Venice Carnival in February

Venice Carnival typically runs from late January to early March, ending on Shrove Tuesday. The final weekend draws the biggest crowds - and the most spectacular costumes. Saturday before Ash Wednesday is peak madness with 100,000+ visitors cramming into the historic center. For better photos and breathing room, come during weekdays in the festival's first week. The opening ceremony at Cannaregio features the traditional 'Flight of the Angel' from St. Mark's Campanile - worth planning your trip around. Weather in February averages 8°C with frequent rain. Pack waterproof shoes; acqua alta (flooding) can turn St. Mark's Square into a shallow lake. The city provides elevated walkways, but your costume might get soggy. March offers slightly warmer temperatures but carnival winds down by mid-month. Book flights and hotels by October - prices triple closer to the event.