Spend Easter in Venice: A Dreamy 4-Day Itinerary [2026]

Easter in Venice is a vibrant occasion, filled with special events, wonderful weather for sightseeing, and a festive atmosphere.

As a Catholic nation, many Italians take time off during the Easter break to observe the religious calendar and enjoy time spent with family and friends. Unfortunately, this means popular destinations like Venice can be particularly crowded during the famous Spring long weekend. 

Having visited Venice at Easter myself, I still think it’s worth it, particularly if you want to take advantage of the double bank holiday to tick this iconic city off your bucket list. 

Therefore, I’ve put together an optimised 4-day itinerary to help you beat the crowds and enjoy spring in the floating city. I’ll also include some top tips for festive events, what to wear, and where to stay during Easter 2026 in Venice, with all the FAQs answered at the end of this article. 

Easter Traditions in Venice

Known locally as Pasqua, Easter is one of the most important holidays of the year in Italy.

Many Italians choose to spend the long weekend with friends – according to a famous local proverb that dictates ‘Christmas with your relatives but Easter with your friends.’ 

Despite deep-rooted Catholic beliefs, Good Friday is still a regular working day for Italians, unlike in the UK. Since it’s the day Christ is believed to have died on the cross, many Italians see it as a solemn occasion, as opposed to a ‘holiday’. Some even fast for the entire day. 

On the evening of Good Friday, just after sunset, many Venice Easter traditions include a Via Crucis procession, where a statue of Christ is carried through the streets in a moving tribute to his death. 

On Easter Sunday, many Venetians will attend mass (worship) at their local church before gathering with family and friends for a traditional feast.

This often includes risotto for starter, and lamb for main course, followed by a sweet bread known as Colomba, all washed down with a glass of prosecco or dessert wine. 

On Easter Monday (also called Pasquetta AKA little Easter) most Venetians will enjoy a day of work or school to relax in the early spring sunshine. A picnic is an popular choice, and a fantastic way to enjoy the first warm rays of the year. 

Best Things to Do in Venice at Easter

The best things to do during Easter in Venice include:

• Watch the Via Crucis procession on Good Friday 
• Visit Murano and Burano to escape the crowds
• Enjoy Vivaldi’s Four Seasons in concert at Vivaldi’s church 
• Attend mass on Easter Sunday at one of the many beautiful basilicas 
• Enjoy a picnic on the Lido to celebrate Easter Monday the Italian way 

The following 4 day itinerary includes all of the above, along with other enchanting things to do, especially if it’s your first time visiting Venice. I will outline the itinerary in brief first and then go into more detail below. 

I suggest arriving early on Friday morning to make the most of the quietest part of the weekend (since Good Friday is not a public holiday in Italy). You can then book your return journey for either Monday evening or Tuesday morning. 

4 Day Itinerary For Spending Easter in Venice

• Good Friday: Visit St. Marks Square, the Bridge of Sighs, and Doge’s Palace. Escape the crowds for dinner at Pizzeria da Alvisse or splash out in San Marco Square at Ombra del Leone. Watch the Via Crucis Procession in San Giorgio Maggiore.
• Easter Saturday: Visit Burano and Murano, go shopping at Fondaco Dei Tedeschi or find quirky souvenir shops, visit Rialto Bridge, and take a sunset gondola ride. Enjoy a romantic dinner at El Magazen or Venice M’Art. 
• Easter Sunday: Attend Easter Mass, take a guided food tour or have a traditional Venetian Easter feast, watch a travelling opera in a Venetian palazzo, or see Vivaldi’s Four Seasons in concert. Indulge in fine dining at Nolinski or drinks at Cafe Florian. 
• Easter Monday: Relax at the lido and visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. 

Save Money and Skip the Lines with a Venice Pass

Before we dive into the itinerary, I just want to share one of my top tips for saving money and beating the crowds during Easter in Venice. 

Many of the local attractions have large queues, and ticket costs can add up considerably if you want to visit all of the most famous sites. Therefore, I recommended a Venice City Pass. 

This nifty little pass includes fast-track entrance to nearly all of the attractions in this itinerary, with skip-the-line access to save you precious time and money. 

Alternatively, you can buy skip-the-line tickets for most attractions individually. I’ve included the links to these throughout the itinerary where applicable. 

To save money on your public transport, I also recommend an unlimited Vaporetto Pass, which makes it easy and cheap to get around the city using the fast and convenient water bus service. 

Good Friday in Venice 

Morning 

As mentioned above, Good Friday is a quieter affair than the rest of Easter weekend. Many Italians will still have a full day of work, so you should make the most of the quieter streets by heading straight for the main attractions. 

Your first stop should be the iconic St. Mark’s Square, where you can marvel at the candy-cane architecture Venice is famed for. 

