Is April a Good Time to Visit Venice? Your 2026 Complete Travel Guide

Imagine Venice in April as a beautiful painting coming to life. As spring arrives, the “Floating City” moves away from the cold winter mist and starts to glow with sunshine and flowers. It is the perfect time to visit because the air is fresh, the daytime weather is a comfortable 16–17°C, and the huge summer crowds haven’t arrived yet.

Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site made up of 118 small islands. These islands are connected by more than 400 bridges and separated by 177 canals. Here, you will find no cars, only boats and narrow walking paths called calli. 

The Grand Canal splits the city in two, perfectly linked by historic bridges such as the Rialto, the artistic Accademia, the elegant Scalzi, and the modern Calatrava Bridge.

If you are wondering how to fit over 1,600 years of history and culture into your trip, this travel guide will let you explore the city with ease in April 2026.

Is April a good time to visit Venice?

April is the season when the city awakens under a gentle spring sun. With temperatures averaging 8°C to 17°C, the weather is ideal for long, scenic walks without the stifling humidity or acqua alta floods typical of other months.

Reasons why April is a good time to visit Venice:

• • Experience cultural magic with the lively Easter celebrations on 5 April, 2026. On 25 April, you will witness double celebrations for Liberation Day and the Festa di San Marco.
  • If you like photography, you will find optimal light with 7 hours of daily sunshine  to capture the sparkling Grand Canal.
  • Explore hidden courtyards as wisteria and tulips begin to drape over ancient stone walls.
  • You will find shorter queues and more competitive hotel rates compared to the intense summer peak.

Weather in Venice in April

In April, Venice experiences 13 to 14 hours of daylight, offering you ample time for canal-side strolls. You can expect about 7 hours of bright sunshine daily, casting a warm, painterly glow over the city’s historic facades.

Temperature

• • Average daytime highs generally range from 16°C to 17°C.

  • Average evening lows hit around 8°C to 10°C, often feeling cooler due to the gentle sea breezes.

Average Rainfall

• • Venice in April receives approximately 69–71 mm of rain throughout the month. 
  • There are about 10 to 12 days of precipitation. These are usually short, scattered bursts, so a compact umbrella is all you need to keep the adventure going.

What to Wear in Venice in April

Layering could be your best strategy in Venice in April. As temperatures shift from pleasant 17°C during the day to 8°C at night, you can focus on breathable cottons, light wools, and waterproof outerwear to handle the occasional Venetian shower. Always respect church etiquette by keeping shoulders and knees covered, and avoid beachwear to blend in with the sophisticated local aesthetic.

For Women

You can embrace the Venetian chic look with trench coats, midi skirts, and pashminas. A light scarf is ideal for protection against the lagoon breeze. Keep a pair of tailored trousers or dark denim that work perfectly for daytime exploration.

For Men

You can opt for a smart-casual vibe using light knitwear, chinos, and waterproof harrington or denim jackets. Long-sleeved shirts are preferable to T-shirts to stay comfortable during the cooler mornings and breezy evening gondola rides.

Visitor Arrivals: Is Venice Crowded During April?

Yes, Venice is noticeably crowded in April 2026, marking the official start of the high season. However, it lacks the sweltering crowd intensity of July. Compared to the summer peak, April is busier than winter but offers a much more breathable, photogenic experience.

Easter 2026 (April 5) and Liberation Day (April 25) bring significant surges, with tourists flocking to St. Mark’s Square. So, follow these tips to outsmart the crowds:

• • Visit iconic sites like the Rialto Bridge before 9:00 AM or after 8:00 PM to enjoy them without the day-tripper rush.
  • Reserve museum slots and buy “skip-the-line” tickets for the Doge’s Palace weeks in advance.
  • Take a ferry to the outer islands like Burano or Torcello on weekdays to escape the central hubbub.
  • Explore the quiet Calle of Cannaregio or Castello at sunrise. 

Average Costs of a Trip to Venice in April

A 3-night trip to Venice usually costs between £173 and £273 per person for basic packages. Compared to the low winter season (Nov–March), prices are approximately 20% to 40% higher, yet they remain 25% to 40% more affordable than the July–August summer peak.

Airfare

• • Low-carriers like Wizz Air or Ryanair offer return flights starting from £54–£96.
  • Standard options like easyJet or Swiss typically range from £140 to £268.
  • Premium direct flights with British Airways range from £362 to over £1,062 for top-tier convenience.

Hotels and Resorts Prices

• • For budget-travellers, staying in Mestre or mainland hostels costs around £60–£100 nightly.

  • Mid-range boutique hotel stays cost between £150 and £280.

  • Iconic Grand Canal Palaces and 5-star resorts cost £400–£1,000+ per night.

• • Prices can jump during the Easter holidays and the Feast of St. Mark on 25 April. 

Transfers

• • The ATVO bus or ACTV Aerobus to Piazzale Roma costs around £8–£10.
  • The Alilaguna water bus is a scenic middle ground at £13–£15 for a one-way trip.
  • A private water taxi from the airport directly to your hotel dock is the ultimate arrival, costing between £105 and £150 per trip for up to 6 people.

Things to Do in Venice in April

One of the most important Venetian experiences is gliding down the Grand Canal in a gondola. Experience the local tradition by joining the candlelit Via Crucis procession, gifting a red rose for St. Mark’s Day, or exploring the historic Jewish Ghetto. You can savour the season by wandering through gardens in full bloom or sipping coffee at the historic Caffè Florian. From learning to cook in a local home to day-tripping to jagged Dolomites, climbing the 323 steps of the St. Mark’s Bell Tower, and shopping from fresh produce at Rialto Market, April in Venice blends outdoor beauty with cultural heritage. 

Best places to visit in Venice in April

Start your city’s exploration with a trip to St. Mark’s Square. It is the city’s heart, where you can admire the golden mosaics of the Basilica or climb the Campanile for 360° lagoon views. For art lovers, the Doge’s Palace offers a deep dive into Venetian history. Make sure to check out Tintoretto’s masterpieces at Scuola Grande di San Rocco, then visit the Leonardo da Vinci Museum. Complete your journey with peaceful San Giorgio Maggiore, the winding Borges Labyrinth, and the vibrant island of Burano, home to the Museo del Merletto and the 16th-century Palazzo Grimani.

Best Festivals to Attend in Venice in April 2026

April 2026 in Venice is a tapestry of tradition and culture. The month opens up with the spiritual elegance of Easter Sunday (5 April)  and Easter Monday (6 April), where candlelit processions like the Via Crucis on San Giorgio Maggiore create a mystical atmosphere. Music lovers can enjoy the Venezia Music Festival (15–19 April) and intimate Candlelight Concerts featuring Vivaldi (10 April) at the Scuola Grande. High-energy tradition takes over with the Su e Zo per i Ponti (12 April) bridge walk, culminating in the romantic Festa di San Marco (25 April). On this day, locals celebrate Liberation Day (25 April), where men traditionally give a red rosebud (Bocolo) to their loved ones.

Where to Stay in Venice in April

To maximise your stay in Venice, choose San Polo for central access to artisan markets or San  Marco if you want iconic landmarks like the Doge’s Palace at your doorstep. Dorsoduro provides an artistic escape with lively squares, while Cannaregio offers a trendy, local vibe. For families, Castello provides rare greenery and quiet alleys, whereas Santa Croce and the mainland hub of Mestre remain the most convenient locations for quick transport links and budget-friendly hotel finds.

What to Eat in Venice in April

April in Venice is defined by the arrival of Castraùre, the tender first buds of the violet artichoke, and the fleeting Moeche, the delicate soft-shell crabs. On April 25th, the city celebrates its patron saint with Risi e Bisi, a legendary soup-like risotto made from the freshest spring peas. For classic flavours, indulge in Bacalà Mantecato (whipped cod) or the umami-rich Bigoli in Salsa. Also, try the tangy, refreshing Sarde in Saor, where fried sardines are marinated with vinegar, onions, and sweet raisins. Seafood lovers should try Schie e Polenta, featuring briny lagoon shrimp at peak harvest, ideally enjoyed as cicchetti at a local bàcaro with a chilled Ombra (local wine) for an authentic Venetian spring experience.

What to Pack in Venice in April

In April, don’t be fooled by the cool 17°C breezes in Venice because the water’s reflection intensifies the UV rays, making high-SPF sunscreen and polarised sunglasses essential for long vaporetto rides. Besides, if you are travelling from the UK, you must bring a Type L adapter and carry a printed Venice Access Fee QR code for entry. Organise your passport, GHIC Card, and travel insurance in a cross-body bag to thwart pickpockets. Carry a refillable water bottle to use the city’s ancient stone fountains. A scarf is important to cover during breezy gondola rides and a pack of motion sickness tablets that can provide relief during vaporetto rides. 

Hacks & Tips to Visit Venice in April

• • Book the Access Fee: Register at https://cda.ve.it/en/ to get your mandatory QR code; failing to show this on peak April days can result in €50–€300 (approx. £43.50 – £261) fines.
  • Ditch the Heels: Venice is car-free with endless cobblestones; prioritise broken-in walking shoes to save your feet.
  • Travel Light: You must carry luggage over steep step-bridges; heavy suitcases are your worst enemy in the “Ancient City.”
  •  Hydrate for Free: Carry a refillable bottle to use the safe, historic water fountains found in almost every piazza.
  • Beat the UV & Bugs: Use SPF 30+ (water reflection doubles exposure) and bring repellent, as mosquitoes wake up in April.
  • Check the Tide: Look for “Acqua Alta” (high tide) forecasts; 100cm+ means you will need to use elevated walkways or detour San Marco.
  •  Eat Smart: Standing at a bar for coffee or cicchetti (tapas) is cheaper than sitting, which often incurs a music or cover fee.
  • Skip-the-Line: Always pre-book St. Mark’s and Doge’s Palace; April crowds can lead to two-hour queues.
  • Late Night Peace: Venice has little nightlife; walk the streets after 8:00 PM to enjoy the quiet, illuminated magic without the day-trippers.