river cruise italy france

• European Vacations

Italy river cruises

It’s difficult to describe Italy simply as there is much to say! Where to begin, and what to say that has not been said thousands of times before?

Italy is one of those countries that touches the depths of visitors’ hearts, memories and sweet dreams. No matter what you are looking for, you will find it in Italy.

During your stay in Venice , discover the amazing '' City of the Doges '' and its labyrinth of narrow streets bordered by these famous canals and crossed by innumerable bridges – each one more impressive than the last. Your ship is moored close to the iconic " Piazza San Marco " (Saint Mark’s square), it will take you only a few minutes to reach the city centre. Once there you can lose yourself in the calm and the contemplation of Venice and its lagoon .

Your trip to Italy will then take you along the river Po to the heart of northern Italy. There, visit Padua and its Basilica Saint Anthony, or Verona , city of art and love. It is in this city that Romeo and Juliet found love and tragedy and even today, we can still remember their passion.

During a cruise on the river Po, Veneto will be unveiled to you. You will see Venice from the water, moored along the quays of a city imagined for boats, then you will penetrate into the heart of the country, to discover its traditions.

Or choose a different trip and opt for a cruise on board the MS Belle of the Adriatic. You will see the most beautiful Amalfi Coast with idyllic landscapes from Naples. The coastline, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , amazes travellers with its intense colours and generous sunshine.

This is another part of Italy where you discover its white sandy beaches and small multicolored houses clinging to the rock..

Christmas in Venice

VENICE - CHIOGGIA (or surroundings) - VENICE - Burano - Murano - VENICE

Embark on a magical cruise in the heart of Venice to celebrate Christmas. Visit Venice and its famous landmarks such as San Marco Square and the Doge's Palace. You will also have the chance to attend Christmas mass in Venice. Do not miss out on towns with unique architecture such as Padua, stretching around a charming medieval center dotted with small squares and grand palaces.

Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily

NAPLES - MILAZZO - VIBO MARINA - SALERNO - NAPLES

Get ready for the magic of Christmas on this pre-holiday cruise in Italy and Sicily Naples has historical monuments and archaeological sites, while the Aeolian Islands are in a league of their own. This romantic cruise includes visits to the ancient theater in Taormina, with Mount Etna as the backdrop, Calabria "the toe of the boot" and the Amalfi Coast. And we can't forget the legendary Isle of Capri with its panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples. Italian Christmas traditions are in the spotlight on this cruise! Discover the famous Neapolitan nativity art and magnificent scenes exposed in small boutiques and workshops in the city's older neighborhoods.  Each hand-crafted figure is one-of-a-kind. Christmas charm reigns in the shops all year round. 

New Year in Venice

Embark on a unique cruise in the heart of Venice to celebrate the New Year! Visit Venice and its famous landmarks such as San Marco Square and the Doge's Palace. Do not miss out on towns with unique architecture such as Padua, stretching around a charming medieval center dotted with small squares and grand palaces.

Venetian Treasures

VENICE - MAZZORBO - VENICE - CHIOGGIA - VENICE

If you have dreamed of admiring Venice from a gondola, standing in Saint Mark’s Square, or indulging in the fine food found on almost every corner, join CroisiEurope for a cruise through the calm waters and enchanting panoramas in the Venetian Lagoon. This history-filled cruise includes a side trip to Padua.

From the Canals of Venice to Renaissance-infused Mantua & Milan and Lake Como Extended Stay

VENICE - MAZZORBO - VENICE - CHIOGGIA - PORTO VIRO - Padua - CANDA - OSTIGLIA - Verona - MANTUA - Milan - Lake Como - Milan

From Venice to Mantua, enjoy a unique cruise through the heart of three Italian regions. The region of Veneto opens its doors and invites you to discover Venice, famous Saint Mark's Square and Doge's Palace, the official residence of Venetian dukes. Lombardy welcomes you next with its breathtaking and varied panoramas. You'll visit unique cities such as romantic Mantua. Wrap up your Italian adventure with an enchanting stay in Milan and Lake Como.

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France River Cruises

See France from a unique perspective with one of our first-rate river cruise tours brought to you by internationally acclaimed cruise companies. Experience the romance, the adventure, the exquisite natural sights, as well as architecture that has formed the fabric of fairy tales and legends!

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250+ river cruises through france with 385 reviews.

Brilliant Bordeaux (2024) (Bordeaux to Bordeaux, 2024)

• River Cruise

Rhône Route Classique 2024 - A-ROSA STELLA

We spent a very pleasant week on your Arosa Stella. The buffet was very extensive and tasty. However, we would have preferred the French cuisine in France. But still, we will now have to do something with the regulation of our weight! We also very much appreciated that they also have a good relationship with the weather god.

• Walking Adventure

Paris & Normandy (2024) (Paris to Paris, 2024)

The Must-see Sights of the Seine Valley (port-to-port cruise)

I was kept informed & on promptly basis. A very professional approach by your staff

A trip to admire the beautiful scenery of the Rhône valley (port-to-port cruise)

This was my first rivercruise, very happy with CroisiEurope, the ship and cabins where clean and efficient, the meals where very nice with the wine selection. It was very pleasant going tru the locks and watching the scenery as you float along. Due to the weather we were not able to sail into Martigues, however; we were transported by bus to Martigues, which was better then not going at all. OK. A few of us felt the stop at Port St. Louis can be eliminated, there's not much to see at this place, perhaps a good place to join up for those going on the excursion, but was not a point of any interest. The town of Arles was great, spent ample time there, however; disappointed with the time able to spend at Avignon....just a few hours, a half or full day would be more appropriate to be able to tour without rushing. Be nice to have a more detailed itenerary provided daily about arrival & departure of the ship and anticipated time be able to have at each stop. The night entertainment was minimal, first night Bingo game, then another night dance had a quiz..that was designed to encourage the groupe to dance. The hit was on the before last night, a flamenco dancer and two guitar players performed that was very upbeat and was enjoyed by everyone, they put on a good show. We cruised from Oct 03-06...the weather was good to tour the villages, just a bit cool/windy to spend lots of time on the sun deck...a few more degrees would have been needed to feel real comfortable sitting out which would be fabulous. Overall, happy we got to experience doing a rivercruise.

Paris to Normandy 2024

We have done some higher end trips throughout Europe and this was definitely at the top. Food, stateroom, tours and service were excellent.

Taste of Bordeaux 2024

Sensations of Lyon & Provence (Start Lyon, End Nice)

Paris & Normandy 2024

Sensations of Lyon & Provence (Start Lyon, End Marseille)

Paris to Normandy 80th Anniversary of D-Day WWII Remembrance & History Cruise

Seine Experience the Normandy 2024

Treasures of Burgundy and Provence: Rhône & Saône (Lyon - Lyon) (10 destinations)

Seine River Cruise from Paris

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Beautiful Bordeaux

River cruises in france reviews.

Great cruise, ship, crew and good. Exceeded expectations.

I was kept informed & on promptly basis. A very professional approach by your staff

the cabine room was a good size, the food was outstanding, land based tours were interesting and the service was fine

• Rhone (274)
• Saone (197)
• Seine (191)
• Garonne (64)
• Dordogne (58)
• Gironde (45)

Regions in France

• Southern France (209)
• Northern France (136)
• Normandy (67)
• Provence (60)
• Bordeaux & Dordogne (45)
• Aquitaine & Midi Pyrenees (44)
• Alsace & Lorraine (14)
• Burgundy (13)
• Loire Valley (12)
• Pays de la Loire (12)
• Ile de France (8)

Popular Cruise Ships

• Avalon Poetry II from Avalon Waterways
• Avalon Poetry II, Avalon Tapestry II from Avalon Waterways
• Scenic Sapphire from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Avalon Tapestry II from Avalon Waterways
• S.S Joie de Vivre from Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
• Scenic Diamond from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• S.S. Catherine from Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
• AmaCello from AmaWaterways
• Scenic Gem from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• MS Van Gogh from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• MS Cyrano de Bergerac from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Poetry II from Avalon Waterways

Travel Styles

• 10 Best River Cruise Companies (with Reviews)
• France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 7 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Flusskreuzfahrt Frankreich
• Français: France : Croisières fluviales
• Español: Crucero fluvial Circuitos en Francia
• Nederlands: Riviercruise Rondreizen in Frankrijk

FREEPHONE 9am - 8pm

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Sail the River Po & Venice Lagoon with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises . Renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Italy may undoubtedly be one of the most beautiful locations in the world.  Couple this with enchanting rivers and canals, one would almost think that the country was tailor-made for river cruises.

Due to it’s popularity, the landscape of tourism in Italy (specifically Venice) is changing, and as the sight of large ocean cruise ships to the island become less frequent, one way visitors to this beautiful destination can still sail the waters of Venice is by river cruise.  From Milan, to Budapest , to Istanbul, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises offer the most captivating itineraries on the Venice Lagoon.  Our team of river cruise specialists are ready to help you plan a journey to this charming city.  

View Po River Cruise Deals

Call us today on 0808 258 0989 .

Italy Ports

Sorrento may have become a jumping-off point for visitors to...

Tour description Capri, Italy Popular since Roman times when...

Vulcano Porto

Savona is a seaport in the north of Italy and hosts a number...

Stintino, Sardinia

Genoa is a port city in the Northwest of Italy. Home to the...

The largest and most developed of the Aeolians, Lipari welco...

Naples, in the Campania region, is Italy's third largest cit...

Porto Cervo

The medieval cliff-hanging town of Taormina is overrun with...

Located right in the heel of the Italian boot, Otranto’s sce...

Porto Santo Stefano

Venice is a city unlike any other. No matter how often you'v...

Santa Margherita Ligure

Up until the end of World War I, Trieste was the only port o...

Golfo Aranci

Once the intellectual capital of southern Europe, Palermo ha...

Portovenere

The colorful facades and pedestrians-only calata (promenade)...

Myrina, Lemnos

Home to the Museo Regionale of Messina, known for featuring...

Civitavecchia

Italy's vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other c...

A tourist-friendly town of about 45,000 inhabitants with a d...

Milazzo, Sicily

Siracuse, sicily.

Siracusa, known to English speakers as Syracuse, is a wonder...

Salerno is an Italian city located on the Gulf of Salerno. F...

Life continues in Brindisi as if the 21st century hadn’t arr...

Porto Empedocle

Catania is an ancient port city on Sicily's east coast. It s...

Reggio di Calabria

Known in Sardinia as Casteddu, the island's capital has stee...

Ponza Island

Amid the resorts of Sardinia's northeastern coast, Olbia, a...

Kalè polis, meaning beautiful city, is the name ancient Gree...

At first glance, it's hard to imagine that this resort desti...

A small, quiet, well-heeled city, Ravenna has brick palaces,...

Palmarola Island

Bari, capital of the province of Apulia, lies on southern It...

Livorno is a gritty city with a long and interesting history...

Burano Island, Venetian Lagoon

One of the most photographed villages along the coast, with...

La Spezia is sometimes thought of as nothing but a large, in...

Ancona is the capital of Italy's Marche region. Ancona's mai...

Porto Torres

Porto levante, portoferraio.

Elba is the Tuscan archipelago's largest island, but it rese...

Giardini Naxos

Porto ercole, trapani, sicily.

Trapani, the most important town on Sicily’s west coast, lie...

Mazzorbo, Lagoon of Venice

Isola del giglio, pantelleria, you may also be interested in.

Normandy & Gems of the Seine

18 Aug 2024 - 10 Nights

Burgundy & Provence

21 Sep 2024 - 7 Nights

Grand France

27 Oct 2024 - 14 Nights

Sorrento may have become a jumping-off point for visitors to Pompeii, Capri, and Amalfi, but you can find countless reasons to love it for itself. The Sorrentine people are fair-minded and hardworking, bubbling with life and warmth. The tuff cliff on which the town rests is spread over the bay, absorbing sunlight, while orange and lemon trees waft their perfume in spring. Winding along a cliff above a small beach and two harbors, the town is split in two by a narrow ravine formed by a former mountain stream. To the east, dozens of hotels line busy Via Correale along the cliff—many have "grand" included in their names, and some indeed still are. To the west, however, is the historic sector, which still enchants. It's a relatively flat area, with winding, stone-paved lanes bordered by balconied buildings, some joined by medieval stone arches. The central piazza is named after the poet Torquato Tasso, born here in 1544. This part of town is a delightful place to walk through. Craftspeople are often at work in their stalls and shops and are happy to let you watch; in fact, that's the point. Music spots and bars cluster in the side streets near Piazza Tasso.

Tour description Capri, Italy Popular since Roman times when the emperors built their villas on Capri, this island is surely one of the world's most famous and beautiful spots. Visiting Capri, it is easy to see why the ancient Romans fell in love with this place 2,000 years ago - the craggy mountains, the sea caves and grottos and the brilliantly colored flowers cast a magic spell then and still capture the admiration of today's travelers. There are sleek yachts moored in the deep blue waters of the bays, and beautiful villas and tiny villages cling to steep slopes. An excellent year-round climate and a breathtaking landscape complete the picture of a storybook island. There are two main villages - Capri Town, site of the popular meeting point "Piazzetta," and Anacapri, the upper town, dominated by 1,750-foot-high Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island. Both remain the "in" scene for international travelers. By spending millions on comfort and style, the island has ensured its continuing success. After a trip to upper-level Anacapri, visitors enjoy strolling the narrow, cobbled streets of Capri Town, browsing in chic boutiques and spending time in the Piazzetta with a drink in one of the outdoor cafés. There is a funicular from the main port of Marina Grande to Capri Town; from Anacapri, a chair lift whisks visitors to the top of Monte Solaro for a spellbinding view. The magical Blue Grotto can be reached by boat from Marina Grande, but entrance into the grotto depends for the most part on sea conditions. Please Note: For your convenience, the shore excursions offered for this port of call are available to reserve in advance at www.silversea.com until August 8 , as well as offered for purchase on board, unless otherwise noted in the description. Going Ashore in Capri Pier Information The ship is scheduled to anchor off Capri's main port, Marina Grande. Guests will be taken ashore via local tenders, arriving at the pier just a short distance from the funicular to Capri Town. Taxis and minibuses are also available near the pier area. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting out. Shopping Capri is a shopping mecca, though by no means inexpensive. Upscale shops and boutiques offer an array of jewelry, designer fashions, resort wear, straw articles and souvenir items. Start from the Piazzetta and the streets fanning out from the square. Some shops may be closed between 12:30/1:00 p.m. and 4:00/4:30 p.m. The local currency is the euro. Cuisine Capri features plenty of open-air eateries in addition to top rated restaurants. Fresh seafood and delicious pasta dishes make for a nice lunch; for a quick meal there are tempting sandwiches and pizza. You might enjoy a hearty Italian table wine with lunch. Other Sights Capri Town La Piazzetta is the main square of Capri Town located just opposite the upper funicular station. The square is an ideal place from where to start exploring or shopping. Sidewalk cafés around the square provide residents and visitors with a popular pastime - people-watching while sipping a drink or enjoying a coffee.   Anacapri Reaching Capri's second town is via local minibus. In addition to numerous souvenir shops and designer boutiques, attractions include Axel Munthe's Villa San Michele and the chair lift to Monte Solaro. Blue Grotto Boat excursions to the Blue Grotto can be booked locally at Marina Grande. Be aware that it is necessary to transfer into smaller boats in front of the grotto. Also, entrance to the grotto is subject to weather and sea conditions. For this reason, tours to the Blue Grotto are frequently cancelled. Private arrangements are not available in this port.

Savona is a seaport in the north of Italy and hosts a number of museums and historical sites. Such sites include the Garibaldi monument, a bronze Equestrian Monument to Giuseppe Garibaldi, and the Priamar fortress and municipal museums, built on the location were the first settlers established.

Genoa is a port city in the Northwest of Italy. Home to the Genoa Aquarium, famous for having the largest exposition of biodiversity in Europe, the city is also a great place to visit for anyone interested in architecture.

The largest and most developed of the Aeolians, Lipari welcomes you with distinctive pastel-color houses. Fields of spiky agaves dot the northernmost tip of the island, Acquacalda, indented with pumice and obsidian quarries. In the west is San Calogero, where you can explore hot springs and mud baths. From the red-lava base of the island rises a plateau crowned with a 16th-century castle and a 17th-century cathedral.

Naples, in the Campania region, is Italy's third largest city. Its claim to fame is the spectacular location along one of the world's most splendid bays, backed by the perfect cone of Mount Vesuvius. In addition to its beautiful setting, Naples' surprises with other outstanding attractions such as the Royal Palace, San Carlos Opera House, the impressive National Archaeological Museum and the Castel Nuovo, dating from the 13th-century. The city's central area is best explored on foot. Chaotic traffic conditions make driving around the city a very frustrating experience. Naples provides a convenient starting point for trips to such favored destinations as Pompeii, Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius. The Isle of Capri can be reached via a 45-minute hydrofoil service. The region of Campania was home to Greeks settlers some 300 years before Rome was founded. Pompeii, too, was a Greek town before being conquered by the Romans during the 5th century BC. It was under the Romans that Pompeii flourished and grew prosperous. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, the population of 20,000 was wiped out, but dozens of buildings were preserved under layers of cinder more than 20 feet deep. The most important finds from Pompeii are displayed in Naples' National Archaeological Museum. A visit here will no doubt enhance a visit to ancient Pompeii.

The medieval cliff-hanging town of Taormina is overrun with tourists, yet its natural beauty is still hard to dispute. The view of the sea and Mt. Etna from its jagged cactus-covered cliffs is as close to perfection as a panorama can get—especially on clear days, when the snowcapped volcano's white puffs of smoke rise against the blue sky. Writers have extolled Taormina's beauty almost since it was founded in the 6th century BC by Greeks from nearby Naxos; Goethe and D. H. Lawrence were among its well-known enthusiasts. The town's boutique-lined main streets get old pretty quickly, but the many hiking paths that wind through the beautiful hills surrounding Taormina promise a timeless alternative. A trip up to stunning Castelmola (whether on foot or by car) should also be on your itinerary.

Located right in the heel of the Italian boot, Otranto’s scenic landscape often plays the protagonist in displaying the beauty of Puglia, Italy’s easternmost region. Facing the Adriatic sea, the seducing weather and pristine waters have made it a popular destination where on a clear day, wanderers can see the coast of Albania. Like much of Italy, the city boasts a rich and mixed history. Once a Greek and Roman port, it was later occupied by the Byzantines, the Normans and the Spanish before the Ottoman invaded in during their Jihad to conquer Europe. Remains of forts are still visible and are a living testimonial of the town’s rich history along with Otranto’s cathedral, which still encloses today the relics of martyrs who refused to convert to Islam.

Venice is a city unlike any other. No matter how often you've seen it in photos and films, the real thing is more dreamlike than you could imagine. With canals where streets should be, water shimmers everywhere. The fabulous palaces and churches reflect centuries of history in what was a wealthy trading center between Europe and the Orient. Getting lost in the narrow alleyways is a quintessential part of exploring Venice, but at some point you'll almost surely end up in Piazza San Marco, where tourists and locals congregate for a coffee or an aperitif.

Up until the end of World War I, Trieste was the only port of the vast Austro-Hungarian Empire and therefore a major industrial and financial center. In the early years of the 20th century, Trieste and its surroundings also became famous by their association with some of the most important names of Italian literature, such as Italo Svevo, and English and German letters. James Joyce drew inspiration from the city's multiethnic population, and Rainer Maria Rilke was inspired by the seacoast west of the city. Although it has lost its importance as a port and a center of finance, it has never fully lost its roll as an intellectual center. The streets hold a mix of monumental, neoclassical, and art-nouveau architecture built by the Austrians during Trieste's days of glory, granting an air of melancholy stateliness to a city that lives as much in the past as the present.

