Can you imagine sailing the lazy Italian canals early in the morning and then getting off on the warm cobbled streets for a fresh breakfast of frittata? This can easily become your reality on a spectacular barge cruise through Italy! It’s the perfect way to explore this incredible country for the first time or an opportunity to see Italy from a new perspective for some of the more experienced travellers. So make the most of these last few days of summer and embark on a cruise of the gorgeous Italian rivers and canals! Benvenuto!
What to do?
The perfect thing about barge cruises is relaxation. This is a real getaway away from all the noise, bustle of the modern world. Relax as the beauty of Italy slides past lazily over a glass of the best Italian wine. However, do not just stay on your beloved barge all the time! Most cruise ships make several stops each day, so you can explore the picturesque little towns, enjoy the food, and absorb the vibes. in Italy, particularly in Venice, you’ll see many incredible palaces, cellars full of history and wine, museums and incredible galleries. However, when you get tired of exploring, you can all the time get back on the barge, kick your feet up and enjoy Italy from the water.
Figure 2 – Venice, Italy, Source
Why Italy?
During your cruise, you’ll have several excursions that you can’t miss. Seeing how your barge journey begins in Venice, make sure to visit the Naval Museum and get to know Italy’s water transport better. After all, you will be spending a week on board, so it makes sense to learn a little about Venetian naval traditions! You’ll also see the various islets of the lagoon and the palaces of Venice, Mantua and Ferrara. Also, it’s the perfect way to celebrate certain important dates in your life, so do not hesitate see barge charter options and spend your romantic canal vacation in Italy with your better half and rekindle your love! Italy is really a country of affection, passion, and a bohemian lifestyle—make sure to take it to your pleasure! Eat, drink, love and be merry!
Figure 3 – Italy, Source
What to eat and drink?
Food is certainly probably the greatest things about barge cruises. First of all, you can enjoy all the best Italian specialties prepared by incredible cooks right on board. Think regional delicacies such as diverse types of lagoon seafood and fish such as cod and pilchard, traditional Italian risotto, polenta, diverse types of cheese and plenty of other delicious dishes. Of course, wine is a crucial part of the Italian lifestyle, so expect to taste some of the best vino in the world and learn a lot about it. Even the most choosy wine drinkers will find something they like! On the other hand, if you want to enjoy food and wine tasting on terra firma, your barge makes many stops for you to enjoy small local restaurants and tasting tours of the wine cellars!
Figure 4 – Milano, Italy, Source
How am I able to go up?
Most barges start their adventures in Venice, so this is certainly the simplest way to start. The best time to sail the Italian canals is between March and October when the weather is most pleasant and sunny. In spring and summer, temperatures climb from 15 to virtually 30 degrees, so it is perfect for spending time on the deck, sunbathing, and just taking in the views. Most barge cruises last around seven days, so your Italy cruise will not take up all your vacation. You’ll have plenty of time for other adventures once you experience this ultimate relaxation cruise or finish your vacation with this relaxing excursion and return to your normal life refreshed and rejuvenated!
Figure 5 – Venice, Italy, Source
The seven days that you’ll spend on the ship will fly by like a warm Mediterranean breeze! Luckily, there’s all the time next year and new barging adventures, so get ready to head back to Italy for an additional sailing vacation!
Figure 1 – Italy – Featured image, Source