Venice in autumn feels like a secret whispered only to those who wait until the summer crowds leave. The city slows down, the canals glow under softer light, and the crisp air adds a touch of romance to every walk. Autumn is also the season when Venetians reclaim their city, creating a more authentic experience for travellers.
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Here are the best things to do in Venice during the fall months:
1. Wander Through Empty Piazzas
In autumn, the busiest corners of Venice—like St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge—become more relaxed. You can enjoy the architecture, listen to the sounds of the lagoon, and take photos without the overwhelming rush of peak season. It’s the perfect time to get lost in the quieter backstreets and discover hidden campos (squares) where locals gather.
I had an opportunity to visit Venice once in November and it was misty and mysterious and kind of eery at the same time. We wandered in St. Mark’s square practically alone.
2. Visit Venice’s Museums and Palaces
Cooler weather makes autumn the best season to explore indoors. Step inside the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) – an iconic architectural masterpiece and imagine the grandeur of Venice’s past.
You can admire the art at the Gallerie dell’ Accademia. It is also a place where they keep Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Vitruvian man, but they only put it up on display for special ocassion as it is to fragile and susceptible to fading.
Modern art lovers will appreciate the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed in her beautiful palazzo overlooking the Grand Canal. With fewer visitors, you’ll have space to enjoy the art at your own pace.
If you’re into art and architecture do not miss the Venetian Biennale. I still remember how fascinated I was when I visited the Biennale for the first time (and managed to see Yoko Ono – she gave me her autograph). https://www.labiennale.org/en/architecture/2025
3. Take a Gondola Ride at Sunset
Gondolas may be a year-round icon, but in autumn the experience is extra magical. The water reflects shades of gold and crimson as the sun sets earlier, and the quieter canals make the ride feel intimate.
Bring warm clothing! Autumn can get colder quick so wrap yourself in a light scarf and wear your favourite knitted sweater, and let your gondolier steer you through Venice’s timeless waterways without the summer crowds.
I always prefer booking private tours for the gondola ride and I find it extra romantic. The gondoliers are very knowledgeable and the tour takes 30 to 45 minutes. Most of the tour operators will provide an app with informations about the landmarks, but I really just like to enjoy the beauty of Italian sinking city in the embrace of my loved one.
4. Indulge in Seasonal Venetian Food
Autumn in Venice is a feast for the senses. Try risotto al nero di seppia (black cuttlefish risotto), polenta with wild mushrooms, or the famous moeche (soft-shell crabs) that are available only in spring and autumn. Pair these with local Veneto wines or end your evening with a spritz in a cozy bacaro (wine bar). Don’t miss autumn pastries and chestnut-based desserts that pop up in bakeries this time of year.
I don’t think I need to recommend any specific restaurants because I always found food to be excellent. I think it’s mainly due to the fact that there are a looot of restaurants along the canal and they have competitive pricing, which means you will be happy and your wallet will be, too.
5. Explore the Islands of the Lagoon
Autumn is the perfect season to take a vaporetto out to the islands. In Murano, you can watch glassmakers at work. I still have memories of my first trip to Murano as a child, amazed by the artists blowing baubles of glass… and even getting a small glass bunny which I accidentally broke on our way home.
I am not a fan of the typical Murano glass design (a bit to colourful for me) but I always and still admire seashells, starfish and other underwater wildlife in their glass form. Here are some of my glass favourites I even found on Amazon, that make beautiful home decor. https://amzn.to/4lUDaXJ
Burano, another small island near Venice, boasts with its colourful fishermen’s houses and glows even more under the soft autumn light, while Torcello offers a peaceful retreat into history, far from the bustle of the main city. With cooler weather, hopping from island to island becomes a comfortable adventure.
6. Take a Day Trip to Noventa di Piave Designer Outlet
This last one in a secret tip of mine. You can’t go to Italy and not do some shopping. Noventa di Piave Designer Outlet, just about an hour from Venice, is home to over 150 stores featuring Italian and international luxury brands at discounted prices. It’s definitely one of the best outlets in Europe. The prices are solid and the clothes are really just from one (or half) a season ago, with some pieces from new collections as well
I am a sucker for good quality bags that look chic but are not too expensive. I always choose Michael Kors, and yes, I know it’s not an Italian designer but- I love the toned-down elegant design for a this very good price!
I found some of my staple pieces on Amazon also:
- Taryn Crossbody in Deep Red : https://amzn.to/3UV0RnA
- Marilyn Medium Satchel in Black : https://amzn.to/41pUXP1
- Bryant Medium Double Zip Chain Camera Crossbody Bag in Birch : https://amzn.to/46ctkeS
*At time of writing the first two bags are on sale!
Autumn is one of the best times to go there, with seasonal sales and new collections arriving. The outlet also has cafés and restaurants where you can relax between shops. Shuttle buses connect Venice directly to Noventa di Piave, making it an easy day trip for those who want to mix sightseeing with style.
✨ Final Thoughts
Venice in autumn is a city transformed. Without the peak-season crowds, every experience—from wandering quiet alleys to watching gondolas drift across the canals—feels more personal. Add in seasonal cuisine, island escapes, and even a little shopping spree at Noventa di Piave, and you’ll find autumn is one of the most rewarding times to visit La Serenissima.
For more travel inspiration, head to my blog posts or, alternatively, visit my Pinterest site: https://www.pinterest.com/ikigaimind/