Venice, often dubbed the floating city, effortlessly mesmerizes visitors every year. Its dynamic charm, swinging from the introspective gloom of spring, the persistent heatwaves of summer, to the ethereal fog that blankets the city in colder seasons, ensures a unique experience in every visit. Preparing for a journey to this historic city requires a thoughtful approach. This comprehensive Venice packing guide will empower you to savor every moment, irrespective of the season.
Venice Packing List
Backpack
Traveling to Venice presents a unique set of challenges and joys. Among the foremost tips for the discerning traveler is the recommendation to travel light with a backpack (click)*. Simplifying your baggage not only streamlines the often-tedious airport procedures but also ensures nimbleness as you navigate the labyrinthine alleys and bridges of Venice. Backpacks, generally weighing less than their suitcase counterparts, offer the dual advantage of easy mobility while keeping your hands unencumbered, perfect for spontaneous photo sessions or map consultations.
A personal note: On a recent quest for the perfect backpack, a friend introduced me to Tropicfeel’s range. I was particularly smitten by their Shell backpack. With its optimal size and ergonomic design, it promises to be an indispensable asset for long-term voyages.
Venice Packing List – General clothing
Given Venice’s often unpredictable weather, being prepared is key.
Venice Packing List – Shoes
Venice packing list – Documents and miscellaneous
Important
Electronics
Toiletry bag and first aid kit
Journeys, no matter how well-planned, can present unforeseen challenges. Being equipped with travel-sized toiletries ensures you remain refreshed, irrespective of your itinerary’s pace. Essentials that deserve a spot in your travel kit include sunblock, which shields you from the intense Venetian sun, hand sanitizer for those moments when cleanliness is paramount, and an assortment of medications such as aspirin and acetaminophen to counter any unexpected malaise.
Venice packing list – Photo equipment
Venice, with its rich tapestry of history, art, and culture, offers countless photographic moments. Depending on your camera preference, be it APS-C or DSLR, it’s crucial to have the appropriate camera body, compatible lenses, and essential charging apparatus. To truly encapsulate Venice’s essence, consider packing a diverse range of lenses. And of course, certain tools are non-negotiable for the photography enthusiast: a sturdy yet lightweight travel tripod, a set of varied lens filters, a meticulous camera cleaning kit, and ample memory storage in the form of reliable memory cards.
For APS-C photo camera
For DSLR photo camera
General photographic equipment
Venice climate
Venice’s climate is a gentle reminder of its Italian heritage, yet it offers its own set of idiosyncrasies. Winters, while not harsh, hover in the brisk range of 0°C-7°C. Contrastingly, the transitional seasons present a more temperate climate, especially with temperatures dancing between 16°C and 19°C. For those wishing to experience Venice in its full glory, spring and early autumn stand out as ideal choices. However, a word of caution for summer enthusiasts: the season, while vibrant, brings with it oppressive humidity levels. And for those visiting in mid-autumn, be prepared to witness the theatricality of Venice’s famed “Acqua Alta,” where rising waters flirt with the city’s edges.
For those wishing to experience Venice in its full glory, spring and early autumn stand out as ideal choices. However, a word of caution for summer enthusiasts: the season, while vibrant, brings with it oppressive humidity levels. And for those visiting in mid-autumn, be prepared to witness the theatricality of Venice’s famed “Acqua Alta,” where rising waters flirt with the city’s edges.
More about the flood in Venice can be found here:
General tips for Venice can be found here:
Venice packing list – Frequently Asked Questions
What clothes should I take with me in the summer?
Humidity can increase the feeling of heat, so light clothing, a hat and glasses with dark lenses are preferable for protection from the sun’s rays.
In the summer, I recommend you bring light and airy summer clothes. The sun can get very strong, so a head covering is helpful – and protects against sunstroke! Remember to bring sunscreen as well. A light rain jacket or water-repellent softshell jacket to protect you from wind and summer rain is also recommended.
What clothes are suitable for Venice in winter?
The temperatures in Venice in winter do not drop below zero, but the cold can be severe, especially if you take the gondola or the vaporetto. I recommend typical winter clothing, with a windbreaker and waterproof shoes.
What clothes do I wear in spring and autumn?
In autumn and spring, classic “onion” clothing with waterproof footwear and jackets is recommended to brave the unpredictable temperatures and rain.
What ID do I need in Venice?
If you have EU citizenship, you only need to bring a valid identity card. Otherwise you will need to take your passport with you, eventually with a valid visa, if you need one to enter Italy.
As with any trip abroad, I recommend that you take a copy of your ID with you on your trip to Venice. In case of loss, a new ID card can be issued much faster.
What to Avoid Packing for Venice
An umbrella: Some alleys in Venice are so narrow that I couldn’t carry an umbrella openly there; besides, any encounter with other umbrella-carriers is problematic.
A large water bottle: Venice is a special city, but still quite normally supplied with supermarkets; I take only a 0.5 bottle with me and fill it up at the many fountains around the city; food I can either buy to-go or buy in one of the many supermarkets.
What else do I need to know?
For more insights on Venice, delve into my articles on “Acqua Alta in Venice” and general “Venice Tips” as well as “Safety Tips for Venice“. Safe travels and happy packing!