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The 83rd Venice Film Festival opens tomorrow, September 2, and runs to September 12, 2026, according to ANSA. The event is based on the Lido island, a short vaporetto ride from Venice. Five Italian films are competing for the Golden Lion, including the return after 37 years of director Nanni Moretti. The lineup mixes love, ghosts and horror.
For travelers already in Venice, the festival rearranges the city's daily rhythm. Most festival crowds concentrate on the Lido in the evenings. Daytime sees the historic center keep a normal pace, though accommodation on both the Lido and the main islands fills up well in advance. If you have not booked yet, expect higher rates and fewer choices. Budget for extra time on vaporettos in the late afternoon and after evening screenings, when audiences head back toward Venice.
Want to catch a film? General public tickets exist but are limited. Check the official festival website for release dates and be ready to book fast. Do not expect to walk in and get a seat for the biggest premieres.
For everyone else, the festival is not a reason to avoid Venice. The Lido has its own beaches, and the historic center stays open as usual. The main change is logistical: book your stay and your transport ahead, and treat the evening return ride as part of the event. If you are flexible, the festival week is a fine time to be in town.
Best tours and tickets in Venice
Curated from Viator. We may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you.
Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat
Venice In a Day St Mark's Doges Palace Gondola Ride and City Tour
Legendary Venice Doge's Palace & St. Mark's with Exclusive Access
Eat Like a Local: Venice 3-Hour Small-Group Food Tasting Tour
Another option: tickets on Headout
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Combo: St. Mark's Basilica Entry Tickets + St.Mark's Museums and Doge's Palace Access with Optional ACTV Transport Pass
Frequently asked questions
Does the Venice Film Festival take place in the historic center?
Can casual visitors buy tickets for festival films?
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Read more →All prices and times on this page are ESTIMATES and change often. They are a starting point from an independent editor, never official or guaranteed figures. Always check the final price and the opening hours with the official venue or operator before you book or travel.
Rules, timetables, fares and passenger rights change, and this page is a summary, not an official source or legal advice. Check the official operator or authority before you book or travel, and treat anything critical to your trip as something to confirm, not to assume. Last reviewed: 2026-09-01.
