Villas and palazzi for Christmas in Venice
Venice in winter belongs to those who stay. The day visitors thin out, mist softens the domes across the lagoon, and the city falls quiet enough to hear oars on the canals. Christmas brings Mass beneath the gold mosaics of San Marco, and New Year is greeted with fireworks over the water in front of the Doge's Palace.
The 22 homes below include a 15th century palazzo on the Grand Canal between Rialto and San Marco, with its own pontoon for boats and gondolas and 14 bedrooms for a family gathering. A late 19th century house built for a German prince has a private garden on the Grand Canal and a resident cook, and on the Canale San Pietro stands a four storey house painted by Canaletto and Guardi.
At a glance
- 22 private villas
- From 1 to 14 bedrooms
- Up to 26 guests in one villa
- 2 with sea views
- 4 with a cook or staff
- Availability and price on request, reply within one working day
From Marco Polo airport, a water taxi crosses the lagoon in around half an hour and can stop at a palazzo's own water gate.
Acqua alta is most likely between late autumn and winter; flood barriers now protect the city in most cases, but waterproof boots are wise.
On Epiphany, rowers dressed as the Befana race along the Grand Canal, one of the most Venetian ways to close the holidays.
Choose your villa
Add up to five villas to your list and send one request with your dates: we confirm availability and price with each owner.
Positions are approximate: the exact address is shared once your stay is confirmed.
Questions before you choose
Is Venice cold at Christmas?
It is damp and cool rather than bitterly cold, with frequent fog and short days. Warm layers and good shoes are more useful than heavy winter gear.
How do we reach a palazzo with our luggage?
A water taxi from the airport or from Santa Lucia station can bring you to the door when a house has a water entrance; otherwise porters can carry bags over the bridges.
How do we reserve for Christmas and New Year?
Early, as festive dates are the first to go. Send one enquiry for up to five homes; we check each owner's availability, price and minimum stay and reply within one working day.