Venice, a city rich in history, art and creativity, has been a crossroads for travellers and cultures for centuries. It is in this evocative context that exceptional works from all over the world come together every year for the Biennale, one of the most important and popular international cultural events.
The Venice Biennale is the perfect opportunity to discover creations in all forms and admire the unique atmosphere of the lagoon city. But let’s discover together why this event is so essential!
The Venice Biennale, now one of the most prestigious art events in the world, dates back to 1895 and was the brainchild of Riccardo Selvatico, the Mayor of Venice and a frequent visitor to the Caffè Florian in St Mark’s Square, one of Italy’s most popular intellectual salons.
The idea was born with the aim of promoting contemporary art and encouraging Italian artistic production. In a few years, following its great success, the event was extended to include international artists and was enriched with new sections such as music (since 1930), cinema (since 1932), theatre (since 1934), architecture (since 1980) and dance (since 1999).
Over the years, the most important cultural events have been the Art Biennale and the Architecture Biennale, held alternately in odd and even years (a trend reversed by the interruption for Covid-19).
The 2025 edition of the Architecture Biennale will once again be held in the historic venues of the Giardini and the Arsenale in Venice. On this occasion, the world’s best architects and designers will present their latest works and projects, focusing on the presentation of the latest trends and innovations in architecture and design, with the aim of exploring and communicating the role of architecture in contemporary society.
This year, the Biennale invites us to reflect on a theme that is particularly relevant these days: the delicate balance between nature and progress. Indeed, the 19th International Architecture Exhibition will explore the different forms of intelligence that shape our world, from the ancient wisdom of nature to the latest technological innovations.
Carlo Ratti, curator of this edition, wanted to recreate a fascinating journey in which architecture becomes a bridge between the past and the future. Indeed, the exhibition aims to remind us that intelligence is not only a question of technology, but above all of adaptability and respect for the environment. A message that is particularly relevant in these times of climate change and environmental challenges.
In total, more than 280 projects from no less than 66 different nations, including newcomers such as Azerbaijan, Oman, Qatar and Togo, will tell stories of sustainable innovation, of communities working together, of spaces being transformed while respecting the ecosystem. The Italian Pavilion, for example, with its theme “Terrae Aquae“, will offer an insight into the special relationship between our country and the sea, a deep bond that has shaped the history and identity of the Venetian territory.
These are concrete examples of how architecture can contribute to a more sustainable future, where technological progress goes hand in hand with environmental protection.
The 19th International Architecture Exhibition will take place from 10 May to 23 November 2025, with a pre-opening on 8 and 9 May. As expected, the main venues will be the Giardini and the Arsenale in Venice, with additional venues throughout the city.
Tickets are available online for €25, which includes entry to each venue, the Arsenale and the Giardini, which can be visited on different days. Reductions are available for under 26s, over 65s, groups and students to make the event accessible to all.
Please note that this year, due to restoration work, the Giardini itinerary does not include the Central Pavilion.
During the Biennale there will be many cultural events not to be missed: performances, concerts, theatre shows, conferences, workshops and much more. Moreover, some of the proposed collateral activities will be free and accessible to all visitors, offering an inclusive cultural experience open to different sensibilities.
Let us discover together the details of the main cultural events taking place during the months of the Biennale!
This year, in addition to the Architecture Biennale, several other events will take place, including the 53rd International Theatre Festival. The festival will take place from 31 May to 15 June 2025, under the artistic direction of Willem Dafoe, at the Ca’ Giustinian and the Arsenale. The programme includes numerous meetings with the most important protagonists of the contemporary theatre scene, as well as productions created within the framework of the Biennale College Teatro, a training project dedicated to young artists.
The International Festival of Contemporary Dance will also take place this summer, from 17 July to 2 August 2025, at the Ca’ Giustinian and the Arsenale. The Biennale di Danza, directed by Wayne McGregor, will host numerous daily events with international soloists and companies, including the Biennale College Danza activity, dedicated to education and training projects.
The 82nd Venice International Film Festival, organised by the Biennale di Venezia and once again directed by Alberto Barbera, will take place this year. The festival will be held at the Venice Lido from 27 August to 6 September 2025.
The closing event of the Biennale di Venezia, together with the Biennale di Architettura, is the 69th edition of the International Festival of Contemporary Music, directed by Caterina Barbieri, which will take place from 11 to 25 October 2025 at the Ca’ Giustinian and the Arsenale. The programme includes numerous performances by international soloists and ensembles, as well as the activity of the Biennale College Musica, dedicated to new projects.
To make summer even more special, treat yourself to the luxury of immersing yourself in the beauty of a city like Venice. Why not dedicate a day to discovering the Biennale and be inspired by the works of art and innovative architectural installations?
The magic of Venice does not end with the Biennale. At the Camping Ca’Savio we offer various activities in the Serenissima, including a guided tour of Venice or a pleasant boat trip to discover Murano, Burano and Torcello. And it doesn’t matter if you prefer to travel in a camper van and enjoy the freedom of the road, or if you prefer a more quiet stay in a comfortable accommodation such as our lodges, mobile homes or bungalows: we have various special offers to satisfy every need!