Is Venice on your bucket list? Have you been dreaming of wandering across the bridges and sailing through the canals? I most definitely have! Although we can’t do much travel abroad these days, it’s never too early to start planning your Venice holiday. If you’re looking for some ideas, I would highly recommend visiting Venice, Italy in February during Carnevale. This festival is a huge celebration, which originated in Venice, where people come together in extravagant masks and costumes. These beautiful, decorative masks are what make the festival so well-known. So, if you visit during Carnevale, then here are my top 5 favorite things to do and see to make for an amazing trip:
1. Find your perfect mask in Venice
Don’t have a mask to bring to Carnevale? Not to worry! There are hundreds of small businesses in the city of Venice selling a plethora of different masks. You’ll find that it’s incredibly difficult to just choose one, so make your selection wisely. I think it took me a couple days to find one that suited me. The masks in Italy are hand-crafted, unique, and gorgeously detailed. You can’t leave Venice without taking part in the celebration and mystery of mask-wearing.
2. Take a canal ride
Venice is known as the floating city or city of canals, because it is literally located on the water and is slowing sinking every year. The canals and bridges of Venice are absolutely beautiful, so take in as much of the views as you can. There are gondola rides for sale, but I felt like taking a canal ride in the ferry was just as nice and more affordable. When you’re in the canals, you’ll be able to see just how much of the city is floating on water, and it’s quite a unique sight.
3. Visit the islands of Murano
It’s a short ferry ride over to Murano, which are a series of islands located next to Venice. This islands are known for their glass-making, and you’ll be able to witness the glass-makers working with the elements to craft these beautiful pieces of art. I purchased a blue ring made of Murano glass, and it still holds its beauty years later.
4. Admire the architecture
From the bridges to the buildings, the architecture of Venice, Italy will take your breath away. Notice the details and artistry of each bridge and think about how much time must have gone into creating each one. The architecture is known as Venetian Gothic style and originated centuries ago. You don’t have to be an expert when it comes to architecture, as I most certainly am not, to notice the uniqueness of Venice.
5. Wander through the narrow streets
You might get lost navigating the narrow streets of Venice, but would it be the worst thing? I remember getting lost more than once. Thankfully I always found my way back. The piazzas were connected by a number of smaller cobblestone streets, and it was one of the things I remember the most about my trip. During Carnevale, there were tons of people lining the streets. As the day drew to an end, people eventually cleared out. It almost felt magical being in the city as the day turned to night and the street lamps cast shadows upon the ground. Additionally, if you visit Venice in February, be sure to grab a cup of hot cider to keep you warm as you wander the city.
Whenever you end up taking your trip to Venice, Italy, you’re bound to collect unforgettable memories. If you visit at the beginning of the year, I hope you’ll enjoy the festivities of Carnevale. Grab your mask and be anyone you want to be for a day. What’s on your list for an amazing Venice trip? Let me know in the comments section below!
Searching for more travel ideas? Check out some of my other adventures abroad here!