Venice is packed throughout the year, with the exception of winter. It does get a little cold, after all it is in Northern Italy and open to the sea, but temperatures are mild if compared to countries further north in Europe. Choose this time of the year if you do not mind low temperatures, usually above 0C/32F degrees. Do avoid rainy November and, if you must go in summer, try the shoulder months, since July and August are usually hectic and hotel rates skyrocket (in general, rates in Venice are high). Spring and autumn are lovely and are our recommended seasons for a visit. Bear in mind: the city does get tremendously expensive during Carnival, the Biennale and during long weekends such as Easter.