Once the intellectual capital of southern Europe, Palermo has always been at the crossroads of civilization. Favorably situated on a crescent-shaped bay at the foot of Monte Pellegrino, it has attracted almost every culture touching the Mediterranean world. To Palermo's credit, it has absorbed these diverse cultures into a unique personality that is at once Arab and Christian, Byzantine and Roman, Norman and Italian. The city's heritage encompasses all of Sicily's varied ages, but its distinctive aspect is its Arab-Norman identity, an improbable marriage that, mixed in with Byzantine and Jewish elements, created some resplendent works of art. No less noteworthy than the architecture is Palermo's chaotic vitality, on display at some of Italy's most vibrant outdoor markets, public squares, street bazaars, and food vendors, and above all in its grand climax of Italy's most spectacular passeggiata (the leisurely social stroll along the principal thoroughfare).

The colorful facades and pedestrians-only calata (promenade) make Portovenere the quintessential Ligurian seaside village. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its harbor is lined with tall, thin "terratetto" houses that date from as far back as the 11th century and are connected in a wall-like formation to protect against attacks by the Pisans and local pirates. Its tiny, carruggi (alley-like passageways) lead to an array of charming shops, homes, and gardens and eventually to the village's impressive Castle Doria high on the olive tree covered hill. To the west standing guard over the Mediterranean is the picturesque medieval Chiesa di San Pietro, once the site of a temple to Venus (Venere in Italian), from which Portovenere gets its name. Nearby, in a rocky area leading to the sea, is Byron's Cave, a favorite spot that the poet loved to swim out into the sea from.

Home to the Museo Regionale of Messina, known for featuring two of Caravaggio's paintings, the city is also famous for having been the capital of the ancient kingdom of Sicily.

Italy's vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practice the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de' Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza.

A tourist-friendly town of about 45,000 inhabitants with a distinctly Spanish flavor, Alghero is also known as "Barcelonetta" (little Barcelona). Rich wrought-iron scrollwork decorates balconies and screened windows; a Spanish motif appears in stone portals and bell towers. The town was built and inhabited in the 14th century by the Aragonese and Catalans, who constructed seaside ramparts and sturdy towers encompassing an inviting nucleus of narrow, winding streets with whitewashed palazzi. The native language spoken here is a version of Catalan, not Italian, although you probably have to attend one of the Masses conducted in Algherese (or listen in on stories swapped by older fishermen) to hear it. Besides its historic architectural gems such as the Alghero Cathedral and Palazzo d'Albis, the fortified city is well worth a visit to simply stroll and discover local culture on narrow cobblestone streets. The city also has a reputation to serve great food at reasonable prices.

Siracusa, known to English speakers as Syracuse, is a wonder to behold. One of the great ancient capitals of Western civilization, the city was founded in 734 BC by Greek colonists from Corinth and soon grew to rival, and even surpass, Athens in splendor and power. It became the largest, wealthiest city-state in the West and a bulwark of Greek civilization. Although Siracusa lived under tyranny, rulers such as Dionysius filled their courts with Greeks of the highest cultural stature—among them the playwrights Aeschylus and Euripides, and the philosopher Plato. The Athenians, who didn't welcome Siracusa's rise, set out to conquer Sicily, but the natives outsmarted them in what was one of the greatest military campaigns in ancient history (413 BC). The city continued to prosper until it was conquered two centuries later by the Romans.Present-day Siracusa still has some of the finest examples of Baroque art and architecture; dramatic Greek and Roman ruins; and a Duomo that's the stuff of legend—a microcosm of the city's entire history in one building. The modern city also has a wonderful, lively, Baroque old town worthy of extensive exploration, as well as pleasant piazzas, outdoor cafés and bars, and a wide assortment of excellent seafood. There are essentially two areas to explore in Siracusa: the Parco Archeologico (Archaeological Zone), on the mainland; and the island of Ortygia, the ancient city first inhabited by the Greeks, which juts out into the Ionian Sea and is connected to the mainland by two small bridges. Ortygia is becoming increasingly popular with tourists, and is starting to lose its old-fashioned charm in favor of modern boutiques.Siracusa's old nucleus of Ortygia, a compact area, is a pleasure to amble around without getting unduly tired. In contrast, mainland Siracusa is a grid of wider avenues. At the northern end of Corso Gelone, above Viale Paolo Orsi, the orderly grid gives way to the ancient quarter of Neapolis, where the sprawling Parco Archeologico is accessible from Viale Teracati (an extension of Corso Gelone). East of Viale Teracati, about a 10-minute walk from the Parco Archeologico, the district of Tyche holds the archaeological museum and the church and catacombs of San Giovanni, both off Viale Teocrito (drive or take a taxi or city bus from Ortygia). Coming from the train station, it's a 15-minute trudge to Ortygia along Via Francesco Crispi and Corso Umberto. If you're not up for that, take one of the free electric buses leaving every 10 minutes from the bus station around the corner.

Salerno is an Italian city located on the Gulf of Salerno. Famous for being home to the first medical university, Salerno is a great destination for anyone looking for gorgeous sea views filled with sunshine and Italian food.

Life continues in Brindisi as if the 21st century hadn’t arrived. Visually, the landscape is as stunning as one would expect in southern Europe. Villages set on sunlit hilltops rise like islands above a rolling landscape of olive groves and vineyards. The coastline is a striking mixture of ruggedly beautiful cliffs and grottoes interspersed with a scattering of long, sandy beaches. Together with the wealth of historical artefacts and spectacular landscapes, Brindisi is one of Italy’s best kept secrets. Naturally, the cuisine is rich with its pickings from both land and sea and visitors can expect the best pasta, Caprese salad, local lemon loaf and spaghetti al vogole they have ever had!

Catania is an ancient port city on Sicily's east coast. It sits at the foot of Mt. Etna, an active volcano with trails leading up to the summit. The city's wide central square, Piazza del Duomo, features the whimsical Fontana dell'Elefante statue and richly decorated Catania Cathedral. In the southwest corner of the square, La Pescheria weekday fish market is a rowdy spectacle surrounded by seafood restaurants.

Known in Sardinia as Casteddu, the island's capital has steep streets and impressive Italianate architecture, from modern to medieval. This city of nearly 160,000 people is characterized by a busy commercial center and waterfront with broad avenues and arched arcades, as well as by the typically narrow streets of the old hilltop citadel (called, simply, “Castello”). The Museo Archeologico makes a good starting point to a visit. The imposing Bastione di Saint Remy and Mercato di San Benedetto (one of the best fish markets in Italy) are both musts.

Amid the resorts of Sardinia's northeastern coast, Olbia, a town of about 60,000, is a lively little seaport and port of call for mainland ferries at the head of a long, wide bay.San SimplicioOlbia's little Catholic basilica, a short walk behind the main Corso Umberto and past the train station, is worth searching out if you have any spare time in Olbia. The simple granite structure dates from the 11th century, part of the great Pisan church-building program, using pillars and columns recycled from Roman buildings. The basilica has a bare, somewhat somber interior, its three naves separated by a series of arches.

Kalè polis, meaning beautiful city, is the name ancient Greek mariners bestowed on Gallipoli, with good reason. Situated on a mound, the Old Town with its labyrinth of winding lanes, emerges from the Ionian Sea. It is connected to the mainland and modern Gallipoli via a 17th-century bridge. The area lies on the Salentina Peninsula in the extreme southeast end of Italy, commonly referred to as the heel of the boot. The Salento region was inhabited already in prehistoric times; later centuries were marked by Greek, Norman, Byzantine and Baroque cultures. It is a land of farms, castles, works of art, myths and legends. Many heroic battles were fought; fierce resistance was shown by Gallipoli’s citizens against numerous invaders that included Romans, Vandals, Swabians, Venetians, French and lastly the English in 1809. In addition to its tumultuous history and natural beauty, the city’s claim to fame rests in its art treasures, most notably, the Basilica of Sant’Agata with its majestic 17th-century façade. Inside, the church contains a rich and important art collection with numerous works by its great native son, Giovanni Andrea Coppola.

At first glance, it's hard to imagine that this resort destination was one of the world's great naval powers, and a sturdy rival of Genoa and Pisa for control of the Mediterranean in the 11th and 12th centuries. Once the seat of the Amalfi Maritime Republic, the town is set in a verdant valley of the Lattari Mountains, with cream-colored and pastel-hued buildings tightly packing a gorge on the Bay of Salerno. The harbor, which once launched the greatest fleet in Italy, now bobs with ferries and blue-and-white fishing boats. The main street, lined with shops and pasticcerie, has replaced a raging mountain torrent, and terraced hills flaunt the green and gold of lemon groves. Bearing testimony to its great trade with Tunis, Tripoli, and Algiers, Amalfi remains honeycombed with Arab-Sicilian cloisters and covered passages. In a way Amalfi has become great again, showing off its medieval glory days with sea pageants, convents-turned-hotels, ancient paper mills, covered streets, and its glimmering cathedral.

A small, quiet, well-heeled city, Ravenna has brick palaces, cobblestone streets, magnificent monuments, and spectacular Byzantine mosaics. The high point in its civic history occurred in the 5th century, when Pope Honorious moved his court here from Rome. Gothic kings Odoacer and Theodoric ruled the city until it was conquered by the Byzantines in AD 540. Ravenna later fell under the sway of Venice, and then, inevitably, the Papal States.Because Ravenna spent much of its past looking east, its greatest art treasures show that Byzantine influence. Churches and tombs with the most unassuming exteriors contain within them walls covered with sumptuous mosaics. These beautifully preserved Byzantine mosaics put great emphasis on nature, which you can see in the delicate rendering of sky, earth, and animals. Outside Ravenna, the town of Classe hides even more mosaic gems.

Bari, capital of the province of Apulia, lies on southern Italy's Adriatic coast. Its busy port is a leading commercial and industrial centre as well as a transit point for travellers catching ferries across the Adriatic to Greece. Bari comprises a new and an old town. To the north, on a promontory between the old and new harbours, lies the picturesque old town, or Citta Vecchia, with a maze of narrow, crooked streets. To the south is the spacious and regularly planned new town, which has developed considerably since 1930, when the Levant Fair was first held here. The heart of the modern town is Piazza della Liberta. The busy thoroughfare, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, separates the new town from the old. At the eastern end of the Corso begins the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, a magnificent seafront promenade that runs along the old harbour. Bari and the Apulian region were long recognized for their strategic location, attracting a succession of colonizers such as the Normans, Moors and Spaniards, each leaving their mark. 

