Marvel at the masked costumes at the annual Venice Carnival, Italy

Carnival is one of the biggest celebrations in Italy, celebrated throughout the country, but there is no place that does it better than Venice.

This is your opportunity to dress like a character from Phantom of the Opera, or just wear a mask, looking mysterious as you explore the city. Events include dinners, parties and lavish masquerade balls which require invitations, but even if you don’t have an invite mask-wearing is encouraged. You’ll still be able to enjoy free events like concerts, street performances and the candlelit parade of boats.