Video: La Bella Vita: Discover the Hidden Gems of the Venetian Lagoon, River Po and Canal Bianco

Embark on a magical journey aboard La Bella Vita as you cruise through Italy’s Venetian Lagoon, River Po, and Canal Bianco between Venice and Mantua. Experience a mix of landscapes, from colourful lagoon islands to pine woods teeming with birdlife. Explore the influences of Renaissance, Roman, Etruscan, and Byzantine cultures with guided tours of Ferrara, Mantua, and Chioggia.

The Itinerary

Guests are greeted in Mestre and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to La Bella Vita for a Prosecco welcome. A stroll through the historic city center and a visit to the magnificent 14thC Ducal Palace are included, followed by a short cruise along the Giudecca Canal, passing some of Venice’s most famous landmarks. The day continues with a walk to St Mark’s Square, a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace, and dinner on board.

The itinerary also includes a guided walking tour of the Castello District in Venice, with options to visit hidden historical gems or explore Murano Island. The cruise then continues to Pellestrina for a leisurely afternoon, capped off with dinner on board.

The journey moves to Chioggia, where guests can explore the city’s landmarks and enjoy a boat tour of the canals. A cruise through a nature reserve leads to dinner ashore at the stunning Villa Ca’Zen in Taglio di Po.

A visit to the Archaeological Museum in Adria highlights the itinerary, along with a tour of the Villa Widmann Borletti estate and wine tasting. The day ends with dinner on board in Zelo.

The itinerary also includes a guided tour of Ferrara and an afternoon canal cruise to Vallazza. The journey concludes with a visit to Mantua, known for its historical significance and grand architecture.

The final day features a farewell breakfast and transfer back to Mestre.

Why should you choose European Waterways for your cruise to Italy?

Our cruising experience is nothing like the traditional large cruise lines. Explore Italy off the beaten track and at your own pace with European Waterways’ Italy river cruises. Cruise through the captivating waterways of the Veneto Region and the Po Valley for a unique and unforgettable experience, with sights and regions inaccessible by traditional Italy cruises. Immerse yourself in centuries of culture, history, and nature throughout your voyage.

With decades of experience guiding guests on river cruises around Europe, we know exactly what it takes to make your Italy cruise unforgettable. Our luxury hotel barges offer a range of amenities to ensure your comfort, including air-conditioning, heating, a music system, WiFi, on-board bicycles for excursions, and more.

Our Italy cruise tours offer excellent value, with an open bar, all meals, guided tours, admissions to landmarks, and transfers included. Choose European Waterways for a truly unique and luxurious cruising experience in Italy.