Venice Art Biennale — the world’s oldest and most prestigious art exhibition

What to expect

Each nation curates a pavilion. A central exhibition is curated by an invited artistic director. The Arsenale’s Corderie is the spine. Collateral events fill Venice: palazzo exhibitions, installations in churches, pop-up galleries. The opening week (vernissage, invitation-only for professionals) is the art world’s social event. Public opening: the day after.

Planning

Go in October–November for fewer crowds (the art world descends in May–June). Weekdays are quieter. Wear comfortable shoes. The Arsenale walk is 2km+.

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