We are trying again to re-schedule a trip to venice and florence that has been postponed due to health reasons.

able to go first week or so in May or First week or so in October. which is generally less crowded and difference in weather.

realize more flowers in spring? much in the way of flowers in venice? never see much in pictures

thanks

We usually travel in either May or September. I prefer fall since the weather seems to be more predictable, and on average there's less rain. Venice at the end of September last year was beautiful. Flower in pots were still blooming.

Hi Joanel, I have been to both places in both months and times you mention.

I think there are pro and cons for each month. Venice can by October get rain and fantastic electrical storms. May can get spring showers and with that can be a bit cold. But not often for too long.

Florence in May, once it rained for three days straight (but I bought the most beautiful umbrella with a sterling silver handle and a soft Florentine case) which I do not like to use in rain as I don't want it to get ruined, LOL.

IMHO either month you chose will be wonderful.

And BTW, October is a great time to enjoy the mushrooms (fungi). That is a plus! But the flowers in May are so beautiful!

Whatever you decide have a wonderful time.

Joanel, I have found the crowds to be less in late October. I've been to both places both months and found May to be way too crowded. Last May, the flowers were lovely but too many folks!

There are flowers aplenty in Venice, but they are mostly in flower boxes that Venetians hang from their windows or balconies. Mostly geraniums, they are as likely to be in bloom in early October as in early May.

Wildflowers hardly exist -- if at all -- in Venice, which is after all a city with very limited land space.

My suggestion would be to go in early October for one very practical reason: The hotel you want is more likely to be fully booked for early May; your chances would be better for early October.

As for weather, I have been in Venice in both months and do not recall there being much difference between them. In early October, you are unlikely to encounter acqua alta.

Tourists, I'm afraid, are a given in Venice; you'll find as many in October as in May, and vice-versa.

thanks for info. will decide in a few months as this trip is for 2006.