Experience the 2011 Venice Carnival in Italy

Let loose at the famous Venice Carnival this February

The Venice Carnival (Carnevale) is the main event of the year in Venice. During two weeks of February, Venice becomes awash with colour, music and feasts as masked revellers throw themselves wholeheartedly into the festivities of the Venice Carnival. Whether you too wish to dive head first into the two week extravaganza, partying behind an extravagant mask or simply watch events unfold and enjoy the atmosphere, a private apartment is the perfect base.

Find accommodation for the 2011 Venice Carnival

The Venice Carnival originated in the 12th Century, with the famous Venice Carnival masks being used to hide a local's face, therefore briefly destroying the difference between the nobility and common people. Usually carnivals in Italy are designed for children to enjoy, but the Venice Carnival is definitely a time for adults, with masked balls, costume parades and various pageants to keep the festival atmosphere going throughout the two-week event. However, it is on the two weekends that people really let their hair down and party.

This year, the magic and enchantment of the 2011 Venice Carnival will last from the 26th February until the 8th March, offering two weeks of music, theatre, magic and games for all those who wish to take part. Venice Carnival masks can be bought from any number of traditional 'mascareri' and craft shops throughout the city, which maintain Venice's long tradition of mask making.

Reaching private accommodation in Venice for the 2011 Venice Carnival is going to be very easy. EasyJet provide some remarkably cheap flights to Venice's Marco Polo International Airport, which lies just on the mainland of Italy just outside the city. There are numerous trains, buses and water taxis available from the airport too, meaning you can be soaking in the atmosphere and getting ready to party within minutes of arriving in Venice!

Find accommodation for the 2011 Venice Carnival