In this post we recommend some accessible accommodation where you can stay on these dates. Likewise, we give you other tips so that you can enjoy Carnival like never before.
Since its emergence in the 11th century, the Carnival of Venice has been held annually in the Italian city of canals. Traditionally, before abstinent for Lent, people dressed up and covered their faces with masks in order to enjoy themselves freely. In this way, their excesses remained anonymous. Over the years this has become one of the most important cultural events in Italy.
During the Carnival, the participants wear elaborate costumes and hide under beautiful traditional masks. Likewise, dances, parades, historical recreations and other festivities are held.
The event lasts several days —this year 2023, it will be from February 4 to 21. The opening will take place on a floating stage in the Grand Canal.
As usual, there will be tourists from all over the world, so it is recommended to choose the accommodation months in advance. However, here are some accessible hotels where you can still book for the second week of Carnival:
Hotel All’Angelo
Hotel All’Angelo is located in the heart of the city, just 50 meters from the emblematic St. Mark’s Square and the impressive Doge’s Palace. An excellently located accommodation for an unforgettable Venice Carnival experience.
This accessible four-star hotel occupies a former 17th century palazzo that was once an art archive. Although the building has been renovated, many of the famous works are preserved in the rooms and common areas.
The rooms adapted for people with reduced mobility are characterized by their large space and traditional design. Likewise, the adapted bathrooms have a toilet with fold-down grab bars on the sides and a floor-level shower.
Hotel Indigo Venice – Sant’Elena, an IHG Hotel
The Hotel Indigo Venice – Sant’Elena is located on the island of Sant’Elena. It is away from the crowds, making it an ideal choice to rest quietly and, in turn, have easy access to the main tourist attractions.
Opened in 2019, this hotel houses a bright room adapted for people with reduced mobility. The bedroom has a design inspired by Byzantine culture and Venice. In addition, the adapted bathroom incorporates grab bars and an emergency rope.
Hotel Royal San Marco
The Hotel Royal San Marco is located just 50 meters from the famous Saint Mark’s Square, a perfect starting point for your stay in Venice.
This four-star establishment has a traditional Venetian design that is combined with contemporary and elegant furniture. Likewise, the superior adapted rooms have spacious bathrooms for wheelchair users.
Hotel Agli Alboretti
Hotel Agli Alboretti is in the Dorsoduro district, close to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, the Galleries dell’Academia and the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute.
The hotel receives its name in honor of the trees that were planted at the end of the 19th century in the street where the building is located. “Agli Alboretti” means “little trees” in Venetian.
The superior double rooms for wheelchair users have a bedroom and a living room. The adapted bathrooms have a walk-in shower with a seat and grab bars. The toilet also has a folding grab bar next to it.
More about Carnival
As indicated by the official page of the Carnival of Venice, these are some of the main events of this year:
• Opening Parade on the Grand Canal. February 4, from 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Street show on February 4 at the Teatrino in Piazza Ferretto and in the Venetian squares.
• Official Carnival 2023 dinner show at Ca’ Vendramin Calergi. Days February 11 and 12, and from February 16 to 21.
• Double show at the Arsenale. Friday, February 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• Program of musical and theatrical shows. Days February 11 and 12, and from February 16 to 21.
Many tourists rent period costumes to experience the Carnival like the Venetians. On pages like Venice Events, Venice To See or Vivo Venetia you can do it. There are really beautiful costumes that have been crafted by hand, paying attention to every detail. However, these garments may not be the most accessible and comfortable.
If you are looking for the typical mask, there are options from €5 to €70 in local stores. Also, in the squares of the city you can paint your face.
To make your stay perfect, we also recommend you download our Accessible City Guide and read the post “Tips for your accessible trip to Venice”.
Tell us, would you like to go to Carnival? If you’ve ever been, share your story with us!
Sources: Carnevale di Venezia, ConociendoItalia, Carnivaland
