Secrets of Venice Carnival and Life of Casanova Tour
Dorsoduro, Venice
Follow in the footsteps of the great lover Casanova on a 1.5-hour Carnival tour of Venice. Learn about the life and times of Casanova, and about the masks and traditions of the Venice Carnival. Enjoy a hot cappuccino with a Venetian “frittelo” cake.
Venice Carnival Walking Tour Following Casanova’s Footsteps
This guided walking tour in Venice explores the 18th-century Carnival through the life and times of Giacomo Casanova, ideal for history and culture enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Follow in the footsteps of Casanova on a Venice Carnival walking tour
- See flamboyant 17th-century costumes worn during Carnival
- Pass Casanova’s house and the home of poet Giorgio Baffo
- Learn about the history and traditions of the Venice Carnival
- Discover how traditional Venetian masks are made
Description
Meet your English-speaking guide in front of La Fenice opera house to begin a walking tour that retraces Giacomo Casanova’s life and the Venice Carnival of the 18th century. The guide, dressed in traditional Venetian costume, introduces the Carnival’s history, the evolution of its masks once used to conceal identities, and the craftsmanship behind their creation.
Admire elegant costumes representing those worn during Carnival parades and grand private balls. Walk through the narrow alleys of the San Samuele district, passing Casanova’s childhood home and the residence of Giorgio Baffo, the poet who influenced him. Learn about the Ridotto, Venice’s first casino, where Casanova mingled with aristocrats, and hear stories about courtesans who enlivened the city’s social scene.
The tour offers a perspective on Venetian history filled with desire, passion, and entertainment. It concludes with a ten-minute walk from St Mark’s Square to a local café, where you will enjoy a hot cappuccino and a traditional Venetian Carnival cake called “frittelle,” available only during the Carnival period.
Includes
- English-speaking guide dressed in Carnival costume
- Cappuccino and frittelle in a local coffee shop
Excludes
- Optional gratuities
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Extra food and drinks
Important Information
- Guests are welcome to wear Carnival costumes or a cape with a mask for photos and to enhance the experience
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To get the most from this experience, book early during Carnival season and bring comfortable walking shoes.