Livorno is a gritty city with a long and interesting history. In the early Middle Ages it alternately belonged to Pisa and Genoa. In 1421 Florence, seeking access to the sea, bought it. Cosimo I (1519–74) started construction of the harbor in 1571, putting Livorno on the map. After Ferdinando I de' Medici (1549–1609) proclaimed Livorno a free city, it became a haven for people suffering from religious persecution; Roman Catholics from England and Jews and Moors from Spain and Portugal, among others, settled here. The Quattro Mori (Four Moors), also known as the Monument to Ferdinando I, commemorates this. (The statue of Ferdinando I dates from 1595, the bronze Moors by Pietro Tacca from the 1620s.)In the following centuries, and particularly in the 18th, Livorno boomed as a port. In the 19th century the town drew a host of famous Britons passing through on their grand tours. Its prominence continued up to World War II, when it was heavily bombed. Much of the town's architecture, therefore, postdates the war, and it's somewhat difficult to imagine what it might have looked like before. Livorno has recovered from the war, however, as it's become a huge point of departure for container ships, as well as the only spot in Tuscany for cruise ships to dock for the day.Most of Livorno's artistic treasures date from the 17th century and aren't all that interesting unless you dote on obscure baroque artists. Livorno's most famous native artist, Amedeo Modigliani (1884–1920), was of much more recent vintage. Sadly, there's no notable work by him in his hometown.There may not be much in the way of art, but it's still worth strolling around the city. The Mercato Nuovo, which has been around since 1894, sells all sorts of fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, and fish. Outdoor markets nearby are also chock-full of local color. The presence of Camp Darby, an American military base just outside town, accounts for the availability of many American products.If you have time, Livorno is worth a stop for lunch or dinner at the very least.

One of the most photographed villages along the coast, with a decidedly romantic and affluent aura, Portofino has long been a popular destination for the rich and famous. Once an ancient Roman colony and taken by the Republic of Genoa in 1229, it’s also been ruled by the French, English, Spanish, and Austrians, as well as by marauding bands of 16th-century pirates. Elite British tourists first flocked to the lush harbor in the mid-1800s. Some of Europe's wealthiest drop anchor in Portofino in summer, but they stay out of sight by day, appearing in the evening after buses and boats have carried off the day-trippers.There's not actually much to do in Portofino other than stroll around the wee harbor, see the castle, walk to Punta del Capo, browse at the pricey boutiques, and sip a coffee while people-watching. However, weaving through picture-perfect cliffside gardens and gazing at yachts framed by the sapphire Ligurian Sea and the cliffs of Santa Margherita can make for quite a relaxing afternoon. There are also several tame, photo-friendly hikes into the hills to nearby villages.Unless you're traveling on a deluxe budget, you may want to stay in Camogli or Santa Margherita Ligure rather than at one of Portofino's few very expensive hotels. Restaurants and cafés are good but also pricey (don't expect to have a beer here for much under €10).

La Spezia is sometimes thought of as nothing but a large, industrialized naval port en route to the Cinque Terre and Portovenere, but it does possess some charm, and it gives you a look at a less tourist-focused part of the Riviera. Its palm-lined promenade, fertile citrus parks, renovated Liberty-style palazzos, and colorful balcony-lined streets make parts of La Spezia surprisingly beautiful. Monday through Saturday mornings, you can stroll through the fresh fish, produce, and local-cheese stalls at the outdoor market on Piazza Cavour, and on Friday take part in the busy flea market on Via Garibaldi. There's also Porto Mirabello, a newly built tourist port with a pool club, shops, and several restaurants that overlook the fleet of super-yachts.

Ancona is the capital of Italy's Marche region. Ancona's main attraction is her tactile museum for the blinds. It's also a great place to take a dip and enjoy great sea views under the sunshine.

Elba is the Tuscan archipelago's largest island, but it resembles nearby verdant Corsica more than it does its rocky Italian sisters, thanks to a network of underground springs that keep it lush and green. It's this combination of semitropical vegetation and dramatic mountain scenery—unusual in the Mediterranean—that has made Elba so prized for so long, and the island's uniqueness continues to draw boatloads of visitors throughout the warm months. A car is very useful for getting around the island, but public buses stop at most towns several times a day; the tourist office has timetables.

Trapani, the most important town on Sicily’s west coast, lies below the headland of Mount Erice and offers stunning views of the Egadi Islands on a clear day. Trapani’s Old District occupies a scimitarshaped promontory between the open sea on the north and the salt marshes to the south. The ancient industry of extracting salt from the marshes has recently been revived, and it is documented in the Museo delle Saline. In addition to the salt marshes,Trapani’s other interesting environs include the beautiful little hill town of Erice, the promontory of Capo San Vito stretching north beyond the splendid headland of Monte Cofano, the lovely island of Motya and the town of Marsala. Trips farther afield will take you to the magnificent site of Segesta or the Egadi Islands, reached by boat or hydrofoil from Trapani Port.

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France River Cruises

Inspiring with a rich procession of cultural, artistic and historic treasures, our France river cruises evoke a sense of place around every bend. In Paris, the River Seine bridges images of life past and present in the iconic sites that line its banks while the Rhône River takes you to timeless landscapes where you're welcomed in cities, towns, villages and vineyards along the way.

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River Cruising Along The Rivers of France

Whether the Seine, the Saône or the Rhône, on a river cruise with Tauck you'll feel it the moment you step ashore in village and towns – that palpable realization of the true meaning of joie de vivre , enjoyment of life. And that is the very essence of our France river cruises...

See it light up painted Impressionist landscapes during visits to the famed museums of Paris, checking out their real-life counterparts in the gardens at Giverny and the villages of Provence. Discover it in culinary treats chef prepared at cooking demonstrations and during exclusive dinners at elegant châteaux open just for Tauck. Savor it in award-winning wines locally produced at vineyards and wine estates family owned for centuries. And indulge in personal discoveries authentically French, uniquely irresistible and all included as you experience the joys of France firsthand onboard and ashore.

The Seine River

The River Seine is born in Burgundy and runs through the heart of Paris before flowing onward to the Normandy Coast where it meets the English Channel. On a French river cruise on the Seine, you'll discover the treasures along its banks in destinations that include Paris, Duclair, Caudebec-en-Caux in the Normandy region, Monet's Giverny, Versailles and more. You'll see how the changing light of day inspired artists, giving them a dynamic sense of movement to their masterpieces and the settings behind their work as you cruise to places immortalized in art… the medieval streets and oft-painted cathedrals and churches of Rouen… the palace of Versailles… during an exclusive dinner at a regal château… as you sip cider and Calvados at a country farm… on D-Day Beaches steeped in history… and on walking tours rich with culture.

The Rhône RIver

The Rhône River is an Alpine beauty, beginning in the Swiss Alps, passing through Lake Geneva, southeastern France, and sun-kissed Provençal villages, until it reaches the mesmerizing Mediterranean Sea. Experience the stuff of dreams in Paris, Lyon, Viviers, Avignon and beyond as you savor local specialties on a private ranch in la Camargue with Provençal cowboys… discover France's epicurean heart in a famous market in Lyon… explore the gilded playground for jet setters in Monte-Carlo… walk through the picturesque and vibrantly colored town of Arles – where Van Gogh found inspiration… taste chocolate, pastries and Côtes du Rhône vintages at the source, in one of the greatest wine-growing regions on Earth… what river cruising on the Rhône is all about.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine country

In avignon along the rhône, a professional sommelier guides you through a tasting and pairing of châteauneuf-du-pape wines.

The popes who reigned over the Roman Catholic Church in Avignon during the 14th century enjoyed not only their formidable lodgings in the fortress-like Palais des Papes, but also the fruit of the vine; they are credited with cultivating the local wine industry widely recognized today by the appellation, Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Today the life of this region still centers around growing, producing and enjoying wine – as you'll see for yourself when a professional sommelier guides you through a tasting and pairing of fine Rhône Valley wines that go perfectly with the unforgettable midday meal you helped prepare… truly an experience to remember!

Les Halles de Lyon

Tasting your way through a culinary icon in lyon.

Lyon is considered the "culinary capital of France" – quite a compliment in a country famed for its cuisine and fine vintages. You'll discover why during a tasting at the famous Les Halles de Lyon, the celebrated indoor food market that's been a fixture in Lyon since 1850. It offers an unbelievable array of breads, cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, sausages, wines, chocolates... the list goes on. Everything is fresh and delicious, and it's said that the best chefs in Lyon shop here… so enjoy!

Truffle hunting in the Rhône Valley

Trained dogs and "black diamonds" – truffles – in grignan along the rhône.

The Italians call them tartufo, but to the French and much of the rest of the world, they're known as truffles. But whatever you call it, this rare, pungent (and highly perishable) fungus that grows under the ground in certain parts of Europe is one of the most expensive foods on Earth, highly prized by chefs and gourmets around the globe. Centuries ago, early truffle-hunters used pigs, with their keen sense of smell, to root these treasures out of the ground… but the piggies usually ate the truffles as soon as they found them! So they began training dogs to sniff them out... like the pooches you'll meet and go truffle-hunting with today at a truffle farm in Grignan… followed by a tasting of products made with this precious ingredient.

Tauck Exclusive – Evening at the Duché d'Uzès

Our exclusive gala evening at the duché d'uzès.

The Duke of Uzès kindly requests your presence at his family castle for dinner. Expect to be wined and dined at a grand château that architecturally chronicles its history, from its foundation on the site of a Roman governor's home in the first millennium to its role as the medieval residence of an exiled 9th-century Duchess, the first woman in the Occident to write a book, to its Renaissance renovation, its languish in the Revolution, its 19th- and 20th-century reincarnation as a school to its meticulous renovation in 1954 by the influential Marchioness of Crussol who reacquired the family home. Her vision comes to life in treasured keepsakes and a resplendent décor that provide a stunning setting for Tauck's exclusive gala evening.

Experiencing Paris

Paris is....

