High Water, Alta Acqua

Acqua Alta, when the tide rises and floods lower areas of Venice (usually around St Mark’s Square) is a natural and seasonal occurence.

When this happens, teams of workers placed raise platforms along most of the affected routes to enable people to continue moving around the city (see image below).

How long does Acqua Alta last in Venice?

Acqua Alta usually only lasts a few hours and happens mostly in winter.

Should you be worried? No. In the areas most affected (usually around St Mark’s Square as it’s the lowest part of Venice), raised wooden walkways are put up for people to walk on.

Should bring waterproof or Wellington/rubber boots?
If you are happy to purchase waterproof over shoes (sold in many Venice stores), then no.

Should you be in Venice when there’s a high tide you will find many shops sells waterproof over shoes, rain capes. If you wish, you can find a store that sells rubber boots.