Venice: Carnival Mask Decoration Class at Casanova Prisons

If you’re dreaming of a more personal connection to Venice’s world-famous Carnival, this mask decoration workshop offers a unique chance to craft your own souvenir while soaking up the city’s lively atmosphere. Held inside the historic Palazzo delle Prigioni, right in the heart of St. Mark’s Square, this experience combines art, history, and a touch of Venice’s mysterious charm — all in just about an hour.

We love the idea that you get to create rather than just observe, and this workshop is led by a local artisan who’s passionate about Venice’s traditional mask-making. Plus, the chance to take home a handmade mask makes it a memorable keepsake. That said, it’s not a lengthy or highly detailed tour, so if you’re after a deep dive into Venetian history, this might not be your primary activity. But if you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to participate in Carnival culture, this class hits the spot.

One thing to consider is that this experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility limitations or wheelchair users, so it’s worth checking if that’s a concern. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, appreciate local art, and want a tangible souvenir to remember Venice by. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this workshop offers a relaxed, creative break from sightseeing.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience: Create your own decorated Carnival mask with guidance from a local artisan.
• Historic setting: Held inside Palazzo delle Prigioni, close to iconic sights like St. Mark’s Square.
• All materials included: Glitter, paint, and decorative supplies are provided.
• Authentic Venetian craft: Learn about the tradition of mask-making directly from a skilled local.
• Memory to take home: Your finished mask becomes a personalized souvenir of Venice.
• Duration & flexibility: About a one-hour session, with multiple start times available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Venice Mask Decoration Workshop

The Setting: A Historic Venue in the Heart of Venice

Imagine stepping into the Palazzo delle Prigioni, an ancient building with walls steeped in history, famously known as the place from which Casanova is said to have escaped. This is where your creative journey begins, right near the bustling St. Mark’s Square. The location itself adds a layer of magic, making the experience feel a little more special than a typical art class.

The workshop space is vibrant, filled with unfinished masks, paints, and glitter — an inviting environment that sparks your imagination. Being in such a historic site adds a sense of authenticity, transporting you back to Venice’s famous Carnival era, when masks were both a necessity and a form of artistic expression.

What You’ll Do: Crafting Your Own Carnival Mask

The core of this experience is decorating a traditional Venetian mask. After meeting your instructor — a skilled Venetian artisan — you’ll start by choosing your base mask. From there, the fun begins: using colorful paints, glitter, and other decorative materials, you’ll personalize your mask to reflect your style or your imaginary Venetian alter ego.

Participants can expect a relaxed, guided process rather than a strict lesson. The guide explains the significance of different design elements and techniques, offering tips along the way. It’s not a professional art class, but you’ll definitely learn some tricks and get inspired to create something beautiful, even if you’re not a seasoned painter.

From the Reviews: What Travelers Have Loved

Multiple reviews highlight how engaging and friendly the guides are. One traveler appreciated the helpful instructions and ongoing advice from the artist, saying, “He explained the various techniques before we started and kept commenting and advising us as we decorated the masks.” This kind of personalized attention makes a big difference in how much you enjoy the activity.

Another reviewer mentioned how the workshop provided a peaceful escape from the crowds, allowing for a moment of creative relaxation. They appreciated the chance to work on their mask without pressure, and the guide’s kindness made the session feel special.

People also loved that they could finish with a unique, handmade item — a tangible reminder of Venice that’s more meaningful than a typical souvenir. The ability to wear your mask and imagine being part of Venice’s Carnival magic** is a highlight for many.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $78.17 per person, including all materials and instruction, this experience offers a solid value for anyone interested in arts and crafts, Venetian traditions, or simply a memorable activity in Venice. Compared to other short workshops or guided tours, it provides enough hands-on fun to justify the cost. Plus, the personal souvenir you take home boosts the value further.

Who Should Consider This?

This workshop is perfect for creative souls, curious travelers, or those seeking a break from typical sightseeing. It’s also suitable for anyone willing to get a little messy and have fun with colors. Keep in mind, if you have mobility issues or require wheelchair access, this might not be the best fit. The group size tends to be small, making it intimate and allowing for more personalized attention.

Practical Details and Tips

• Location: Meet at the Prison Palace near St. Mark’s Square, across the bridge on the right side of the Doge’s Palace entrance.
• Timing: Check availability for start times — sessions last about an hour.
• Language: Guides speak English, Italian, French, and Spanish.
• What to Bring: No need to bring anything — all materials are supplied.
• Age Range: The reviews suggest it’s suitable for a wide age range, from children (over 10) to adults, but not explicitly family-focused.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchairs.
• Cancellation: Full refund available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many who have participated mention the guides’ friendliness and expertise. One reviewer said, “The artist was so nice and helpful, and we ended up with a lovely sovereign mask.” Others enjoyed the opportunity to learn about Venetian mask-making in a relaxed environment, describing it as both fun and educational.

A visitor also appreciated the small group setting, saying, “It was us and two others, and the host was so nice,” which made the experience feel intimate and special. The overall sentiment is that this activity strikes a great balance between creativity, culture, and fun.

The Sum Up

This mask decoration class in Venice offers more than just a craft session — it’s an experience that connects you to the city’s festive traditions and artistic heritage. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a hands-on activity that results in a tangible keepsake and who enjoy exploring local crafts. The historic setting adds a layer of authenticity, making your creation feel like a true Venetian artifact.

While it’s not the most comprehensive or immersive historical tour, it’s perfect for those wanting a brief, meaningful activity that’s both fun and meaningful. The guides are knowledgeable, the materials are plentiful, and the atmosphere is relaxed. It’s a chance to step out of the crowds and create your own story—one mask at a time.

If you’re after a personalized, culturally rich souvenir and enjoy arts and crafts, this experience will resonate. Just remember it’s not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers, and it’s best enjoyed with an open mind and a little creative spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the reviews mention participants as young as 10, suggesting it’s suitable for older children who can handle painting and decorating.

How long does the workshop last?
The activity lasts about one hour, with various start times available.

Do I need to bring anything?
Nope, everything is supplied — paints, glitter, masks, and decorations are all included.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
You meet at the Prison Palace near St. Mark’s Square, crossing the bridge on the right side of the Doge’s Palace entrance. Arrive five minutes early.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled session.

Is this experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Are there multiple languages available?
Yes, guides speak English, Italian, French, and Spanish.

What’s the best part of this workshop?
Creating a personalized, handmade Venetian mask that you get to take home, along with the chance to learn about and participate in Venetian Carnival traditions.

Is this activity good for solo travelers or groups?
It works well for both — small group sizes create a friendly, intimate atmosphere perfect for solo adventurers or friends.

Hopefully, this gives you a real sense of what to expect from the Venice Carnival Mask Decoration Class. Whether you’re a crafty soul or just looking for a fun cultural activity, it’s a chance to connect with Venice’s festive spirit in a personal way.

You can check availability for your dates here: