Manuta-Venice Bike+Boat

Italien, italy, po, ebene, po-ebene, mantua, venedig, venice, schiff, ship, boat

Mantua-Venice Bike+Boat

Or Venice-Mantua

Italien, italy, po, ebene, po-ebene, mantua, venedig, venice, schiff, ship, boat

Along the Po River

Blending nature, culture and fine cuisine, this leisurely bike and barge tour along the waterways of the River Po offers more than just a taster of Northern Italy. It explores celebrated cities of art, one of Europe’s prime Nature Reserves and a wealth of tucked-away rural hamlets along the route, rewarding our daily rides with authentic regional dishes back on board.

Min.number of participants: 12 persons

Dates 2025:

Arrival: Saturday
Duration: 8 days

Ship Ave Maria

Mantua – Venice:
S1: April 05.
S2: April 19., June 28., July 12./26., Aug 09.
S3: May 03./17./31.,
June 14.,Oct 18.
S4: Aug 23, Sept 06./20., Oct 04.
Venice – Mantua:
S1: April 12.
S2: April 26., July 05./19., Aug 02./16.
S3: May 10./24., June 07./21., Oct 25.
S4: Aug 30., Sept 13./27., Oct 11.

Dates 2025:

Arrival: Saturday
Duration: 8 days

Ship Vita Pugna

Mantua – Venice:
S1: April 12.
S2: April 26., July 05./19., Aug 02./16.
S3: May 10./24., June 07./21.
S4: Aug 30., Sept 13./27.,Oct 11.
Venice – Mantua:
S1: none
S2: April 19., June 28.,
July 12./26., Aug 09.
S3: May 03./17./31., June 14., Oct 18.
S4: Aug 23., Sep 06./20.,
Oct 04.

1st Day: Mantua

We welcome you aboard your new home-from-home from 5.00 p.m. onwards, and then regroup for the introductory briefing – at 6.30 – with your tour leader, skipper and crew, along with a first refreshing aperitivo. After dinner we can stroll into town and savour the historic centre at its most evocative: Benvenuti a Mantova!

2nd Day: Mantua round tour (35 km)

A day dedicated to the discovery of this cultural gem, its three picturesque “lakes” formed by the river Mincio and the surrounding countryside.This afternoon we meet our Mantuan guide for a walking tour across the historic centre: starting from Piazza Sordello with its magnificent cathedral and Palazzo Ducale, we will walk through the city centre up to Piazza delle Erbe. Here we will admire the Clock Tower, the Rotonda di S. Lorenzo (the oldest church in town) and the Cathedral of St. Andrew, a jewel of Renaissance art and architecture. We will learn why Mantua, once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family, is now considered by many as Italy’s “Sleeping Beauty”. (The programme may be subject to changes).

3rd Day: Mantua – Zelo (50 km)

After breakfast, we set sail from the “lakes” of Mantua and cruise through the lush wetlands that lead to Governolo Lock, where Mantua’s River Mincio flows into the Po. Here, we saddle up and follow the broad sweeps of the levee towards Ostiglia, renowned for its medieval fortress and fierce fighting in 1945, as the Allies drove Hitler’s forces back. Next: Bergantino, home of the distinctive Museum of Fairground Rides and its collection of street organs, all expertly restored (and thunderous!). This village is also in the heartland of Grana Padano – the arch-rival of Parmesan – and a visit to the local cheese factory, sampling some well seasoned Grana, is de rigueur. We catch up with our barge in Zelo, a sleepy village on the Canal Bianco, the waterway which runs parallel to the Po.