If history or religion is your thing, you can also take a tour of the Basilica of Saint Mark, the incredible domed cathedral that dominates the square. Inside, you’ll find gorgeous golden mosaics, religious relics from the 4th Crusade, and breathtaking marble monuments. 

Don’t wait to buy tickets when you arrive otherwise you will be queuing for hours. Buy skip-the-line tickets and guided tours in advance here, or a Venice City Pass here. 

For a bird’s eye view of the city, you can also take the lift to the top of the bell tower next door, known as St. Mark’s Campanile. There are only 30 tickets per time slot for this, so you MUST reserve your ticket online in advance. (This is not included in the Venice City Pass).

After the Basilica, head around the corner to admire the beautiful Bridge of Sighs. This intricate covered bridge is so-called for the sighs of prisoners who would cross it on their way to meet their fate. 

You can get some lovely shots from the Ponte della Paglia or the Ponte de Canocica on either side, but you’ll need to arrive quite early to avoid the crowds. 

Afternoon 

After you have admired the Bridge of Sighs from the outside, you can head inside Doge’s Palace, which is right next door. 

This elaborate Gothic palace offers endless photo opportunities along with a fascinating glimpse into the history of Venice as a powerhouse of trade and empire. You can also actually walk across the famous Bridge of Sighs itself. 

Again, the queues for tickets are often very long, so you can buy your skip-the-line entrance tickets here. 

If you prefer a guided tour for a more in-depth look at Venice’s most famous monuments, I recommend this tour, which includes entrance and a guide for both Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.

If you still have time in the afternoon and are an art aficionado, you can also check out the Correr Museum on the opposite side of St. Mark’s Square. 

It offers a range of celebrated artworks and sculptures by famous Venetian visionaries. Tickets to Doge’s Palace and the Venice City Pass both include entrance to this bonus museum. 

Evening 

In the evening, you should take the Vaporetto over to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, which offers a unique perspective of St. Mark’s Square, especially striking at Golden Hour!

Inside the incredible San Giorgio Basilica, you will find an exceptional collection of art, including Tintoretto’s ‘The Last Supper’. 

This is a particularly apt way to enjoy Good Friday in Venice, admiring depictions of how it is thought Jesus spent this very same day all those centuries ago. I also recommend heading up the lift to the bell tower for a beautiful bird’s eye view of the city. 

The church also hosts a church service at 17:00 pm and a moving Via Crucis procession just after sunset, an absolute must when spending Easter in Venice. 

Afterwards, take the Vapretto back to the city centre for a stand-out meal at Ombra del Leone (Line 2 back to St. Mark’s Square). 

If you have a tighter budget, I recommend Pizzeria da Alvisse on the quieter side of the city, with stunning Venetian lagoon views (Lines 4 or 5 to Fondamente Nove). 

Easter Saturday in Venice 

Morning

By Easter Saturday, the city will be filled to the brim with local and foreign tourists, so I recommend a day spent avoiding the crowds with some offbeat attractions. 

Despite their colourful architecture, the islands of Murano and Burano are still fairly quiet, even at peak times like Easter in Venice. This is especially true if you go first thing in the morning.

Murano, known worldwide for its incredible glassmaking, also offers bright, beautiful architecture to admire. 

Meanwhile, lesser-visited Burano is just as colourful and is instead known for traditional crafts such as lacemaking. 

You can visit both via the Vaparetto from Fondamente Nove, or you can take an organised tour of the two, which also includes a visit to the famous glassblowing factory. The Venice City Pass I mentioned earlier already includes this tour. 

Afternoon 

If you love to shop, Easter Saturday is also your last chance, since shops are typically closed on Easter Sunday and Monday.

Therefore, you can head to the Calle Larga XXII Marzo a landmark shopping street right in the heart of the city.

It’s filled to the brim with all of your favourite designer brands, as well as some independent labels, ensuring you can pick up something fabulous from the country famous for its fashion. 

Alternatively, if you prefer small and independent stores for quirky souvenirs, try the eccentric bookstore known as Libreria Acqua Alta. 

Tucked away by the Rialto Bridge is also the pretty Pied à Terre boutique, where you can buy beautiful Gondola slippers in a rainbow of shades.

For homewares, try Martinuzzi under one of St. Mark’s arcades, or Evem Sas Ricami e Merletti for the most luxurious local linens. 

You can also browse the Rialto Market for fresh produce and an incredible fusion of Italian flavours and aromas. 

If shopping is not your thing, I recommend extending your visit to the Venice islands by also visiting Torcello, a much smaller island with a rich tapestry of Byzantine architecture to explore. 

Evening

At sunset, head back towards the Rialto Bridge to take a sunset gondola ride along the Grand Canal. An absolute must-do when spending Easter in Venice, words simply do not do it justice.

