Venice Carnival: Plan Your Trip from Milan and Enjoy an Unforgettable Overnight Stay

The Venice Carnival, one of the oldest and most famous festivals in the world, runs from January 31 to February 17, 2026, offering a magical blend of history, art, and unforgettable celebrations. If you’re in Milan during this period, why not escape for a night or two to fully immerse yourself in the magic of Venice? Here’s how to plan your trip and make the most of this extraordinary event.

Getting to Venice from Milan

Reaching Venice from Milan is straightforward, and the journey itself can be part of the adventure. The most convenient way to travel is by high-speed train, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Trains depart frequently from Milano Centrale to Venezia Santa Lucia, with tickets ranging from €25 to €50 each way, depending on the time and type of service. Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of Venice, ready to explore. You can check train ticket deals on the Italo Treno or Trenitalia websites.

While driving is another option, it’s less practical due to Venice’s unique car-free layout. If you choose to drive, you’ll need to park at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto and continue your journey by foot or water transport. However, trains offer a stress-free and efficient way to reach the lagoon city, allowing you to arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy the festivities.

Upon arriving in Venice, you’ll need to rely on the city’s iconic water buses, known as vaporettos, to navigate its canals and reach various attractions. Tickets can be purchased for single journeys or as passes valid for one or more days, offering flexibility depending on your plans. To check fares and conveniently reserve your tickets in advance, visit the Get Your Guide website.

Read also: Best Ways to Get from Linate Airport to Milan City Center

Why Stay Overnight?

While a day trip is feasible, staying overnight in Venice allows you to experience the true essence of the Carnival.

Arsenale Water Show

Some of the most spectacular events take place after sunset, such as the Arsenale Water Show, a stunning combination of music, dance, and storytelling performed on the water. We are still waiting for the official details of the 2026 edition.

Dinner Show and Ball at Ca’ Vendramin Calergi

Another highlight of the Venice Carnival is the Dinner Show and Ball at Ca’ Vendramin Calergi, an evening that epitomizes luxury and elegance. Set in one of Venice’s most opulent palaces, the event combines gourmet dining, breathtaking live performances, and a journey into the enchantment of 18th-century Venice. This exclusive experience doesn’t come cheap, with early bird tickets starting from €720 per person, depending on the date.

Secure your spot at the exclusive Dinner Show and Ball—reserve your ticket now for an unforgettable night of elegance and enchantment!

In addition to the ticket price, attendees are required to wear formal period costumes, which must adhere to the event’s strict dress code. Renting a costume from one of Venice’s renowned ateliers, such as Antonia Sautter, Pietro Longhi, or La Bauta, typically costs several hundred euros for the evening, depending on the complexity and materials of the attire. These expenses add up, making this a true indulgence for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Below is a video from a past edition of the luxurious Dinner Show:

The shows are scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026, Sunday, February 8, 2026, Thursday, February 12, 2026 (Giovedì Grasso), Friday, February 13, 2026, Saturday, February 14, 2026, Sunday, February 15, 2026, Monday, February 16, 2026, and the grand finale on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (Martedì Grasso). Each evening begins at 9:00 PM and combines fine dining with the elegance of a Venetian masquerade ball.

Galeone Veneziano Party

For guests who desire the full Venetian Carnival ambiance without the high price tag, the Galeone Veneziano Party offers a more affordable alternative.

This four-hour boat cruise features a buffet dinner, an open bar, and live music, allowing you to enjoy the festive atmosphere while sailing through Venice’s iconic canals for €130 to €150 per person. While the dinner show embodies the height of luxury, the Galeone Veneziano is a vibrant and budget-friendly option for immersing yourself in the magic of the Carnival.

Spots are limited, so it’s highly recommended to book online in advance.

Book your spot now for the unforgettable Carnival Party aboard the Galeone Veneziano!

Where to Stay in Venice

Since Carnival attracts large crowds, book your accommodation as early as possible. Consider these neighborhoods for convenience:

1. San Marco: Close to the main events, including the mask parades and gala dinners.
2. Cannaregio: A quieter area offering charming canalside accommodations.
3. Mestre: More budget-friendly but requires a short commute to Venice proper.

Use platforms like Booking.com to compare options and secure your stay.

The Magic of Venice Carnival

We are still waiting for the full program details of the 2026 edition, but in general these are the most significant highlights of the Venice Carnival.

The Grand Water Parade officially kicks off the Carnival at 11:00 AM with a stunning procession of boats decorated in historical Venetian styles. These boats, led by performers in elaborate costumes, travel from Punta della Dogana to Rialto, creating a colorful spectacle on the canals.

Meanwhile, throughout the day and into the evening, street performances, known as the Venice Carnival Street Show, bring music, theater, and circus arts to squares across the city, entertaining audiences of all ages.

The Festa delle Marie is one of the most captivating traditions of the Venice Carnival, celebrating a historical event that dates back over 1,000 years. This ceremony honors the rescue of twelve young Venetian maidens who were kidnapped by pirates during a festival in 973 and later freed by the Doge Pietro Candiano III. Today, the celebration involves selecting twelve women, known as the “Marie,” to represent these historic figures. The festivities include an official costume ceremony, parades through the city, and cultural events, all culminating in the crowning of the “Queen of the Carnival.” The Festa delle Marie is a highlight of the Carnival, showcasing Venetian history, elegance, and tradition.

Venice Carnival is more than just a festival; it’s a journey through history and fantasy. Staying overnight lets you take your time to explore the city and participate in the celebrations at your own pace. Whether you’re captivated by the grandeur of the gala dinners, the charm of the street performances, or the beauty of the mask parades, the Carnival offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

For those starting in Milan, this short trip is an opportunity to witness one of the most iconic cultural events in the world. Plan your visit, embrace the magic, and let Venice during Carnival transport you to another era.

For more details about the Venice Carnival schedule, visit the official website

Read also: As an alternative, consider experiencing the vibrant Viareggio Carnival in Tuscany, renowned for its elaborate floats and lively parades—check out how to secure your tickets!