4th Day: Zelo – Ferrara – Adria (50 km by bike + 60 km by bus)

This morning we cross the Po and ride southwards through a patchwork of farmland, orchards and hamlets, as far as Ferrara. Under its ruling family, the Este, this city state attracted architects, artists and scholars for centuries, pioneering town planning principles that have been emulated worldwide ever since. To this day, Ferrara University ranks among the best, and the town is dubbed the ”Cycling Capital of Italy”.A private bus and trailer then take us back to our floating hotel in Adria, an ancient Roman port once washed by the sea which bears its name. Adria is also renowned for its Etruscan and Greek heritage. An after-dinner passeggiata into town for a well-earned grappa or gelato is in order.

5th Day: Adria – Po Delta Nature Reserve – Pellestrina island (40 km)

After a short cruise, we cycle into the delta of the life-giving Po. This unique wetland is the prime reserve in Europe for herons and home to a sizeable colony of flamingos. Weather permitting, as we continue towards Chioggia, we can also enjoy a break at a fine-sand beach nearby for a dip in the Adriatic – not forgetting a hot savoury piadina! Chioggia is also known as “Little Venice”, a colourful fishing hub. The overnight takes palce on the Island Pellestrina, just in front of Chioggia.

6th Day: Pellestrina island – Venice (25 km)

Venice beckons, but first another world altogether: Pellestrina, the first of two islands we traverse today – a humble and tranquil fishing backwater, picturesque as ever with its cottages, boats and nets. A short island-hop by ferry lands us on the Lido. Fashionable in high society ever since the Belle Époque, the Lido di Venezia is now home to the International Venice Film Festival and its galaxy of stars. We will also visit a historic glass factory on Murano island, with a glassblowing demonstration by a master artisan. After rejoining our barge, an unrushed cruise in front of St Mark’s square takes us to our final destination. After dinner we can savour Venice at night, now free of the crowds and at her most romantic: Benvenuti a Venezia! Free dinner in Venice.

7th Day: Venice

Following a wander off the beaten track with your tour leader you have the day free to enjoy the city at your own pace. Christened La Serenissima (“The Most Serene”), the Venetian Republic held sway over much of the Mediterranean (and beyond) for centuries – both as a military power and a beacon of culture.

8th Day: Venice

Individual departure after breakfast.

