The Venice Carnival is one of the most famous celebrations, not only in Italy but worldwide. This pagan festival dates back to the fifteenth century, but the tradition began to be held in the early fourteenth. During these early years of the carnival the Venetian masks could be used only at night, but over time the carnival attracted many people from across Europe, including people of the royalty, who came to the city of canals and spent large fortunes.

The Venetian Carnival has nothing to do with other carnival celebrations, such as the carnivals of Brazil, Cadiz or the Canary Islands. This is an elegant and distinguished party where people dress up with beautiful masks and costumes and stroll throughout the streets in impromptu parades. Everything seems as if it were out of a Canaletto painting, where the canals, the gondolas, and the handsome strollers give the city a fairytale aspect.

The Venice Carnival is not only noted for its elegance but for its distinction, too. Throughout the whole city many parties, dances and private events are held – some of the entrance fees cost around € 500.

This year the carnival will be held from the 6th to the 16th February and is entitled “Sensation: 6 sense for 6 sestieri” which will focus on the senses. On the streets there is a festive and special atmosphere, and the tourists and the locals can enjoy the carnival groups, known as “Compagnie della Calza”. People can also enjoy other festivals such as the Feast of Mary, the historical parades or the Drag Queen show in the iconic Piazza San Marco.

The most magical night of the carnival is held at the Pisani Moretta Palace under by candlelight overlooking the Grand Canal. This palace is an Italian gem located in the heart of the city whose interior is covered with beautiful frescos from the eighteenth century. There the prestigious masquerade ball, the “Mascheranda” is held. Everything is set in the seventeenth century. At first, a gala dinner is served, lit by hundreds of candles, with live instrumental music, dancers, and the best actors of the Commedia dell’Arte and Casanova foundations, among others. The night is full of surprises and the party continues until the early morning.

Other important events are the children’s mask contest in San Marco, the medieval music concerts of the seventeenth century in the Campo San Barnaba, or the traditional bathing on the beach of the Ibernisti on the Island of Lido.

Are you going to miss it? The Venice Carnival is one of those parties to which you should assist at least once in a lifetime. To find affordable and comfortable accommodation, rent Venice apartments and become the king or queen of the masquerade ball.

It has been called the city of water, floating on small islands in the Adriatic Sea since 452 AD. The charming canals, bridges and piazzas make this one of the most enchanting cities you’ll see in your life. Take your loved one by the hand and follow us on a romantic stroll through Venice.

The biggest piazza in Venice is San Marco, with it’s famous bell tower. You’ll have to share the place with other tourists and pigeons, but by night its more calm and there are often orchestras playing. The pink-and-white building you see is the Doge’s Palace and while now it is a museum, it used to be the residence of the Doge, and it is connected with the dungeon through the Bridge of Sighs.

For a good look at European and American art from the first half of the 20th century be sure to visit the Peggy Guggenheim museum. In the garden you’ll find the grave of Mrs. Guggenheim, who is buried next to her beloved dogs (with interesting names such as Cappuccino, Gipsy and Hong Kong).

Do your shopping together with the locals at the market on Campo Santa Margherita. Early morning you’ll find fish and vegetables, while on Saturday you can go souvenir hunting. Around here you’ll find the best pizzas at affordable prices. On Sunday, take a walk through the former Jewish ghetto. There are still quite a few synagogues; the biggest is the Schola Spagnola, which has a beautiful decorated ceiling.

To cross the Grand Canal, take the Rialto bridge. Instead of looking at the stalls that line both sides of the bridge, enjoy the views of this busy canal. The round Santa Maria della Salute takes in a prominent place and is one of the most photographed churches in Italy. Inside the sacristy you’ll find a self-portrait of Tintoretto.
If you want to impress your spouse, negotiate a gondola ride through the canals. It’s the most romantic way of going around in Venice, but also expensive. Remember to pay extra if you want them to sing (or to make them shut up). If you prefer to spend the money on a night out drinking with your mates, have some cocktails at the Bacaro Jazz. Take note that happy hour is between 5 pm and 7.30 pm!

In February Venice presents its carnival. Dancing in the streets to the sound of popular songs, ballet, theatre and circus will be part of this event, and usually there is a special programme for children. Don’t forget your costume! Another important event is the Film festival (La Biennale). Want to go feed the pigeons on the San Marco square or just enjoy a romantic stay in the north of Italy? Book the best apartments in Venice, you’ll have a great time!