Venice Film Festival
The Venice International Film Festival is the world's oldest film festival. It is a must-see event for fans of auteur cinema and anyone wanting to experience the magic of Venice at its most glamorous and vibrant.
Every year, between late August and early September, Venice becomes the centre of the international film world, welcoming directors, actors, critics, journalists and enthusiasts from around the globe.
The festival forms part of the Venice Biennale, a cultural institution established in 1895. Besides cinema, the Biennale includes events related to art, architecture, drama, dance and music. During the festival, visitors can explore international pavilions and artistic installations scattered throughout the city.
Where does the Venice Film Festival Take place?
The heart of the event is Venice Lido, a narrow, 12-kilometre-long island separating the lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. Here you’ll find the historic venues of the Palace of Cinema and the Palace of the Casino, which host official screenings and the opening and closing ceremonies.
During the festival, the Lido is transformed: the promenade is filled with red carpets, photographers, autograph hunters and fans hoping to catch a glimpse of a celebrity. Iconic hotels such as the Excelsior and the Des Bains host exclusive events, press conferences and after-parties.
However, the festival isn't confined to the Lido. All over Venice, you can attend parallel screenings, meetings and exhibitions at museums, historical palaces and cultural institutions.
Festival Sections: Competition and Experimentation
Every year, the festival presents a rich selection of films, divided into several sections:
- Venezia 82 (Official Competition): films competing for the Golden Lion.
- Out of Competition: notable works shown outside of the competition.
- Orizzonti: innovative language and experimental cinema.
- Giornate degli Autori: the focus is on independent cinema.
Each screening offers the chance to discover world premieres, meet directors and actors and experience surprising stories and visions from around the globe.
How to Participate: Tickets and Useful Information
The Venice Film Festival isn’t just for professionals. Visitors can also access screenings by purchasing tickets, available online through the official Biennale website or at ticket booths at the Lido.
Useful Tips for Attending:
- Book tickets in advance, especially for the most popular films.
- Some screenings are reserved, but many are open to the public.
- Passes and multi-entry tickets are also available.
As well as screenings, you can take part in additional events such as exhibitions, conferences and meetings with directors and critics.
The Stars and the Red Carpet
One of the most spectacular aspects of the festival is undoubtedly the red carpet. Every day, the walkways in front of the Palace of Cinema welcome some of the biggest names in international cinema. Actors, directors, models and other celebrities parade along it, accompanied by the constant clicking of photographers' cameras and the applause of the audience.
Every evening, hundreds of people gather behind barriers to get a close-up view of the stars, take photos and ask for autographs. This is one of the most thrilling and accessible experiences at the festival.
Why should I Visit Venice During the Film Festival?
Visiting Venice during the festival means experiencing the city at its most vibrant, cosmopolitan and elegant. The atmosphere is more international, the venues are more animated and there are more cultural events.
It’s the perfect time to:
- Attend screenings and world premieres.
- Discover exhibitions and events throughout the city.
- Take a gondola ride at sunset after the cinema.
- Enjoy an aperitif on the Grand Canal while watching the sunset.
How to Reach Venice Lido
The Lido can be easily reached by ACTV water buses from the main stops in Venice (Piazzale Roma, Ferrovia and San Zaccaria). The most frequent lines are 1, 5.1, 5.2, and 6. Alternatively, you can take a water taxi or private motorboat. Once you arrive at the Lido, the festival venues are just a few minutes’ walk away.
