This easy, bike and boat cycling holiday is the perfect way to explore the highlights of northern Italy. From Venice on the Adriatic Coast to the beautiful Renaissance town of Mantova in Lombardy, cruise and cycle through breathtaking scenery discovering magical cities of art and culture along the way.
As a starting point for a cycling holiday Venice takes some beating, especially when you’re staying on a comfortable barge moored in the Venetian lagoon itself and convenient for exploring the highlights of Europe’s most unique city.
Post ride drinks on the Ave Maria in Zelo
Cruise across to the Lido and enjoy fantastic sea views cycling along the islands that protect Venice from the open sea. The wetlands of Po Delta are a haven for waterfowl and offer peaceful cycling through a serene untouched wilderness.
The winding, medieval streets of historic Ferrara are another highlight as is stopping for a break in one of the many small charming villages you’ll discover all along the route.
Finally we arrive in Mantova, one of the most important Renaissance cities and once ruled by the all powerful Gonzaga family. The city’s Palaces and Piazzas are sensational and a ride through the atmospheric old town, followed by a spell at one of the street cafes in the stunning main square makes a fitting finale to such a wonderful trip.
On this tour you can choose between two different vessels. The Vita Pugna is a traditional Dutch barge offering a cosy, convivial atmosphere with simple but comfortable cabins. The Ave Maria is a larger boat with more modern facilities and cabins. More details on both boats can be found on the ‘Practical Information’ page.