Venice & the Jewels of Veneto

Spend your first few days discovering the awe-inspiring beauty of this captivating corner of Italy. A full-day tour introduces you to Lake Garda’s timeless wonders. Explore charming lakeside towns and marvel at grand villas and castles on the shore as you cruise on its shimmering waters. The next day, a helicopter ride offers an entirely different perspective as you soar high above the landscape, the dark blue waters of northern Italy’s lakes glinting below, before the dramatic, jagged peaks of the Dolomites rise on the horizon.

Travel to Verona, best known as the enchanting backdrop for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Stroll through the historic old town on a walking tour, immersing yourself in the city’s romantic ambience and pausing at world-renowned sights including Castelvecchio and Casa di Giulietta (‘Juliet’s House’) with its famous stone balcony. Visit the impressive Arena di Verona, once a theatre for dramatic gladiator battles, now a magical venue for opera performances.

At the heart of Italy’s wine country, the Valpolicella Valley is renowned for producing some of the nation’s most prestigious wines, most notably the iconic Amarone. Savour its exceptional vintages during visits to two celebrated wineries, each set amidst the region’s breathtaking scenery before returning to Verona for the night.

A private transfer takes you to Venice Port, where you embark on Uniworld’s S.S. La Venezia.

It’s an early start to take advantage of the quieter morning hours at one of Venice’s most iconic sights, the Doge’s Palace. With its striking architecture and rich history, it’s a fascinating place to explore. Your walking tour then leads into the historic Castello district to discover authentic local life, far from the typical tourist trail. In the evening, enjoy a private visit to St. Mark’s Basilica. Marvel at the breathtaking Byzantine artistry during this exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Today, spend time in one of the Veneto region’s UNESCO World Heritage cities, choosing between the beautiful town of Vicenza or medieval Padua. After re-boarding your ship, sail across the lagoon towards Mazzorbo and Burano, taking in the scenic beauty as you cruise along. In the evening, get your camera ready to capture Burano’s vibrant charm, snapping pictures of the island’s rainbow-hued homes, before enjoying a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner.

Venice’s northern lagoon is home to enchanting islands and centuries-old traditions. Begin your day on peaceful Torcello, once the most populous city in the lagoon, now home to just a handful of residents. Here, an art historian introduces you to the stunning 11th-century mosaic of the Last Judgment at the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, the lagoon’s oldest church. Later, watch a glassmaker at work on Murano or stroll across the bridge from Burano to discover the more rural, tranquil charm of Mazzorbo.

Often referred to as a ‘Venice in miniature’, Chioggia boasts all the beauty and history of its famous neighbour, but with a more laidback, local ambience full of everyday lagoon life. A choice of excursions reveals its unique charm – sail on a traditional bragozzo boat, ride a bike along its beaches, explore its vibrant outdoor market or visit its historic palace. Alternatively, enjoy a private tasting at a historic winery, guided by an expert sommelier.

Embark on a sailing excursion to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of the Po Delta, where Italy’s longest river meets the Adriatic Sea. This tranquil tapestry of shimmering lagoons, whispering reed beds and gently curving canals is a haven for hundreds of species of birds. History enthusiasts might prefer to join the guided tour to one of Europe’s most majestic castles, Castello del Catajo in the Euganean Hills. Later, sail back to Venice.

Your last day on board is spent docked at Venice, offering the perfect opportunity to delve deeper into its endless wonders. A selection of carefully curated excursions invites you to uncover some of the city’s lesser-known treasures, as well as one of its most famous sights, the iconic Rialto Bridge. A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner is a fitting finale to your unforgettable cruise.

After disembarking your cruise ship, enjoy a two-night stay at the elegant Hotel Cipriani. With its coveted location on the serene Giudecca Island, just a short boat ride from St Mark's Square, and incredible vistas across the lagoon to the city, this iconic hotel is the perfect place to end your extraordinary Italian adventure.

On your last day, a luxurious limo boat tour reveals Venice as you’ve never seen it before. Weave your way along its atmospheric waterways, then visit one of the city’s hidden gems, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo. After scaling its striking spiral staircase, you’re rewarded with panoramic views across the rooftops. Wrap up your day enjoying an aperitif as the sun sets over the magical cityscape.

Take a water taxi from your hotel to the airport.