We will be visiting Venice later in the week to begin our Italian vacation. During the two days we will be there, it appears we will experience some high tides (~100 cm).
Advice on websites say not to worry too much, just bring shoes that can handle water. The best thing I have now are hiking sandals. Will I (or my girlfriend :)) be overly disgusted by the tide water on my feet or would this be an appropriate way to visit the city.
The monthly high-tide cycle doesn't necessarily mean that flooding will occur. Serious flooding occurs by a phenomena of strong winds blowing north from Africa, and "physically" blowing the water ashore. It's typically not a big problem this time of year.
the aqua alta usually occurs in the winter months...just came back from venice yesterday...had real nice weather...quite hot during the day but real nice in the evening...
I wouldn't worry about the high water. The aqua alta usually occurs in Jan. or Feb. You won't have to deal with it in May unless it is an extreme situation.
donna
My husband and I were in Venice in Oct/Nov 2003 and we did experience some high tides. It flooded a little bit (a couple of inches in some places) for a couple of hours in the morning and then it receded. It really only affected some of the lower areas like St Mark's Square. There was a lot of Venice that was fine even when the flooding was occuring. Even in St Mark's Square the city was prepared and they put risers out for people to stand on while they were waiting in line. It was not a big deal for us at all, we barely noticed it.
Yep, it certainly wasn't a problem. St Mark's and some assorted "drains" were the only places where it was noticeable, and well short of a problem. At St Mark's they simply redirected the line around the puddles. I was surprised a little to see it actually accumulating in the church itself, though I guess I don't know why...
Thanks for reporting back with what you found. That's really helpful to know.
