Exploring the Magic of Venice During Carnival

Things to do in Venice during Carnival

• Attend a masked ball: Venice’s Carnival is famous for its opulent masked balls. These exclusive events, such as the Ballo del Doge, offer an unforgettable evening of music, dance and elaborate costumes. Ensure to book tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

• Explore St. Mark’s Basilica: One of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, St. Mark’s Basilica, is a must-visit. Its stunning mosaics and architecture are even more captivating during the festive period.

• Wander through the Venetian canals: Taking a gondola ride through Venice’s labyrinthine canals provides a unique perspective of the city. The experience is enhanced during Carnival as the canals are alive with festivities.

• Visit Murano & Burano: Many tourists head to Murano for its renowned glass-blowing demonstrations, but don’t miss Burano. This island is famous for its brightly colored houses and intricate lace-making. Both islands offer a picturesque escape from the bustling main city.

• Try Squid Ink Risotto at Antiche Carampane: Indulge in traditional Venetian cuisine at Antiche Carampane. Their squid ink risotto is a local delicacy and a must-try for any visitor looking to experience authentic Venetian flavors.

• Participate in the Flight of the Angel: A highlight of the Carnival, the Flight of the Angel, involves a costumed performer descending from St. Mark’s Campanile to the square below. This event marks the official opening of Carnival and is a spectacular sight.

• Explore the Rialto Market: For a taste of local life, visit the Rialto Market. Here, you can sample fresh seafood, seasonal produce and other Venetian specialties. It’s an excellent spot for food lovers.

• Experience Venetian Mask-Making Workshops: Immerse yourself in the tradition of mask-making by attending a workshop. Learn from local artisans and create your own unique mask as a souvenir of your trip.

• Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection: For art enthusiasts, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a must-see. This modern art museum is housed in a former palace on the Grand Canal and offers a serene escape from the Carnival crowds.

• Take a Ferry to Lido di Venezia: Escape the Carnival hustle with a trip to Lido di Venezia, known for its beaches and Art Nouveau architecture. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a different side of Venice.

Insider tips

• Book accommodations early: Venice gets incredibly crowded during Carnival, so book your stay well in advance.

• Dress comfortably: While costumes are a big part of the fun, ensure you have comfortable walking shoes, as Venice is best explored on foot.

• Use Vaporetto passes: Invest in a Vaporetto pass, which allows unlimited use of water buses. It’s the most convenient way to get around the city and nearby islands.

Experiencing Venice during Carnival is like stepping into a magical, historical painting. From the grand masked balls to the intimate alleys of Burano, every moment is filled with cultural richness and beauty. Enjoy the diversity of experiences and flavors that this unique city has to offer.

Breakfast

• Pasticceria Tonolo: Start your day with delicious pastries and a cappuccino at Pasticceria Tonolo, one of Venice’s most beloved bakeries. Their fresh croissants and cream-filled treats are a local favorite.

• Rosa Salva: A historic café that has been serving Venetians since 1879, Rosa Salva offers a delightful selection of pastries and traditional Italian coffee. Perfect for a quick breakfast before exploring the city.

Lunch & dinner

• Antiche Carampane: Known for its authentic Venetian cuisine, Antiche Carampane is a must-visit. Their squid ink risotto is a local delicacy, and the cozy, rustic ambiance adds to the dining experience.

• Trattoria da Romano: Located on the island of Burano, Trattoria da Romano is famous for its seafood risotto. The colorful setting of Burano adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.

• Osteria alle Testiere: A small, intimate restaurant that’s popular among locals and tourists alike, Osteria alle Testiere offers fresh seafood dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. Reservations are recommended.

• Ristorante Quadri: Located in St. Mark’s Square, Ristorante Quadri offers a fine dining experience with stunning views. Their menu features both traditional and innovative Venetian dishes, providing a memorable culinary experience.

Drinks & aperitivo

• Harry’s Bar: Famous for inventing the Bellini, Harry’s Bar is a Venice institution. Enjoy a classic Bellini or a Negroni, and soak in the historic atmosphere of this legendary bar.

• Caffè Florian: Located in St. Mark’s Square, Caffè Florian is one of the oldest cafes in the world. Enjoy an aperitivo with complimentary snacks while listening to live music in the square.

Aperitivo spots

• Cantina Do Mori: One of the oldest bacari (wine bars) in Venice, Cantina Do Mori offers a fantastic selection of wines and cicchetti (Venetian tapas). Perfect for a pre-dinner snack and drink.

• Osteria Al Squero: Overlooking a gondola workshop, Osteria Al Squero serves a variety of delicious cicchetti. Pair them with a glass of local wine or a spritz for a classic Venetian aperitivo experience.

Insider tips

• Italian aperitivo: A beloved Italian tradition, aperitivo is a pre-dinner drink that comes with complimentary snacks. Many bars in Venice serve generous portions of cicchetti during aperitivo hours, making it possible to enjoy a light meal on a budget.

• Squid ink risotto: A local delicacy, squid ink risotto is a must-try when in Venice. Look for it on menus at traditional Venetian restaurants for an authentic taste of the city.

• Reservations: Popular restaurants and bars can get crowded, especially during Carnival. It’s wise to make reservations in advance to secure a table.

• Local markets: Visit the Rialto Market for fresh produce and seafood. It’s a great spot to pick up ingredients for a picnic or simply to enjoy the vibrant market atmosphere.

Experiencing Venice’s culinary scene is as rich and diverse as its history. From iconic establishments to hidden gems, there’s something to delight every palate in this enchanting city.