Venice Carnival: must-knows

The Venice Carnival is one of the city’s most significant and enchanting events, steeped in centuries-old tradition. It’s an experience you must have at least once in your lifetime.

Here are some tips to make the most of the Venice Carnival.

BOOK YOUR HOTEL ROOM IN ADVANCE

The first tip concerns accommodation. During the Carnival, Venice is bustling with visitors, making it challenging to find available rooms. Therefore, we recommend booking your stay well in advance.

By booking from our site you also get the best rate on the web!

WEAR A MASK OR A COSTUME

Donning a costume or mask is a must. If you dream of wearing a traditional Venetian outfit, you can rent one from numerous ateliers in the city. Though renting a traditional costume can be pricey, costing several hundred euros for a day, it’s a worthwhile splurge. However, it’s not mandatory to go all out—wearing just a mask or a different costume is perfectly fine.

Like in the past, you can transform into anyone you desire for a day.

EAT VENETIAN FRITTELLE

Visiting Venice during the Carnival? You can’t miss tasting a frittella. A Venetian frittella is a delicious fried doughnut studded with raisins. If raisins aren’t your thing, try the ones filled with cream or chocolate, but don’t skip the zabaione-filled version. Numerous patisseries in Venice offer these treats, and we can recommend the best places to find them.

EXPERIENCE THE UNIQUE ATMOSPHERE OF A TIMELESS CITY

Venice is globally renowned for its Carnival, and with good reason. Centuries ago, Venice was known as a city of indulgence, where people could adopt new identities for up to six months. During the day, the city is lively, but at night, Venice transforms. Darkness envelops the city, and figures in traditional costumes appear in the deserted streets.

It feels like stepping back in time and seeing the city as it once was.

ATTEND THE FLIGHT OF THE ANGEL

A highlight of the Carnival is the Flight of the Angel, or Volo dell’Angelo, an event that dates back to the period of the Serenissima Republic.

The event takes place in St. Mark’s Square at noon, but it’s best to arrive around 11 am. A young woman descends from the bell tower to the center of the square, officially kicking off the Venice Carnival.