Carnevale Weekend in Venice

This Valentine's weekend, you can take a special trip to Venice, the world's most unique pedestrian city and living museum. While stunning year-round, the ancient Venetian culture and traditions truly come alive during the Carnevale season, the final days before Lent. Dating back to at least 1296, this festival is a period of gluttonous feasting and revelry, inspiring Mardi Gras in New Orleans and the lively festivals around the world. Venetian Carnevale is renowned for its elaborate costumes and mysterious masks, transforming the city's 118 islands into a grand masquerade with events and entertainment happening around every corner.

Celebrating Carnevale in Venice is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Army Outdoor Recreation makes it effortless. Board our comfortable charter bus at your choice of Pulaski or Smith Barracks and prepare for an unforgettable weekend adventure.

Price, on or prior to Sunday, November 9:

• Adults: $599 per person
• Single Occupancy: $729

Price, on or after Monday, November 10:

• Adults: $669 per person
• Single Occupancy: $799
   
• Hotel rebooking fees may apply to any registrations made on or after Thursday, December 11.
   
• Rates for additional children or family rooms upon request based on personalized requirements
• Infants under 3 on existing bedding: $279

Trip Includes:

• Round trip tour bus transportation 
• Pick up at your choice of Pulaski or Smith Barracks
• Free on-post parking
• 3 overnights at Hotel San Carlo*** or equivalent
• Daily breakfast

What to Bring:

• Comfortable, weather appropriate shoes and clothing
• Credit/Debit card or Euro
• Military ID and Passport

Departure:

• 8 p.m. from Wagon Wheel Theater, Smith Barracks
• 9 p.m. from Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation, Pulaski Barracks, bldg. 2905

Return: Monday Evening

Estimated Itinerary

Thursday: Your Journey Begins
 
Your Carnevale experience starts with Army Outdoor Recreation. Our private charter bus will pick you up from your choice of Pulaski or Smith Barracks, where you'll find plenty of free, on-post parking. Once you're settled, lean back and relax on your overnight journey to Italy. Remember your travel essentials for a comfortable ride: a blanket, pillow, power bank, and your favorite snacks and drinks.

Friday: A Free Day of Discovery 

Wake up in Venice! Our hotel on the mainland offers convenient tram, bus, and boat connections to the city center. You can register for excursions and buy your tickets to the city center right at the hotel front desk. Once you arrive in “La Serenissima”, you're free to explore! You could take a serene gondola ride along the Grand Canal, get "skip the line" access to the iconic St. Mark's Basilica, or find a more hands-on experience. Consider a family-friendly mask-making workshop or even a Venetian cooking class to truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

Saturday: Carnevale & Valentine's Day 

Today is not only the final Saturday of Carnevale, it's also Valentine's Day! Venice will be buzzing with energy and excitement. Take in the spectacle of the free Best Carnevale Costume Contest in St. Mark's Square, where you can admire the stunning, hand-crafted outfits of the costumed participants, all of whom are enthusiastic amateurs rather than professional performers. Throughout the day, public squares across the islands will host free musical acts, circus performers, acrobats, and clowns. It’s the perfect day to get lost in the magic and revelry of this historic festival.

Sunday: The Flight of the Eagle 

One of the most unique Carnevale events of the weekend takes place today at noon in St. Mark's Square: "The Flight of the Eagle." This breathtaking spectacle, which harks back to Renaissance-era theatrical performances, features a human "Eagle" soaring on a cable from the top of the 99-meter bell tower down to the center of the square. It’s a sight you won't want to miss! After you've seen the main event, consider a side trip. Take a short boat ride to Murano to witness the world-famous glassblowing or visit the island of Burano, known for its delicate lace and streets lined with brightly colored houses.

Monday: Return to Germany 

Your Carnevale adventure concludes with a scenic drive through the majestic Alps. Relax and enjoy the stunning mountain views as our bus takes you back to your starting point in Germany. You can expect to arrive this evening.