There’s no place quite like Venice, or Venezia as it is known in Italian. It’s a magical and charming city with a long and rich history. “It was the greatest seaport in late medieval Europe and the continent’s commercial and cultural link to Asia,” according to Britannica.

Venice was “built upon a group of 118 small islands that are divided by channels and linked together with bridges,” explains VisitingVenice.net. The unique and beautiful location sets it apart from other cities, along with its magnificent architecture and art.

This capital city of the Veneto region is magnificent with centuries-old architecture and roadways, or atmospheric canals that are lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces, beautiful bridges, and eye-catching islands. It is literally unlike anywhere else in the world and a hotspot for visitors.

When in Venice, Check All the Festivals the City Has to Offer

festivals in venice

This cultural mecca is also known for some renowned festivals throughout the year. Venice is home to the Biennale Musica, the International Festival of Contemporary Music. The festival will be held in October. This year’s program will feature several daily events with international soloists and ensembles as well as the activities of the Biennale College Musica dedicated to new projects that will be part of the Festival’s program.

From the end of this August well into the first week of September, Venice will be teeming with actors, directors, and films for the 81st Venice International Film Festival. This festival is the oldest of its kind and is a star-studded event that brings in celebrities from all over the globe. “The festival aims to raise awareness and promote international cinema in all its forms,” according to La Biennale. Check here for this year’s tickets.

The Biennale Arte  2024, the 60th International Art Exhibition will take place from Saturday, April 20th to Sunday, November 24, 2024 (pre-opening on April 17, 18, and 19), and is curated by Adriano Pedrosa.

More Venice Festivals for Lovers of The City

Visit Venice this April for the Festa di San Marco, which is held on April 25, 2024. Known as The Feast of Saint Mark, the religious celebration is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist, patron saint of Venice. It is also known as the Rosebud Festival, in which men give a rosebud to the women they love. It includes a holy mass and celebration that features dancing and live music.

Don’t miss Venicthe e Carnival. For the two weeks leading up to Shrove Tuesday (or Mardi Gras), there is no place like Venice. You’ll find many of the events on St. Mark’s Square. “Colorful parades on water and land, regatta boat races, kids’ fairs, and free live performances keep the city abuzz, especially during weekends, but the ultimate Carnivale experience is attending a masquerade ball,” says Timeout.com. You can also sign up for a mask-making workshop so you’ll have one to wear during the festivities.

Every year from January through April and June through August, you can see Veneto Jazz. You will delight in the list of famed musicians and up-and-comers where the talent is vast and there’s a mix of local and international performers to enjoy. You’ll have the chance to hear some great jazz in two historic venues: Teatro la Fenice and Chiesa della Pieta.

Tours to Help You Experience What is Venice

Get to know Venice by way of its food. The Venice Gondola, Market & Food Tour is a way to wind your way through Venice while learning about the city’s history and food culture. From exploring the Rialto Fish Market to sampling fresh seafood pasta, you’ll get a true taste of what is Venice as well as taking a short gondola ride. Start at a local Venetian bar, snack on Venetian bites, and enjoy a famous canal spritz.

venice gondola tour

The Venice Boat Tour with Grand Canal & Tower Climb will take you through Venice but by boat. You’ll take a private motorboat and explore the winding canals of the city. The VIP experience is limited to nine people, plus your guide. You’ll see spectacular sights, such as St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, the Rialto Bridge, and so much more.

Escape the crowds with a truly unique experience and spend a perfect day exploring Venice’s charming islands and enjoying VIP treatment. Explore Burano and Murano by private boat, with a Murano Glass Making and Wine Tasting Tour, complete with an exclusive wine tasting at a Michelin Star restaurant and a private glassblowing demonstration where you and a small group will say Buongiorno to your guide as you catch breathtaking views from the water. Pass by legendary sights on a pleasant hour-long ride as your guide points out lesser-known gems that you can explore during your visit to the city. You will return to Venice with a new perspective on the Floating City thanks to the stories from your guide who will bring the islands and their traditions to life with their vast knowledge of the rich cultural heritage of the lagoon.

The city of Venice is truly magical. From gondola rides on the canals and the tiny streets to festivals throughout the year. Its unique maze of canals makes this gorgeous destination one of the most visited cities in the world. Everyone wants to see and experience a place, unlike any other city in the world. Take advantage of the amazing arts, history, and festivals the city has to offer. You simply cannot go wrong with a delicious food tour or boat tour to take you through the city and leave you wanting to revisit. Venice always has something to beckon you back for more, Italian style!

Original Post Date: January 13, 2023