Big Days Out at Italy's Famous Events
Four events with their own page, each with the 2027 dates and the practical details that help a crowded day go well.
The 2027 calendar
Carnival in Venice begins on 23 January and ends on Shrove Tuesday, 9 February. Siena holds its Palio twice, on 2 July and 16 August, though a race can slip to the next day. Opera nights at the Arena in Verona last from 11 June until 11 September. In Milan, the Salone del Mobile (13 to 18 April) is mainly for the trade; ordinary visitors get in on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 April.
Crowds change the plan
Hotels fill early on these dates and the roads into town are busy. In Venice the minibus stops at Piazzale Roma; in Siena buses wait at Il Fagiolone; in Verona they need a PASS ZTL Bus. On Palio day the Comune sets its own rules for the square, so read them before bringing children.
What travellers ask us
Do we need tickets for the Palio?
Standing in the centre of Piazza del Campo is free but closes when the square is full; seats on the stands are sold privately by their owners.
Is there a fee to visit Venice?
On set days, day visitors pay an access fee. The 2027 calendar has not been published yet, so check the city's official site for your date.
Can the minibus bring us back after the opera?
Yes. Performances end late in the evening, so tell us the date and your hotel, and the operator plans the return around the driver's rest.
Pick an event
- Venice Carnival — 23 January - 9 February 2027
- Palio of Siena — 2 July and 16 August 2027 (the race is held on these two dates every year)
- Arena di Verona Opera Festival — 11 June - 11 September 2027 (the 104th festival)
- Salone del Mobile.Milano (Milan Furniture Fair) — 13-18 April 2027 (the 65th edition)
Plan an event day
Send the event, the date, how many are going and where you are staying.
Request a quote or call 35227647770