Theatrical Walking Show of Carnival & Venice’s Hidden Streets

Explore Casanova history with a guided tour led by a costumed actor from Pantakin Theatre

Travel Flexibly · 1.15h · Venice, Italy

While Venice’s famous canals and Piazza San Marco attract crowds, a hidden side of the city awaits, full of legends, secrets, and untold stories. This unique walking tour offers an immersive experience, bringing Venetian Carnival traditions to life through the eyes of an actor guide. Join a theatre performer as you wander through Venice’s charming alleys to uncover the city’s fascinating history, from the secrets of Casanova to the mysteries of the Codega and the captivating legends.

  • Meeting point in Campo San Gallo
  • Theatre actor guide show​
  • Merceria & Rialto
  • Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo​
  • Venetian Carnival performance
  • Campo Santa Maria Formosa​
  • Myths & legends​
  • Ending point

Your adventure begins in the heart of Venice, near Piazza San Marco, where you’ll meet your guide, a talented actor from the famous Pantakin Theatre. Led by your costumed host, you’ll stroll through hidden streets and lesser-known piazzas while hearing captivating tales of Venice's past. From the stories of Casanova to the mysterious 'Codega' lantern-bearers, this walking performance is an exciting way to discover the city's most intriguing legends.

As you wander through secret corners of Venice, your guide will bring the stories to life, transforming the streets into an outdoor theatre where you’ll become part of the story. Along the way, you’ll visit famous landmarks like the Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, Campo Santa Maria Formosa, and the lively Merceria street, learning about Venice’s rich history, myths, and secrets, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the city's hidden stories before ending back at the original meeting point.

Theatrical Walking Show of Carnival & Venice’s Hidden Streets Description

Your 1.15- Theatrical Walking Tour tour includes:

  • Professional, English-speaking actor-guide

  • Exclusive theatrical performance

  • Discover hidden gems of Venice

  • Entertaining and interactive show

  • Unveil Casanova’s secrets and Venetian Carnival traditions

  • Family-friendly experience suitable for all ages

  • Maximum of 15 participants per group

Meet your theater actor guide

The adventure begins near the renowned Piazza San Marco, the heart of Venice. Here, your expert actor-guide will transport you back in time to tell the intriguing story of the "Codega", a lantern-bearer who once guided the Venetian nobles through the dark, winding streets of the city. As you stroll through this historic square, your guide will set the scene with tales of the Codega’s role in Venetian life, bringing the past to life with theatrical flair.

Walk through Merceria

From Piazza San Marco, your journey continues along Merceria, the bustling street that connects Rialto to San Marco. As you walk, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the 15th century. This vibrant street once served as a primary commercial route, lined with shops and traders, and remains one of Venice’s most historic thoroughfares. Your guide will share stories of daily Venetian life, revealing the rich history of the area and its significance to the city’s trade and prosperity.

Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo

Next, you’ll pass by the majestic Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, a true architectural gem and a key landmark in Venice’s history. Here, your guide will delve into the role the basilica played in shaping the Serenissima Republic, as well as its importance as a final resting place for many of Venice’s doges. The stories of this sacred space will provide insight into Venice’s political and spiritual power throughout the centuries, enriching your understanding of the city’s profound history.

Experience an immersive venetian carnival performance

As the tour continues, you’ll be treated to a truly immersive experience. Your guide will bring the spirit of Venice’s Carnival to life, recounting its origins and the lively celebrations that once took over the city. Through dramatic storytelling, you’ll feel the excitement of the carnival as the traditions of masks, costumes, and hidden identities are brought to the forefront. This theatrical performance will leave you feeling as though you’re part of the Venetian festivities, adding an unforgettable layer to your experience.

Explore Campo Santa Maria Formosa

The final stop of your journey takes you to Campo Santa Maria Formosa, one of Venice’s most beautiful and mysterious squares. Here, your guide will introduce you to the ghostly legends that continue to haunt the city. As you explore the square’s hidden corners and listen to tales of spectral encounters, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the darker, more mystical side of Venice. The blend of history and haunting lore will captivate your imagination, providing a perfect ending to your Venetian adventure. The tour concludes where it all began, back at Piazza San Marco.

What you get with this tour
Professional, English-speaking actor-guide
Interactive performance
Family-friendly experience
Venice Carnival tradition insight
Merceria, Campo Santa Maria Formosa and more
Group size of 15
Gratuities for the guide
Hotel pick-up
Food and drinks
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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended. Since the tour takes place outdoors, we suggest bringing an umbrella or sunglasses depending on the weather.

What to bring?

Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended. Since the tour takes place outdoors, we suggest bringing an umbrella or sunglasses depending on the weather.

Is lunch included in the price of the workshop?

Food is not included in the price, but your guide will be happy to recommend their favorite spots after the tour. We recommend bringing water with you.

Will the guide speak English?

Yes, the experience is primarily conducted in English. However, on some occasions, the tour could be on two languages and the guide may also speak Spanish alongside English.

Is this tour operated by The Tour Guy?

No, this tour is operated by one of our trusted partners in Venice.

Can I bring my children, and do I have to pay for them?

Yes, kids are welcome on this tour! Children under 12 can join for free, while those aged 12–16 receive a discounted ticket. Please choose accordingly during the booking.

What if it rains?

The tour will take place rain or shine. In case of exceptionally bad weather or high/low tide, we will inform you about rescheduling or refunds.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, this tour is not fully accessible for wheelchair users or people with reduced mobility. If you have any mobility concerns, please contact us in advance.

What is the duration of the tour?

Your shared walking theatre tour will last approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Please note that the tour could be bilingual.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up?

No, the tour does not include hotel pick-up. Please meet your guide at the designated meeting point.

Start From: $35.97

available days discounted days

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!

Reserve Now $35.97 / per person
$35.97 / per person
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