Tickets Venice
Venice Carnival 2026Crafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
4.4/5
29k+ travellers from around the world love this
Venice Carnival
























































From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Katarzyna Zielińska

Katarzyna

Jan 2026

review-image

review-image

review-image
We are very happy with our ticket purchase. Everything went smoothly and we didn't have to wait in line. We also received additional tickets to other museums. I recommend it.
Sarah Valerie Sidbeck
PT

Sarah

Portugal
Jan 2026

review-image

review-image
Our tour guide, Marina, was incredible! Her knowledge was matched only by her kindness and friendliness. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone coming to Venice!
Cheron-Tango Lilly
FR

Cheron-tango

France
Jan 2026

review-image

review-image

review-image
This Venice transport card was definitely the best thing about our backpacking trip for three. Thanks to it, we were able to explore the city without any worries, visiting both the must-see neighborhoods and quieter, more authentic areas. The highlight of our stay was seeing the Olympic flame, which we were able to reach very easily thanks to the boat that dropped us off right in front of it, even though we didn't really know it was passing through Venice! It was an experience we would never have had without public transportation. Vaporetto, boat, repeated trips... everything becomes simple, smooth, and almost magical when you glide across the water instead of walking for hours with a bag on your back. We really felt like we were experiencing Venice like locals, free to move around without any stress. Honestly, to fully enjoy the city, optimize your time, and experience unique moments, this card is essential. A little tip: get it as soon as you arrive, it completely transforms the travel experience.
John Remond
US

John

United States
Jan 2026

review-image
We purchased the 48 hour pass and it was the best purchase we made in Venice! We used it from the train station to a stop close to our hotel so we didn't have to drag our luggage, even though we packed light, half way across Venice. We also used the pass, after spending hours in the Basilica & Doge's Palace, for relaxing tour...I mean ride to Murano...it was a great day but it wasn't over...then we used the pass for a ride to the Rialto Bridge. I don't know if you are counting, but we got our $$ worth in the first 24 hours!
Kateryna Zhelezniak
UA

Kateryna

Ukraine
Nov 2025

review-image

review-image

review-image
We had a wonderful excursion to the islands of Murano and Burano. It was incredibly fascinating to watch how the glass masters create delicate glass figurines right in front of you, and to see how the famous Burano lace is made by hand. The islands themselves are charming — especially the colorful fisherman houses with their unique architecture. There were plenty of delicious treats and lovely souvenir shops along the streets, which made the walk even more enjoyable. Overall, it was a memorable and very inspiring experience!
Fabrizio obinu

Fabrizio

Mar 2026
Useful service, easy online purchase, I recommend it to everyone. It was indispensable for getting around Venice, with punctual water buses and friendly staff.
Daphné Govaerts

Daphné

Mar 2026
The building was absoluty beautiful. I recommend also getting the ticket for the museum inside that way you can also go upstairs and have a nice view.
Valerie Gribble

Valerie

Mar 2026
Sadly others in the group were late which made our tour very short. Our guide focused on one Canadian gentleman and directed everything to him. It could have been a good deal better

Trusted by over 48M guests worldwide

100% booking protection

You are fully protected end-to-end. If anything is off, we'll fix it or refund you.

Know more

Enjoy flexible bookings

Book stress-free with free cancellation and pay-later options.

24/7 trip support

We're always a tap away - before, during and after your trip, in all languages.

Verified reviews from real travellers. Trusted by guests worldwide.

Top things to do in Venice

Venice Carnival 2026 – Olympus, the origins of the game

Pack your mask, Venice Carnival 2026 is taking over the city from January 31 to February 17, 2026. This year’s theme, “Olympus, the origins of play”, a tribute to the Olympic spirit as Italy gears up for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. It also brings a mythological twist to the celebrations, blending ancient legends with the spirit of play and performance. Expect dazzling costumes, lively street shows, grand parades, and that signature Venetian magic drifting through the canals. Whether it’s your first Carnival or your fifth, Venice in February is pure theatre, and everyone’s invited on stage.

Why visit Venice during Carnival?

Venice Carnival

As Lord Byron once said, ‘Venice is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs in one go.’ At the Carnival, this sentiment rings truer than ever.

