Mask workshop in Venice – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect, FAQs

Masks play a central role in Italian carnival tradition. Originally worn to conceal the wearer’s identity and social status, modern masks today celebrate freedom and creativity.

In addition to their symbolic meaning, these masks are exquisitely crafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. 

This article covers everything you must know before booking the Carnival Mask Workshop tickets.

What to expect

Take part in the Carnival Mask workshop in Venice for an entertaining and fulfilling hands-on activity.

Gain a deeper appreciation of iconic symbols, from their origins to their role in celebrations.

Learn the ancient art of decorating masks using paper mâché. Skilled instructors will offer you simple, easy-to-follow instructions on decorating your mask. 

The Venice Carnival features a variety of mask types, each with its own uniqueness and significance. 

Among the most iconic are the ‘Bauta’ covering the whole face, the ‘Colombina’—smaller and adorned with feathers and jewels, and the long beak-like nose ‘Plague Doctor’ mask.

Other notable masks include the ‘Moretta’—a small oval mask worn in silence, and the ‘Gatto’ which depicts a cat with pointed ears and whiskers.

Pick your favorite mask, and let your creativity flow as you paint and embellish it as your wish.

Where to book tickets 

You can purchase tickets to the Carnival Mask Workshop either online in advance or offline at the attraction. 

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than offline tickets.

When you buy tickets online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because some tours sell a limited number of tickets, they may sell out during peak days. Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

How do online tickets work

Go to the Mask workshop in Venice ticket booking page.

Select the number of tickets, preferred date, guide language, and time slot, and book your tickets immediately.

Once you purchase the tickets, they get delivered to your email address. 

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket. 

You can show your instructor the e-ticket on your smartphone and start your course.

Ticket price

A Venice Carnival Mask Workshop ticket costs €67 for visitors aged 12 years and above.

Children up to 11 years pay a discounted price of €55.

Venice Carnival Mask Workshop tickets

With this ticket, you get all the necessary paints and supplies, an apron, and a diploma of participation.

You can also take the mask you made with you.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (12+ years): €67
Child Ticket (up to 11 years): €55

Tickets for Paint Your Own Venetian Mask Workshop

Choose from over 50 handmade paper maché masks and use your creativity as you paint and decorate a Venice Carnival Mask. 

With expert guidance, you’ll learn traditional Venetian painting techniques and add the finishing touches with gold and silver metallic paints. 

Take home your uniquely crafted mask as a souvenir of this enriching experience.

You will get access to a mask decoration course and all the necessary paints and supplies.

This ticket does not include a guide or assistant.

Ticket Cost: €57

Experience the surrealism and magic of the world-famous Venice Carnival with the Venice Carnival Traditions Private Tour with Mask Workshop ticket. You can either opt for the 2-hour or 3-hour tour, each offering a unique experience of its own. Explore the legends of the white girl and dove, Festa delle Marie, Plague Doctor, etc. You get access to a 5-Star Private Guide when you book this tour.

Meeting point for Venice Mask Workshop

The meeting points change based on the ticket you choose. 

If you choose the Carnival Mask Workshop in Venice ticket, your meeting point is San Marco 596 Venetian Masks. 

Nearby ferry terminals are the Rialto ferry terminal  (Ferries: 1, 2, 2/, A, N, P) and the S. Marco ferry terminal (Ferries: B).

For Paint Your Venetian Mask Workshop tickets, the different meeting points depend on the language you choose.

For English, the meeting point is Calle Larga Prima. For French and Italian, it’s the La Bauta craft store. 

Timings

The Carnival Mask Workshop starts at 9.30 am; the last workshop is at 5.30 pm.

The Paint Your Own Venetian Mask Workshop starts at 10.30 am, and the last workshop is scheduled for 5 pm.

The workshop lasts approximately an hour.

Please be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the workshop starts.

Best time to attend the workshop

The best time to attend the mask workshops in Venice is when it starts around 10 am.. 

You can opt for the weekdays if you prefer a lesser crowd.

Save time and money! Buy the Venice Pass and get skip-the line and Fast Track access to attractions in and around the city, including St.Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Vivaldi Church, etc. This pass entails a digital audio guide, a Gondola ride, and a boat island tour.

Reviews

The mask workshop in Venice is a highly rated activity. 

Check out this review we selected from Tripadvisor to give you an idea of what to expect at the workshop.

Highly recommended

I came to Venice for the half marathon in October 2023. I was delighted to have participated in this mask-making class. Even without a smartphone, it was fairly easy to locate the venue. I encourage you to join this mask-making class!

Anthony W_Tripadvisor

FAQs about the Mask workshop in Venice

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Mask workshop in Venice.