ITINERARY Venice – Mantua

1st Day: Venice
We welcome you aboard your new home-from-home from 5.00 p.m. onwards, and then regroup for the introductory briefing – at 6.30 – with your tour leader, skipper and crew, along with a first refreshing aperitivo. After dinner we can savour Venice at night, now free of the crowds and at her most romantic: Benvenuti a Venezia
2nd Day: Venice
Following a wander off the beaten track with your tour leader you have the day free to enjoy the city at your own pace. Christened La Serenissima (“The Most Serene”), the Venetian Republic held sway over much of the Mediterranean (and beyond) for centuries – both as a military power and a beacon of culture.
3rd Day: Venice – Pellestrina island (25 km)
Leaving Venice behind after a gentle cruise in front of St Mark’s square, our first stop will be on Murano island, where we will visit a historic glass factory, with a glassblowing demonstration by a master artisan. Then our cycling adventure starts on the Lido, the first of two islands we traverse today. Fashionable in high society ever since the Belle Époque, the Lido di Venezia is now home to the International Venice Film Festival and its galaxy of stars. A short island-hop by ferry takes us into another world: Pellestrina, where we ride past the picturesque cottages and boats of this humble fishing backwater. We rejoin our barge just in front of Chioggia – a bustling and colourful fishing hub known as “Little Venice”.
4th Day: Pellestrina island – Po Delta Nature Reserve – Adria (40 km)
We open the day with a stroll through Chioggia, followed perhaps by a visit up the millennial clock tower – the oldest in the world – for some breathtaking views. Weather permitting, we can also bask in the sun at a fine-sand beach nearby: a dip in the Adriatic, a hot savoury piadina – and you are well and truly local! Then onwards into the delta of the life-giving Po. This unique wetland is the prime reserve in Europe for herons and home to a colony of flamingos. We moor for the night in Adria, a key Roman port, once washed by the waters of the sea which bears its name. Adria is also renowned for its Etruscan and Greek heritage. An after-dinner passeggiata into town for a well-earned grappa or gelato is in order.
5th Day: Adria – Ferrara – Zelo (35 km by bike + 35 km by bus)
After a short cruise we saddle our bikes and, following the Po through farmland and hamlets, we reach Ferrara. Under its ruling family, the Este, this city state attracted architects, artists and scholars for centuries, pioneering town planning principles that have been emulated worldwide ever since. To this day, Ferrara University ranks among the best, and the town is dubbed the ”Cycling Capital of Italy”. A private bus and trailer take us back to our floating hotel in Zelo, a sleepy village on the Canal Bianco, the waterway which runs parallel to the Po.
6th Day: Zelo – Mantua (50 km)
This morning we head for the village of Bergantino, home of the distinctive Museum of Fairground Rides and its collection of street organs, all expertly restored (and thunderous!). But first things first: we are in the heartland of Grana Padano – the arch-rival of Parmesan – and after visiting the local cheese factory, we enjoy a degustazione of sharp and seasoned Grana, washed down with a glass of Valpolicella.After our customary picnic lunch, we leave Bergantino and follow the river to Ostiglia, famed for its medieval fortress and the fierce fighting that took place here in 1945, as the Allies and partisans drove Hitler’s forces back. We ride on and rejoin our barge at Governolo Lock, where Mantua’s River Mincio flows into the Po. Veering north, we cruise through the lush wetlands that finally emerge into the glorious “lakes” of Mantua. Free dinner in Mantua.
7th Day: Mantua round tour (35 km)
A day dedicated to the discovery of this cultural gem, its three picturesque “lakes” formed by the river Mincio and the surrounding countryside.This afternoon we meet our Mantuan guide for a walking tour across the historic centre: starting from Piazza Sordello with its magnificent cathedral and Palazzo Ducale, we will walk through the city centre up to Piazza delle Erbe. Here we will admire the Clock Tower, the Rotonda di S. Lorenzo (the oldest church in town) and the Cathedral of St. Andrew, a jewel of Renaissance art and architecture. We will learn why Mantua, once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family, is now considered by many as Italy’s “Sleeping Beauty”. (The programme may be subject to changes).
8th Day: Mantua
Departure after breakfast.

Important Information

The navigation is guaranteed all year round along the 135 km waterways “Fissero-Tartaro-Canalbianco-Po di Levante”, which run parallel to the Po river. Due to organisational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday. Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles such as officially ordered – previously not announced – repair work on locks or bridges can modify some of the daily stretches or overnight stays and may even request a transfer by bus. These decisions are only taken by the barge’s captain.

YOUR ACCOMMODATION:

shiP AVE MARIA

The Ave Maria is equipped with: Air-conditioned living area, measures 11 x 7,5 m and is divided into two parts: the Restaurant (up to 33 seats) and the Lounge (up to 28 seats).
2 sundecks, Free hot drinks machine (including Italian ground coffee), Free wi-fi in the common areas, Large 55” screen in the lounge for video, Dedicated bike storage (for approx. 40 hanging bikes), Hair-dryers (limited number) available on request, Complimentary courtesy kit

Cabins:
All cabins enjoy sizeable windows (the ones in the Superior cabins can also be partially opened), comfortable low beds, en-suite facilities, air conditioning and safety box. Bed/bunk size is 2,00 x 0,80 m. Most of the double beds can be separated into two single beds. Under the bed there is a 40 cm high empty space, where you can store your luggage.
Above Deck: 4 Superior Double cabins (three of these can accommodate up to 4 persons adding 2 bunk beds), approx. 11 m2;
Below Deck: 10 Standard Double cabins (three of these can accommodate up to 3 persons
adding 1 bunk bed), approx. 11 m2 and 3 bunk bed cabins (also available as Single cabins) below deck, approx. 7,5 m2.

