Hey travelers, welcome to this guide by Venice Insider Guide on where to stay in Venice for Carnival!
Discover everything in this guide: a detailed selection of the best areas and hotels to stay in so you can fully experience the Venice Carnival — the most magical festival in the world, famous for elaborate masks, historic costumes, and a timeless atmosphere (with up to 3 million visitors every year).
Where to stay in Venice for Carnival: all the options
Where to stay during Carnival in Venice? There are several options to consider.
So, during Carnival (from January 31 to February 17, 2026), Venice fills with events, water parades, street performances, and grand masquerade balls in historic palaces.
To truly enjoy the experience, choosing where to stay is one of your first and most important decisions: location, budget, and atmosphere can make the difference between a stressful trip and an unforgettable one.
Stay in Venice for Carnival: Talking Sestieri
To answer the question of where to stay in Venice for Carnival, you need to consider which area.
Venice is split into six historic districts, each with its own unique character and attractions. Choosing a place to stay based on these areas is where the magic lies.
If you're looking to stay in Venice during Carnival, you've got your pick of the following districts/areas, including the islands:
- Cannaregio
- Dorsoduro
- Castello
- San Marco
- San Polo
- Santa Croce
Best Areas to Stay for Carnival
Let's take a look at the best places to stay during the Venice Carnival.
San Marco / Castello
Central area, right at the heart of official celebrations, world-class museums and historic walks. Perfect for anyone who wants to be in the midst of it all and live the full energy of the festivities.
Cannaregio
More low key and authentic, with picturesque canals and bars serving up the good stuff. Fantastic for anyone looking for real Venice while still being close to the action.
Giudecca Island
A bit removed from the chaos - beautiful views of Venice, peaceful surroundings and easy transport links. Great if you want a balance between celebration and relaxation.
Venice Lido
Perfect for combining sea views and Carnival. A bit farther from the centre, but well connected by public transport.
Dorsoduro
An artistic district with world-class museums, galleries and a bohemian vibe. Ideal for anyone who wants to combine Carnival with a dose of art and culture.
Staying Near Rialto Bridge for Carnival
If you want to be just steps from the Grand Canal and local shopping, this area is spot on - it's right in the middle of all the action (but a bit quieter than San Marco at night). Evening walks through the calli are a must-do.
Staying Near St. Mark's Square for Carnival
This is ground zero for the celebrations: official events like the Flight of the Angel and costumed performances take place here. Getting in and out of St. Mark's Square is easy, but expect crowds and higher prices.
Staying on the Grand Canal for Carnival
The views from the Grand Canal are just incredible, with water parades and access to historic palace hotels hosting Carnival balls. This location isn't cheap, but it's truly unforgettable.
Where to Stay in Venice for Carnival on a Budget
Your budget is another big consideration - will you splurge on a luxury hotel, or get creative and find something more affordable?
Low budget
If you're on a tight budget, consider staying a bit outside the historic centre or on one of the well-connected islands. Transport hubs can be good value - you get better prices while still having quick access to the city.
Mid-range
Districts like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro offer some great hotels and B&Bs, ideal for anyone looking for authentic Venetian atmosphere and convenience without breaking the bank.
High-end
If you're feeling flush, San Marco and the Grand Canal are the places to be - luxury hotels that will make your Carnival stay truly unforgettable.
Luxury Hotels in Venice for Carnival
If you're after something truly special, here are some top luxury hotels where you can stay during the Venice Carnival:
The Aman Venice - a museum-like experience in the heart of Venice, perfect for a romantic escape or ultra-exclusive Carnival stay.
The Gritti Palace - legendary five-star hotel on the Grand Canal, with all the opulence and historic charm you'd expect.
The St. Regis Venice - elegant and central, with easy access to all the official Carnival events.
Budget Accommodation for Venice Carnival
Finding budget accommodation in Venice during Carnival can be a challenge - prices rise for this major event, but with a bit of planning, you can still find good deals. Venice may be one of Italy's pricier cities, but there are still hostels, B&Bs and budget hotels that offer more affordable rooms than luxury options in the historic centre.
