Only in winter you can see the magic of Venice emerge from the fog. 

Between December and March, when rainy days and morning mist are more frequent, Venice remains an enchanted spectacle, veiled in the mist that rises from the lagoon. 

Excluding the Carnival period, tourist crowds in Venice in winter diminish, leaving the city's calli quiet and deserted, immersed in the magic of this season. After all, the cold is not so bitter in Venice. 

There are countless things to do in Venice, and in every season the city knows how to offer its visitors something special. Even in winter there are specific activities to do to enjoy this enchanted city to the full! Here are the 7 things to do in Venice in winter.

7. Visiting the museums in St Mark's Square

If you want to escape the cold, why not take shelter in the warmth of the museums? The museums in St Mark's Square include the entire monumental complex on the square: the Doge's Palace, the Correr Museum, the National Archaeological Museum and the Monumental Rooms of the Marciana National Library. All can be visited with a single ticket.

On cloudy days, when the rays of sunshine fail to make space between the clouds, let the beauty and gold of Venetian art illuminate you. Each of these museums will leave you speechless. With the Venice Pass you can have access to these attractions.

6. Ice skating in Campo San Polo

Every year from the beginning of December until the end of Carnival, a real ice rink is installed in Campo San Polo for the delight of children and adults alike. 

The rink is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7-8 p.m. It is possible both to rent skates on site and to enter with your own equipment. The price for non-residents is 12 euros.

Ice skating is certainly an unusual activity that one does not expect to do in Venice, which makes it a unique experience.

5. Take a guided tour of La Fenice Theatre

If you are visiting Venice, the La Fenice Theatre is definitely an unmissable stop to make your Venetian stay unique. If not through a performance, you can discover the beauties of the famous Venetian theatre thanks to guided tours.

A visit among the stuccoes and gilded decorations of the prestigious halls allows you to discover the background and secrets of the theatre and its protagonists, tracing its history from its origins to the present day. The theatre also houses a permanent exhibition dedicated to Maria Callas and her years of activity in Venice.

4. Taking a gondola ride

On winter days the canals of Venice are much less busy than during the summer period: the perfect time for a romantic gondola ride. On board you will find warm blankets to protect you from the cold.

Whether on sunny or foggy days, cruising the canals of Venice in a typical gondola will transport you back to the 1600s.  

3. Tasting typical Venetian winter desserts

Another fun activity to do is a nice tour of the best pastry shops in Venice to taste typical winter sweets. The desserts par excellence to try during the Carnival period, for example, are fritole and galani.

Fritole had been the national dessert of the Serenissima for years, and today they are the symbol of Carnival. The Venetian fritole were made by the 'fritoleri', who in the 1600s formed a protected guild. They are prepared with eggs, flour, sugar, raisin or pine nuts and fried in abundant oil or lard. They can be filled with cream or zabaglione. A delight for the palate!

2. Visiting the Murano glassworks

What better place to visit in winter than the famous Murano glassworks? This island has been renowned for centuries for the production of artistic glass. The master glassmakers manage to produce objects of the most incredible colours and shapes. Seeing them at work is fascinating, a unique experience. 

Each glassworks has its own shop attached, where you can buy local products, supporting the craftsmen and their art. Also, if you are feeling adventurous, there are tours that also offer a live lesson. The Glass Museum is also a must-see!

1. Masquerading for the Venice Carnival

Finally, you cannot miss the opportunity to attend the famous Venice Carnival. Disguise yourself and become a child again, experience the light-heartedness and fun typical of this celebration.

The two weeks of Carnival in Venice host many events, such as the Opening Parade, a great floating performance that will parade along the Grand Canal, in a festive and ancestral atmosphere, the nightly water shows in the Arsenale, the Flight of the Angel and much more!