Venice to Mantova by Bike and Boat (and reverse)
7 nights from €1250
4.85
Stunning Italian landscapes, charming villages, and cultural richness along the scenic Po River
This leisurely bike and barge tour along the waterways of the River Po offers more than just a taste of Northern Italy. You will experience the perfect blend of nature, culture, and fine cuisine. Explore celebrated cities of art, one of Europe's prime Nature Reserves, and a wealth of tucked-away rural hamlets along the route, wrapping up your days with a regional dish back on board. From the glory of Venice, the lagoon leads you to colorful Chioggia. Next, you'll see the natural wonders of the Po Delta, famed for its bird life; the Adria, once a key Roman port; and onto Ferrara and Mantua, once major city states crowned by the Italian Renaissance.
You have the option to ride with or without the guide, who will also be on board to advise on each day's riding. When you book, please specify your preference.
Rewarding ride, great boat and crew, fabulous food.,
“We were very happily rewarded with our choice of boat , direction, and timing for this bike & barge trip across Italy. This was our 4th bike and boat trip and the best! Each…” Full Review
“We were very happily rewarded with our choice of boat , direction, and timing for this bike & barge trip across Italy. This was our 4th bike and boat trip and the best! Each of the crew from tour leaders to cooks and boat captain and technician—each fantastic—warm, helpful, supportive, and with good humor. The mix of riders—kismet and wonderful. While we did encounter a few rainy days spirits stayed high and gregarious. And it was far better fir us than extreme hot temperatures of earlier in the year options. The food deserves an award for creativity and top notch flavour, presentation, creativity, and variety. The boat accommodation was very comfortable and in excellent condition. Common space was ample and comfortable. Our biking leaders were fantastic pros—always supportive, knowledgable, and perfect in their guidance of riders. Stefania and Francesco—totally delightful.” Less
—Linden
Fabulous Bike and Barge trip
“This was my first experience with a bike and barge trip. The tour operator did a first class job. The crew were very professional. The food was delicious. Our guides were very…” Full Review
“This was my first experience with a bike and barge trip. The tour operator did a first class job. The crew were very professional. The food was delicious. Our guides were very knowledgeable about the history of the places we visited. They kept us safe in areas where the terrain was challenging or where there was a bit of traffic. The cycling was as described as level 1. The experiences along the way were educational and highlighted the Italian culture. Overall a wonderful experience!” Less
—Linda C
Best Sister Trip EVER!!!!!
“Well for starters both our guides were amazing! I loved the knowledge both Mr & Mrs shared throughout the week! Very approachable guides, crew and captain! They sure had team down to an exact science!”
—Maureen Langan
Daily Program
Please note that this tour operates in two directions, from Venice to Mantova/Mantua or from Mantova/Mantua to Venice, depending on departure date. You'll find both itineraries detailed below.
Day 1: Venice
We welcome you aboard your new home-from-home from 5:00 pm. onwards, and then regroup for the introductory briefing – at 6:30 pm – with your tour leader, skipper, and crew, along with a first refreshing aperitif. After dinner, we can savor Venice at night, now free of the crowds and at her most romantic: Benvenuti a Venezia!
Day 2: Venice
After breakfast – 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.
Day 3: Venice – Pellestrina Island
16 miles/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 pictureque cottages and boats of this humble fishing backwater. We rejoin our barge just in front of Chioggia - a bustling and colorful fishing hub known as "Little Venice."
Day 4: Pellestrina Island – Po Delta Nature Reserve – Adria
25 miles/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 savory 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.
Day 5: Adria – Ferrara – Zelo
22 miles/35 km by bike + 1.25 hrs 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.
Day 6: Zelo – Mantova/Mantua
31 miles/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 Mantova/Mantua's River Mincio flows into the Po. Veering north, we cruise through the lush wetlands that finally emerge into the glorious "lakes" of Mantova/Mantua.
Day 7: Mantova/Mantua round tour
22 miles/35 km
Ruled by the House of Gonzaga for four centuries, the city state of Mantova/Mantua attracted a dizzying roll call of names across the arts – from Rubens and Mantegna to Monteverdi and Mozart – and to this day the town is renowned for its international book festival.
