image via
Once a year, the city of Venice in Italy transforms into a giant costumed party for everyone to attend. The Venice Carnival takes place just before Easter, and lasts for two weeks. It features a plethora of public and private events, shows, competitions, and activities. Here’s our guide to navigating your way through the Venice Carnival like a pro.
image via
If you are traveling to Venice from outside of Italy, you can fly directly into Venice International Airport, which is one of the largest airports in the country. From within Italy, trains, buses, and planes are all easy and relatively inexpensive options for transport.
image via
Most of the activities related to the Venice Carnival happen in or around St. Mark’s Square. Proximity to this means you’re always a few steps away from the action, but it also means you are likely to spend more money as hotels near to the square are the most coveted during the festivities. We recommend that you book your accommodation as early as possible—even a year in advance—in order to find the best deals for your trip. We like Air BnB, as it offers a lot of great options at a variety of price points, all with the added bonus of being able to experience what living in Italy is really like.
image via
When you are in Venice during the Carnival, you will see people in costume everywhere you look. Most costumes are traditionally Venetian in that they feature Venetian masquerade masks and traditional capes or gowns. However, many people use the Carnival as an opportunity to dress up in interesting, colorful outfits that are not necessarily related to the theme of the Carnival, while others simply wear regular clothes with the addition of just a masquerade mask. The Venice Carnival is supposed to be a fun, relaxed experience, so wear whatever you feel most comfortable in. Our tip: at the very least wear a mask—you’ll fit right in and feel like you are part of the festivities!
image via
When you are in Venice during the Carnival, you will see people in costume everywhere you look. Most costumes are traditionally Venetian in that they feature Venetian masquerade masks and traditional capes or gowns. However, many people use the Carnival as an opportunity to dress up in interesting, colorful outfits that are not necessarily related to the theme of the Carnival, while others simply wear regular clothes with the addition of just a masquerade mask. The Venice Carnival is supposed to be a fun, relaxed experience, so wear whatever you feel most comfortable in. Our tip: at the very least wear a mask—you’ll fit right in and feel like you are part of the festivities!
image via
Most of the events held during the Carnival are free to attend. However, there are several private events—beautiful masquerade balls and dinners—that require payment, which are often expensive (hundreds of dollars per person). The official Venice Carnival website lists all of the events (both public and private) along with their corresponding dates and costs so you can decide which events you would like to attend according to your schedule and budget.
image via
Yes! Here’s a few extra tips to help you navigate your way through one of Europe’s most exciting festivals:
Most importantly, have fun and don’t let the crowds stress you out! The Venice Carnival is a wonderful experience, and being around lots of different people is just a part of that.