Venice Cruises

Explore Venice, Italy

Venice, often referred to as "The Floating City," is a remarkable destination famous for its intricate waterways, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Visiting Venice with a cruise allows you to experience the city’s unique charm and explore its hidden treasures, all while enjoying the picturesque views from the water. Fun fact: Venice is made up of 118 islands connected by over 400 bridges, making it incredibly unique and challenging to navigate on foot!

Activities and Attractions in Venice, Italy

When your cruise ship docks in Venice, you'll be treated to a plethora of activities and sights:

• Take a Gondola Ride: No visit to Venice is complete without a relaxing gondola ride through the scenic canals. Glide peacefully along the waterways while taking in the beauty of the city from a unique vantage point.
• Visit St. Mark's Basilica: This iconic cathedral is known for its stunning mosaics and impressive architecture. Explore its opulent interiors and climb the steps to enjoy breathtaking views from the top.
• Wander Through the Rialto Market: Experience the hustle and bustle of the famous Rialto Market, where you can sample local produce, fresh seafood, and regional delicacies. Don't forget to pick up some authentic Italian treats!
• Explore the Doge's Palace: This magnificent palace was once the residence of the Doge of Venice. Discover the opulent rooms, courtyards, and the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prison.
• Visit the Accademia Gallery: Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Accademia Gallery, home to a fantastic collection of Venetian paintings, including masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.

Nearby Harbours to Enhance Your Cruise Itinerary

As part of your cruise to Venice, here are five nearby harbours worth exploring:

• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Renowned for its stunning medieval architecture and beautiful coastline, Dubrovnik invites visitors to explore the Old Town, walk the city walls, and relax on scenic beaches.
• Kotor, Montenegro: Nestled in a dramatic fjord, Kotor is known for its well-preserved medieval old town and stunning mountain views. Discover historic churches, climbing the fortress for panoramic vistas, and take in the scenic bay.
• Split, Croatia: A bustling city famous for its historical significance, Split boasts the impressive Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, shops, and vibrant waterfront promenade.
• Corfu, Greece: Known for its lush landscapes and stunning beaches, Corfu Island offers opportunities for exploring its rich history, including ancient ruins and beautiful Venetian architecture in the charming Old Town.
• Livorno (Florence), Italy: Serving as a gateway to the beautiful city of Florence, Livorno beckons visitors to explore stunning Renaissance art, historical sites, and iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.

Regions Commonly Visited on Cruises to Venice

Cruises that include Venice often explore these captivating regions:

• Mediterranean Sea: The Mediterranean offers a diverse mix of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes with destinations such as Spain, Italy, Greece, and Croatia. A cruise through this region allows you to discover beautiful beaches, historic cities, and mouthwatering gastronomy.
• Africa: Cruises to Africa provide the chance to explore some of the continent’s most iconic highlights, including the stunning coastlines of Morocco, vibrant markets in Tunisia, and historical sites in Egypt. Each destination offers a unique cultural experience.
• South America: Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of South America with visits to iconic locations such as Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and the Amazon rainforest. Each port provides unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes.
• India and Indian Ocean: Cruising through this region offers captivating encounters with diverse cultures and stunning natural beauty. Explore the vibrant cities of India, island paradises such as Mauritius, and stunning beaches across the Indian Ocean.
• Caribbean: The Caribbean is known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant islands. A cruise to this region allows visitors to experience paradise, local cultures, and tropical adventures.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Venice, Italy

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC operates 3 ships (MSC Opera and MSC Armonia) that visit Venice. Known for their family-friendly atmosphere and diverse onboard activities, these cruises typically depart from Venice or Bari.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet size of 20, Norwegian operates 5 ships (Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Viva) that visit Venice. Famous for their freestyle cruising concept, they provide guests with flexibility in onsite dining and activities, often departing from Venice or Istanbul.
• CroisiEurope: With a fleet size of 36, CroisiEurope operates 1 ship (Michelangelo) that visits Venice. Renowned for their comfortable river cruises and exceptional service, they typically depart from Venice or Mantua.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet size of 11, Viking operates 7 ships (Viking Sea and Viking Saturn) that visit Venice. Known for their inclusive onboard experiences and destination-focused itineraries, they most often depart from Venice or Barcelona.
• Silversea: With a fleet size of 13, Silversea operates 3 ships (Silver Muse and Silver Spirit) that visit Venice. Known for luxurious small-ship cruising and attentive service, these cruises typically depart from Venice or Athens.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8, Oceania operates 3 ships (Nautica and Insignia) that visit Venice. Celebrated for their culinary experiences onboard and destination-rich itineraries, these cruises usually depart from Venice or Civitavecchia (Rome).

Visiting Venice Throughout the Year

• Summer (June, July, August): Average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Summer is a bustling season in Venice, offering warm weather perfect for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and local festivals.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Expect mild temperatures of around 15°C to 25°C. Autumn is a lovely time to explore Venice, with fewer crowds and stunning fall foliage in the surrounding areas.
• Winter (December, January, February): Temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 10°C. Winter features lower tourist traffic and cozy atmospheres, along with enchanting Christmas markets and beautiful winter scenery.
• Spring (March, April, May): Generally ranging from 10°C to 20°C, spring brings blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures. This is an ideal time for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and enjoying local events as the city comes alive.

Frequently Asked Questions about Venice, Italy

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

The typical cost of a cruise to Venice generally starts around $1,200 for a one-week itinerary and can go up to $3,500 for a two-week cruise. Prices may vary depending on the cruise line, the season, and accommodations.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from $15 to $50 per person for specialty dining options, while beverages generally cost between $5 and $15 for cocktails or other drinks.

What are some of the dining and shopping possibilities?

Venice offers diverse dining experiences, from cozy trattorias to upscale restaurants. Explore local markets for hand-crafted souvenirs and artisanal foods, ensuring you take a piece of Venice's charm home with you.

What are transportation options?

Transportation in Venice primarily consists of vaporetti (water buses) and water taxis, providing accessible options to navigate the city's intricate canals and get around easily.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is handy for smaller purchases or in less touristy areas.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Venice is generally safe for tourists. Basic precautions for personal belongings should be followed, and it's advisable to stay hydrated while exploring the city, especially during warm weather.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

Italian is the official language, but many locals speak English in tourist areas. Familiarizing yourself with a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your travel experience and interactions.

This guide aims to help you plan an enchanting visit to Venice, Italy. Book your next cruise with CruiseAway to explore the stunning scenery, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences this remarkable destination has to offer!