Venice to Mantua

Leaving Venice behind, we enjoy a gentle cruise past the domes and bell towers of St. Mark’s Square. Our first stop is the island of Murano, world-famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition. Here, we’ll visit a historic glass factory and watch a master artisan shape molten glass into shimmering works of art.

Then our cycling adventure begins on the Lido, the first of two islands we’ll explore today. Elegant and nostalgic, the Lido di Venezia has been fashionable since the Belle Époque and still hosts the glamorous Venice Film Festival each September.

A short ferry hop takes us into a very different world; Pellestrina, a slender ribbon of land where colourful cottages and fishing boats line the quiet lagoon. The day ends as we rejoin our barge near Chioggia, a lively harbour affectionately known as “Little Venice” for its canals, bridges, and vibrant atmosphere.

Elevation Gain (m) +115 / -115

We begin the day with a leisurely stroll through Chioggia, a lively fishing town often called Little Venice. You may wish to climb the millennial clock tower, said to be the oldest in the world, for sweeping views across the lagoon and the Adriatic beyond.

If the weather is kind, there’s time to relax on the nearby sandy beach, dip your toes in the Adriatic, and enjoy a warm, savoury piadina from one of the local kiosks and just like that, you’re one of the locals!

From here, we cycle into the delta of the great Po River, a vast and life-giving wetland that serves as Europe’s largest heron reserve and even hosts a colony of flamingos. Nature and tranquility surround us as we follow quiet levees and waterways.

Our destination for the evening is Adria, once a key Roman port whose name still echoes in the Adriatic Sea. The town’s Etruscan and Greek heritage can be glimpsed in its museum and old streets. After dinner, a gentle passeggiata into town for a grappa or gelato is the perfect close to the day.

Elevation Gain (M) +140 / -140

After a short morning cruise, we hop on our bikes and follow the Po River through peaceful farmland and small villages on our way to Ferrara. Once ruled by the Este family, this city was a magnet for artists, architects, and scholars  (it still shows). Ferrara is known for its elegant streets, grand Renaissance palaces, and relaxed vibe.

Today, the city’s university ranks among Italy’s best, and with so many locals pedalling everywhere, it’s no surprise Ferrara is nicknamed the Cycling Capital of Italy.

After some time to explore, a private bus with a bike trailer takes us back to our floating hotel in Zelo, a quiet little village on the Canal Bianco, which runs parallel to the Po.

Elevation Gain (M) +120 / -115

This morning we cycle to Bergantino, a charming little village best known for its quirky Museum of Amusement Rides and Popular Entertainment, complete with beautifully restored (and wonderfully loud!) street organs.

But first things first: we’re in the heartland of Grana Padano, the proud rival of Parmesan. We’ll stop at a local cheese factory to see how this famous cheese is made, and of course, enjoy a tasting of sharp, aged Grana paired with a glass of Valpolicella; pure heaven!

After our usual picnic lunch, we continue towards Ostiglia, a town known for its medieval fortress and for the fierce battles of 1945, when Allied and partisan forces pushed back the last of the German troops. From here, we ride on to meet our barge again at Governolo Lock, where the River Mincio meets the Po.

Turning north, we enjoy a peaceful cruise through the wetlands of the Mincio, gliding slowly into the shimmering “lakes” of Mantua – a perfect finale to the day.

Elevation Gain (M) +125 / -115

Today is all about discovering Mantua, a true cultural gem surrounded by its three beautiful “lakes” formed by the River Mincio and framed by gentle countryside.

In the afternoon, we’ll meet our local Mantuan guide for a walking tour through the historic centre. Starting at Piazza Sordello, with its grand cathedral and impressive Palazzo Ducale, we’ll make our way through the charming streets to Piazza delle Erbe. Along the way, we’ll see the Clock Tower, the Rotonda di San Lorenzo (the oldest church in town) and the stunning Cathedral of St. Andrew, a masterpiece of Renaissance art and architecture.

You’ll soon understand why Mantua, once ruled by the Gonzaga family, is often called Italy’s “Sleeping Beauty” – elegant, peaceful, and full of timeless charm.
(Please note: the program may be subject to change.)

Elevation Gain (M) +115 / -115