In Venice, Carnival is not just a celebration: it is a return. A return to suspended time, to the elegance of gesture, to the pleasure of encounter and play. Among masks that guard secrets and palaces that evoke the history and artistry of aristocratic families, the city transforms into a widespread theatre, where every detail becomes part of a greater story.

At Nani Mocenigo Palace, an ancient noble residence and former Doge’s home, Carnival is experienced as if one were at home, following a tradition shaped by hospitality, shared rituals and small daily pleasures. An intimate and refined Carnival, far from the crowds, where time slows down and each guest becomes a protagonist.

L’Heure du Chocolat (February 6–17, 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm)

In the afternoon, the palace fills with enveloping scents and soft, hushed atmospheres with L’Heure du Chocolat, a chocolate and tea time celebrating the most authentic form of conviviality. Artisanal cakes and refined individual pastries are accompanied by an elegant sensory corner dedicated to precious herbs, spices and roots, from which freshly prepared infusions and herbal teas are created on the spot. A slow and comforting ritual, like an afternoon treat in a grand Venetian home. At the heart of this experience are the creations of Pastry Chef Raffaele Santoro, who proposes a sensory journey capable of blending memory and innovation.

Enhancing the atmosphere are the refined piano melodies of Miruna Maciuca, a young and extraordinary international pianist, who transforms the palace hall into a musical salon suspended between past and present.

Carnival at the Palace – Special Aperitivo (February 6–17, 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm)

As evening falls, Carnival truly comes alive. At aperitivo hour, guests are invited to indulge in the pairing “Venetian Frittelle & Cocktail”: soft, filled Venetian fritters matched with the “Nectar of the Gods”, a cocktail inspired by the pleasures of Olympus and created especially for the occasion by Gennaro Florio, Bar Manager of the G Lounge & Garden Bar. A delightful and surprising encounter, offered as an exclusive pairing.

Carnival is also about playfulness, irony and shared beauty. Nani Mocenigo Palace invites guests to take part in an amusing contest: wear your most intriguing mask, take a photo within the palace spaces and share it on social media tagging @nanimocenigopalace. The most captivating mask will be announced on February 18 and will win a dinner for two at La Bauta restaurant, the gastronomic heart of the hotel.

The Music that tells the Story of Carnival

On selected days during this special time of year, starting from 5:30 pm, the palace hall comes alive once again thanks to the piano accompaniment of Miruna Maciuca, whose elegant interpretations welcome guests and visitors as in an ancient Venetian salon.

Born in Bucharest and currently a student at the Venice Conservatory, Miruna Maciuca is regarded as one of the brightest talents of her generation. Already the protagonist of important international debuts – from Teatro Malibran to the Belgrade Philharmonic – her music combines classical rigour, emotional depth and a natural storytelling ability. At Nani Mocenigo Palace, her piano becomes the soundtrack to a Carnival lived with elegance and intimacy.

Info & Bookings 

Hotel Nani Mocenigo Palace | www.hotelnanimocenigo.com 
Fondamenta Nani 960, Dorsoduro – Venezia 
info: press@hotelnanimocenigo.com | info@hotelnanimocenigo.com