When Does Venice Flood?

Seasonal high tides in Venice are called the Acqua Alta (high water)

Tourists shelter from the rain near the Piazza San Marco.

Venice is most likely to flood during November and December. However, it is generally likely to flood anytime between October and March. Flooding can happen in the summer as well, but it's less likely. About 50 times a year the Acqua Alta reaches 80cm at which point it can flood low-lying areas like Piazza San Marco. These low lying public spaces make up about .1% of the city. Around 4 times a year the high tide reaches above 110cm flooding 14% of public areas.

Venice is not flooded all winter and the city can be less crowded with tourists in the later fall and winter months. Much of the city is unaffected during the Acqua Alta and raised walkways are put up in areas of intense flooding.

Tips to avoid flooding in Venice all together:

• Book your trip for late spring or summer. Bear in mind that there may be more tourists at this time of year.

• Book refundable a or changeable hotel. Consider this particularly during November and December when the Acqua Alta is most likely.

• Book a hotel that isn't in a low-lying area. Piazza San Marco is the lowest part of the city. The southern edge of Dorsoduro is also likely to flood and its sidewalks splashed with waves.

• Check the Venice's official website for weather updates and tide calendar

• Download the tide calendar here (this will take you to the official Venice website)

• See tide reports on the telegram channel @centromareevenezia_bot

• Check the weather regularly as your trip nears

Nathaniel and I have visited Venice in October and February and the tide was not high at either time. That isn't to say that's always the case, but you do not need to fear the Acqua Alta! Venice is beautiful in the winter and I highly recommend going when there are fewer tourists, in late fall, winter, and spring.