NEW! Mediterranean Explorer

View this storied city from the Venice Lagoon’s languid waters and explore legendary St. Mark’s Square on foot. From your berth in Chioggia, board your shuttle boat and transfer to Venice, passing waterside palazzos and piazzas along the way. Disembark at the landing pontoon next to Palazzo Cornoldi, then set off on foot with your guide to historic St. Mark’s Square, crossing the historic bridges that link the waterfront. Take in the views of the splendid Gothic-Byzantine St. Mark’s Basilica and its grand Campanile bell tower and see the Doge’s Palace and other nearby attractions. Napoleon Bonaparte allegedly referred to Piazza San Marco as “the drawing room of Europe,” cementing its reputation as one of Venice’s most significant public squares. After time to explore, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Explore lively Chioggia, set at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon, during a brief walking excursion. One of Italy’s largest fishing communities and known as “Little Venice,” Chioggia exudes Italian charm, from its intriguing layout to its elegant palaces and colorful houses overlooking the canals. Transfer by boat to the Ponte di Vigo, where you will begin your tour admiring the views overlooking the lagoon. Set out with your guide through the narrow, cobblestone calli (“streets”) and learn about Chioggia’s history. See the 14th-century church of Saint Domenico and the fishing boats that line the nearby canal; the Gothic-style Palazzo Grassi, the Goldoni Palace and the St. Andrew Tower Clock—the second-oldest clock in the world. Cap your journey at the impressive Chioggia Cathedral, the most sacred building in the village, before returning to your ship at your leisure.

Indulge in your very own private gondola ride for the ultimate romantic experience in Venice. There is no more enchanting way to see both the grand and hidden corners of Venice. These distinctive flat-bottomed boats were once the principal mode of transport in the city; today, they remain prevalent, piloted by skilled rowers in striped shirts. Transfer by boat to St. Mark’s Square, meet your escort and take a brief stroll to the gondola boarding station. Then, journey through the magical canals of Venice—just you, your traveling companion, and your gondolier. The city takes on another guise from the water, as you serenely glide below small, picturesque bridges with medieval buildings towering above. Your ride is unguided and your exact route will depend on water traffic. Afterward, stroll through St. Mark’s Square before returning by boat to your ship.

Experience a romantic and mesmerizing gondola ride through the canals of Venice. These distinctive flat-bottomed boats, once the principal mode of transport in this waterborne city, are today its timeless symbol. Transfer by boat to St. Mark’s Square with an escort and walk through the narrow streets to the gondola boarding station. Board your vessel with assistance, then glide through a magical Venice with your fellow passengers—never more than five in a gondola. Your 30-minute ride is unguided and your route will be determined by water traffic, so you will easily be captivated by the surprises around every bend. The city takes on another guise from the water, and you are sure to be entranced by the picturesque bridges with medieval buildings towering above. Afterward, stroll through St. Mark’s Square before returning by boat to your ship.

Explore the history and culture of Romeo and Juliet’s Verona on a guided walking tour. Set along the banks of the Adige River, this vibrant northern Italian city is renowned as the setting for William Shakespeare’s famous love story. A former Roman colony, it quickly rose to prominence and wealth due to its location; today, it remains a treasure trove of Roman-era riches. Drive to Verona, where you will meet your local guide and set off on foot to admire some of its most famous landmarks. You will see the well-preserved Arena, built during the 1st century AD and still used today for concerts and performances. Admire the picturesque Piazza delle Erbe (“Herb Square”), long a center of Veronese life and framed by old mansions and modern cafés, restaurants and boutiques. See the so-called Juliet’s House and enjoy lunch, then return to your ship.

Discover Chioggia’s rich fishing heritage during an informative walk and visit to the local fish market. Transfer from the pier by boat, enjoying scenic views of the Venetian Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival in the city center, set off on foot with your knowledgeable guide. As you stroll through the narrow, cobblestone calli(“streets”), learn about Chioggia’s age-old connection to fishing. The village is one of Italy’s largest fishing ports and an important supplier to international markets. Browse the stalls of the local fish market, where you will see typical catches and learn more about traditional fishing methods. You will also visit the churches of San Domenico and San Giacomo, discovering their ties to the fishing community. Cap your tour with a typical Italian breakfast and enjoy free time to explore at your leisure, before returning to your ship.

Enjoy an immersive experience with a local home cook who will introduce you to specialties of Venice. Upon arrival in Venice, meet your Cesarine host, a member of a community of skilled home cooks who embody the warmth of traditional Italian cuisine and hospitality by opening their homes to visitors from around the globe. They seek to preserve Italy’s food culture and foster lasting connections between travelers and locals. Accompany them to gather ingredients, then step into their home kitchen, ready to uncover the secrets of Italian cuisine. Discover traditional techniques for pasta-making and watch as your host demonstrates how to prepare tiramisù or classic buranelli cookies, a buttery shortbread perfect for dipping into a cup of hot coffee. Enjoy your creations with a glass of local wine and other Venetian specialties.