Italy Veneto

Venice

A historic, canal-laced city in northeastern Italy, known for its unique waterways, gondolas, and grand architecture, notably St. Mark's Basilica.

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Carnival Dates: February 12, 2022 to March 1, 2022 Europe is home to some of the best winter festivals around the world, and Venice is no exception. The predecessor to nearly every other Lentian Carnival celebration, the Venetians have been partying in the street since 1162, when they celebrated the victory of the Republic of Venice, by dancing in San Marco Square. It became an official holiday in Venice in 1296, and at its peak in the 17th century, festivities lasted six weeks, from December 26 to Ash Wednesday. Venetian Carnevale may be best know for a tradition that was once outlawed. The use of intricate masks was originally a way that revelers could remain anonymous, relieving them of the strict behavioural rules of their social classes so they could really let loose. However, the masks also led to an increase in crime, so they were first banned at night in the 1300s, then completely in 1797, with the the exception of at private parties at the Venetian palaces. In the 1930s, Mussolini banned carnival festivities completely and Carnevale nearly died out, however in 1967, a group of Venetian artists got together and revived the celebrations, along with the ancient art of mask-making.
Now, nearly 3 million people travel to Venice every year for Carnevale to join this ancient celebration of freedom with street performances, traditional costumes, and the highly anticipated extravagant masquerade balls. If you love an elegant soiree with no rules, Carnevale needs to be on your travel list.

marisamegan 5 years ago

Head to Venice to celebrate NYE in style on St. Mark’s Square, and you may not see the most extravagant fireworks in the world, but you will get the most romantic setting in the world. In our books, that’s just as unforgettable. Venice is a magical place to visit at any time of year, but it is absolutely enchanting on NYE as tourists and locals alike descend on the most famous and atmospheric piazza of all to bring in the New Year with fireworks, champagne, and live performances. The city really plays up its reputation, holding a ‘love party’ on St. Mark’s from 9pm onwards and live gigs to keep the crowds entertained until just before midnight. As is customary, you’ll have to hug and kiss those nearest to you at the strike of the midnight clock before settling in for an atmospheric show that lights up the whole harbor. Want an epic Venice New Year’s Eve fireworks show without the crowds? Book a dinner cruise for Capodanno and you’ll (almost) feel like you have that magnificent lagoon all to yourself. Bars and restaurants stay open until the wee hours of the morning so if your stamina holds up to the challenge, you could watch the sunrise over St. Mark’s Square as well. Magical much?

laurastraveltales 5 years ago

When: February 12, 2022 to March 1, 2022 Venice is special at the best of times, but during Carnival Festival, it’s like stepping into another world of elegance, color, and fun. The festival lasts two weeks and signals the end of winter. While it’s a fun-packed fortnight, there are a few events within the two weeks that you don’t want to miss. First, the Water Parade, where brightly decorated boats sail down Rio di Cannaregio in a stunning display, and then the party really starts when the food stalls and music get going. Next, you’ll want to catch the Festa delle Marie, which is on the second Sunday and features the costumed procession that the carnival is most famous for. This is where you’ll see those incredible outfits and masks as they travel from Garibaldi to Piazza San Marco. Finally, the Flight of the Angel, also on the second Sunday, sees a rope angel fly up to the doge, an impressive acrobatic display that rounds off the fun.

booksandbao 5 years ago

Everyone knows how it goes: hop in a gondola, devour a Cornetto, propose to your travel partner. Cheesy, huh? Well tough, because it’s one of the most important things to do in Italy. Alternatively, you could get that gondolier to weave through the old waterways and up the Grand Canal, taking in the Doge’s Palace and the handsome arches of the Rialto Bridge as you go. For a break, head over to the district of Murano, where glass blowers have been making artisan goodies for centuries. 

jrfrancis 6 years ago

The first international city we ever visited back in 2002. Went back this year and loved it. Did two early morning photo walks and got some great stuff.

jimbellomo 4 years ago

Venice Guides