Venice Carnival
People in elaborate masks and costumes at Venice Carnival, Italy.
Participants in traditional masks and costumes at Venice Carnival, Italy.
Venice Carnival participants in traditional masks and costumes in Venice, Italy.

Experiencing the Venice Carnival

Attend the grand opening ceremony

Kick off the Venice Carnival in style on February 7, 2026 at St. Mark's Square. The festivities feature a dazzling water parade along the Grand Canal, with beautifully decorated boats and performers, setting the stage for the vibrant celebrations ahead.

Guide to St. Mark's Square

See the Flight of the Angel

On February 8, 2026, make sure you’re in St. Mark’s Square by 12 pm to witness the Flight of the Angel. A performer will descend gracefully from the bell tower, marking the official start of the Carnival. It’s a spectacle you won’t want to miss!

Be part of the Festa delle Marie parade

Celebrate Venetian tradition on February 7, 2026, from 3:30 pm to 4 pm as 12 beautiful girls (the “Marie”) take part in a colorful gondola procession from Santa Sofia to St. Mark’s Square, where they will be presented to the public.

Participate in the best mask contest

Show off your creative flair at the Best Mask Contest, held daily from February 7 to 17, 2026. Watch the most imaginative masks compete for a spot in the finals at St. Mark’s Square or Ca’ Vendramin Calergi Palace.

Experience the Flight of the Eagle

Don’t miss the thrilling Flight of the Eagle on February 15, 2026, from 12 pm to 1 pm at St. Mark’s Square. This daring descent from the Campanile is an unmissable spectacle that keeps the carnival’s energy soaring.

Guide to St. Mark's Bell Tower

Partake in the Burano Carnival

For a truly unique experience, head to Burano Island on February 14, 2026, from 3 pm to 11 pm. The Burano Carnival is a colorful celebration that recreates Doge Vitale Michiel II’s victory with a festive twist. It’s a fantastic way to see Venice’s charming islands come alive with pageantry!

Murano, Burano Tours

Don’t miss Il Ballo del Doge

On February 14, 2026, attend the legendary Il Ballo del Doge (venue details to be confirmed). This extravagant masquerade ball is the epitome of Venetian opulence and artistic grandeur. Dance the night away at one of the most prestigious events of the season!

About Doge's legacy in Venice

Witness the Flight of the Lion

As the Carnival wraps up, don’t miss the grand finale: the Flight of the Lion on February 17, 2026, at 5 pm in St. Mark’s Square. This epic moment, where Venice’s emblematic lion soars through the sky, marks the end of another unforgettable Carnival season.

Explore Venice's costume and mask workshops

Need a break from the crowds? Head to one of the Venetian mask and costume workshops scattered around the city. Here, you can watch artisans create their stunning works of art, or even join in on a mask-making class to create your own unique masterpiece.

Join mask-making workshop

Indulge in Venetian carnival delicacies

No trip to the Venice Carnival is complete without trying the delicious treats on offer. Make sure to sample some frittelle (fried doughnuts filled with cream or raisins) and galani (crispy, sugar-dusted pastries). They’re as much a part of the Carnival as the costumes and masks!

Watch street performances in Piazza San Marco

Piazza San Marco is the heartbeat of the Carnival. From acrobats and musicians to street performers in wild costumes, there’s always something happening. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the atmosphere, take in the sights, and snap some great photos.

See Venice at night

After sunset, Venice Carnival becomes pure magic. The canals shimmer under streetlights, and masked revelers in elaborate costumes add a touch of mystery. St. Mark's Square feels straight out of a dream, with lanterns glowing and the buzz of music and masquerade balls filling the air.

Take a night gondola ride
Make your own mask and embrace the carnival spirit!

Join our exclusive Mask-Making Workshop and craft your own authentic Venetian masterpiece. Get hands-on with traditional techniques and wear your creation at the grandest event in Venice! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned reveler, this is a great way to experience the Carnival like a local.

Venice Carnival masks with intricate gold and silver designs on display.

The history of Venice Carnival & the masks

13th century: The birth of Carnival
Did you know Venice Carnival dates back to the 13th century? It began as a time for Venetians to let loose before Lent, with grand festivities, feasts, and dancing in the streets. Masks played a pivotal role in this celebration, blurring social classes and giving everyone the freedom to mingle and revel without judgment.

