Don’t Let the Rain Spoil Your Trip: 7 Things to Do in Venice When It Rains


Oh no, it’s raining in Venice! Quick, let’s find some shelter and avoid getting soaked. If you’re like me and despise the rain, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with some tips on what to do in Venice when it’s pouring cats and dogs.

Despite the city being flooded by rain, there are still plenty of cool places to visit and things to do in Venice that will make your rainy day an awesome experience. From cozy taverns to unique destinations, you won’t even notice the rain with these activities.

Don’t let the rain put a damper on your trip to Venice. Instead, embrace the weather and enjoy some of the best indoor activities that the city has to offer. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

If you want to get hints and tips for having fun in Venice when it rains, read this article now and put it into practice!

Museums and Exhibitions in Venice on a Rainy Day

You can always visit a museum or the Biennale in Venice on a rainy day or when it rains.
Biennale di Venezia 2019: May you live in interesting times.

Venice boasts numerous world-class museums and galleries including the Gallerie dell’Accademia, Palazzo Grassi, and Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Take some time to explore their impressive collections and appreciate the art.

Visit the fabulous Peggy Guggenheim Collection

If you’re looking for a recommendation, consider visiting the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. The museum showcases Peggy Guggenheim’s personal collection, which features masterpieces of Cubism, Futurism, Metaphysical Painting, European Abstractionism, avant-garde sculpture, Surrealism, and American Abstract Expressionism.

Biennale di Venezia

The Venice Biennale, also known as La Biennale di Venezia, is a set of many exhibitions that takes place every years in Venice, Italy. The main events (Art Biennale and Architecture Biennale) usually run from May through November on alternate years.

The Biennale di Venezia is one of the oldest and most prestigious art exhibitions in the world.It celebrates contemporary art, architecture, cinema, dance, music and theatre and brings together artists and creatives from around the world.

On a rainy day in Venice, visitors can take their time exploring the exhibits without feeling rushed or crowded. The rain can also add to the overall experience, as the art takes on a different character in the wet and moody weather. Additionally, the Biennale venues are often covered, providing a perfect shelter from the rain.

Other interesting museums in Venice during a rainy day

Other interesting museums whose exhibition schedules are worth following are:

If you happen to have lots of hours and the rain is incessant, you can enjoy them all.

Finding Refuge at the Best Cafes for a Rainy Day in Venice

A sweet Venetian breakfast is what I need in Venice when it rains.

Looking for a cozy place to warm up and enjoy a cup of coffee while it’s pouring down outside in Venice? Well, look no further! I’ve got you covered. Here are three of the best coffee shops in the city to visit on a rainy day.

Torrefazione Cannaregio

The Torrefazione Cannaregio is a small coffee roaster located in the heart of the Cannaregio district. This place has a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a rainy day. You can watch the beans being roasted while sipping a delicious espresso, cappuccino or latte. And if you’re a coffee lover, be sure to buy some beans to take home!

Caffé Florian

Next up is the famous Caffé Florian, which dates back to 1720 and is one of the oldest coffee shops in Italy. Located in Piazza San Marco, it’s known for its beautiful historic interior with ornate furnishings and live classical music. Enjoy a cup of their specialty, the Florian Coffee, a blend of hot chocolate, coffee and cream. It’s the perfect treat to warm you up on a rainy day.

Caffè del Doge

Last but not least, there’s Caffè del Doge, a boutique coffee shop located in the charming Dorsoduro neighborhood. They use only the highest quality beans, roasted in-house, to create a delicious cup of coffee. The decor is cozy and inviting, with exposed brick walls and warm lighting. The staff is also incredibly friendly and can recommend the perfect coffee based on your preferences.

A Delicious Food Tour of Bacaris in Venice when it rains

A food tour it's always a great idea in Venice when it rains. Cicchetti and wine or Spritz can be found almost behind every corner.
As I love Gorgonzola, I normally order all different cicchetti having it as toppping!

