Exclusive for Mail on Sunday readers: Discover the majesty of Venice with art expert Andrew Graham-Dixon
Northern Italy’s Veneto region boasts picture-perfect islands, awe-inspiring displays of art and a rich history reflected in its architecture.
With its network of canals and peaceful waterways, a luxury river cruise is the ideal way to explore this part of Italy.
Join our voyage in July and you’ll sail on magnificent SS La Venezia to many of the region’s most stunning destinations.
You’ll begin your journey in Venice, where special out-of-hours trips to the Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica have been arranged so that the beauty of these historic buildings can be enjoyed without the usual crowds.
Journalist and broadcaster Andrew Graham-Dixon will sail with you for part of the cruise. He will host a reception on board and give a talk on Venetian art, plus share his knowledge at the Accademia Gallery, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco and the Frari church.
Colours of the canals: During The Mail on Sunday’s seven-night river cruise of Northern Italy’s Veneto region, you’ll visit the island of Burano (pictured)
Cruising out of Venice, the deluxe ship will take you to waterfront shops, colourful facades and tranquil canals in Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello. Further south, you’ll discover Chioggia, a charming port loved by fishermen for the sole, sea bass and sea bream found in the local waters.
Every step of the way, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in Venetian culture and savour the area’s spectacular wine and enviable cuisine. You’ll meet a gondola-maker, peruse local markets and see glass-blowing craftsmen at work in Murano.
Glorious SS La Venezia carries just 126 guests and you’ll be staying in a classic river-view stateroom – with plush interiors and marble bathroom – so you can watch Veneto’s beautiful sights pass by your window.
In Venice, you’ll enjoy the beauty of St Mark’s Basilica (above) without the usual crowds at an after-hours lighting ceremony
ABOUT THE EXPERT
You will be joined by Andrew Graham-Dixon
Andrew Graham-Dixon is a leading art critic, writer, journalist and broadcaster. Andrew has judged the Turner Prize, BP National Portrait Award and the Annual British Animation Awards, among others.
REASONS TO BOOK
Cruise on SS La Venezia: Sail on this grand yet intimate ship, designed with 20th Century Venetian style in mind with its Murano glass, gilded accents and artistic etchings.
Excursions with Andrew Graham-Dixon: Art historian and broadcaster Andrew Graham-Dixon will host and guide you on visits to the Accademia Gallery, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco and the Frari church, sharing his expert insights.
Meet Venetian artisans: Our cruise allows you to immerse yourself in the culture of Veneto and learn more about its artistic heritage. You’ll meet a gondola-maker in Venice and watch glass-blowing craftsmen at work in Murano.
Enjoy delicious cuisine: All meals and drinks on SS La Venezia are included. Ristorante Rialto, the ship’s elegant restaurant, serves meals created by classically trained chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with both regionally inspired and international dishes completing the menu.
Visit hidden gems: A cruise around the peaceful waterways of Veneto allows you time to explore some of the region’s secret spots. Marvel at the quirky waterfront shops, colourful facades and harbourside trattorias in lovely towns across the region.
An exclusive evening in St Mark’s Basilica: A highlight of the trip is an after-hours lighting ceremony inside St Mark’s Basilica. Without the crowds, the sense of peace in the basilica is even greater than usual as you admire the engravings and statues illuminated by flickering candles.
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