To avoid being ripped off on the docks, I suggest booking your gondola ride in advance. 

After an incredible 40 minutes in the water, extend the romantic vibes throughout the evening with a splash-out meal at nearby Venice M’Art or a cosy authentic dinner at El Magazen. Be sure to book your tables beforehand. 

Easter Sunday in Venice 

Morning 

On Easter Sunday, I recommend spending it as the Italians do, and that means enjoying a leisurely breakfast before a moving mass ceremony at one of the many churches and cathedrals around the city.

It’s possible (and free) to attend Easter Mass at St. Mark’s Basilica, although I don’t recommend this. You will have to be there incredibly early to get a seat (or even a space to stand), and the amount of crowds can ruin the experience. 

Instead, I recommend finding a church that is close to your accommodation or just one that catches your eye on your travels around Venice and heading to that one instead. 

Mass typically starts at 10 am, but you can always check with your chosen church when you first arrive in the city to be sure. 

Afternoon 

Easter in Venice is traditionally rounded off with a large meal in the afternoon, so I suggest a walking food tour to get the best of local Easter specialities. 

Alternatively, you can find a local restaurant for lunch, many will be preparing a three-course Easter feast. Osteria Ale do Marie is a popular choice. 

If you have additional time in the afternoon, you can spend it on a church-hopping spree (many will be open all day for those who wish to pop in and say an Easter prayer).

Try the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute for especially beautiful interiors, or the Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, a Gothic masterpiece. 

You can also check out the Ponte dell’Accademia, another famous bridge across the Grand Canal, and if you’re into classical art, visit the Accademia Gallery right next door.

Or, if you’re like me and prefer to spend your time sipping Aperol in Italian cities, then simply round off your Easter Sunday with late afternoon drinks at the beautiful Bar Longhi, or the cosy Terrazza Aperol – a homage to the bitter orange drink. 

Evening

Round off a sensational Easter in Venice with either a concert of the Four Seasons in Vivaldi’s very own church or a quirky travelling opera in a traditional Venetian palazzo. 

Vivaldi’s concert starts at 8:30pm and lasts 70 minutes, so if you’re not still full from your Easter feast, you can opt for a stunning fine dining prequel at Nolinski. As always, advance reservations are essential.

The travelling opera also starts at 8:30 and lasts for two hours so you may want to book your dinner beforehand if you are planning to eat. Alternatively, you can head to the iconic Cafe Florian in St. Mark’s Square for an Aperitivo instead. 

This is an institution dating back to the 1700s, so the drinks are expensive, but the views and live music make it worth it!

Easter Monday in Venice 

If you’re spending Easter in Venice, then Monday is likely your last day. You will no doubt be tired and in need of a little R&R by this point, so I suggest heading to the Lido to relax in the sunshine. 

This is a classic way to spend Easter in Venice, as many Italians will be enjoying a picnic alfresco with their nearest and dearest.

There is a vast sandy beach here where you can rent a bed for the day, or you can pick up some food from the local market and head to one of the many green spaces to enjoy it. 

You can also stay active if you prefer, with a bike tour of the island.

Depending on what time you are leaving, you may also want to squeeze in a tour of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection on your way back through the city. This is a stunning emporium of modern art that is well worth a visit if you have time. 

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Weather in Venice at Easter 

We spent Easter in Venice a few years ago, the weather was glorious. We had warm sunshine every day and it was possible to walk around in T-shirts, shorts etc, with just a light jacket required for the evening.

However, remember that this is still early spring and the weather can be a little unpredictable. Easter can also fall anywhere from late March to mid-April, so this makes a difference too. 

If Easter is particularly early or there is a cold spell, you’ll need to pack a few more layers and light sweatshirts to stay comfortable.

If possible, I recommend checking the weather forecast a day or so before you go and packing accordingly. 

Where to Stay in Venice During Easter 

We stayed at the Albergo Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo which is a four-star hotel right around the corner from St. Mark’s Square. I chose it primarily for the canal-view suites and the location, which was perfect for the craziness of Easter in Venice.

I thoroughly recommend you book somewhere central, as it makes it easier to navigate the crowds and quickly get from A to B.

It also makes it easier to get up early and take some photos of the main attractions without hordes of tourists in your way.

Some other hotels I recommend include: 

The Gritti Palace: A sensational option if money is no object or you are celebrating a special occasion. Home to the Nolinski Restaurant mentioned earlier in this guide.

Hotel Becher: The sweetest boutique hotel right on the canal with authentic Venetian interiors (complete with Murano glass lamps!). Ideal for a mid-range budget. 

Violino d’Oro: A showstopping five-star hotel with refined decor inspired by the palette of the city. 

If your budget is a little tighter there are also some fantastic options on Vrbo for self-catering apartments, some even come with a canal view, like this one. 

Browse all available apartments on Vrbo here. 