On a rainy day in Venice, there’s nothing better than a food tour of the city’s best bacaris to enjoy the cozy atmosphere of a city that is now truly surrounded by water on all sides.

Bacari are traditional Venetian small bars and taverns that serve small snacks called cicchetti and local wine. They are cozy and lively places where locals and tourists alike gather to socialize and enjoy a good time, commonly standing at the bar or outside on the street while sipping a glass of wine and sampling the delicious cicchetti.

The variety of cicchetti – the Venetian equivalent of tapas – offered varies depending on the bacaro, but you can find everything from seafood to meat, and vegetarian options as well. Bacari are a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine of Venice.

Cantina Do Spade

One of the best places to start your food tour is at Cantina Do Spade, one of the oldest bacaris in Venice. Here, you can try the classic Venetian dish of sarde in soar, or sweet and sour sardines. Pair it with a glass of local white wine such as Soave or Pinot Grigio.

Osteria Bancogiro

Next, head to the bustling Rialto market and stop at Bancogiro, which is known for its selection of fresh seafood, coming directly for the Rialto market nearby. Try the seppie al nero, a dish of squid cooked in its own ink, and pair it with a glass of red Bardolino or Valpolicella.

Cantine del Vino già Schiavi

If you want to taste ones of the best cicchetti of Venice, make your way to Cantine del Vino già Schiavi, a tiny bacaro located near one of the city’s iconic gondola repair shops. Here, you can try the famous Venetian cicchetti of baccalà mantecato, a creamy spread made from salt cod. They also have one of the most impressive wine offering of the city, which you can taste and appreciate in Venice when it rains.

Find out more about the Venetian culinary traditions

This post is about food, specifically authentic Venetian specialties, and the typical places where long-time residents and newcomers like to eat.

Rainy Day Water Adventures: Exploring Venice by Vaporetto

Taking a vaporetto to explore Venice on a rainy day is a great idea, as you can observe the city and its habitants while seating in the water bus.
The public transport in Venice: the water buses (“vaporetti”) at the Rialto Bridge.

When it rains in Venice, one of the best ways to explore the city is from the water, and taking the vaporetto is an excellent option. The vaporetto is the city’s waterbus system and it is used by locals and visitors alike to get around Venice and its many smaller islands.

While on the vaporetto, make sure to keep an eye out for landmarks such as the Doge’s Palace, the Campanile di San Marco, and the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. You can also see the colorful facades of the buildings lining the canals, which create a picturesque backdrop for your journey.

The different vaporetto lines

There are different tours you can take on the vaporetto, and all of them offer stunning views of Venice from the water. No matter which tour you choose, the vaporetto offers unique perspectives of the city that cannot be seen from land.

In Venice when it rains, the misty atmosphere adds an extra layer of charm to the experience. Taking the vaporetto in Venice on a rainy day is not only a practical way to get around the city, but also a unique and memorable experience. So, don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the beauty of Venice on a rainy day from the water.

Line 1

Vaporetto line 1 in Venice is not just any ordinary public transportation route. It’s a tourist attraction in its own right! This charming waterbus route takes you on a delightful tour along the Grand Canal, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views of the most iconic sights of Venice.

From the Rialto Bridge to the stunning Ca’ d’Oro palace, you’ll be mesmerized by the beauty of the city as you glide along the water. The Vaporetto line 1 is a great way to see the city from a unique perspective, and get a sense of the charm and elegance that has made Venice one of the most beloved cities in the world.

Line 2

Vaporetto line 2 is a great alternative to explore Venice when it rains. It’s a more scenic route that takes you along the Grand Canal and offers some amazing views of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You can see the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doge’s Palace from a different perspective while staying dry under the covered boat.

The line 2 vaporetto also stops at several famous museums, such as the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Ca’ Rezzonico Museum of 18th-Century Art. Enjoy a cozy ride and admire the beauty of Venice in the rain with line 2.