Many budget-conscious travelers are smart enough to stay in areas like Cannaregio or near Santa Lucia train station where you can find cheaper hotels and guesthouses - still close to the Carnival action and easily accessible on foot or by vaporetto.
Another good option is to look for hostels or shared room places that offer dorm beds or budget private rooms in Mestre or Marghera. Some of these places are real bargains, listing beds at very low nightly rates, and are within easy reach of Venice by train or bus (only 10-15 minutes).
A practical money-saving tip is to book your stay well ahead. Carnival season gets huge demand and prices shoot up fast. By booking early, you can snag more affordable choices and secure your stay without breaking the bank.
So, here are some of the best budget-friendly options in Venice for Carnival:
- Hotel Abbazia
- Hotel Bartolomeo
- Hotel Rio
- Hotel Villa Rosa
- Hotel Campiello
- Hotel Mezzo Pozzo
- Ca' del Nobile
- Pesaro Palace
- Hyatt Centric Murano
Top-rated hotels for a Carnival stay in Venice
Here are some places that are often praised in international reviews and by guests:
- Rosa Salva Hotel – a classic Venetian hotel where you can explore the city on foot
- Hotel Concordia – a great central location for getting right in the middle of all the festivities
- Carnival Palace Hotel – it says it all: this one's all about being great for Carnival visitors
- The Venice Venice Hotel – a stylish and modern hotel right in the historic centre
- Nolinski Venezia – Evok Collection – modern luxury with super-refined interiors
- Ca' di Dio – VRetreats, an SLH Hotel – a stylish and peaceful place to stay, even in the heart of town
- Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice – away from the crowds, but still super-exclusive (with private boat transfers for extra comfort)
The most recommended places for a Carnival stay in Venice
The most sought-after choices for making your Carnival stay unforgettable are:
- The Aman Venice – luxury with a history
- The Gritti Palace – an iconic Grand Canal hotel that's a must-see
- The St. Regis Venice – perfect for the official festivities
- Rosa Salva Hotel – elegant and right in the heart of the city
- Hotel Concordia – a great strategic location
- Carnival Palace Hotel – perfect for the season
- The Venice Venice Hotel – modern style in the historic centre
- Nolinski Venezia – Evok Collection – chic and up-to-date
- Ca' di Dio – VRetreats – a quiet, design-focused retreat near the centre
- Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice – the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity
How to choose where to stay in Venice for Carnival: some insider tips
If you're a visitor from abroad, trying to figure out where to stay in Venice for Carnival, understanding some of the basic travel terms will really help you book the perfect hotel. The areas near the Grand Canal, St Mark's Square, and Rialto Bridge are considered the prime locations because they put you at the heart of all the action, historic streets and stunning Venetian scenery.
For those looking for luxury, hotels like the Gritti Palace are on the wish-list – elegant suites, refined interiors and top-notch services that'll make your Carnival stay simply unforgettable. Just keep in mind that February's the peak month and sometimes even March, so it's vital to check prices early and book in advance. Many people rely on TripAdvisor to compare rooms, services and overall experience.
Whether you want to explore the cultural events, attend a masquerade ball or just soak up the magic of the city, choosing the right location will allow you to fully experience the wonderful Venice Carnival atmosphere.
Faq
When should you book for Carnival?
Try to book 6 months in advance or even more - the best hotels get snatched up long before the festival starts.
Is it better to stay on the main island or outside?
Staying in historic Venice is way more scenic and convenient for official events, but areas outside the centre can offer more affordable options with super-fast transport links.
Is the vaporetto the best way to get around?
Yes, it's the most picturesque way to move around during Carnival - and often the most efficient too.
Conclusion
Choosing where to stay in Venice for Carnival is all about weighing up location, budget and what sort of experience you want.
From the magic of San Marco to the authentic charm of Cannaregio, and from historic palaces on the Grand Canal to peaceful island retreats, Venice has got options for every kind of traveller. Just remember: Carnival is an incredible spectacle, but it needs planning ahead - so book well in advance!
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