shiP VITA PUGNA

The ship is equipped with 10 Standard Twin cabins (including one accommodating up to 3 guests) of 7-8 m2. There is a spacious air-conditioned lounge/restaurant with 5 tables, accommodating up to 23 guests.
Extra features: 1 sundeck, Free hot drinks machine (including Italian ground coffee) , Free wi-fi in the common areas, Large 42” screen in the lounge for video, Dedicated bike storage, Hair-dryers (limited number) available on request

Cabins:
All cabins are air-conditioned and are equipped with comfortable low twin beds and en-suite facilities and safety box. They also offer the convenience of attractive, traditional portholes, which can be opened for fresh air. Bed size is 1,90/2 m x 0,75/0,80 m. In each cabin, at least under one of the two/three beds there is an empty space (about 40 cm heigh), where you can store your luggage.

YOUR BICYCLES:

27-speed unisex Shimano Deore
9-speed E-Bikes Shimano

  • aluminium frame
  • mudguard
  • rear rack
  • comfort gel saddle
  • anti-puncture Schwalbe tyres
  • ergonomic bicycle grips
  • Speed Lifter system
  • 1 cycle computer
  • 1 Ortlieb one-sided saddlebag
  • 1 combination bike lock
  • 1 helmet suitable for head circumferences from 54 to 61 cm

Please note, if you want to cycle the unaccompanied tour: In order to cycle smoothly following our App, we suggest that you bring with you a holder for your mobile phone to be fixed on the handlebar, as well as a power bank (even if the App can be used offline, too). Only for self-guided: 1 front bar bag per cabin, 1 repair kit per cabin: 1 spare inner tube, glue, patch, a pump, 2 allen keys and tyre levers

Own bicycles are not allowed on board.

ARRIVAL INFORMATION:

Parking

  • public parking areas

Train station

  • Station: Mantova (Mantua) or Venezia Santa Lucia (Venice)

Airport

  • Next Airport: Venice (VCE) or Verona (VRN)
  • 7 overnights inkl.breakfast
  • Self-made packed lunch
  • 6 dinners
  • Welcome drink
  • afternoon snack
  • Coffee and tea and other hot drinks on board
  • Sheets and towels
  • Courtesy kit
  • Mid-week cabin cleaning service and towel change
  • App including maps, roadbook, points of interest and GPS tracks
  • Digital tour information
  • English speaking tour leader within an international group if guided tour
  • Second tour leader with a minimum of 22 people (only aboard Ave Maria)
  • Guided visit in Mantua
  • Visit of a cheese factory with tasting of typical Grana Padano
  • Visit of Carousel and Street Entertainment Museum
  • Visit of a historic glass factory on Murano island
  • Some short walking tours
  • Harbour charges
  • Bus transfer Ferrara-Zelo / Ferrara-Adria
Ship Ave MariaSeason 1Season 2Season 3Season 4
Bunk bed cabin1.050,-1.630,-1.790,-1.950,-
2-bed cabin below deck1.250,-1.830,-1.990,-2.150,-
2-bed cabin above deck1.500,-2.080,-2.240,-2.400,-
1-bed cabin below deck1.650,-2.230,-2.390,-2.550,-
2-bed cabin for single use2.400,-2.980,-3.140,-3.300,-
3rd person in cabin950,-1.530,-1.690,-1.850,-
Ship Vita PugnaSeason 1Season 2Season 3Season 4
2-bed cabin1.070,-1.470,-1.570,-1.680,-
2-bed cabin for single use1.990,-2.390,-2.490,-2.600,-
3rd person in cabin770,-1.170,-1.270,-1.380,-
prices in EUR/person

Venice Municipality Access Fee (approx. 5€/day, to be paid on site)

Additionally bookable

Rental bikes
27-speed 110,-
E-Bike 270,-
Bringing own bikes not possible
Diet (gluten-/lactofree + vegan)65,-

Operator: Girolibero

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