Secrets of Venice Carnival and Life of Casanova Tour

Dive into the captivating world of Venice’s carnival traditions and the scandalous life of Casanova. This 2-hour tour invites you to uncover the secrets behind the city’s most iconic cultural experiences. Led by an expert guide in traditional Venetian attire, you’ll explore the very places that shaped Casanova’s notorious legacy, from his former residence to the city’s first casino. But the true allure lies in the immersive experience, where you’ll savor the flavors of Venetian cuisine and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind the carnival’s flamboyant costumes and masks.

Key Points

• Explore the life and footsteps of the famous historical figure Casanova during a guided 1.5-hour tour in Venice.
• Discover the traditions and history of the iconic Venice Carnival, including the display of elaborate costumes and masks.
• Experience the baroque architecture and Venetian culture firsthand while visiting iconic locations such as Casanova’s house and the Ridotto casino.
• Conclude the tour with a visit to a local café, where you can enjoy a traditional Venetian cappuccino and "frittelle" cake.
• Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Venice through the guidance of an English-speaking tour guide dressed in a traditional Venetian costume.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Secrets of Venice Carnival and Life of Casanova Tour" is a 2-hour experience that provides an in-depth look into the history and traditions of the renowned Venice Carnival.

An immersive 2-hour experience exploring the history and traditions of the renowned Venice Carnival.

Priced at $80.52 per person, the tour lasts 1.5 hours and is led by an English-speaking guide dressed in traditional Venetian costume.

Highlights include following Casanova’s footsteps, exploring carnival traditions, and visiting iconic locations like Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo and Casanova’s house.

The tour ends at a local café with a hot cappuccino and Venetian "frittelle" cake.

With high ratings for guide knowledge and experience, this tour offers an immersive glimpse into Venice’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Exploring Casanova’s Footsteps

Where did the infamous Casanova roam during his time in Venice? The Secrets of Venice Carnival and Life of Casanova Tour takes guests on a journey through the city, following in the footsteps of the legendary lover. Along the way, visitors discover Casanova’s house, as well as the home of poet Giorgio Baffo. The tour also explores the Ridotto, Venice’s first casino, where Casanova was known to frequent. Guests learn about his scandalous exploits and the traditions of the Venetian Carnival, all while taking in the city’s baroque architecture and culture.

| Casanova Sites Visited | Description |

| — | — |

| Casanova’s House | The former residence of the infamous lover |

| Giorgio Baffo’s House | Home of the Venetian poet and Casanova’s friend |

| The Ridotto | Venice’s first casino, a favorite haunt of Casanova |

| Campo Santo Stefano | A picturesque square along the tour route |

| Le Café Venezia | Where the tour concludes with coffee and Venetian pastries |

Traditions of the Venice Carnival

As the crowds gather in Venice’s historic piazzas during the annual Carnival celebration, they’re met with a captivating display of elaborate costumes, whimsical masks, and lively festivities.

The Venetian Carnival is a centuries-old tradition, dating back to the 11th century. Visitors can witness the creation of traditional Venetian masks, which are handcrafted with meticulous detail and used to conceal identities during the festivities.

The Venetian Carnival’s centuries-old tradition features the meticulous handcrafting of masks used to conceal identities during the festivities.

The Carnival is also known for its stunning costumes, with participants donning opulent 17th-century-inspired ensembles.

From lively music to decadent food and drink, the Carnival celebrates the vibrant spirit of Venice.

Flamboyant 17th-Century Costumes

Elegant 17th-century costumes are a hallmark of the Venice Carnival, captivating visitors with their flamboyant designs and vibrant colors.

These elaborate outfits often feature:

1. Elaborate headdresses adorned with feathers, ribbons, and gemstones.

2. Beautifully embroidered bodices with intricate patterns and luxurious fabrics.

3. Wide, flowing skirts that accentuate the wearer’s graceful movements.

4. Ornate masks that conceal the wearer’s identity, adding an air of mystery.

Crafted by skilled artisans, these costumes aren’t only visually stunning but also serve as a nod to Venice’s rich cultural heritage and the spirit of the Carnival celebrations.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Art of Mask-Making

Beneath the flamboyant 17th-century costumes and masks lies the rich tradition of Venetian mask-making, a craft that has captivated visitors for centuries.