Line 3

If you’re looking for a different way to explore Venice on a rainy day, consider taking the vaporetto line 3. This touristic tour alternative takes you through the less crowded and more local areas of Venice, including the Cannaregio and Giudecca canals. You’ll still see some iconic landmarks such as the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square, but you’ll also get a glimpse into the authentic Venetian life. Don’t forget to bring your umbrella and camera to capture the unique views.

Line 4.1

If you don't want to be in Venice when it rains, you can take the Vaporetto to Murano and discover its hidden gems.
The Basilica di Santi Maria e Donato is a beautiful church located on the island of Murano in Venice, known for its stunning Byzantine architecture and intricate mosaics.

Vaporetto Line 4.1 is a lesser-known option for a touristic tour in Venice when it rains. It’s a great way to explore the lesser-known parts of Venice and avoid the crowds. It runs from Fondamente Nove to Lido, passing through Murano, Vignole, and Sant’Erasmo.

On this route, you’ll see the beautiful Venetian lagoon and its islands. While it may not offer the same iconic views as other vaporetto lines, it’s a peaceful and relaxing way to experience the city. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

The different Vaporetto tickets

The Vaporetto is a water bus service that is an essential mode of transport in Venice. There are different types of tickets available for Vaporetto rides, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

  • There is the single ticket, which is valid for 75 minutes from the time of validation. This ticket allows you to travel on any Vaporetto line in Venice, making it a great option if you only plan to make one or two trips.
  • The 24-hour ticket is another option, which is valid for 24 hours from the time of validation. This ticket allows for unlimited travel on any Vaporetto line within the Venice area, making it a good choice if you plan to use the Vaporetto more than twice in a day.
  • For those who plan to stay in Venice for longer, the 48-hour and 72-hour tickets are available. These tickets are valid for 48 and 72 hours respectively, and also allow for unlimited travel on any Vaporetto line within the Venice area. These tickets offer good value for money if you plan to use the Vaporetto frequently during your stay.
  • There is also the Venezia Unica card, which includes unlimited use of the Vaporetto, as well as discounts on some of Venice’s museums and attractions. This card is available for 1, 2, 3, and 7 days and can be a great option if you plan to see many of the city’s sights.

It’s worth noting that tickets must be validated before boarding the Vaporetto, and failure to do so can result in a fine. Overall, the different types of Vaporetto tickets offer flexibility and convenience for exploring Venice in a unique way.

Fresh Catches and Rainy Day Adventures: Navigating the Rialto Market in Venice

The Rialto Market is a fantastic place to discover in Venice when it rains.
The Rialto Market is a vibrant and bustling marketplace in Venice where locals and tourists alike can find fresh produce, seafood, and other specialty items.

If you’re looking for a unique and authentic Venetian experience on a rainy day, the Rialto Market is a must-visit destination. This bustling marketplace has been around since the 11th century and is located in the heart of Venice. The market is divided into different sections, with the most popular one being the fish and seafood section.

Walking through the market, you’ll be greeted by the sight of vendors displaying their catch of the day. From small shrimp to large lobsters, the selection of fresh seafood is impressive. It’s a treat for the senses to see the vibrant colors of the fish and smell the salty air.

Not only is the Rialto Market a great place to buy fresh seafood to cook at home, but it’s also a fantastic spot to try some of the local Venetian specialties. The market has several small bars called bacari, where you can stop for a snack and a glass of wine. Be sure to try the famous cicchetti, which are small bites of food that are perfect for sharing. You can try different types of seafood or even some meat and cheese specialties.

The Rialto Market is a great destination to visit in Venice on a rainy day because it’s mostly covered, and you can stay dry while exploring. The market is open every day except Sunday, and it’s best to arrive early in the morning to experience the hustle and bustle of the vendors setting up their stalls.

Even if you’re not a foodie, the Rialto Market is a fascinating place to visit. It’s a chance to experience the local culture and see how Venetians shop for their groceries. With the covered market, it’s a perfect destination to visit in Venice when it rains.

Historical monuments to discover on a rainy day in Venice

Venice on a rainy day can be as beautiful as on a warm Summer day.

