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Venice and the Gems of Northern Italy Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Venice (Italy)
Fly from the UK to Venice. Meet your representative on arrival and transfer to your ship, River Countess.
Day 2 - Venice
In 2018, stroll along charming lanes on a walking tour which showcases the city's top sights, and enjoy a Venetian glassmaking demonstration. Later, join an exclusive after-hours visit to St Mark's Basilica. Captain's Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner this evening. If religious functions or festivities are taking place, St Mark's basilica will be visited during regular hours. In 2019, enjoy a morning walking tour, then join a scenic lagoon cruise in the afternoon. Later, enjoy a welcome cocktail on deck with Saint Mark's Basilica and the Canal Grande as your backdrop.
Day 3 - Chioggia - Padua
Head to the medieval walled city of Padua, one of Italy's oldest towns. Here many notable scholars sought academic freedom including Galileo and Copernicus. Join a local guide on a walking tour through ancient arcades and porticos to the magnificent Palazzo della Ragione, the historic centre. Or if you prefer to discover Chioggia, known as 'Little Venice', join the guided walking tour or bicycle along Chioggia's beaches.
Day 4 - Polesella - Bologna or Ferrara
Spend the whole day on an excursion to Bologna and join an exclusive pasta-making workshop where you can learn to make your own Italian pasta then enjoy lunch in one of Bologna's most famous restaurants. Alternatively spend a half-day in Ferrara, one of Italy's best-kept secrets, where you'll discover how the city became an artistic hub for the likes of Leonardo da Vinci.
Day 5 - Taglio di Po - Chioggia
In 2018, explore Chioggia's bustling fish market with a guide, or learn the art of mussel harvesting from local fisherman. In 2019, see the sights of Chioggia with a stop at the lively fish market and a bragozzo ride along the canals. Or perhaps opt for the bike tour along the harbour. This evening, enjoy an exclusive after-hours visit to Saint Mark's Basilica.
Day 6 - Burano - Mazzorbo
Spend the day exploring the Venice Lagoon. Discover Burano, renowned for its colourful houses and lace making tradition, before heading to Mazzorbo, where you can enjoy a special wine tasting. In Torcello (visited on 2018 departures only) there are stunning Byzantine mosaics to discover in the 7th-century Cathedral.
Day 7 - Venice
Experience daily life in Venice on a walking tour through the Rialto Market. In 2018, there is also the option to head to the Accademia Gallery with an art-historian guide, while in 2019 guests can choose to join a morning walk from San Basilico to San Marco with a well-being coach.. This evening, enjoy the Captain's Farewell Reception and Gala Dinner.
Day 8 - Venice - UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary. Due to Italian regulations the ship cannot sail with passengers on the short section of the Adriatic Sea between Chioggia and the mouth of the River Po.