Its unique arrondissements, brimming with character, like the Marais – home to trendy cafés, galleries and boutiques… the River Seine, winding its way through the city… the Eiffel Tower, one of the world's most recognizable icons… the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, needing no introduction… Rue Montorgueil, lined with produce stands, boulangeries, cheese shops, wine stores, and fishmongers… Les Invalides, the palatial complex housing the monumental tomb of Napoleon… Place de la Bastille, site of the infamous fortress where the French Revolution began… And that's just the beginning…

Ranch life in la Camargue

An exclusive provençal experience on a family owned ranch in la camargue.

Drive past marshy fields of grazing bulls and white horses to a privately owned ranch in la Camargue, where the Rhône meets the sea, and experience a different taste of Provençal life for Tauck guests only. It begins with a horseback welcome by the warm-hearted family who lives here, continues with a farm-fresh feast of locally produced fare and a heartfelt guitar serenade, and culminates in a display of skill by Provençal cowboys (known as gardians) that will have your heart racing at every turn.

Tauck Exclusive – Early-opening visit to Monet's Giverny

Our exclusive early-opening visit to claude monet's home and gardens in giverny.

In springtime, the famous villa and gardens in the village of Giverny is awash in pink and green, adorned in wisteria, azalea and water lilies, and basked in dappled sunlight reminiscent of the works of its 43-year resident, painter Claude Monet. Our exclusive early-opening visit to the pioneer Impressionist's retreat shows you the artist's home as he lived it and painted it. Monet's pink stucco house gives the impression that his family of 10 still lives there; its rooms showcase private furnishings, and his collection of Japanese prints adorn walls throughout. Walk along pathways bordered with nasturtiums, hollyhocks, hybrid lilies or snapdragons, and go through the tunnel that leads to the Water Garden and the Japanese Bridge.

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France River Cruises with Tauck

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Featured River, Small Ship and Land Journeys

Inspired by the destination.

For 90+ years, the Tauck family has had a passion for sailing — aboard small ships and yachts at sea, riverboats along great inland waterways, and at home on the rivers and lakes of Connecticut and New York. When we began blending our land experience with our strong passion for cruising in our first European river cruise back in 1992, we knew that no "ordinary" river cruise experience would do for our guests. We wanted them to travel Europe's rivers in the same beyond-the-ordinary Tauck style they experienced on our land trips. With that in mind, we searched to find a company to partner with that would share our values and our commitment to "do the right thing" by our guests... and found it in another family-owned company, Scylla. Together, we crafted a river cruise experience that was ahead of its time and inspired by the destinations we explore.

Guest Favorite France River Cruises

"This was our first Tauck river cruise; we were truly overwhelmed with the Tauck experience. We write this letter to express our deep appreciation for the outstanding Tauck experience on our French river cruise. The ship staff, Cruise Director, and Tour Directors were wonderful. Our excursions and special events went off seamlessly, and the 'extras' throughout the itinerary made our travels that much more memorable. The local guides throughout France were all extremely knowledgeable, personable, and very accommodating. Many thanks for our wonderful Tauck adventures… we were made to feel like we were part of a big, happy family." Peter and Sandra B., LA

Savoring france: paris, lyon & provence, bon voyage france family river cruise, traveling with tauck, uncommon access.

Unmatched destination knowledge and land expertise maximize your time ashore, connecting & inspiring

Travel In Good Company

3 Tauck Directors and 1 Tauck Cruise director onboard every cruise – highest director-to-guest ratio in the industry

Sophisticated, Intimate Atmosphere

Tauck's Destination Fleet is custom-designed for comfort – guests enjoy a relaxed, congenial atmosphere

Distinctively Inclusive

No options sold; all gratuities to Tauck Directors & Cruise Director, ship staff local guides included

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Explore our list of 20 cruises

From Nice to the Amalfi Coast, a cruise along Italian and French shores is the perfect way to discover the highlights of this stunning coastline. Romantic moments in the city of the Doges, authentic adventures in Amalfi or Positano, fascinating sailing alongside the majestic cliffs of Bonifacio: enjoy a variety of rich experiences against the azure backdrop of sky and sea. 

All about cruises Italy & France

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Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea: Venice to Athens – with Smithsonian Journeys

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys

Along the Mediterranean Sea with the Mucem

Ancient Cities of the Mediterranean

Mediterranean springtime in France and Italy

From the city of gods to the canals of Venice

Jewels of the Italian coastlines with Côté Sud

From Malta to the Adriatic coast

From the Adriatic coast to Malta

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Highlights - French and Italian coasts

From Nice to Naples and from Venice to Bari, a Mediterranean cruise is the perfect chance to dip your toes in the coastal lifestyle and (re)discover the treasures of France and Italy.

Essential - Italian Coast

From the Amalfi Coast to Venice, passing through Naples, Otranto, Bari and Ancona, an Italian cruise offers travellers the very best of the Mediterranean : sunbathing, coves of crystal clear water, and Greek and Roman ruins.

Explore Italian Coast

Coastal Italy

Wander the streets of Nice - France

In the south of France, on the Côte d'Azur, Nice is the archetypal Mediterranean city . With shady alleys and sunny walls painted in shades of ochre, pastel pink and sienna, it is an ideal destination for walkers. The palm-lined Promenade des Anglais was designed for strolling, offering spectacular views over the sea and out to the horizon. From the Cours Saleya in the old town to the Palais Lascaris and the Matisse and Chagall museums, Nice combines the best of French culture with a splash of la dolce vita.

Enjoy a cultural adventure in Venice - Veneto, Italy

Of all the cities in Italy, Venice needs no introduction. Protected from the dangers of car traffic, the city has barely changed since the 17th century, but it still has the power to amaze. The Punta della Dogana , completed in 1682, is a prime example of Venetian architecture. This former customs building is now home to the Pinault art collection , offering remarkable views of the Doge's Palace and Piazza San Marco. The alleys of Venice are filled with colourful displays, including the celebrated Venetian mask workshops, where you can enjoy a glimpse into the fascinating world of the carnival.

Visit Pompeii - Campania, Italy

When you step inside the walls of Pompeii , you are instantly transported back to the time of the Roman Empire . When the city and its 20,000 inhabitants were buried under volcanic ash in the year 79, everything was preserved in near-perfect condition. The city gates, the main square, the administrative buildings, the market, the baths, the basilica, the villas, the temples, the shops and 3,200 metres of walls are all still standing, frozen in time.

Sail along the Apulian coast - Apulia, Italy

From the pretty beach of Castro Marina, at the heel of Italy, some of Apulia's most precious hidden gems are just a boat ride away, including the caves of Azzurra, Palombara, Zinzulusa, Romanelli, Streghe and Solfatara. The "Grotta Azzurra" is famous for the spectacular light effects that are reflected on its walls, making a dip in its sapphire waters a truly magical experience.

Discover Amalfi - Campania, Italy

With hillside villages and colourful houses overlooking the sea, the Amalfi Coast is the Cinque Terre of the south. The main town of Amalfi embodies the area's Spanish style, complete with a cathedral and a 12th-century monastery. Particularly easy to explore on foot, it was once the capital of the Duchy of Amalfi, Italy's oldest maritime republic, founded in 840.

Helpful tips

Dos. When in Rome... Dress to impress. Appropriate attire is required in town and on the beach and can be enforced by the Italian police. Don'ts. In Italy, adding parmesan to your pasta with fish or seafood may not go down well with the restaurateur. And remember, you can only order a cappuccino in the morning!

Unique features

In the province of Lecce, at the heel of Italy, is Grecìa Salentina , a collection of eleven towns where the population speaks Griko , a Greek dialect . Although it is still taught in schools, the language is in decline. In an effort to keep the dialect alive, the community have organised several Griko festivals.

Essential Italian phrases

Hello / Good evening: Buongiorno / Buona sera Goodbye: Arrivederci Welcome: Benvenuto Excuse me / please: Scusi / Per favore Thank you: Grazie Yes / no: Si / No How are you?: Come sta ? Very well, thank you, and you?: Molto bene, grazie. E lei ? My name is…: Mi chiamo...

When it comes to southern Italian food, there is one dish that really steals the show: pizza . This global phenomenon was born in the working-class neighbourhoods of Naples. Originally, pizza referred to a small flatbread that was used to test the temperature of the baker's oven. Over time, people began adding olive oil, tomato and cheese to make a simple lunch. Today, the label "Traditional Speciality Guaranteed" imposes rules to protect authentic Neapolitan pizza: the shape, size and ingredients must all meet strict specifications.

In the spotlight

The Row Venice association is a group of around twenty Venetian women who have been teaching gondola rowing since 2011. Their aim is to highlight the threat posed to the city's traditional rowing boats by their motorised competitors. The gondolieras also participate in professional competitions, allowing them to demonstrate their skills in this male-dominate field. In Venice, there is only one female gondolier who actually takes tourists out on her boat.

Book. Elena Ferrante's My Brilliant Friend follows the friendship between two girls growing up in a working-class neighbourhood of Naples in the 1950s. From childhood to adolescence, we see them form a powerful bond and forge their own identities as women. Elena and Lila are two sides of the same coin, and their ambiguous relationship, unfolding against a rich historical backdrop, keeps the reader in suspense throughout this coming-of-age novel.

Music. A traditional style of music and dance, pizzica is a popular pastime for southern Italians of every age and stage. An annual event in the village of Melpignano, Puglia, the Notte della Taranta showcases the very best of this genre, which is derived from the tarantella.

Film. The Great Beauty (2013) combines the decadence of the roaring twenties with a pervasive undercurrent of doubt. The viewer follows Jep Gambardella, an author who wrote a successful novel 40 years earlier, through his wild nights and opulent days in Paolo Sorrentino's amplified version of Rome. Lazy and idle, he lets himself be swept along by his hectic lifestyle, drifting from one furtive encounter to the next. To write another book or to seek out greater wisdom... At age 65, Jep Gambardella is beginning to ask himself some existential questions, seeking answers from his grotesque companions and the turbulent world around him.

Facts and figures

Located around forty kilometres from Bari, the Castellana Caves are an impressive underground network of limestone caves and paths. Formed 90 million years ago , this incredible landmark is adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.

