The best holiday of the year is here, the one where thousands of people take to the streets in extravagant costumes ready to samba, sing and party the night away. If you don't want to miss a good opportunity to wear your favourite fancy dress and show off your dance moves, we strongly advise you to visit Carnival 2020 in these places and check out the holiday rentals in each one:
Las Palmas, an explosive Carnival
If you're looking for an incredible destination to spend Carnival 2020, we suggest the capital of the Canary Islands. Here, Carnival doesn’t last for one or even two weeks, but three weeks.
If there's one thing the Canary Islanders like, it's a party and here you'll find the best of it. From the end of January the traditional Carnival shows begin and in early February there are parades leading up to the explosion of joy at the end. This Carnival is so big and elaborate that you can find activities for all tastes.
This island is exciting to visit at any time of year, so take advantage of at least one day of your stay to explore the amazing Gran Canaria.
Ovar, the best Carnival in Portugal
If you want a plan that’s nicer for your wallet but don't want to lose the magic of Carnival, Ovar might be your destination. After all, this is where they have what is probably the best Carnival in Portugal.
The history of this carnival goes back to the end of the 19th century, and little by little this festival has grown and is gradually attracting more and more tourists. Today it's at its highest point and the Noite da Farrapada stands out because it gives all those present the chance to take part in a parade where having fun and spreading joy are the only rules.
If you want a bit of peace and quiet, we recommend that you go towards Esmoriz and talk a walk along Barrinha de Esmoriz. Here, you can walk through five miles of nature with a spectacular view of the sea.
The Carnival that puts the ‘fun’ in Funchal
If good weather is fundamental for you to enjoy a great weekend of partying, Funchal is undoubtedly the best place for you to go in Portugal.
On Friday morning, you'll wake up to the sound of the philharmonic orchestras, which come along with the carnival marches that whet your appetite for a feast of fun for the days ahead. The great Cortejo Alegórico parade of floats takes to the streets on Saturday night, but it's on the Tuesday that Funchal shows off the best of Carnival it has to offer with the satirical Cortejo Trapalhão.
The island of Madeira is full of natural treasures that are absolutely unmissable, so you should take the opportunity to enjoy the small pleasures of the island like its landscapes, climate and of course the exotic fruit.
Cádiz, Spain – the home of satire
There are records of the Cadiz Carnival dating back to the 16th century. Now, hundreds of years later, Cadiz has had time to perfect the best way to celebrate the event. In this way, the Cadiz Carnival has established itself as one of the most important in Spain.
In all carnivals, satire is a key element of the festivities, but in Cadiz political and social criticism are the main players. Andalusian humour, which is typically sharp and daring, can bring out the hypocrisies of local leaders and the customs of society.
Aside from the carnival, the city of Cadiz stands out for its history and beauty. As the oldest city in western Europe, there is a lot to discover, and when you sit down for dinner be sure to order a shrimp omelette, the local specialty.
Go back in time with the Venice Carnival
The best carnival in Europe is in Italy. Every year, Venice provides visitors with a carnival of epic proportions that you won't want to miss.
As always, St Mark's Square, the Piazza di San Marco, will be the epicentre of this celebration and 2020 is no different. This is where they will set up the big stage ready for several different exciting shows. Venice will go back in time and you will find artists, craftsmen and tailors dressed in the eighteenth-century fashion, demonstrating their skills.
While you’re there, take the opportunity to get to know the city. Venice has a unique charm and there are certain monuments you absolutely have to visit. The breathtaking Basilica of San Marcos, the imposing Campanario bell tower and the Ducal Palace are just some of our recommendations.
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