Carnival in Venice

Carnival in Venice is the experience of a lifetime! From walking through St. Mark's Square to exploring the winding alleys to dressing up in your own costume for a ball or a passeggiata—an evening walk—exploring Venice during Carnival is a dream. But careful planning is critical to creating the best memories.

If your dream is to attend a Venetian Carnival costume ball, securing your ticket is the first and most important step. Several balls happen every year, and each has a variety of ticket options—from general admission tickets to VIP tables including costumes, with price points to match. Ateliers like Sogno Veneziano host balls, provide rental costumes, and offer exquisite masks to complete your look.

Once your ball tickets are secured, promptly selecting well-placed lodging is critical. Hotels book up quickly, and finding a room near the ball and popular Venice highlights can be a challenge! In 2025, I stayed at the four-star Santa Croce Boutique Hotel, the perfect location for touring and attending the ball.

Finally, it's time to select your costume and your local excursions. To secure your spot on the popular after-hours tour of St. Mark's Cathedral or a day trip to the Prosecco Hills, reservations must be made in advance. And most important? A private photo shoot to commemorate your once-in-a-lifetime experience in a traditional Venetian costume. Molto buono!

See the parade of fabulous costumes every day in St. Mark's Square. While most people attend Carnival on the Sunday before through Mardi Gras Tuesday, enjoying the sights the week before provides a calmer but still incredibly engaging experience.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Venice page.