• Agropoli (Italy)
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France & Italy Ocean Cruises

Explore historic monuments, architectural heritage, and legendary cuisines on a Scenic Eclipse Cruise.

• Destinations
• Europe and the Mediterranean

France and Italy

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Ultra-luxury meets culture and history

Immerse yourself in the countless treasures waiting to be uncovered on board The World’s First Discovery Yacht. Savor the flavors, history, elegant towns, and sapphire-color waters of the Mediterranean.

Embrace a sensory discovery of countless wonders.

Hop on and off beautiful islands, discover small ports and stunning coastlines, and uncover hidden secrets. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and scenic coastal villages, explore narrow medieval streets, and be captivated by the craft workshops and fisherman cottages of charming towns.

Cannes, France

Discover France & Italy

• French Riviera
• Experiences

Experience the tales and tastes of  must-see coastal sites.

Why choose scenic eclipse .

The World's First Discovery Yacht has been designed to deliver the ultimate 6-star ultra-luxury cruise experience of a lifetime for only up to 228 guests. Whether it's from natural to cultural or ancient monuments to sparkling cities, a Scenic Eclipse voyage will inspire and excite you.

6-Star Ultra-Luxury

Indulge in our all-inclusive experiences and amenities as your highly trained expert staff and crew take care of every detail of your journey. Each suite includes personalized butler service, and you can rejuvenate in the 5,920 sq ft Senses Spa # , yoga and Pilates studio, and gym. Enjoy premium beverages at up to nine bars and lounges and take a culinary journey at up to 10 dining experiences that go above and beyond.

Unrivaled Viewing & Relaxation

Enjoy unparalleled vistas from the privacy of your suite, with floor-to-ceiling windows opening onto your private verandah. Discover the Riviera's fascinating coastlines with your in-suite binoculars, or stroll to the Observation Lounge and Terrace for closer views from mounted Swarovski telescopes. Relax with a beverage from the bar at the ultimate outdoor space on Deck 10, where relaxed seating, sun loungers, and cabanas sit alongside two Vitality Pools.

World-Class Design & Technology

Scenic Eclipse is designed with an unwavering commitment to safety and excellence, ensuring the highest international safety standards. The state-of-the-art technology includes customized stabilizers, advanced sonar, and an electronic Azipod propulsion system which provides greater stability for navigating all waters, while the GPS Dynamic Positioning System enables the Discovery Yacht to maintain location without dropping anchor on sensitive seabeds.

Two State-of-the-Art Helicopters

Venture beyond the horizon with two state-of-the-art helicopters^ on board Scenic Eclipse, that are custom designed for optimal flightseeing and excursions. The quietest helicopters^ in the skies, the H130 sets the standards for tourism operations worldwide. Each helicopter^ features Bose® noise cancelling headsets and an air conditioned interior. You will feel like a pioneer explorer as you soar above places previously thought inaccessible for a unique bird’s eye view from a completely different perspective.

Find Out More

To learn more about the Discovery Yacht experience as well as the many dining, health, wellbeing, and entertainment options. Find out more

Featured Itineraries

Alluring Rivieras: Cote d'Azur & Italian Coastline

Live like a local on a relaxed exploration of this iconic coastline.

Mediterranean Escapade: Spain & the French Riviera

Glamour of the Mediterranean

Italian Icons: Islands & Culture

Live ‘la dolce vita’ along Italy’s most spectacular coastline.

French Riviera & the Catalan Coastline

Mediterranean Gems

French & Italian Rivieras plus Monaco Grand Prix Option

Relish the bliss of the European coast's most glamourous cities

Italian Treasures

Living la dolce vita

Where we travel in

Your guide to cruising France & Italy 

^Flights on board our two helicopters, helicopter experiences, and submarine at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval, and weather and ice conditions.

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Portugal & Spain

Europe & The Mediterranean

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• Paris to Avignon
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France’s Finest

• From $5,499
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• Paris to Avignon Avignon to Paris

France’s Finest Map

Explore Paris, Normandy & Provence

Explore Avignon’s Palace of the Popes and savor Lyon’s culinary heritage. Toast centuries-old vineyards and luxuriate in Paris’s sophistication. Walk in Joan of Arc’s footsteps at Rouen. Pay your respects at Normandy’s World War II beaches. Art, cuisine, style, joie de vivre —if you love everything français , this is for you: a 15-day journey that combines our popular Lyon & Provence and Paris & the Heart of Normandy cruises into one tour de force.

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Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

From $999 | 3 Nights

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Venice & the Jewels of Veneto

8 days | venice to venice.

4.6/5   106 reviews

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Choose when you want to travel

Uncover the enchanted beauty and breathtaking history of Venice and Northern Italy.

This ultimate Venetian vacation is perfected by one unique quality: your stay onboard our floating boutique hotel. Not only will you benefit from an enviable location in Venice, you’ll also find that your hotel transports you to hidden gem towns nearby. Explore the waterfront shops, colorful facades and peaceful canals unique to Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello. Farther south, discover Chioggia—a charming southern port loved by fishermen. And savor the spectacular wine and cuisines of this region every step of the way.

• Embark/Disembark
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Venice (Embark)

Arrive at Venice Marco Polo International Airport, where you will be transferred to the ship. Unpack, relax and enjoy your first evening on the Venetian Lagoon.

With your early morning arrival at Doge’s Palace, you’ll be able to marvel at the estate in total peace. Wander through a Venetian neighborhood and experience daily life in an authentic Venetian residential quarter. Later in the evening, cap the day off with a private once-in-a-lifetime experience at an after-hours lighting ceremony inside St. Mark’s Basilica without the crowds.

Featured Excursions

A walk in venice with doge’s palace visit.

Please note that the amount of walking during this excursion is extensive.

Venice has no need to designate a pedestrians-only historic district because no cars are permitted within the island city - all transportation is by foot or water.

You first arrive at the Doge’s Palace and most famous...

You first arrive at the Doge’s Palace and most famous plaza in Italy - St. Mark’s Square. Venetians elected their first doge, or duke, in AD 697 and began building the palace around AD 800.

The palace complex, as it exists now, mostly dates to the 14th and 15th centuries, and it brims with jaw-dropping artistic gems, including Tintoretto’s wall-sized Paradise and works by Veronese, Tiepolo and Titian. Throughout its history, Venice has been a supremely political city. Those convicted of crimes were led across the Bridge of Sighs to prison. Follow their footsteps to the prison and gaze into the cells. Casanova escaped from one of these cells. Other less-fortunate prisoners whiled away their time by inscribing graffiti on the walls, which you can still read.

You will continue this exploration by strolling through the historic Castello district. It’s the largest of Venice’s six districts. Back in the 13th century the Castello district was home to the Arsenal, where Venice’s ships were built. (Venetians boasted that they could build a complete ship in a single day.) This is also where the famous Biennale art exhibition now takes place. As you pass 800-year-old homes, you’ll hear the murmur of the soft local dialect through the open windows. Clothes flap from lines strung over tiny canals and kids kick soccer balls along cobbled alleys. It’s a real, living, breathing neighborhood, not just a historic site.

In addition to its well-known museums, Venice is also home to some highly specialized ones: Displays at the Correr are devoted to the history of Venice; the Museo della Musica contains 17th and 18th-century musical instruments and exhibits about composer Antonio Vivaldi. Known as the Red Priest for his hair color, Vivaldi taught music to the daughters of Venetian noblemen. The Museo Ebraico examines the history of the Jewish community that was confined to an island known as Ghetto Nuovo. The latter was one of Europe’s wealthiest and most cultured Jewish communities, made up in part with refugees from the Spanish Inquisition.

Nights Out: Private After-Hours Visit to Saint Mark's Basilica

Welcome to Saint Mark’s Basilica. The doors of this icon are specially opened for you tonight. You will see the glorious church in the evening light and without the crowds. You’ll find it almost impossible not to gaze heavenward as you enter St. Mark’s. High overhead, magnificent...

Welcome to Saint Mark’s Basilica. The doors of this icon are specially opened for you tonight. You will see the glorious church in the evening light and without the crowds. You’ll find it almost impossible not to gaze heavenward as you enter St. Mark’s. High overhead, magnificent domes are sheathed in mosaics telling the story of the New Testament, but don’t miss the intricate pattern of marble and mosaic tile under your feet. Ahead of you is the famous altarpiece made by 10th-century Byzantine artisans who gilded it and decorated it with precious gems, some of which were subsequently stolen by Napoleon. The building, which exemplifies the city’s historic connection to Byzantium and the Eastern Mediterranean, was finished in the 11th century and incorporates the remnants of earlier churches. Golden glass-tiled mosaics line the interior walls and cupolas, giving the church its nickname, Church of Gold. It houses treasures collected by Venetians over the centuries. The relics of St. Mark, patron saint of the city, were stolen from Alexandria, and the Tetrarch, a group of four crowned figures, was looted from Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade. Every successful Venetian voyager returned with something to decorate the basilica—a frieze, a statue—and the result is one of the most stunning works of art and architecture in this amazing city.

Please note: It is not always possible to arrange an after-hours visit to St. Mark’s Basilica if religious functions or festivities are taking place in the evening, such as during the week of Easter. On such occasions, an alternative option will be arranged.

Venice, Mazzorbo (Burano)

Start your morning in one of two of the Veneto region’s UNESCO World Heritage cities, Vicenza or Padua. In the afternoon, you'll reboard the ship for scenic sailing across the lagoon as we head towards Mazzorbo and Burano.

A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Featured Excursion

Evening stroll in burano.

Hot pink, chartreuse, orange, lemon yellow—Burano’s brightly painted fishermen’s cottages are an artist’s dream. Burano is known for its lace-making tradition, handed down from mother to daughter since the first workshop was set up at the end of the 16th century. Stroll into ...

Hot pink, chartreuse, orange, lemon yellow—Burano’s brightly painted fishermen’s cottages are an artist’s dream. Burano is known for its lace-making tradition, handed down from mother to daughter since the first workshop was set up at the end of the 16th century. Stroll into town with your Cruise Manager just before dinner to appreciate this charming island when most of the tourists have left for the evening. While you’re here, you’ll visit a historic lace-making atelier to see some of their delicate work.

