Christmas in Venice

Christmas in Venice - A city illuminated with traditional Christmas spirit
There is no better time to visit Venice than at Christmas as the city really gets into the festive mood like no other Italian city. It transforms itself with a colourful mix of light and decoration that remains faithful to the true essence of Christmas and wonderfully illuminates its alluring canals. The main focus of Christmas in Venice is the city festivities which take place in Campo Santa Stefano, which is turned into a traditional Alpine Christmas village complete with wooden houses selling beautifully handcrafted Venetian gifts and local produce. Simply stroll around the stalls soaking up the fun loving festive spirit seen in colourful street entertainment, kid’s activities and music.

Christmas in Venice - Attend a colourful festive church service and concert
Attending a midnight mass service is an important element for many visitors and nowhere offers a more inspiring or spiritual occasion than a service at the spectacular St Mark's Basilica which is forever popular with churchgoers. Dozens of other historic churches offer similar programs and a series of yuletide events and concerts such as La Piela and the gothic splendour of The Frari in San Polo. Children’s choirs and acoustic and classical recitals can be enjoyed in truly awe inspiring settings. Venice museums and monuments are usually closed only on Christmas Day so full enjoyment of a sightseeing break should not be compromised in any way - the only problem is what to leave out with so many wonderful choices. The breathtaking Doge's Palace is a must and a visit to Venice without seeing Marco Polo's house is simply unthinkable.  

Christmas in Venice - Canals that are even more illuminating and alluring at Christmas
Of course any visit to Venice is a pure joy if only for its magnificent canals. Take a leisurely cruise by Vaporetto water taxi bedecked in flowers and Christmas lights and meander through the maze of waterways passing ancient churches and renaissance monuments as the canals are lit up in festive decorations. Better still take a gondola for an unrushed, romantic journey of the alluring sights. Spend time to soak up the incredible vistas from the dozens of beautiful canal bridges. The Bridge of Sighs and the Rialto Bridge are the two most famous but the city features many more idyllic vantage points that offer unforgettable photo opportunities to cherish. Christmas in Venice should sample a festive menu at one of the canal trattoria where sumptuous Christmas banquets and fine wines provide a family Christmas dinner with a difference that will be worth every penny.