If you visit Venice during the Regata StoricaIt's well worth setting aside a day to enjoy the races, the boats and the jovial atmosphere.
On site, you'll discover an exceptional annual event and be able to take part in major festivities.
Today, I'm talking in detail about this river race on the canals of Venice.
Regata Storica: article summary
What is the Regata Storica?
The Regata Storica is one of Venice's most important (and probably most spectacular) events. It takes place since the early 1800s and thousands of Venetians come here for gondola races and festivities.
The event includes a parade and then a series of races that see competitors paddle from the island of Sant'Elena to the station. This race is truly exceptional. In fact, paddling a gondola is very difficult. Gondolas are generally quite heavy, and it's not easy to paddle them. it takes several rowers to get them moving.
When did the event take place?
The Regata Storica takes place on the first Sunday in September every year. This year, the Regata Storica will take place on sunday, september 3. If you happen to be there when the Regata Storica kicks off, I'd advise you to be there. You'll be treated to an exceptional demonstration of river racing.
What happens during the Regata Storica?
The event can be divided into two parts. There's the parade and then the boat races.
The boat parade includes replicas of 15th-century boats. There are the famous Bucintoro said to represent the Serenissima, the bucio used by the Duke of Venice, the bissioni which is a gondola with 8 oars and la balotine which is a six-axle gondola.
It's a parade to remember. If you take part, it's a moment you won't forget. Indeed, the period boats are magnificent and atypical today.
Boat races: the heart of the event
After the parade comes the race. First come the children's races, then the women's, then the six-man boats, followed by the eight-man boats.
Each Venetian district has its own team, and you'll see (and hear) many locals cheering on their team.
How to attend the Regata Storica?
Expect Venice to be very busy around the Grand Canal during the Regata Storica. Many locals will be watching the race from their boats.
You can also watch the race from the window of your hotel if it is located around the Grand Canal.
If you want to be at the heart of the action, you can also buy tickets for the floating stand near Campo San Vio. Tickets cost 60 euros per adult and 30 euros for under-18s and for Venetian residents.
Prime locations throughout the city
However, it's probably best to save your money and wander along the canal until you find a good spot. If I had to choose a place to watch the race, it would have to be near the Punta della Dogana. In fact, you'll find far fewer crowds on this side of Venice, and you'll be able to watch the race.
If you want to take advantage of a spot closer to the center, I recommend arriving early in the morning. That way, you'll avoid the crowds and get the most out of your stay. a prime location to take part in the Regata Storica.
The boats will depart from the Castello and head west up the Grand Canal towards Santa Chiara. Here, they turn around and run towards the finish line at Palazzo Ca'Foscari. That leaves you plenty of room to stand and watch.
The Regata Storica is a not-to-be-missed event when you visit Venice on the first weekend in September. You can attend one of the Venetians' favorite festivities. What to experience an exceptional experience during your stay in the floating city.
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