Italian River Cruises: 3 Views of the Po Valley

There are many possible rivers and routes to consider when choosing Italian river cruises. Among the finest is the Po Valley, from coastal Venice to the upriver city of Mantua. The region is rich in culture, both contemporary and historical, ensuring an unforgettable experience. It can be enriched further by combining a cruise with a special focus on wine appreciation or golfing. There is one certainty – participants will leave with a host of wonderful memories.

Italy’s Rich Culture

All Italian river cruises will take passengers to harbours of the country’s millennia-long cultural history. In the Po Valley, the route is stunning - setting off from the canal city of Venice and journeying to the once-Etruscan town of Adria and the Renaissance hub of Mantua. Passengers will also be able to admire the beauty of the Po Valley, from the water birds at its mouth to the hills upriver. Sights along the way include a stroll atop the 18th century Istrian seawall at Pellestrina, a walled wine estate, the 17th century Villa Ca’Zen at Taglio di Po, the imposing 14th century Estense Castle in Ferrara, and the 14th century Ducal Palace of Mantua, with its 15 gardens and 12,000 paintings.

Wine Appreciation

In a country rich with viticulture, there are few finer experiences than a river cruise with visits to vineyards and wine estates to taste the locally produced wines. The Po Valley offers an array of wine appreciation experience to delight the senses of passengers on Italian river cruises. Starting in Venice with Prosecco and a glass of fine wine at the I Corrazzieri bacaro, cruises progress to the medieval walled wine estate of Venissa on the island of Mazzorbo, and upriver to the Renaissance gardens and wine cellars of the 17th century Villa Widmann Borletti – passing historical sights and wetlands rich in bird life. A particularly fine experience can be had in the famous town of Soave, where the Garganega grape produces some profound white wines. The country's viticulture is on fine display here.

Golfing

For the avid golf player, the possibility of combining Italian river cruises with games of golf in some of the country’s finest courses is not to be missed. After visiting the legendary city of Venice, golfers can tee off for the first time at the Cuc Golf Ferrara golf course. A return to the water takes the cruise to Lido, Alberoni and the ancient city of Chioggia, where golfers transfer to the Golf Cub Albarella. It is a world-renowned course, designed by the famous John Dering Harris, and is a real treat. The next possible golfing stop is at another town with an ancient past, Adria, where golfers can enjoy a game at the scenic 19th century park of the Frassanelle Golf Club. Last, but by no means least, is the Verona Golf Club near Mantua, where Po River cruises generally end.

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for Italian river cruises, the country has some of the world's most picturesque waterways. We also offer experiences in France, Holland and the UK.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.