Venice is a city that never fails to impress its visitors, no matter the season. The city’s unique atmosphere is a blend of history, art, and culture that can be experienced in every corner. If you’re planning a trip to Venice in February 2019, you’ll be happy to know that the city has a lot to offer during this time of the year. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Venice in February 2019.

Carnival of Venice

One of the most iconic events in Venice is the Carnival. This year, the Carnival will take place from February 16th to March 5th. During this time, the city is filled with people wearing masks and costumes, creating a festive and surreal atmosphere. You can participate in the celebrations by attending one of the many events organized during the Carnival, such as the masquerade balls, the parade of boats on the Grand Canal, or the traditional “flight of the angel” from the Campanile of St. Mark’s Basilica.

The Best Mask Shops

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the Carnival atmosphere, you should consider buying a mask. Venice has a long tradition of mask-making, and there are many shops where you can find unique and beautiful masks. Some of the best mask shops in Venice include Ca’ Macana, Atelier Marega, and La Bottega dei Mascareri.

The Best Places to Eat

During the Carnival, many restaurants in Venice offer special menus and dishes inspired by the traditional Carnival cuisine. One of the most famous Carnival dishes is the frittelle, a type of sweet fried dough that comes in different flavors, such as plain, with raisins, or with cream. Some of the best places to try frittelle and other Carnival delicacies are Pasticceria Tonolo, Rosa Salva, and Dal Moro’s Fresh Pasta to Go.

Museums and Art Exhibitions

Venice is also known for its rich cultural heritage, and February is a great time to explore the city’s museums and art exhibitions. Some of the most interesting exhibitions that will be held in Venice in February 2019 include:

“Renoir: Intimacy” at Palazzo Ducale

This exhibition features 50 works by the French Impressionist painter Auguste Renoir, showcasing his ability to capture the beauty of everyday life and his fascination with the female figure.

“Mantegna and Bellini: Masters of the Renaissance” at Palazzo Ducale

This exhibition is a unique opportunity to admire the works of two of the most important Renaissance painters, Andrea Mantegna and Giovanni Bellini, side by side. The exhibition features over 100 works, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures.

“The Secret Rooms of Doge’s Palace” at Doge’s Palace

This exhibition allows visitors to explore the hidden rooms and passages of the Doge’s Palace, the former residence of the Venetian rulers. The rooms are decorated with stunning frescoes and artworks, and offer a glimpse into the private life of the Doge and his family.

Gondola Rides and Romantic Walks

Finally, no trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride or a romantic walk along the canals. In February, the city is less crowded than in the peak tourist season, making it the perfect time to enjoy a peaceful and intimate ride on a gondola. Some of the most scenic routes include the Grand Canal, the smaller canals of the Cannaregio district, and the picturesque islands of Murano and Burano.

In conclusion, Venice is a city that can be enjoyed all year round, and February is no exception. Whether you’re interested in the Carnival, art exhibitions, or romantic walks, Venice has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Venice in February 2019!