Venice has very distinct seasons, each with a different appeal. Summer sees temperatures of around 30° C (80° F), when sea breezes cool the city and the lagoon sparkles. The mild mists of autumn bring a special atmosphere to the canals and cobbled streets. Near-freezing temperatures and snow in January often accompany clear skies and wonderful moonlit nights: the city tends to hibernate, emerging for spring and carnival, when it bursts back into life.

Acqua Alta (High Tides)

Most acqua alta occur in autumn and winter, when a number of streets and squares flood. The city is well prepared; pedestrian routes are equipped with special footbridges to avoid the high water and to enable walkers to reach the main parts of Venice. A 48-hour tidal forecast is supplied by the City of Venice authorities and shows the expected levels of the high tide each day.
Less than 80cm is a normal tide with no flooding. A tide above 100cm will cause minor flooding, while tides above 120cm are likely to cause extensive flooding.