I've heard conflicing opinions: moody and magical versus gloomy and dreary. Any thoughts? Also, has anyone stayed at Il Palazzo at the Bauer?

You may want to do a search for Christmas in Venice on this board. That topic has been talked about many times.

I've never been in December, but a friend of mine who lived there said that during the winter it is downright depressing. I don't know. My parents are coming for Christmas as well, and I think we are going to avoid Venice in favor of Florence.

Will it be your first time in Venice?

I think it'll be quiet, not as exciting as Rome or Florence. My family and I will actually be in Venice this year for Christmas before moving on to Florence and Rome.

Jackie in Italy - not trying to usurp maggiep's post but I posted a message today looking for your advice on a spring trip to Le Marche. If you can help that would be great. Ciao

I was there on Boxing Day a few years ago & was the coldest I've ever been. On the mainland it was bright & sunny although cold; but out in the lagoon it was overcast and extremely cold. We were staying in the Dolomites but I think it felt colder in Venice because it was a damp cold. We had to keep going into cafes to thaw out between short bursts of walking.

And there was still a queue to go round St Mark's.