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 center: starting from Piazza Sordello with its magnificent cathedral and Palazzo Ducale, we will walk through the city center 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. Ander, a jewel of Renaissance art and architecture. We will learn why Mantova/Mantua, once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family, is now considered by many as Italy's "Sleeping Beauty." (This program may be subject to changes.)
Day 8: Mantova/Mantua
Departure after breakfast. Possibility to book extra nights.
Day 1: Mantova/Mantua
We welcome you aboard your new home-from-home from 5:00 pm onwards, and then regroup for the introductory briefing – at 6:30 pm – with your tour leader, skipper and crew, along with a first refreshing aperitif. After dinner, we can stroll into town and savor the historic center at its most evocative: Benvenuti a Mantova/Mantua!
Day 2: Mantova/Mantua round tour (22 miles/35 km)
This afternoon we meet our Mantuan guide for a walking tour across the historic center: starting from Piazza Sordello with its magnificent cathedral and Palazzo Ducale, we will walk through the city center 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 Mantova/Mantua, once a City State ruled by the Gonzaga family, is now considered by many as Italy's "Sleeping Beauty." (The program may be subject to changes.)
Day 3: Mantova/Mantua – Zelo
31 miles/50 km by bike
After breakfast, we set sail from the "lakes" of Mantova/Mantua and cruise through the lush wetlands that lead to Governolo Lock, where Mantova/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 Ave Maria in Zelo, a sleepy village on the Canal Bianco, the waterway which runs parallel to the Po.
Day 4: Zelo – Ferrara – Adria
31 miles/50 km by bike + 1.25 hrs 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 that 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.
Day 5: Adria – Po Delta Nature Reserve – Pellestrina
25 miles/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 savory piadina! Chioggia is also known as "Little Venice", a colorful fishing hub. The overnight takes place on the Island Pellestrina, just in front of Chioggia.
Day 6: Pellestrina – Venice
16 miles/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 takes us to our final destination. After dinner, we can savor Venice at night, now free of the crowds and at her most romantic: Benvenuti a Venezia!
Day 7: Venice
After breakfast – 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.
Day 8: Venice
After breakfast end of services. Possibility to book extra nights.
Only available on select Wednesday departures in the direction of Manova/Mantua to Venice
Day 1: Welcome to Bolzano
Your adventure begins in Bolzano, the lively bilingual capital of South Tyrol! This charming city beautifully blends Italian flair with Austrian tradition. Take some time to wander through its historic center — cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and a cozy alpine-meets-Mediterranean vibe make it the perfect place to kick off your journey. Make sure you don't miss the opportunity to visit Ötzi, the iceman, at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology.
Day 2: Bolzano – Trento (41-44 miles/65-70 km)
After breakfast, pick up your bikes between 8:00 and 9:30 a.m. and set off along scenic bike paths that follow the Adige River. You’ll ride past apple orchards, vineyards, and the pretty villages of Ora, Egna, and Salorno. The landscape rolls by gently until you reach Trento, a lovely city that’s often overlooked by tourists. Be sure to peek behind its beautifully painted façades — there’s so much charm and history to discover!
If you’d like to take it easy, you can hop on a train at several points along the route.
Elevation gain: 30 or 250 m
Day 3: Trento – Desenzano/Peschiera (29 miles/50 km) + ferry ride
Today’s ride takes you further south along the Adige River to Rovereto and Mori. From there, you’ll pedal gently uphill toward the stunning Lake Garda — Italy’s largest lake. Before you descend to Riva, take a moment to enjoy the incredible view from above — it’s absolutely worth it! Then, board the ferry for a relaxing cruise across the lake to Peschiera del Garda. The journey along the sunlit southern shore is simply unforgettable.
Elevation gain: 140 m
Day 4: Desenzano/Peschiera – Mantova (27-44 miles/45-70 km)
Depending on where you start cycling today, the distance will vary — but either way, it’s a beautiful ride! You’ll follow one of Italy’s most popular bike paths, running alongside the peaceful Mincio River. Along the way, you’ll pass through the postcard-perfect village of Borghetto, with its old watermills, and Valeggio sul Mincio, famous for its gorgeous “Sigurtà” botanical park.
