Biennale Musica 2026 in Venice: where to stay, 10–24 October

Biennale Musica 2026 marks the festival's 70th edition under the title 'A Child of Sound', curated by Italian composer Caterina Barbieri. From 10 to 24 October, Venice becomes a sound laboratory with a daily programme of concerts, installations and listening sessions spread across the Arsenale, Teatro Goldoni, Ca' Giustinian and other historic venues throughout the city. The line-up brings together international soloists and ensembles alongside world premieres, plus the Biennale College Musica projects devoted to emerging composers and sound artists. This edition also features parallel initiatives such as 'Origine', a space for deep listening, and the 'Arcadia Modular Playground' installation, extending the experience well beyond the concert hall. Among this year's honours, the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement goes to Japanese composer and performer Keiji Haino, while the Silver Lion recognises Canadian composer and organist Sarah Davachi. Both award ceremonies take place on 12 October at Ca' Giustinian. For visitors travelling to Venice, the Arsenale and San Marco districts concentrate most of the city's hotel supply, ranging from boutique stays in the historic centre to larger properties closer to the festival venues. Tickets and subscriptions are handled exclusively through La Biennale's official website.