How to Get to Venice at Easter 

You can fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport, which is located on Italy’s mainland. From here you can either get the bus, water taxi, ferry or regular taxi into the city centre.

The bus is one of the cheapest ways to get to and from the airport, and takes 20 – 35 minutes. You can take the ATVO Blue bus or Bus No. 5, both of which bring you to Piazzale Roma. 

Alternatively, you can take the water ferry, which costs a little more but potentially offers a more scenic route. A water taxi might be a good option if you are travelling with a large group (up to a maximum of 10 passengers), or have a bigger budget. 

If you are coming from elsewhere in Italy, the most convenient way to arrive is by train. The centrally located station offers direct routes to nearby cities such as Verona, Genoa, and Bologna. 

We caught the train from Verona and can thoroughly recommend it! The trains are quick, clean, and comfortable, and there’s nothing quite like stepping out of Santa Lucia train station to be greeted by your first view of the Grand Canal. 

What to Pack for Spring in Venice 

Spring in Venice can be unpredictable, so you’ll need to pack for a range of possibilities. As usual, layers are your best friend here.

For ladies, I recommend t-shirts, skirts, and lightweight trousers, along with some shirts, light jumpers and jackets to layer over the top. 

You’ll be walking a lot, and the streets are often crowded, so you should also bring comfortable shoes. An umbrella is not a bad idea, and potentially even some waterproof boots in case the city gets hit with a late Aquua Alta. 

What do Venetians and Italians Eat at Easter?

Easter in Venice and, indeed Italy, is just as it is at other times of the year: filled with irresistible food. While you won’t find many chocolate bunnies around, easter eggs are ubiquitous throughout Italy at Easter – the bigger and more elaborate the better. 

Much like in the rest of the Western world, these are often made of chocolate and given as gifts to children. In Italy, many of them also contain toys inside, sort of like a giant Kinder Bueno. 

When it comes to Easter Day itself, many Venetians will gather for a large feast, in classic Italian style. Traditionally, the menu includes a risotto or pasta dish to start, followed by baby lamb chops. 

For dessert, a sweet bread known as Colomba di Pasque is baked in the shape of a dove to represent the holy spirit. It is similar in taste to a Christmas panettone and is topped with a delicious almond glaze. 

There is also the sweet focaccia Pasquale (Easter brioche), which is often eaten at breakfast time and is said to have originated in Venice. 

Top Tips for Spending Easter in Venice 

• Reserve tickets for everything in advance or buy the Venice City Pass
• Book restaurants for your evening meals rather than leaving things to chance
• Get a Vaparetto Pass to save money and time getting around the city 
• Double-check the opening times of all the attractions you plan to visit in case they have amendments during the Holy Week. 

FAQs 

Is Easter a Good Time to Go to Venice?

In terms of weather, Easter in Venice is beautiful, with mild spring sunshine offering the perfect temperatures for sightseeing. You can avoid the floods of autumn and winter (known as accqua alta) and the oppressive heat of summer.

However, with it being a public holiday throughout many European countries, Easter can be quite a busy time to visit. 

If you don’t mind a few crowds here and there, enjoy local festivities, and follow the itinerary outlined above, I firmly believe Easter is a sensational time to go to Venice. 

Is Venice Open During Easter?

The majority of tourist attractions are open during Easter in Venice, and some, such as the churches and cathedrals, will have special religious services which are free to attend.

Shops in Venice typically stay open on Good Friday and Easter Saturday but may close on Easter Sunday and Monday. 

Most other services, such as the Vaparetto (water bus), run as usual. 

Is Venice Busy at Easter? 

As a major public holiday in Italy (and indeed most of Europe), Easter in Venice can get very crowded.

However, it’s possible to escape the crowds and enjoy some of the lesser visited areas of the city, while still soaking up the festive atmosphere that this special occasion brings. 

The itinerary detailed above offers a good mix of quieter spots to visit and the best time to visit the main attractions to beat the crowds, helping you enjoy Venice despite the Easter influx. 

How Does Venice Celebrate Easter 

Venice celebrates Easter like much of the rest of Italy; by observing religious ceremonies on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, and enjoying quality time with friends and family.

You’ll also find the shop windows filled with elaborate easter eggs, which look especially striking against the dreamy scenery of Venice. 

Do Things Close in Italy During Easter? 

Typically, shops and banks are closed on Easter Sunday and Monday in Italy.

Most businesses are open as usual on Good Friday and Easter Saturday, and things like tourist attractions tend to stay open for the entire weekend to cater to those travelling over the public holiday. The same goes for restaurants, bars, and public transport.

Planning on visiting Venice at Easter? Let me know in the comments!

**You may also be interested in reading How to Spend 24 Hours in Florence or 15 Unmissable Things to Do in Tuscany.**