Traditions and customs in Venice

1. Carnival

Masks and costume in the two weeks before Lent, a tradition revived in 1979 after nearly two centuries.

• Best time: February

2. Gondola, honestly

Fares are fixed by the city, not negotiated — roughly EUR 90 by day and EUR 110 after 19:00 for the boat, up to five people.

• Cost: EUR 90–110 per boat, not per person
• Tip: A traghetto crossing of the Grand Canal costs about EUR 2 and uses the same boats.

3. Bàcaro crawl (giro d'ombra)

Moving between small wine bars for a glass and cicchetti, standing, before dinner.

• Best time: 18:00–20:00

4. Venetian mask making

Papier-mâché masks made by hand in a shrinking number of workshops, distinguishable from imported plastic by weight and finish.

5. Regata Storica

A September procession of historic boats followed by serious racing on the Grand Canal.

• Best time: First Sunday in September