Choose between...

Vicenza with teatro olimpico.

Set out for Vicenza, a beautiful town famous for its shopping, its architecture, and for being the home of the Teatro Olimpico. Considered by many to be one of the greatest masterpieces of famous 16th-century architect, Andrea Palladio, the Teatro Olimpico is the oldest Italian Renaissance theater...

Set out for Vicenza, a beautiful town famous for its shopping, its architecture, and for being the home of the Teatro Olimpico. Considered by many to be one of the greatest masterpieces of famous 16th-century architect, Andrea Palladio, the Teatro Olimpico is the oldest Italian Renaissance theater still in existence. A first of its kind, this indoor theater was crafted in wood, stucco, and plaster, with seating room for 400. Enjoy a captivating light and music show while you’re here—an absolute must-see. Afterwards, enjoy lunch on your own in town.

Padua Walking Tour

Join your local guide on a walking tour of medieval Padua. Discover the city’s great squares, churches and palaces.

Padua flourished as a hub of learning and discovery in the 13th and 14th centuries. The second-oldest university in Italy was founded here in 1222, hosting such...

Padua flourished as a hub of learning and discovery in the 13th and 14th centuries. The second-oldest university in Italy was founded here in 1222, hosting such students as Copernicus and faculty as Galileo. Immediately outside the Palazzo del Bo, the university’s first home, you’ll see a cafe where revolutionaries met to plot an uprising against Austrian invaders in 1848.

Stroll past the largest public square in Italy, Prato della Valle, originally laid out by the Romans and transformed in the 18th century into a graceful, elliptical open space with a serene canal and statues of local nobles. Gaze upon the Byzantine-influenced domes and towers of the vast Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, where you’ll often find a crowd waiting to offer thanks or prayers.

You will have some free time too explore Padua on your own, perhaps stopping for lunch at one of the many delicious eateries in town.

Mazzorbo, Burano, Chioggia

Spend the day exploring the northern lagoon of Venice and its captivating islands. Start with a visit to Torcello's famous basilica with an art historian, then stroll through the agricultural island of Mazzorbo and the rainbow-hued island of Burano during your free time after lunch. Alternatively, you can take the afternoon to see the renowned glassblowing artisans of Murano at work.

Torcello: Hidden Treasure of the Lagoon

Settled before Venice was founded, Torcello was once the greatest, most populous city in the lagoon. Now, however, only a handful of people live there. Its centerpiece is the basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, the oldest church in the lagoon and a monument to Torcello's lost might. The doors...

Settled before Venice was founded, Torcello was once the greatest, most populous city in the lagoon. Now, however, only a handful of people live there. Its centerpiece is the basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, the oldest church in the lagoon and a monument to Torcello's lost might. The doors open early for you, so you can see the stunning 11th-century mosaic of the Last Judgment without the crowds—and with expert commentary from your art historian guide.

Before we head back to the ship, relax with a cup of coffee at a serene little Osteria on the island.

Murano Glass Blowing Demonstration

Murano’s glassblowers are renowned for being amongst the best in the world—and how could they not be, with a tradition of craftsmanship dating back eight centuries? Watch a glass-master shape beautiful works of art in their Murano workshop. Before you leave, take some time to roam...

Murano’s glassblowers are renowned for being amongst the best in the world—and how could they not be, with a tradition of craftsmanship dating back eight centuries? Watch a glass-master shape beautiful works of art in their Murano workshop. Before you leave, take some time to roam around the factory’s gallery to view works in a wide variety of styles—from tableware to sculptural, traditional to modern. You can even purchase some for yourself to bring a piece of Murano to your home.

Today, you’ll admire the greatest sites of charming and coastal Chioggia, including a stop at the local and lively market.

IMPORTANT: We are obliged to comply with Italian Maritime Authorities who require that only crew may be on the ship during the Adriatic Sea passage. Therefore, our guests must disembark the ship and partake in the featured excursions. We thank you for your cooperation.

Chioggia Market Visit

Chioggia is the quintessential Venetian Lagoon fishing village. Founded in the fifth century, it was known as the pantry of Venice because of its many small truck farms, which supplied Venetian households with produce until just a few decades ago. It is still a thriving fishing port; its wholesale...

Chioggia is the quintessential Venetian Lagoon fishing village. Founded in the fifth century, it was known as the pantry of Venice because of its many small truck farms, which supplied Venetian households with produce until just a few decades ago. It is still a thriving fishing port; its wholesale fish market is one of the largest in Italy. On Thursdays, Chioggia also hosts Corso del Popolo—a dynamic outdoor market along its main thoroughfare where stands sell everything from clothes, shoes, purses, gadgets and “every-day” domestic items. Locals usually do their shopping here as prices are more affordable than retail shopping.

Let's Go: Biking Chioggia

Set off on a light bicycle ride along the beaches of Chioggia, an island often described as a second Venice in miniature. Head to Lusenzo Lagoon, break to see the fishing boats, and then continue on to Isola dell’Unione.

Bragozzo Ride with Tastings at Ca’ Zen

Head to one of the most enticing islands of the Venice lagoon, Chioggia. A small fishing port often referred to as a Venice in miniature, with a well-preserved tradition due to its relative lack of crowds, Chioggia is a wonderfully authentic and picturesque island. Board a genuine Adriatic wooden...

Head to one of the most enticing islands of the Venice lagoon, Chioggia. A small fishing port often referred to as a Venice in miniature, with a well-preserved tradition due to its relative lack of crowds, Chioggia is a wonderfully authentic and picturesque island. Board a genuine Adriatic wooden sailing boat, a bragozzo, to take in the island from the clear blue waters of the lagoon.

After your sailing, return to shore for a visit to Tenuta Ca’ Zen, a beautiful Venetian villa with a fascinating story. Here, you can explore the expansive grounds, antique stable, family chapel and more before rejoining the group for a tasting of local products, which include organic olive oil, wines, honey and cheeses.

A Noble Country Villa and Its Wines

With a sommelier as your guide today, you will learn about the long history of winemaking in the Veneto region. Visit Dominio di Bagnoli, one of the oldest wine producing properties in Europe, for a private tasting. A variety of wines are produced here, with the most popular being made from an...

With a sommelier as your guide today, you will learn about the long history of winemaking in the Veneto region. Visit Dominio di Bagnoli, one of the oldest wine producing properties in Europe, for a private tasting. A variety of wines are produced here, with the most popular being made from an indigenous grape variety. The beautiful property of Dominio di Bagnoli is also a farm, where rice, grain and other products are grown. You’ll have the opportunity to see the granary on your visit today.

Chioggia, Venice

This morning, join a sailing excursion where you’ll explore the Po Delta where the Po River and the Adriatic Sea meet. Later, during lunch, we sail back to Venice.

Po Delta Sailing

Castello del Catajo Visit

Set off for the Euganean hills to discover one of Europe’s most majestic castles. Enjoy a guided tour of a palace so beautiful that it became a resort for the Habsburg Dynasty before being returned to Italy following the first world war. After marveling at its frescoed walls, continue on ...

Set off for the Euganean hills to discover one of Europe’s most majestic castles. Enjoy a guided tour of a palace so beautiful that it became a resort for the Habsburg Dynasty before being returned to Italy following the first world war. After marveling at its frescoed walls, continue on for a guided walk around its beautiful gardens or take some free time for yourself to explore as you please before returning to the ship.

Masterpiece Collection Providing the most all-inclusive luxury to our guests is the heart and soul of our brand and that will never change. Yet sometimes our guests want something that goes even "above and beyond" our included experiences. In light of this, we now offer guests a curated selection of optional excursions, available for an additional charge.

Jewish ghetto.

Take a stroll through Venice’s former Jewish Ghetto with a local guide, starting at the Synagogue museum. This district became the world’s first official Jewish ghetto in the 16th century, and the conditions for the people forced to live in this district were appalling. In spite of such discrimination, the Jewish people of Venice built a series a small synagogues, each a hidden gem of modern Venice that many visitors overlook.

*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.

As your water taxi glides past narrow side canals and the Canal Grande, you’ll arrive in style at the Rialto Bridge. The iconic stone arch bridge sits at the narrowest point of the Canal Grande and holds numerous shops and restaurants.

A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Do as the Locals Do: Venice Walking Tour

Back when Venice was at the height of its power, only the Rialto Bridge spanned the Grand Canal—and the city’s famous Rialto markets for fish and produce have sprawled at its feet as long as the bridge has arched over the water. Here you’ll find violet artichokes from the nearby...

Back when Venice was at the height of its power, only the Rialto Bridge spanned the Grand Canal—and the city’s famous Rialto markets for fish and produce have sprawled at its feet as long as the bridge has arched over the water. Here you’ll find violet artichokes from the nearby island of Sant’Erasmo, honey from the salt marshes, white asparagus from Giare—and Venetians shopping for their dinners in the historic heart of the city. Join them as you explore the colorful, noisy and fun arcades with your guide (the ship’s chef often accompanies this expedition), who knows Venice’s culinary arts intimately. Freshly caught local fish is sold to knowledgeable customers under the Gothic arches of the covered fish market, which was probably originally built in the 11th century. At the end of the tour (and after some free time where you should have plenty of time to enjoy a gondola ride), join your guide at a bacaro (a casual wine bar) for the Venetian version of happy hour, called ombra e cicchetti —a drink (often a glass of prosecco) with a bite of something delicious—perhaps crostini with salt cod spread or another Venetian fish specialty.

Venice Walk with Gondola Artisans Visit

Get an early morning start to see a side of Venice most of the tourists miss—The Dorsoduro. One of Venice’s six main sestieri, or districts, The Dorsoduro is quieter than some of the more popular districts and thus has an authentic, easygoing atmosphere. Enjoy a walking tour around ...

Get an early morning start to see a side of Venice most of the tourists miss—The Dorsoduro. One of Venice’s six main sestieri, or districts, The Dorsoduro is quieter than some of the more popular districts and thus has an authentic, easygoing atmosphere. Enjoy a walking tour around this picturesque side of town before moving on to visit a gondola artisan. See the craftwork that goes into Venice’s iconic sailing vessels and meet some local masters at work.

