My wife and I both like either end of April to end of May or mid September to end of October as being usually pleasant but not over hot. There is always, at any time of the year, a chance of some rain in Venice.

Peak tourist time is end of May to mid September when Venice is always crowded, both with day visitors and longer stay visitors.

We got back from Venice on Friday, 3 June after a week there. It was unusually hot, hitting 32C (=90F) on a couple of days but at least there was no rain at all. Saving grace was we were able to eat our evening meal outdoors on the canalside every evening.

Although you may feel it is perhaps taking it a bit too far we always enjoy the last two weeks of January. It may be cold and misty but is can also be very beautiful. There are significantly less tourists and most of the restaurants are open, the city is gearing up for carnival. You will have no problem visiting anywhere, hotel rooms will be cheaper and most of the shops are open, the owners will be delighted to see you.

Murray