I have plans to be in Venice during carnival for 2 days, has anyone been there for Carnival that can offer some suggestions as to where to go and enjoy the festivities ?
Posted by
Ann Arbor, Mi
3696 posts
I spent a week there last year during Carnivale and it was fabulous! You definitely should attend one of the many balls... we went to one of the more inexpensive ($80 or so for a 'hot chocolate') but to our surprise there were many sweet treats, drinks, and a beautiful concert in a fabulous private castle.
You should take a costume or buy or rent something there. As a photographer it was a wonderful experience and we were up every day at dawn for photos and there were beautifully costumed characters everywhere. With only two days I would stay right near the square and the festivities are all around you. There is a cafe on the square with huge windows (I can't remember the name) where people in their costumes sit like celebrities, to the delight of everyone else with a camera. If I remember correctly this was very expensive to get a table there, but you can opt for something cheaper.
It was truly an experience that I will never forget. I had been to Venice many times before, but this was amazing. Weather was definitely cool and misty but this just added to the whole mistique of Carnivale! Have a fabulous time! It was very expensive, but so worth it. I think the balls change from year to year but we found a listing on the internet that gave all the details and prices. Some were up to $1000.
Posted by
bergamo
401 posts
All the major events happen on St. Mark's square, though I don't think you have to go to balls or anything to have a great time. When I went it felt like there was something going on everywhere, and it was full of people, I don't remember many specifics, just that the atmosphere was electric and that everyone seemed to be set on having a good time. The strange thing was that even though it was Carnivale, after 1am everything emptied out and it felt like we were the only people left. Dress warmly!
Posted by
Scottsdale, AZ, United States
3 posts
How funny Joe! I am from Phoenix and am going too. From what I've heard, the balls are the big thing as the first poster said. Here is the event calendar: http://www.carnivalofvenice.com/eventi.asp?anno=2009. It will be expensive to go to one and to rent costumes, everyone says it is such a fun experience. Have fun.