Masks are an integral part of the iconic Carnival festival, with skilled artisans crafting intricate designs from materials like papier-mâché, leather, and glass.

The process involves meticulous carving, painting, and gilding to create the iconic Bauta, Moretta, and Volto masks.

Meticulous carving, painting, and gilding bring the iconic Bauta, Moretta, and Volto masks to life in the Venetian mask-making tradition.

These masks not only conceal identities but also allow wearers to take on new personas, embracing the spirit of transformation that defines the Carnival celebrations.

The mask-making tradition continues to thrive, preserving Venice’s cultural heritage.

Casanova’s House and the House of Giorgio Baffo

Moving beyond the captivating world of Venetian mask-making, the tour now explores the homes of two legendary Venetian figures – Giacomo Casanova and the poet Giorgio Baffo.

Participants will:

1. Visit Casanova’s former residence, where they’ll learn about the infamous seducer’s scandalous exploits.

2. Discover the home of Baffo, a renowned 18th-century poet known for his risqué verses.

3. Hear stories about the Ridotto, Venice’s first casino, where Casanova was a frequent patron.

4. Gain insights into the lives and legacies of these two influential Venetian personalities.

The Ridotto: Venice’s First Casino

As the Carnival festivities unfolded across Venice, the Ridotto, the city’s first official casino, emerged as a hub of intrigue and high-stakes gaming.

Established in the 17th century, the Ridotto allowed both nobles and commoners to gamble, fostering an air of secrecy and excitement. Guests would don elaborate masks and costumes, blurring social boundaries.

The casino’s heyday coincided with Casanova’s exploits, and the notorious libertine was known to frequent the tables, both winning and losing fortunes.

The Ridotto exemplified the decadence and opulence of Venetian society, a place where fortunes were won and lost amidst the revelry of Carnival.

Enjoying the Local Café Experience

One of the highlights of the Secrets of Venice Carnival and Life of Casanova Tour is the opportunity to indulge in a traditional Venetian café experience at the end.

Participants are treated to a hot cappuccino and a delectable Venetian "frittelle" cake at Le Café Venezia. This concluding experience allows them to:

At Le Café Venezia, participants indulge in a hot cappuccino and a delectable Venetian "frittelle" cake, capping off the tour on a delightful note.

1. Savor the rich, creamy cappuccino and the soft, sweet frittelle.

2. Relax and reflect on the insights gained during the tour.

3. Soak in the lively atmosphere of a typical Venetian café.

4. Engage in conversation with the guide and fellow tour participants.

This local café visit caps off the tour on a delightful note.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are encouraged to enjoy the complimentary Venetian refreshments provided at the end of the tour. Bringing one’s own food or drinks during the tour is generally not permitted, as it can disrupt the group experience.

What Should I Wear to Blend in With the Local Culture?

For a more authentic experience, the tour recommends participants wear Carnival costumes or masks. This allows visitors to blend in with the local culture and fully enjoy the Venetian atmosphere.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the 2-Hour Tour?

The tour itinerary doesn’t mention any scheduled restroom breaks. However, it’s likely the guide can accommodate brief stops if needed, as the tour covers approximately 1.5 hours of walking. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator for specific details.

How Does the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" Option Work?

The "reserve now & pay later" option allows customers to book their tour without paying upfront. They can reserve their spot and pay for the tour closer to the scheduled date. This provides more flexibility for customers.

Is There an Audio Guide Available in Addition to the Live Guide?

There’s no mention of an audio guide being available for this tour. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide dressed in traditional Venetian costume, so it’s likely a live guided tour without an additional audio component.

Final Words

The Secrets of Venice Carnival and Life of Casanova Tour offers a captivating exploration of Venice’s rich history and traditions. Visitors can enjoy the city’s carnival culture, trace Casanova’s footsteps, and experience local cuisine, all while guided by an expert in traditional Venetian attire. This two-hour tour provides a unique opportunity to uncover the secrets and legacy of one of Europe’s most iconic destinations.

You can check availability for your dates here: