From our editorial team (from Venice)
Venice shows its unique charm in autumn. The golden light, a light veil of mist, the sultry heat of summer is gone and the sun still shines warmly during the day. Where there are usually thousands of tourists pushing their way through the streets, on a good day there are only a few hundred.
Autumn is also the "Acqua Alta", the high water season in Venice. The city is no stranger to it: there are footbridges everywhere where it gets wetter. Plastic overboots are also available in every well-stocked souvenir shop. For many visitors, this is an experience in itself. Here are ten other reasons why a trip to Venice in the autumn months is worthwhile.
Why Venice is so beautiful in autumn
1. fewer tourists, more space
In autumn, the city empties out after the high season and the narrow streets and squares offer space to breathe again. Without the crowds, Venice can be explored in peace and the sights are much more impressive when they are not overcrowded.
2. mild weather
The oppressive summer heat gives way to pleasant temperatures. Autumn brings mild, golden light and ideal conditions for long walks along the canals and over the city's many bridges.
3. magic fog
In the early hours of the morning, a light mist often covers the lagoon. This mystical veil gives Venice an almost surreal atmosphere, as if you were in another world. The view of St Mark's Square is particularly beautiful when the fog slowly lifts.
4. colourfulness of the water
The canals show their most beautiful colours in autumn. The warm autumn light is reflected in the water and enhances the already romantic flair of Venice.
5. delicacies from the autumn kitchen
Autumn is the time for seasonal delicacies in Venice. Mushrooms and truffles dominate the menus of many restaurants, often served with risotto and polenta.
6th grape harvest in the region
In autumn, the grape harvest is in full swing and the wineries around Venice offer guided tours and tastings. The island of Sant'Erasmo in particular, known as the "vegetable garden of Venice", offers fresh, local wines and seasonal vegetables.
7. cultural highlights
Venice offers numerous cultural events in autumn. In addition to art exhibitions at the Biennale, opera performances at the Teatro La Fenice or the art galleries in Dorsoduro are particularly recommended. Those who love art and culture will find what they are looking for in Venice in autumn.
8. favourable prices
As the peak season is over, prices for accommodation and restaurants fall noticeably. Many hotels offer attractive deals in the autumn months, making a stay attractive even for those on a budget.
9. experience craftsmanship
In autumn, visitors have the opportunity to experience traditional Venetian craftsmanship at their leisure. Away from the summer tourist crowds, many workshops open their doors and you can look over the shoulders of master glassblowers, mask makers and lace makers. Many studios offer personalised guided tours or workshops where visitors can get creative themselves.
10. experience authentic Venice
When the flow of tourists subsides, a bit of normality returns to the city. You have the opportunity to experience the real Venice - the small bars where Venetians drink their "spritz" and the markets where the locals shop reveal a city that can be experienced in its most authentic form in autumn.
