There are festivals like the Festa del Redentore July 19 & 20 near St Mark’s Square, where people walk across the Grand Canal on a floating bridge of barges for good luck, followed by an amazing fireworks display over the lagoon; or the Venice International Film Festival, an 11 day event starting in late August that takes place along the sea-facing Lido Esplanade.
But what to do before or after the festivities? Well, how about a cruise across the Venetian Lagoon past colourful islands and through the Po Valley aboard La Bella Vita, a stylish 20 passenger river cruiser? There will be tours of Chioggia, Ferrara and the Renaissance gem of Mantua along the way, and delicious Italian food prepared by the talented onboard chef – accompanied of course by fine Italian wines.
Rates for La Bella Vita’s 6-night cruises start at £2,290 per person, and include all meals, wines, an open bar, numerous other daily escorted excursions, local transfers and admissions. Rates are based on double occupancy.
