Easter in Venice: Where culture meets spirituality

Easter, one of the most significant holidays for Italians, represents a time of reflection, rebirth, and celebration. It brings together faith, family, and food in an embrace deeply rooted in centuries-old traditions. In Venice, with its timeless charm, Easter takes on a unique atmosphere, blending rituals that tell ancient stories with a setting that combines spirituality and beauty.

The Easter traditions in Venice:
between the sacred and the profane

In Italy, Easter is synonymous with solemnity and shared joy. Families gather, the faithful attend Easter Mass, and many cities host processions steeped in history and tradition. Venice, with its unique blend of the sacred and the profane, celebrates this holiday through ceremonies that reflect its extraordinary past.

One of the most evocative celebrations is the Easter Mass held in the magnificent St Mark’s Basilica—an event that seamlessly combines the city's splendour with the deep spirituality of the occasion.

Venice also preserves age-old customs, such as the blessing of the boats. In the past, fishermen would bring their vessels before the churches to rece

special Easter blessing, a tradition believed to bring good fortune for the fishing season. Today, this practice survives in a symbolic form on the island of Burano.

Another fascinating tradition is the Venetian Easter Egg. During the golden age of the Serenissima, noble families exchanged intricately decorated eggs, often adorned with gold detailing and miniature depictions of the city. Today, this heritage is kept alive by artisans, who craft exquisite chocolate eggs decorated with delicate gold leaf.

The ancient flavours of Venetian Easter

Easter in Venice is not only a time of spiritual reflection but also an extraordinary culinary experience, distinguished by traditional flavours and recipes passed down through generations. Among the most beloved treats is the fugassa veneziana, a soft and fragrant sweet bread. While it may resemble the classic Easter dove (colomba), this version is uniquely tied to the Venetian lagoon’s traditions. Round like the springtime sun, the fugassa marks the end of Lent and symbolises renewal, making every bite a taste of new beginnings.

Beyond the fugassa, there are other traditional delights that grace the Easter table. The pevarine di Pasqua—small spiced biscuits flavoured with black pepper and cinnamon—were particularly favoured by Venetian merchants in the 18th century, who carried them on long sea voyages. Hard-boiled eggs, dyed with onion skins and beetroot, also play a role in Venetian Easter customs, adding vibrant colour and deeper meaning to the festivities.

Easter Monday in the Lagoon:
perfect destinations for an outdoor escape

While Easter Sunday is a time for spiritual reflection and family intimacy, Pasquetta—Easter Monday—offers the perfect opportunity to embrace the beauty of the Venetian Lagoon with an outdoor excursion. Among the most enchanting destinations is Sant’Erasmo, known as Venice’s vegetable garden. With its lush fields and the famous violet artichoke, it provides an ideal retreat for those seeking a genuine connection with nature.

Equally captivating are the islands of Murano and Burano, where brightly coloured houses and artisan workshops create a picturesque setting filled with charm. For those who long for the sea, the Lido of Venice, with its long and tranquil beaches, offers the perfect setting for a relaxing stroll along the shore.

In the past, families and friends would gather on the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore for a picnic, enjoying simple yet delicious dishes such as herb pies and dyed hard-boiled eggs. Today, Easter Monday in the lagoon remains a wonderful occasion to rediscover Venice’s timeless beauty, whether through a leisurely boat trip or shared moments of conviviality that make the day truly special.

Experience Easter in an oasis of elegance 

To fully embrace the magic of Easter in Venice, there is no better place than Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort. Here, the city’s timeless charm meets the luxury and comfort of an exclusive retreat, where every detail is designed to make your stay unforgettable.

After wandering through the city’s alleys, steeped in the spirituality of the season, and indulging in Venice’s culinary traditions, you can unwind in our oasis of elegance on the Lido, surrounded by tranquillity and beauty.

Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of spring, with breathtaking views of the Adriatic and the warmth of refined hospitality.