Transport
Quite a long journey but comfort break on way and back. Return to coach park seemed a bit rushed with no visible headcount, but no one lost apparently. We did gondola ride and there was option of boat trip round islands, but this would half your time for looking round. Enjoyed trip and tui had 10% discount on at time. You could do this yourself but it saves the hassle, there were train strikes on at time of trip, so local transport can be unreliable at times.
A masterpiece floating on the Adriatic, Venice tops many a must-visit list. Boarding a private motorboat on the edge of the city, you'll arrive in style at Riva degli Schiavoni, and your guide will lead you to St Mark's Square. Here, you can admire the wonderful St Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace next door. Their orient-infused Byzantine Gothic architecture will whet your appetite for more.
And there's no better way to explore Venice than with a romantic gondola trip – an optional 30-minute ride is available just after arrival in St Mark's Square. You'll then have free time for exploring this enchanting city, and perhaps to find somewhere to have lunch. If you fancy something really typical, locals love their cicchetti – Venetian tapas.
In the afternoon, there's an optional one-hour lagoon trip, accompanied by your guide, or the chance to roam around yourself. It's well worth stepping away from the crowds onto quieter lanes and canals to get a sense of the true magic of ‘La Serenissima.'