Every year, between late August and early September, Venice becomes a meeting point for film enthusiasts, actors, directors, and industry professionals from all over the world. It is the time of the Venice International Film Festival, one of the most eagerly awaited events on Venice’s cultural calendar, bringing premieres, major productions, and new voices in international cinema to the Lido.
With film screenings, red-carpet events, and meetings with leading figures in the industry, the festival also offers an opportunity to discover Venice in a unique atmosphere. If you’re thinking of attending, here’s some useful information about the festival’s history, its most important awards, and how to plan your trip to Venice.
The History of the Venice Film Festival
The Venice Film Festival was founded in 1932 as part of the Venice Biennale and is considered the oldest film festival in the world. Over the years, it has welcomed some of the most important filmmakers on the international scene, becoming a showcase for works that explore new perspectives and transform the language of cinema.
From Italian Neorealism to the French New Wave, the festival has accompanied the evolution of the seventh art, continuing to give space to both established names and emerging talents. The programme includes films in competition, world premieres, special screenings, and sections dedicated to rediscovering classics, such as Venice Classics.
The Most Important Awards
One of the most eagerly anticipated moments of the festival is the awards ceremony, which shines a spotlight each year on the most acclaimed films and performances.
The Golden Lion is the festival’s top award and is presented to the best film in competition. The Volpi Cup, meanwhile, recognises the best male and female performances, celebrating the work of actors and actresses who stand out on the big screen.
Alongside the awards, premieres and screenings are what make the festival so special. For audiences, attending means having the opportunity to watch some of the season’s most anticipated films and discover works that often continue to generate discussion long after the festival ends.
Tips for Experiencing the Venice Film Festival
The heart of the festival is the Lido of Venice, where the main screenings and events take place. To watch the films, consult the official programme and check the ticket purchasing procedures: availability and access requirements may vary depending on the screening.
Getting to the Lido from the historic centre is easy thanks to the vaporetti, Venice’s water buses. You can depart from several stops around the city, including San Zaccaria, the railway station, and Piazzale Roma, checking the most suitable routes according to your starting point and screening times.
If you want to attend a premiere or a red-carpet event, you can choose elegant attire to get into the spirit of the festival. Otherwise, the best advice is to plan your days without rushing, leaving time for a walk around the Lido or a visit to the historic centre.
Interesting Facts About the Venice Film Festival
Over the years, the Venetian red carpet has become one of the most closely followed events even beyond the film industry. The outfits chosen by actors and actresses attract the attention of photographers, journalists, and fashion enthusiasts, turning red-carpet appearances into a media event in their own right.
The festival is also not reserved exclusively for industry professionals: members of the public can purchase tickets for many screenings, subject to the festival’s procedures and availability. It’s an opportunity to watch films often presented as premieres and experience first-hand the atmosphere of one of the most important film festivals in the world.
Staying in Venice During the Film Festival
The festival can be an opportunity to discover Venice beyond the Lido. Spend some time visiting museums, explore the districts of the historic centre, or stop at a traditional bacaro to sample Venetian cuisine. To enjoy the festival without rushing, plan your journeys around screening times and book your accommodation in advance, bearing in mind the high demand during the event.
Where to Stay During the Venice Film Festival
The Sarlux apartments, located in different Venetian districts, are an option for those who want to plan their trip independently and have a convenient base from which to reach the Lido and explore the city.
Discover the Sarlux apartments and find the one that best suits your stay.