Ca' Macana Mask Atelier

An integral feature of the Carnival of Venice, masks are known for their intricate beauty and wide variety of styles. See for yourself how these masks are created at one of the top handmade mask ateliers in town.

Rowing Venice

Venice is known for a unique style of rowing—standing up and facing forward—that is iconic to its gondoliers. This style is also used by athletes, who race batellina boats. The sport, known as Regate, has been held in Venice for over a thousand years. Try your hand at the technique in...

Venice is known for a unique style of rowing—standing up and facing forward—that is iconic to its gondoliers. This style is also used by athletes, who race batellina boats. The sport, known as Regate, has been held in Venice for over a thousand years. Try your hand at the technique in a lesson led by Row Venice, a non-profit organization of female rowers dedicated to preserving the sport and supporting female rowers, who are vastly underrepresented.

This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience supports Global Goal 5: Gender Equality; and Global Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences support sustainable tourism, offering our guests opportunities to directly impact the communities we explore in a positive way.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences support sustainable tourism, offering our guests opportunities to directly impact the communities we explore in a positive way.

Venice (Disembark)

Disembark the ship. If your cruise/tour package includes a group departure transfer or if you purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Venice Marco Polo International Airport for your flight home.

Optional Extension

Athens Post-Cruise Extension

• 3 nights at the Divani Caravel (or similar)
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner
• All service charges, taxes, and porterage
• Home-Hosted Dinner
• Highlights of Athens City Tour
• Taste of Greece Walking Tour
• All transfers and transportation
• Flights to Athens
• Services of a local guide

Click here for full details.

Athens & Santorini Post-Cruise Extension

• 2 nights at the Divani Caravel in Athens (or similar)
• 3 nights at the Orama Hotel or Majestic Hotel in Santorini (or similar; hotel will be confirmed approximately 45 days prior to arrival)
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner, and 1 meal during the Santorini cruise
• Santorini Walking Tour with Local Dinner
• Caldera Cruise
• Santorini Villages with Wine Tasting
• Flights to Athens and to Santorini

What's Included

• All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
• 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
• Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
• Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water

• 6 days of excursions, including “Choice Is Yours” options, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
• Guided "Do as the Locals Do" and "Let's Go" programs
• State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
• Use of Nordic walking sticks

Accommodations

• 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the impressive S.S. La Venezia
• Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
• Free Internet and Wi-Fi access

Experiences

• 1 country: Italy
• 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
• Group Transfers are included on arrival and departure days (please see terms and conditions for transfer guidelines)
• Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
• Captivating onboard local entertainment
• Cultural enrichment, including a Signature Lecture

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Venice & the jewels of veneto.

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Italy and the awe-inspiring Veneto region

In many ways, Italy is synonymous with quality, with luxury, with the enjoyment of life’s most beautiful qualities. It’s why we look to its artists for inspiration, its countryside farms for great food, or its ateliers for fine clothing.

Our Italian itineraries focus on Veneto, a wonderfully multifaceted region with Venice at its heart. There is so much to love here. Winding alleyways, grand architecture, rich history, and a sparkling lagoon dotted with charming islands. Uniworld’s S.S. La Venezia is one of the very few cruise ships small enough to dock in town, and the only boutique hotel in Venice that floats, making it the perfect home for your Venetian vacation. And our all-inclusive ethos means you can enjoy an exceptional degree of luxury for a much better value than a comparable do-it-yourself vacation.

• Travel Tips
• Testimonials
• Featured Cruises

For such a small island, Venice certainly has more than its fair share of major world landmarks, and it can often be difficult for tourists to get a good look at them without dealing with long lines or crowds. With Uniworld, you’ll enjoy prime docking locations that bring you close to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.

The sparkling turquoise waters of the Venetian lagoon are a plentiful source of some truly outstanding seafood. As a result, the cuisine of Venice and its surrounding islands are rich in shrimp, fish, squid, and other such delights (our chefs onboard whip up particularly good calamari).

Italy is dedicated to the craft of great food, and the many farms of the Veneto countryside are a testament to this. You’ll taste some of their excellent homemade products—think cured meats and cheeses—on included excursions. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to join your onboard chef on a farmer’s market trip!

Walking around Venice, you’ll see cicchetti everywhere. Essentially the local version of tapas, cicchetti are most commonly small pieces of toast with various toppings, ordered alongside a drink at a bar.

We all know and love prosecco—and trust us when we say you can enjoy plenty on our Venetian cruise—but the Veneto also offers a wide variety of unique regional wines. Take amarone, for example, a deliciously robust red made using a rare air-drying process in Valpolicella. The estate we visit here for our private wine-paired lunch is run by the descendants of one of Italy’s most famous poets, Dante Alighieri of the Divine Comedy. Another experience for both the wine and the history lovers is our visit to Dominio di Bagnoli, one of the oldest wine-producing properties in Europe. During our private tasting, we’ll enjoy a variety of wines produced here, with the most popular being made from an indigenous grape variety.

As the epicenter of the Renaissance, Italy, and Venice in particular, has a great history of creativity and fine craftsmanship. On tour here, you’’ll have the opportunity to meet a number of local artisans at work creating products with deep cultural significance. Listen to a gondola maker talk about the symbolism behind different elements of Venice’s characteristic boats, enter a lacemaking workshop in Burano, watch Murano glassblowers create their extraordinary pieces, and learn what it takes to make the famous Venetian masks.

TRAVEL TIPS

When to go: April to September for sunny skies and less rain, March or October for more temperate weather and quieter streets.

How to pack: We suggest comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear both onshore and onboard. Depending on your travel season, the weather can range from cool to quite hot. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Layering clothing items is always your best bet, allowing you to adjust to most temperatures. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) in case of rain, though we will also have umbrellas onboard. You will participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore, so please bring comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option.

MAR–MAY

Avg. Temp. 66º F / 19º C

JUN–AUG

Avg. Temp. 81º F / 27º C

SEP–NOV

Avg. Temp. 70º F / 21º C

DEC–FEB

Avg. Temp. 54º F / 12º C

Euro (EUR, €)

Central European Time (CET)

Central European Summer Time (CEST)

Official Language

Electricity.

European 230V

Plug types C, F, and L

Onboard Team

Gyongyi Campailla Fuzer

Cruise manager.

“Our ship is the only one that gets to dock in Burano overnight. I love getting to witness the sunset, when the sky is ablaze with hues of gold, painting a breathtaking backdrop to this exclusive experience.”

Tomas Breziansky

Executive chef.

“Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini once said that life is a combination of magic and pasta. No truer words have been spoken here in Italy, or onboard the beautiful S.S. La Venezia .”

Martina Seinen Peric

Hotel manager.

“Italy is the perfect place to experience the true meaning of hospitality. It’s a country that opens its arms and embraces you with its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and warm-hearted people.”

What Our Guests Have to Say

"Perfect! An ideal holiday for a solo traveler. Many of the passengers had traveled with Uniworld before and it is obvious why. I shall certainly book again."

– Christine M.

"Being a small ship, we could go places the large ships couldn't. The tours were well-curated and the guides were very knowledgeable."

– Edward. W.

"Every effort was made to ensure we got the full Veneto experience, not just Venice. Tour guides were awesome and full of deeper insights and history."

– Kathleen M.

"Excellent. The exclusive early entry to the Doge’s Palace and the late entry to St. Mark’s Basilica meant no queuing and we were able to see everything without the crowds. All excursions we went on were very enjoyable but if you wanted to do your own thing you were free to do so."

– Hazel K.

FEATURED CRUISES

Milan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto

Milan to Venice | 10 days

Begin your journey in stunning Milan and disembark in romantic Venice. These two legendary cities will bookend unforgettable experiences throughout the Veneto region.

This ultimate Venetian vacation...

Ship: S.S. La Venezia

Country: Italy

4.5 /5 (90 reviews)

From $2,899 per person

Learn more Get a Quote

Venice & the Jewels of Veneto

Venice to Venice | 8 days

This ultimate Venetian vacation is perfected by one unique quality: your stay onboard our floating boutique hotel. Not only will you benefit from an enviable location in Venice, you’ll also...

4.6 /5 (106 reviews)

From $1,999 per person

Cruise & Rail: Grand Alpine & the Jewels of Veneto

Budapest to Venice | 16 days

Begin your journey in the stunning cities of Budapest and Vienna, from which you’ll ascend into the idyllic wonderland of the Alps via a luxury overnight train. Your days will be filled with...

Countries: Hungary, Austria, Switzerland, Slovenia, Italy

River: Venice Lagoon

From $17,994 per person

Cruise & Rail: Milan, Venice, Istanbul & the Balkans

Milan to Istanbul | 19 days

Begin your journey in stunning Milan and embark on your cruise in romantic Venice. These two legendary cities will bookend unforgettable experiences throughout the Veneto region. Treat yourself to a...

Countries: Italy, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Turkey

From $19,694 per person

Cruise & Rail: Venice, Istanbul & the Balkans

Venice to Istanbul | 17 days

Embark on a private train journey to Istanbul, during which you’ll sleep on the luxury Golden Eagle Danube Express with ever-changing views at your window—the perfect addition to a river...

From $18,794 per person

Grande Italia

Milan to Rome | 13 days

Begin your journey in stunning Milan, where you’ll view da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” Stop for a tasting of rare Amarone wines on your way to romantic Venice. Embark on your...

From $5,129 per person

Rome, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto

Venice to Rome | 11 days

Begin your journey in romantic Venice. Treat yourself to a private evening lighting ceremony at St. Mark’s Basilica, explore the colorful facades of Burano, and sail south to discover...

From $4,319 per person

Stay up to date on all things Uniworld

We'll keep you up-to-date with our latest news, travel inspiration and special promotions.

Privacy Policy

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Request a Quote

We're here to answer your questions about Uniworld cruises and ships, as well as any of our special offers.

Please note that someone from our team will reach out to you based on this request, but unless you have checked the box to continue to receive News and Special Offers, the information you've provided in this form will be used for this request only.

Please view our Privacy Policy for more details.

• Monday–Friday from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm (PT)
• Saturday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm (PT)
• Closed on Sundays

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