Venice by Water: Exploring the City’s Historic Gems

Guests cruising in Venice aboard La Bella Vita can savour a late afternoon journey along the Giudecca Canal, where they’ll pass some of Venice's most iconic landmarks, including the Chiesa del Redentore, the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, and the historic Punta della Dogana. Our cruise concludes at our mooring just outside the Naval Museum.

The following morning, we embark on a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace, or Palazzo Ducale, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that once served as the political and judicial centre of the Venetian Republic. Today, this architectural gem is a museum filled with opulent chambers, majestic staircases, and priceless works of art.

After lunch, guests will have free time to explore at their leisure, with the option of joining a guided walking tour to the serene Castello District and the Naval History Museum. Here, they can admire historically significant vessels, including ceremonial barges and warships.

Venice, Italy

Venice, often referred to as "La Serenissima," is an iconic city located in northeastern Italy, known for its intricate network of canals, historical landmarks, and unique culture. Founded in the 5th century, Venice is built on a group of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by bridges.

The canals serve as the city’s main thoroughfares, with the Grand Canal being the most famous. Stretching about 3.8 km, it is lined with stunning palaces and buildings that showcase the city's architectural heritage. Unlike typical roads, transportation in Venice relies heavily on boats, including vaporetti (water buses) and private water taxis.
One of the most emblematic symbols of Venice is the gondola.

Traditionally used for transportation, these long, narrow boats are now often associated with romantic rides through the canals. A gondola ride, typically accompanied by a gondolier singing softly, allows visitors to experience the city's beauty from the water while learning about its history. Gondoliers, known for their incredible skill and deep connection to the city, must complete rigorous training and adhere to strict licensing requirements.

As visitors navigate through Venice, they encounter numerous famous landmarks. St. Mark's Basilica stands out with its ornate architecture and golden mosaics, located in the bustling Piazza San Marco, which serves as the main public square. The magnificent Doge's Palace, which was the residence of the Doge of Venice, showcases stunning Gothic architecture and houses the city's historical archives. The Rialto Bridge, the oldest and most famous bridge over the Grand Canal, offers breathtaking views and is lined with shops, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Venice also hosts several boat races that reflect its maritime culture, with the most famous being the Regata Storica. This annual event, held in September, features a colourful parade of traditional Venetian boats followed by various races, including those between gondoliers. Celebrating the city’s rich history, this event is a highlight of the cultural calendar.

The culture of Venice is a rich tapestry influenced by its history as a major trading hub and its unique geography. It is celebrated for its art, especially during the Renaissance, with artists like Titian and Tintoretto leaving a lasting legacy. Venetian glass, particularly Murano glass, is renowned for its extraordinary craftsmanship. The city is also known for its unique cuisine, which features fresh seafood, risottos, and polenta, often enhanced with local produce and flavours. Festivals play a significant role in the cultural life of Venice, with events like the Venice Carnival, famous for its elaborate masks and costumes, attracting both locals and tourists.

In essence, Venice is a city that marries natural beauty with historical grandeur, making it one of the most enchanting places in the world. Its canals, gondolas, and rich cultural heritage continue to captivate visitors from around the globe.