Music, an exuberant atmosphere and an almost tangible joie de vivre: Parades and street parties have long been popular destinations for carnival fans. But where does the party really get going?
Date: February 9 to 17, 2024
Visitors: 1 million people
The carnival in Rio de Janeiro is one of the most famous events of its kind. There were precursors as early as the 17th century. It made its debut as we know it today in 1840. It begins on the Friday before Ash Wednesday with an opening ritual. The highlight is the parades of the samba schools in the Sambódromo. This was built according to plans by Oscar Niemeyer in 1984. The parades last around 10 hours each day. The winners are announced on Ash Wednesday. And they celebrate with fireworks and even more partying.
Hotel tip: The Copacabana Palace, a Belmond Hotel, is an oasis in the middle of the lively city. It scores points with its location on the Copacabana. It also has a rooftop tennis court, two Michelin-starred restaurants and featuresArt Deco design.
Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel
Av. Atlântica, 1702 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22021-001, Brasilien
Tel.: +55 21 2548-7070
Web: belmond.com
Price: Double room from approx. € 900,- per night
Date: February 9 to 14, 2024
Visitors: 2.7 million people
The carnival in Rio is known all over the world. But the whole world seems to celebrate in Salvador Bahia. At least the third largest city in Brazil is right at the top of the list of destinations for carnival fans. Almost three million people come here every year to celebrate on the streets. This has earned it an entry in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest street carnival in the world and one of the biggest festivals in the world. Open-air concerts, parades and exuberant parties are the order of the day.
Hotel tip: The pretty Hotel Fasano Salvador attracts guests with its large rooms, tasteful interior and great location. The outdoor pool offers breathtaking views.
Hotel Fasano Salvador
Praça Castro Alves, 5 – Centro, Salvador – BA, 40020-160, Brasilien
Tel.: +55 71 2201-6300
Web: fasano.com
Price: Double room from approx. € 350,- per night
Date: February 8 to February 13, 2024
Visitors: 1.5 million people
Of course, there are also carnival parades and celebrations in every major city in Germany. But Cologne is the carnival stronghold. There're 480 carnival clubs here. The fact that destinations for carnival fans are quite a boost for the local economy is impressively demonstrated by the example of Cologne. In just a few weeks, the city generates millions in additional revenue from trade taxes. After all, someone has to produce the 330 tons of sweets, 700,000 chocolate bars and 220,000 boxes of pralines. In Cologne, the celebrations are intense, excessive, loud and cheerful.
Hotel tip: The 25hours Hotel Köln The Circle with its cheeky vibe is perfect for anyone who comes to the city to party and have fun. It has a cool industrial interior and a Neni restaurant.
25hours Hotel Cologne The Circle
Im Klapperhof 22-24, 50670 Cologne, Germany
Tel.: +49 221 162530
Web: 25hours-hotels.com
Price: Doubles from € 140
Date: January 27 to February 13, 2024
Visitors: 145,000 per day
The Carnival in Venice traditionally kicks off with the Boat parade on the Grand Canal. Ab 3. Februar finden schließlich Programmpunkte wie die “Festa delle Marie”, der “Volo dell’Angelo” (Engelsflug über den Markusplatz) oder die Wahl des schönsten Mädchens von Venedig statt. Sein official end findet der Karneval in Venedig mit dem “Volo del Leon” (Löwenflug) am Faschingdienstag. Zahlreiche Bälle, Galadinners finden während dieser Zeit statt. Und hunderte Menschen in elaborate masks populate the city. One of the must-see destinations for carnival fans!
Hotel tip: The opulent Aman Venice is located directly on the Grand Canal and offers the best views of the boat race. The old town is just a few steps away.
Aman Venice
Palazzo Papadopoli, Calle Tiepolo, 1364, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
Tel.: +39 041 270 7333
Web: aman.com
Price: Doubles from € 1,400
Date: February 13, 2024
Visitors: 1.5 million people
Der “Mardi Gras”, übersetzt “Fette Dienstag” ist der Höhepunkt der Karnevalssaison. Der Tag vor dem Start of Catholic Lent is celebrated particularly intensively in New Orleans. In the French Quarter, especially in Lee Circle, Lafayette Square, Napoleon Avenue, St. Charles Avenue and Polymnia Street, you will find Colorful parades statt. Von den Karnevalswägen der sogenannten “Krews” gibt’s allerdings statt Süßigkeiten Ketten mit Plastikperlen. Natürlich in den offiziellen Karnevalsfarben Green, yellow and purple held.
Hotel tip: The Four Seasons New Orleans is just a few minutes away from beautiful Canal Street. Elegant rooms and suites and unparalleled service make it one of the best hotels in the area.
Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
2 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Tel: +1 504-434-5100
Web: fourseasons.com
Price: Doubles from € 500