Another good way to enjoy Venice without the hassle of rain could be to visit historical monuments. My recommendation is Piazza San Marco, because this area of Venice is home to the city’s main attractions, so you can avoid long walks during a rainstorm.

The famous St. Mark’s Basilica, a symbol of Venice and one of the most beautiful churches in the world, is definitely worth visiting at least once in your life.

A word of advice: considering the rain and to avoid the queues that usually form at the entrance, it would be better to book the visit online.

Next to the Basilica is the Doge’s Palace, the famous residence of the Venetian Doges. if you have already bought the ticket for the Civic Museums, I remind you that the ticket price includes the entrance to the Palace.

St. Mark’s Basilica tour with “skip the line” admission

Retrace the history of Venice and discover the other incredible buildings around St. Mark’s Square by taking advantage of the “skip the line” entrance to St. Mark’s Basilica.

Doge’s Palace tour with “skip the line” admission

The Doge’s Palace is the imposing building that stands in St. Mark’s Square and overlooks the Venice lagoon. Skip the line and discover the beauty of its interior.

Tour of the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica

Symbols of Venice are the majestic Doge’s Palace and the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica. Skip the line and visit both monuments while also accessing areas usually closed to the public.

Exploring Literary Gems in Venice When It Rains

The Libreria Acqua Alta is a perfect place to visit in Venice when it rains.
Libreria Acqua Alta is a famous bookstore located in the Castello district of Venice. It is known for its unique and charming atmosphere, and famous for its quirky and creative displays, and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

If you are a book lover and it looks like the rain will not be stopping anytime soon, Venice has got you covered. The city boasts numerous libraries and bookstores where you can while away a few hours waiting for the rain to clear up. Two bookstores, in particular, stand out because of their unique beauty and history.

Libreria Marciana

If you’re looking for a quiet and cozy place to visit in Venice on a rainy day, the Marciana Library should definitely be on your list. Located in the heart of St. Mark’s Square, the library is a true gem of Venetian culture and history.

The library was founded in the 16th century, during the height of Venice’s power and wealth, and was named after St. Mark, the city’s patron saint. Over the centuries, the library has grown to become one of the most important in Italy, if not the world. Its collection includes more than a million volumes, including rare manuscripts, prints, maps, and other documents that offer a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past.

But it’s not just the library’s contents that make it worth a visit on a rainy day. The building itself is a masterpiece of architecture and design. The library’s grand entrance is marked by two imposing bronze statues of Mars and Neptune, which symbolize the power of Venice as a maritime republic. Inside, visitors can admire the magnificent frescoes and sculptures that adorn the walls and ceilings of the library’s many rooms and galleries.

Libreria Acqua Alta

Just 10 minutes away, in Sestiere Castello, lies the famous Libreria Acqua Alta, often regarded as one of the top ten bookstores in the world. This place is a true gem and offers an experience like no other. A place out of time that fascinates and immerses every visitor in an “other” universe where it is possible to get lost.

The Acqua Alta bookshop is known for its eclectic and diverse collection of books, which includes everything from classic literature to contemporary bestsellers, as well as books in several different languages. Here, you can find all sorts of books and magazines piled up in gondolas, read poetry alongside friendly cats, or even climb a staircase made entirely of books, all while overlooking a canal.

In Venice when it rains, it makes sense to discover all the beautiful indoor places the lagoon city has to offer.
The mascot of the Libreria Acqua Alta library in Venice.

The name “Acqua Alta” means “high water” in Italian, and refers to the frequent flooding that occurs in Venice during the winter months. The bookstore is located in a low-lying area of the city that is particularly prone to flooding, and as a result, the owners have come up with some creative ways to protect their books from the water.

The bookstore is also home to several resident cats, who are free to roam around the store and often curl up on the shelves or in the display cases. The cats have become a beloved part of the bookstore’s charm and character.

You only have to walk into this small bookstore to realize that you are looking at something absolutely extraordinary: stacks of books on the most diverse subjects, perfectly arranged on volume-saving gondolas during floods. A dream come true.

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