Authentic Venetian carnival masks

Word to the wise: Prices vary hugely, so don't be bullied into buying something expensive if you're just after a souvenir.

If you're here at Carnival time, a mask is a must-have and Venice will be keen to sell you one. There are many shops offering them for sale, but those in this Castello store are reliably good quality.

Traditional Venetian masks, although beautifully crafted, are quite plain affairs made from porcelain or metal. The Carnival masks, however, are more playful and come in various shapes and sizes, from simple forest animals to ostentatious, feathered and bejewelled masterpieces.