconic ways to see Venice is by taking a traditional gondola ride. This romantic experience allows you to glide through Venice’s canals and see the city’s beautiful architecture and colourful houses from a different perspective.

Whether you’re cruising under the Rialto Bridge or exploring the quieter waterways a gondola ride is a must do when in Venice.

Getting around and the attractions: explore Venice

When in Venice you’ll find many main tourist attractions to visit. From the Teatro La Fenice one of the famous opera houses to the charming streets and bridges Venice has something for everyone.

Consider buying line tickets or joining a guided tour to make the most of your visit and avoid the queues. The Venice Marathon in October is also an event not to be missed.

Visiting Venice in october: Conclusion

So as you plan your Italy trip remember October in Venice is a great time to visit. With fewer people and a more laid back pace you can really get to know Venice. Whether you’re admiring St. Mark’s Basilica, taking a gondola ride or exploring the Venetian Lagoon you’ll find Venice in October is the perfect setting for an adventure.

From the colourful houses to the historic streets Venice has something for everyone. Go and visit Venice and make some memories in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.