Your ride ends in the elegant city of Mantova, where your floating hotel awaits at Porto Catena — just a short walk from the center. Cabins will be ready from 4:00 p.m., and you’ll meet your guide and crew over a welcome dinner around 6:30 p.m. Mantova is a true gem of Northern Italy, filled with Renaissance art and architecture thanks to the legendary Gonzaga family.
Elevation gain: 20 or 200 m
NOTE: Ths program has been planned to feature navigation along the Fissero/Bianco canal, which runs parallel to the Po river and connects to Mantova/Mantua to the Adriatic Sea. Due to organizational 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 made by the barge's captain.
Boats
Ave Maria Italia
17 cabins, 3 decks, 1 tour The Ave Maria Italia, which was previously known as Ave Maria, has been completely renovated and redesigned by an Italian architectural firm and is a 100% Italian design. The atmosphere of…
Vita Pugna
10 cabins, 2 decks, 1 tour The Vita Pugna initially started out as a cargo boat and was renovated into a passenger ship in the 1990s. This Dutch boat is 118 ft long, 18 ft wide, and boasts two decks. The Vita Pugna…
Ave Maria Portegrandi
12 cabins, 3 decks, 1 tour The Ave Maria Portegrandi is a modern electric river barge, built in Italy and designed to cruise the quieter waterways between Mantua, Venice, and Grado. Combining contemporary innovation…
Bikes
Standard touring bike
Unisex touring bike
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
- the only one suitable with children’s accessories
Specifically assembled by our mechanics, our touring bikes feature components and accessories that make it reliable and easy to ride, a perfect companion for your bike tour. Furthermore, thanks to the step-through frame, getting on and off your bike is easier.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Electrically assisted bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Our e-bike is the right choice if you do not feel trained enough to spend more days on a saddle. You can easily adjust the assistance of the electric motor: from a mild pedaling support, to a more intense boost, which is especially useful on starts and uphill climbs. The battery charge covers an entire cycling stage, or even more if you don’t use it at full power all the time, and you can recharge it at the end of the day at the hotel .
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- frame lock
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
*More about electrically-assisted bikes >
Accessories
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- handlebar bag (1 per room)
- battery charger (for electric bike)
- battery key
- repair kit
- lock
Other details
On guided tours, the handlebar bag and repair kit are only provided to those who ride individually.
Children's bikes, seats, trailers and tag-alongs are also available upon request
Bike Protection:
Protection against theft and irreparable damage is included in the rental bike price. In case of careless or improper behaviour the insurance will not cover the costs. The insurance covers only the rented bikes, while it is not valid for any bike accessories (lock, helmet, panniers, handlebar bag, child seat, child devices etc…) nor personal belongings left on the bike or in the panniers/handlebar bags. Furthermore, the insurance is not valid for e-bikes used by customers under the age of 18. In case of theft the insurance may be activated only if the client presents: - a police report made at the local police office - the lock key in case of e-bike, or the damaged lock in case of standard bike.
Helmets:
Helmets are available to rent head circumferences 54-61 cm (see pricing chart), but for safety and hygiene purposes we recommend you bring your own helmet or plan to purchase one upon arrival.
Surface and terrain
This cycling tour is largely along the flats of the Po plains, and mostly on tarmac cycle paths along rivers and canals, or quiet country roads. The daily stages vary from 16- 34 miles (25- 55 km), and the tour will be relaxed cycling with only a few rolling hills.
Total length: 185/200 km
Total vertical up: 20 m
Terrain: 90% tarmac, 10% unpaved
The boat is moored at night and typically sets sail after breakfast, meeting up with the bikers in the afternoon.
Some parts of the itinerary are undertaken by boat, to allow easier access onto cycling paths, or simply to enjoy the cruise.
How to get there
Tour start and end
Nearest airports: Venice (VCE), Italy
Nearest train stations: Venice Mestre and Mantua (Mantova), Italy
Locating the boat:
You will receive details on the boat's mooring place in your pre-tour documents, approximately 3-4 weeks before your tour start.
Please note:
On your arrival day, the cabins are available starting at 6:00 pm.
Tips on getting to and from your tour
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