Vivid Venetian beauty abounds at the pearl of the Istrian Peninsula with a visit to Rovinj. An egg-shaped peninsula is home to the old town, which climbs with rising cobbled streets housing fine dining, small pretty squares, artist workshops, and the remains of old town walls. They all meet at the soaring tower of the Cathedral of St Euphemia. Rovinj was once an island but in the 18th century, the narrow channel was filled making Rovinj a part of the mainland. With easy access to the Roman Ruins of Pula and 14 islands scattered across the Rovinj archipelago, not to mention secluded shingle coves and subterranean caves, Rovinj is a star attraction for sailors.
On Istria’s sun-drenched coast, Novigrad (Cittanova) is a medieval gem where Venetian charm meets Adriatic allure. Wander its car-free old town, encircled by 13th-century walls and dotted with Renaissance towers like Beleveder, offering panoramic sea views from its historic loggia. Dive into history at the Lapidarium Museum, showcasing Roman-era stone relics, or the Gallerion Maritime Museum, brimming with model ships and nautical treasures. Stroll the Mandrac Harbor, where pastel buildings frame bobbing boats, then sip local Malvasia at a waterfront bar. Unwind at Karpinjan Beach, a pebbly crescent fringed by pines, or escape to Aqualand Istralandia, a splashy waterpark just minutes away.
Often called "The Island of the Sun" and "Venice's northern cousin," Grado offers a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration. Imagine strolling through a town that once rivaled Venice in prominence, its roots intertwined with the fall of the Roman Empire as mainlanders sought refuge in its lagoon. Unwind on Grado's sandy beaches, where you can bask in the Adriatic sun, swim in the refreshing sea, and indulge in the simple pleasure of doing nothing. Explore the town's historic center, where you'll discover architectural gems like the Basilica di Sant'Eufemia with its baptistery and the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. Cycle across the bridge connecting Grado to the ancient Roman city of Aquileia and admire the sanctuary of Barbana emerging from the lagoon. Grado is a glorious spot for soaking up the authentic charm of Italian coastal life.
A charming and colorful seaside spot just north of Venice, Caorle has wide beaches, a bright historical center, and old-world fishing traditions that can be traced along the lagoon-like waterways. Celebrated as a place for everyone, charter guests can admire the cathedral and the 8th-century sanctuary of the Madonna of the Angel, bliss out on the beaches, stroll the brightly painted tow with a gelato in hand, and admire the fishing scene at the traditional Porto Peschereccio. Active guests can rent bicycles and explore the cycle paths that cross the lagoon.
Famed for its lace-making, vibrant paint box houses, and delightful day trips from Venice, Burano is a bucket list destination in the Venetian Lagoon. Burano is a beauty—and almost appears to be a miniature version of Venice with its arched-back bridges, bending bell tower, and colorfully lined canals. Hemingway once visited and said it was where women make lace and men make bambini. The lace-making is enchanting and has been a long-reigning traction on the island. Charter guests can stroll the bright streets, visit the Lace Museum, or duck into one of the timeless boutiques to purchase lace products, admire the 16th-century Church of San Martino with its leaning tower, and sample the local risotto dish made with fresh fish.
The floating city is a must for any yacht charter cruising through Italy. Ancient and resplendent in Renaissance beauty, no place sets the mood quite like Venice. With its canals and drifting gondoliers, narrow pathways, elaborate carnival masks, and fairytale bridges, this Italian city lends many unforgettable sights. Art lovers can see works from the masters at the Gallerie dell’Accademia, and architecture lovers will be enchanted at every turn - from the intricate Saint Mark Basilica to the Rialto bridge with its sweeping grand canal views, and the drawing room of Europe - Piazza San Marco. History lovers head to the Doges Palace. The nearby islands of Murano and Burano are also a must - with the former being famed for its gorgeous glass blowing and the latter for its lavish lace.