1The CARNIVAL OF VIAREGGIO in Tuscany is a real spectacle. Colourful parades fill the streets during each weekend in February, and floats are adorned with giant, often very elaborate, papier-mâché puppets. It’s a hugely atmospheric cultural event and joining the throng makes for a marvellous experience.
1-25 February, viareggio.ilcarnevale.com
2There’s a reason VENICE CARNIVAL is so famous. For more than half the month the city is taken over by the most incredible costumes (and masks!), performances, parades and shows. It’s a feast for the senses and offers a unique adventure that’s pure bucket-list material.
8-25 February,
www.carnevale.venezia.it