Carnival of Venice - Weekend getaway. Free guide!

With its enchanting atmosphere, delectable cuisine, and endless photo opportunities, Venice during Carnival is a traveler's dream come true. Embrace the magic of this iconic event while exploring the city's hidden gems and savoring every moment without breaking the bank.

We were able to fit in everything on the below list over the weekend and still had time to relax and take it slow. 

Where to stay?

We decided to stay in Carnnaregio, a neighborhood brimming with charm, history, and authentic Venetian culture.

Nestled away from the bustling crowds of the city center, Cannaregio offers travellers a unique and immersive experience even on a budget. 

We had absolutely loved exploring quiet backstreets, mingling with friendly locals at bars and cafes, and discovering hidden gems all within a 5-minute walk from our accommodation.  

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Casa Martini

@edlaine

Beautifully decorated historical residence with traditional furnishings. We were looking for a true Venetian decoration to really immerse ourselves into the Carnival of Venice. We were not disappointed!

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Casa Baseggio

@edlaine

Another beautiful option we were contemplating but had chosen Casa Martini. We loved the outdoor pattio, and spacious apartment that was offered at Casa Baseggio.

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Feeling a bit hungry?

One of the best things about travelling is eating. From piping-hot slices of pizza to crispy fried seafood delights and creamy scoops of gelato, snacking just enough to keep us sustained until the next meal.

Pizzeria Da Zorma

@edlaine

Amazing little takeaway store that attracts quite a crowd, especially on a Saturday night. Each pizza is made fresh to order and put into a large oven. You can order normal size pizzas from as little as 5 euros to maxi pizzas (family pizzas) from 11 euros. Slices of pizzas from 2.5 euros, but these tend to run out fast! These pizzas were so good, we went back the next day for more. Highly recommend !

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Fried Land

@edlaine

Little takeaway shop tucked away from the busy streets. Perfect place if around Cannaregio and need a little bit of energy to continue exploring. Everything was cooked fresh, and tasted amazing with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Highly recommend the mixed seafood - Calamari, prawns and anchovies.

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GELATOTECA SUSO

@edlaine

Big queue lining up, but well worth the wait. Assortment of flavours and cones to choose from, so there's something for everyone!

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What to eat?

Savour the flavours of Italian cuisine.  These restaurants are nestled amidst the winding canals and historic architecture. Indulge in traditional Venetian dishes with fresh ingredients from seafood delicacies to black squid ink risottos. 

Torrefazione Cannaregio - Speciality Coffee

@edlaine

Great little nook tucked away in the area of Cannaregio. With seating and standing area, this place can cater many people. This cafe also sells coffees from all over the world. Why not tuck into some pastries while you enjoy your morning coffees.

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Spicy Puppa

@edlaine

We got Seafood Risotto, Seafood Spaghetti and Scampi Spaghetti. Don't forget the Aperol spritz. All very good. Highly recommend.

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Trattoria Al Gazzettino

@edlaine

Crab Spaghetti and Lobster Spaghetti. Must try their deep fried squid. Everything tasted amazing, however, water was 10.50 euros for 2x 600ml water.

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Drinks and Party 

Despite the weariness from our morning flight, our desire to immerse ourselves in the vibrant nightlife of Venice remained undiminished. As we wandered the narrow streets surrounding our accommodation, we stumbled upon a multitude of lively establishments. Among them, one gem stood out: Paradiso Perduto. Intrigued by its inviting ambiance, we decided to step inside, unaware of the delightful experience that awaited us. 

Il Paradiso Perduto

@edlaine

Most fun I have had in a while. We went into this restaurant that turns into a club at 12am. Bartenders were giving out free shots, and also took out brass instruments for people to blow into. Music was amazing, and generally an amazing atmosphere and vibe.

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Marciano Pub Venezia

@edlaine

Very nice environment, but very strict seating plans. We had a group of 6 and rather than assigning a general area, we had to sit side by side on the bar. We finished our drinks and left since the atmosphere was lacking for such a large group.

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Vino Vero

@edlaine

Wanted to visit, but it was way too busy to even step foot in.

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Costume Photo Opportunities

From bustling squares to decorated cafes, these venues serve as the backdrop for a spectacle of extravagant outfits. Grab your cameras and immerse yourself in the dazzling sights that await around every corner. Be warned, it gets really busy. 

Caffè Florian

@edlaine

During Carnival of Venice, this Cafe is filled with people dressed up in extravagant outfits. A lot of photographers were crowded around the windows to snap photos

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St. Mark's Square

@edlaine

Beautiful square to take photos of the beautiful cathedral. A lot of people walking around with costumes.

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Points of interest

From logistical hubs to breathtaking viewpoints and charming boutiques, we navigated through the labyrinthine cityscape, soaking in the essence of Venetian charm. Join us as we recount our journey, highlighting the noteworthy places that made our fleeting visit to Venice truly unforgettable.

Piazzale Roma

@edlaine

Come here to catch the bus back to the Airport. Please note that there are two companies take you to the airport. Bus 5 makes stops along the way and is a public bus., whereas ATVO is direct and is a coach. Both prices are the same.

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Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia

@edlaine

This is a place for Wifi. Walk over to Nike and connect.

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Ristorante Al Buso

@edlaine

We stumbled across this place, which had an amazing photo opportunity of the Rialto Bridge.

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Ospedale SS. Giovanni e Paolo - entrata dal campo

@edlaine

Beautiful hospitals. Great to see where all the Ambulance boats are parked

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Libreria Acqua Alta

@edlaine

Self proclaimed 'most beautiful bookstore in the world'. Overstacked walls and tables filled with books, magazines, maps and others. There was a big queue, but it moves quite fast as staff would direct people to keep moving through the shop

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Ponte dei Mendicanti

@edlaine

Great place to see San Michele, and walk along the beautiful border of Venice. If water calms you down, this is the place to tick off.

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Ponte dell'Accademia

@edlaine

Beautiful wooden bridge to take a photo of Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. Beware, this bridge is busy as many people will be taking selfies, or asking for group photos.

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