Get your most extravagant masks! The Venice Carnival will be held from February 22 to March 4, 2025. And a pre-carnival kicks off on February 14 ! Ask for the program!
This emblematic event, celebrated since the 10th century, transforms the City of the Doges into an open-air theater. Come and mingle with this elegantly costumed crowd, where history, culture and festivities intertwine in the heart of the Serenissima. Do you dream of slipping behind a wolf and donning a princely gown? Then here's everything you need to know about the Venice Carnival 2025.
What is the Venice Carnival?
The Venice Carnival ranks brilliantly among the Top 10 must-see carnivals. It's a centuries-old tradition in which participants wear sumptuous costumes and elaborate masks. The atmosphere in the city's alleyways and squares is unique and timeless. Most of the festivities take place in and around Piazza San Marco, but the whole city vibrates to the rhythm of Carnival.
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What's on?
The Carnival program features a number of major events, including:
- The Festival of the Brides, featuring a parade honoring the most beautiful young girls in Venice.
- The Flight of the Angel, represented by a spectacular descent from the Campanile of San Marco.
- The most beautiful costume contest, held daily in Piazza San Marco.
Masked balls, street performances and mask-making workshops complete the colorful program.
How to get to the event
For an environmentally-friendly journey, take the train. From France, direct connections or connections via Milan or Turin take you to Venezia Santa Lucia station, ideally located in the heart of the city. This option allows you to avoid the inconvenience of air travel and enjoy the Italian countryside along the way.
Activities to book gondola tour of the Grand Canal with live commentary! Book your activity here.
Practical tips
Due to the large number of visitors during Carnival, we recommend that you book your transport and accommodation several months in advance. And to make the most of the entertainment, consider renting or buying traditional costumes. Many Venetian boutiques and workshops offer these services. Finally, walking remains the best way to discover Venice. Bring comfortable shoes and familiarize yourself with the vaporetto network for longer journeys.
Where to stay in Venice during Carnival?
Here are three hotels recommended by Le Petit Futé, among the best hotels in Venice, for their comfort and proximity to the Venice Carnival festivities:
- Le Centurion Palace: a luxury hotel par excellence. It offers a premium experience and perfect service to its guests. If you are interested in this hotel, click here to to book your room!
- The Al Campanile Madonna Dell'Orto hotel is ideal for a relaxing vacation. Click here to see to check availability!
- Hotel Al Vagon offers great value for money. Some rooms even overlook a small canal. If you'd like to find out more, please click here !
Good to know these hotels offer privileged access to the main carnival attractions and festivities, as well as inspiring surroundings.
What to visit in Venice during Carnival?
Make the most of your stay by discovering emblematic sites such as :
- Saint Mark's Basilica: a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
- Doge's Palace : former residence of Venetian rulers.
- Rialto Bridge : one of Venice's most famous bridges.
Things to do make sure you don't miss out on a visit to the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica by booking your guided tour tickets now.
What's free in Venice during Carnival?
Are you on a tight budget? Renowned for its charm and history, Venice is also home to many free activities that give you the chance to discover the city without spending a fortune. Here are a few suggestions on how to get the most out of the Serenissima at no cost to you.
Stroll through authentic neighborhoods
The Cannaregio and Dorsoduro districts are less frequented by tourists. If you're visiting Venice in 3 days, don't miss them! As you stroll through them, you're immediately caught up in the magic of everyday Venetian life. Their winding lanes, peaceful canals and picturesque squares reveal the authentic soul of the city.
Visit remarkable churches
Numerous Venetian churches open their doors to visitors free of charge, revealing artistic and architectural treasures. These include
- The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, built in the 17th century. This Baroque church impresses with its majestic dome and its location on the banks of the Grand Canal.
- The Church of San Pantalon is famous for its ceiling adorned with an immense canvas depicting the Assumption, the work of Giovanni Antonio Fumiani.
- And thechurch of the Madonna dell'Orto, located in the Cannaregio district, is home to works by the famous painter Tintoretto.
Street entertainment
During Venice Carnival, the city comes alive with street performances, mask parades and open-air concerts. These festivities create a unique and joyful atmosphere. And spectators can enjoy them for free!
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Stroll the local markets during Venice Carnival
The Rialto market is a must for discovering fresh, local produce. Strolling through the stalls will allow you to soak up the flavors and colors of Venetian cuisine.
Discover historic sites in the open air
Raise your nose and admire the sublime façades of the buildings and when you cross Venice, pass by :
- The Bridge of Sighs, which links the Doge's Palace to the old prisons. You can contemplate it from the outside. It reveals the history of the city.
- The Rialto Bridge, the first bridge built over the Grand Canal, offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding palaces and the bustling canal.
Relax in the public gardens
What if you visited Venice in a different way? The Giardini della Biennale and the Papadopoli gardens are havens of peace where you can relax and enjoy the greenery and tranquillity, far from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
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What are the world's most beautiful carnivals?
In addition to Venice, other famous carnivals are well worth a visit:
- Rio de Janeiro Carnival: renowned for its samba parades and festive atmosphere.
- Carnaval de La Nouvelle-Orléans (Mardi Gras): famous for its colorful parades and unique traditions.
- Basel Carnival: Switzerland's biggest carnival, with illuminated lanterns and musical processions.
Venice Carnival 2025 takes place from February 14 to March 4. It's the perfect opportunity to go on an adventure and play hide-and-seek behind sublime masks. Don't miss this atypical getaway! To find out more about upcoming festivals, check out our calendar of events.