15th century: The golden age of masks
By the 15th century, Venetian masks had become true works of art, crafted with intricate designs and precious materials. They were more than just carnival accessories—they symbolized equality, mystery, and liberation in a city that thrived on its cosmopolitan culture.

18th century: The height of decadence
The 18th century marked Venice Carnival's peak, with lavish masquerade balls, elaborate costumes, and an air of secrecy. Masks added an element of intrigue, allowing wearers to explore their wild sides in a city known for its love of opulence.

1797: A pause in the tradition
Napoleon’s conquest brought an abrupt end to the carnival, as masks and festivities were banned to suppress Venetian traditions. The once-vibrant celebration went silent for nearly two centuries.

1979: The revival
Fast forward to 1979, when Venice Carnival made a triumphant comeback. Today, it’s a grand celebration of art, history, and culture, with masks remaining its most iconic symbol. From the traditional Bauta and Moretta to fantastical designs, masks continue to capture the spirit of mystery and freedom that defines Venice Carnival.

Why masks matter?

Venetian masks are more than beautiful accessories; they tell a story of equality, escapism, and timeless creativity. Whether simple or elaborate, they invite everyone to step into a world of wonder and intrigue, just as they did centuries ago.

The 800-year old tradition of Venice Carnival

Know before you attend the Venice Carnival 2025

Schedule

Dates: February 7 to February 17, 2026

  • Grand Opening Water Parade: February 7, 2026; 11am at the Grand Canal
  • Festa delle Marie Parade: February 7, 2026; 3:30pm – 4pm from Santa Sofia to Piazza San Marco
  • Flight of the Angel: February 8, 2026; 12pm – 1pm at St. Mark’s Square
  • Best Mask Contest – Grand Final: February 17, 2026 at Piazza San Marco
  • Flight of the Eagle: February 15, 2026; 12pm – 1pm at St. Mark’s Square
  • Burano Carnival: February 14, 2026; 3pm – 11pm at Burano Island
  • Flight of the Lion: February 17, 2026; 5pm at St. Mark’s Square
  • Corteo delle Marie – Presentation of the Maria of the Year: February 17, 2026; 3pm – 4pm at Piazza San Marco
St. Mark's Square
  • St. Mark's Square: The Square is hub for major events - Opening ceremony, Best Mask Contests, and Grand Costume Mask Contest Awards Ceremony.
  • Campanile of St. Mark's Square: The bell tower is the launch site for spectacular flights - Angel, Eagle, and Lion.
  • Rio de Cannaregio: Hosts the traditional Venetian Water Festival.
  • Burano: Carnival on the Burano island and Grand Final Qualifications for Best Mask Contest.
  • San Pietro di Castello: The starting point for the Festa delle Marie Parade, where twelve maidens in traditional costumes begin their procession to St. Mark's Square.
  • Rialto Bridge: A great spot to see gondola parades and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Passenger train seats

Routes to Venice:

  • By air: Fly into Marco Polo Airport (VCE), located about 13 km from Venice. From the airport, you can either take Alilaguna Water Bus with direct boats to major stops like San Marco, Rialto, or Fondamente Nove, takes about 1 hour, or take ATVO Bus shuttle service to Piazzale Roma, Venice's main bus station, followed by a Vaporetto (water bus) to reach central areas.
  • By train: Arrive at Venice Santa Lucia Station, which connects directly with major cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan. From the station, you can easily access the Vaporetto lines (1 and 2) to get to key carnival locations.
Book Venice airport transfers
Venice Gondola
  • Vaporetto (Water Bus): The most convenient way to navigate Venice’s canals. Purchase a day pass for unlimited travel on the Vaporetto, which is especially useful during the busy carnival period. Expect longer wait times due to crowds.
  • Gondolas: While more expensive, a gondola ride offers a unique perspective of the city and is a quintessential Venetian experience.
  • Walking: Venice is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be navigating cobblestone streets and numerous bridges.
Venice public transport tickets and tours
Venice Carnival participants in traditional masks and costumes, Italy.

