Christmas in Venice has something very special and unique, different from any other city in the world. You won't find massive amounts of decoration pieces in windows on houses, instead you will see magnificent places that normally you won't see at home.
You will be amazed by the brightly painted red boat/gondola carrying Santa down the canal lit up with many magical lights. Christmas trees are usually small and skinny.
This is true due to the fact that they are usually brought home in small boats (not cars) and then carried up several flights of stairs. Disposing of Christmas trees in Venice is a highly specialized trade, almost a science.
One of the best ways to spend Christmas Eve in Venice is to attend the midnight mass at St. Mark's Basilica. The midnight mass starts at 10:30 p.m. and you should get there early to get a seat (no tickets needed).
North entrance is usually a better choice as west entrance is often used by tourists and crowded. The square is fully lit with lights and the cool brisk air adds magic to the atmosphere, the canal water is splashing away in the background.
In Piazza San Marco, the famous caf? "Caff? Florian" is open on Christmas Day. A good place for Christmas breakfast and coffee in the morning! Each year on December 26th, the Frari Church in San Polo (in Campo dei Frari) offers a free concert at 4:00 p.m.
The church is loaded with impressive art, here is where you will find Titian's Assumption of the Virgin, a carved monk's chair from 1468 and Canova's Tomb. The music is amazing. Get there early and dress warmly. The Christmas services differ from church to church. The larger ones are well worth seeing whatever your religion is.
During the days leading up to Christmas and the day after, there are many markets around the Rialto Bridge area. Some propose antiques, others foods and spices from all over Italy and souvenirs from Venice you would buy as presents and bring home to your loved ones.
Parents carrying their children on the shoulders or in their arms pointing and smiling and the overall Venice Christmas atmosphere make this site worth a stroll.
Sometimes it seems as though even more places are closed on December 26th than on the 25th. It is best to plan ahead and make Dinner reservations for your Christmas.
During Christmas season the weather varies a lot, cloudy days with mild temperatures or brilliant blue skies are usual. The air is generally crystal clear and brisk. On these days, Venice is just perfectly reflected in the water.
Venice is definitely the best place where to be to spend a "magic" and unique Christmas!!