Things to Do in Venice in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Venice
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Empty early mornings at major sites - arrive at St. Mark's Square by 7:30am and have it virtually to yourself before cruise ship crowds arrive at 10am
- Perfect weather for evening aperitivo culture - temperatures drop to comfortable 22°C (72°F) after 7pm, making outdoor canal-side dining ideal
- Peak season for Venice Biennale exhibitions with extended evening hours until 8pm to avoid midday heat
- Late sunsets at 8:15pm provide golden hour lighting for photography and longer sightseeing days with cooler evening temperatures
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms hit 60% of days between 2-4pm, lasting 20-30 minutes but creating flooding in low-lying areas like St. Mark's Square
- Peak tourist season means 30-45 minute queues at Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica even with pre-booked tickets
- Midday temperatures of 28°C (82°F) combined with 70% humidity make walking between 11am-3pm uncomfortable, especially crossing open bridges
Best Activities in August
Early morning St. Mark's Square photography walks
August's early sunrise at 6:15am creates perfect lighting conditions, and the square remains nearly empty until 9am. The morning mist off the lagoon adds atmospheric quality photos impossible to achieve later in the day. Temperatures are comfortable at 19°C (66°F) for extended walking.
Evening canal-side dining experiences
August evenings are ideal for outdoor dining as temperatures drop to 22°C (72°F) after sunset at 8:15pm. The humidity becomes pleasant with canal breezes, and restaurants extend terrace service later. This is when locals emerge for aperitivo culture.
Glass blowing workshops on Murano Island
August heat makes the ferry ride to Murano more appealing than walking mainland Venice. Workshop studios are well-ventilated, and you'll avoid the worst crowds since most tourists stick to main Venice. The 25-minute boat ride provides cooling lagoon breezes.
Covered market food tours
Rialto Market and covered food halls provide shelter from both sun and afternoon thunderstorms. August brings peak seasonal produce including white peaches and figs. The covered areas stay 5-7°C cooler than open squares.
Air-conditioned museum visits during midday heat
Doge's Palace, Ca' Rezzonico, and Palazzo Grassi offer climate-controlled relief during the hottest hours (11am-3pm) when outdoor sightseeing becomes uncomfortable. August brings special exhibitions with extended evening hours until 8pm.
Sunset gondola rides
Late August sunsets at 8:15pm create ideal timing for gondola rides when daytime heat subsides. The golden hour lighting is spectacular for photography, and evening breezes off the lagoon provide natural cooling. Fewer crowds on secondary canals after 7pm.
August Events & Festivals
Venice International Film Festival preparation period
Late August sees the setup phase for the prestigious film festival at Lido. While the main event starts early September, you'll witness the red carpet installations, international media arrivals, and preview screenings. The festival atmosphere begins building with industry parties and smaller events.
Regata Storica practice sessions
Venetian rowing teams practice for the historic regatta throughout August on the Grand Canal. These unofficial training sessions offer authentic glimpses of traditional Venetian boat racing without the crowds of the main September event. Best viewing from Rialto Bridge around sunset.