For the Venice Carnival 2025, the best times to visit are:

  • Opening weekend (February 22-23): Experience the grand opening water parade and the Flight of the Angel, which marks the official start of the carnival.
  • Middle weekend (February 29 - March 2): This period features major events, including costume contests and various parades, making it an exciting time to be in Venice. 
  • Fat Tuesday (March 4): The grand finale includes fireworks, live music, and a magical atmosphere as the carnival comes to a close.

If you prefer to avoid large crowds, visit during midweek days. These days typically offer a more relaxed experience, allowing you to explore Venice’s hidden gems, museums, and churches without the hustle and bustle of weekend crowds.

Fritole

While attending the Venice Carnival, indulge in these local delicacies:

  • Fritole: Traditional Venetian fried doughnuts often filled with cream or raisins, a must-try during the carnival.
  • Cicchetti: Small plates of Venetian tapas served in bars throughout the city. Perfect for sampling local flavors while enjoying a drink.
  • Sgombro alla Griglia: Grilled mackerel, a popular dish in Venice that showcases fresh seafood.
  • Baccalà Mantecato: A creamy cod spread served on toasted bread, ideal for snacking as you explore.
  • Prosecco: Sip on this sparkling wine, which is a staple in Venetian cuisine and pairs perfectly with many local dishes.
Facilities
  • Information centers
  • Rest areas
  • Security measures
  • Food stalls
  • Restrooms
  • First aid stations
  • Venetian mask shops
  • Public transportation
  • Venice Carnival guide services
  • Lost and found
shopping
  • For unique and intricate masks, shop early. Venice Carnival is known for its stunning masks, and the best ones often sell out quickly.
  • While St. Mark's Square is iconic, venture into less crowded areas for a more intimate experience. Enjoy the Carnival away from the bustling crowds.
  • If you plan to attend specific events or attractions, book tickets in advance. Popular destinations can sell out quickly.
  • Embrace the Carnival spirit with a cool costume. Traditional Venetian costumes can be rented from ateliers in the city.
  • Take a break from the festivities to savor some authentic Venetian dishes at local eateries. Get a Venetian frittella, a raisin-studded fried doughnut.
  • Not all Carnival events require tickets. Keep an eye out for free street performances, parades, and open-air celebrations.
  • The final weekend is the most popular, so be prepared for large crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider visiting earlier in the Carnival season. Also, beware of scammers and pickpockets.
Elegant table setting with gourmet dishes at a fine dining restaurant
  • Osteria Enoteca Ai Artisti: Enjoy traditional Venetian dishes and a diverse wine selection in this charming osteria.
  • Trattoria da Remigio: Indulge in hearty seafood dishes at this rustic trattoria with outdoor seating.
  • Al Nono Risorto: Savor delicious pizza and pasta at this family-run restaurant.
  • Caffe Chioggia: A delightful dining near Doge's Palace with great music and a fantastic atmosphere at Caffe Chioggia.
  • Bar Mio: Unwind after the hearty Carnival at the lively Mio with a drink, just 500 meters from Doge's Palace.
stays
  • San Marco District: The heart of Venice, perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action, home to major attractions like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Options: Hotel Danieli, Albergo San Marco.
  • Dorsoduro District: Known for its artistic vibe, Dorsoduro is quieter than San Marco but still within walking distance of major attractions. It features beautiful canals and cultural sites. Options: Il Palazzo Experimental, Carnival Palace Hotel.
  • Cannaregio District: Less touristy and good for a more authentic Venetian experience, with charming streets and local eateries.Options: Hotel Antiche Figure, Hotel Ca' D'Oro.
  • Lido Island: Known for its beaches, Lido is a relaxing escape from the bustling city center while still providing easy access to Venice.Options: Hotel Villa Pannonia, Grand Hotel des Bains.
  • Murano Island: Famous for its glass-making, Murano gives you a unique experience with fewer crowds and picturesque views. Options: LaGare Hotel Venezia

Frequently asked questions about Venice Carnival

While many of the outdoor events are free, some of the grand balls, concerts, and exclusive parties do require tickets. If you’re planning to visit popular attractions during Carnival, it’s recommended to book your tickets 1-2 weeks in advance to avoid disappointment.

More reads

St. Mark's Basilica

Book Now

Doge's Palace

Book Now

Venice Water Bus

Book Now