celebrity cruises shore excursion list

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Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $150.

Discover iconic must-see landmarks and popular sights

Shore Excursions Loved by All

Destination Highlights shore excursions are the ideal way to explore the legendary sights and famous vistas of each port city. If you’re experiencing a destination for the first time—or if you want to check a “must-see” landmark off your bucket list—these are the tours to take. You can see the sights by day or night, or plan to see them for multiple days. You can ensure the whole family, no matter the age or accessibility, will enjoy.

Featured Shore Excursions

Whale quest & salmon bake | juneau, alaska.

This exhilarating tour combines a whale watching cruise with Alaska's finest wilderness salmon bake. Board a waterjet-powered catamaran in Auke Bay and cruise through Stephen's Passage, a favorite feeding ground for humpback whales and other wildlife. Learn about the behaviors of these majestic creatures as you get close enough to hear them breathe. Then, visit Orca Point Lodge for a delicious feast of fresh grilled wild Alaska salmon, corn on the cob, and more.

Sailing & Stingrays | George Town, Grand Cayman

After you arrive on the island, travel to Morgan's Harbor, where you'll be greeted by the crew of "Cockatoo," a 60-foot racing catamaran, and welcomed aboard. Then, go for a sail across the beautiful azure waters of North Sound, near the world-famous 7-Mile Beach. Stop at a shallow sandbar known as Stingray City for an unforgettable swim with friendly southern Atlantic stingrays.

Gaudi's Barcelona | Barcelona, Spain

Discover how old and new architecture live harmoniously together in Barcelona on a tour that tips its hat to Gaudi, a renowned 20th-century modernist. Begin with two UNESCO World Heritage houses near the renowned Passeig de Gràcia Boulevard. Marvel at Casa Milà's emblematic stone and ironwork. On the next block, admire Casa Batlló's surreal multi-colored tile façade and ceramic roof. Then, enjoy the distinctive Sagrada Familia and stroll through local markets and shops at your own pace.

Fushimi Inari Tashia & Temples | Kyoto, Japan

Experience Kyoto's rich cultural history on a journey to some of its most notable sites, including Toji Temple, Kyoto Tower, and the Old Imperial Palace Outer Wall. Walk under the red torii tunnel gates to the top of Mt. Inari. Visit Ryoanji Temple, destroyed by fire and rebuilt in the 15th century. See the beautiful red tunnel gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha Temple and the Karesansui-style Zen Hojo Garden. Marvel at the Kiyumizu-dera Temple, whose unique structure is held together without nails.

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• Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
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• South Korea
• New Zealand
• Grand Cayman
• St. Maarten
• U.S Virgin Islands
• New England & Canada
• Pacific Coast
• Antarctic Ocean
• Panama Canal
• Transatlantic
• Transpacific
• Cruise Ports (+300)
• Mediterranean
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• All Inclusive
• Bucket List Cruises
• Cruise & Land Package
• Groups & Events
• New Cruises
• Popular Cruises
• Specialty Cruises
• Destination Highlights
• Group Excursions
• Private Journeys
• Shore Excursions Overview
• Small Group Discoveries

• 360° Virtual Tours
• Celebrity Apex®
• Celebrity Ascent℠ NEW
• Celebrity Beyond℠
• Celebrity Constellation®
• Celebrity Edge®
• Celebrity Eclipse®
• Celebrity Equinox®
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• Celebrity Millennium®
• Celebrity Reflection®
• Celebrity Silhouette®
• Celebrity Solstice®
• Celebrity Summit®
• Celebrity Xcel℠ COMING SOON
• Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

• Celebrity Flora®
• Celebrity Xpedition®
• Celebrity Xploration®
• The Retreat
• All Suites. All Included
• Iconic Suite
• Penthouse Suite
• Reflection Suite
• Royal Suite
• Signature Suite
• Celebrity Suite
• Aqua Sky Suite
• Horizon Suite
• Concierge Class
• Eat & Drink
• Entertainment
• Spa & Wellness

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• Cruise Fare Options
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• What is Included on a Cruise
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• 75% Off 2nd Guest
• 3rd and 4th Guests Sail Free
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• All Included
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• Captain's Club
• Celebrity Points
• Loyalty Exclusive Offers

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings on select dates. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Customize Your Excursion Down To The Last Detail

Shore Excursions Created by You

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to adventures on shore! We’re here to help you create the personalized destination experience you’ve always dreamed of. Our Destination Insiders team will guide and inspire you, offering a range of authentic experiences and exclusive visits. Plus, private cars, limousines, aircraft and individual local guides. If you don’t see what you’re looking for among our tour offerings, or if you’d like to curate a tour to your specific tastes, call our Destination Insiders team today.

BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY

Call (844) 571-7851 (US & Canada), (801) 666-3031 (international), or email us at [email protected] to start planning your own Private Journey. Monday–Friday 8:00 am–5:00 pm EST.

Individual Experiences Crafted for Past Guests

Enchanting sintra and pena palace in lisbon, portugal.

Visitors traveled to the woodlands and magnificent palaces of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming village, tucked away amid protected forests and tranquil lakes, was once the summer residence of Portugal’s kings. Guests visited Pena Palace and enjoyed lunch at the oldest hotel on the Iberian Peninsula, then explored Sintra’s cobbled lanes, dotted with quaint merchant and artisan shops.

Idyllic Symi Island by Motor Yacht in Rhodes, Greece

This private voyage navigated guests off the beaten path to discover a hidden gem in the Greek Isles. They boarded a motor yacht and cruised to the island of Symi, where they went ashore for a day of swimming, sunshine, and exploration. They also traveled to a storybook seaside village, strolled the charming alleyways, and enjoyed lunch at a local tavern.

Jade Mountain Beach and Spa Day in Castries, St. Lucia

Travelers spent the day immersed in the solace of St. Lucia's less-traveled west coast. They sailed by private boat to Jade Mountain, a resort heralded for its oneness with nature. Guests kayaked, snorkeled, and took in the tropics. Finally, they enjoyed a relaxing treatment at the beachside Kai en Ciel Spa and savored an al fresco lunch at the resort.

GET YOUR GROUP TOGETHER

Take a Private Journey with the whole gang. Reserve a tour exclusively for your group or customize a uniquely spectacular itinerary just for you — and everyone you’re traveling with. Meet locals to see how they live, work and play. Visit estates, vineyards, temples and remote natural wonders. Our Destination Insiders will be happy to customize excursions for your group. Email us at [email protected] to start customizing your private tour today.

How can I contact the Celebrity Private Journey’s team?

The Destination Insiders can be contacted by phone at 844-571-7851 (Toll Free U.S. and Canada), 801-666-3031 (International), or by email at  [email protected]

What are the Destination Insiders hours of operation?

Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Standard Time.

Who can book a Celebrity Private Journey?

Any guest booked on a Celebrity Cruises voyage

How far in advance should I begin arranging my Private Journey?

The earlier the better. Once you’ve made your cruise reservation, please contact the team to arrange your Celebrity Private Journey. Optimal planning allows at least 21 days prior to sail date. Please also allow one business day for our Destination Insiders to review and process your request before they respond.

What is the cancellation policy?

Because these are special arrangements made exclusively for you, Celebrity Private Journeys are non-refundable at 21 days prior to the departure date.

Will the ship wait for me if my tour is late?

Yes, when you book a Private Journey with Celebrity Cruises, we guarantee that if your tour is delayed, the ship will wait for you. In the unlikely event that your tour is significantly delayed, and the ship cannot wait, we will make all the arrangements for you to return to the ship at no expense to you.

Are Private Journeys offered by insured Tour Operators?

Yes. Our Private Journeys are thoughtfully planned and meticulously executed by reputable, local independent operators.

Do I receive a refund if the ship misses the port?

Yes, full refund will be applied for the private tour. Pre-reserved tickets for special events, where the ticket is non-refundable (for ex. Edinburgh Tattoo, British Open, etc.) could be exempted from refund rule.

Can you provide accessible transportation?

Any accessible needs should be directed to the experts on our Accessibility Shore Excursion team at  [email protected]

• Accessible Shore Excursions

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How to book shore excursions on celebrity cruises?

Looking to book a shore excursion on Celebrity Cruise? Find out how to book it and what are the things to consider.

Book Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises have designed a multi-faceted shore excursion. These shore excursions have been specially built on accessibility, multi-day basis to extended overnight stays. An excursion that is all-inclusive and exclusive too, created to suit the needs of everyone on board. You can enjoy all-alone private tours with your special tourist guide, or engage in similar interest group excursions.

Keep scrolling to know how to book the best-suited shore excursion for you on the Celebrity Cruises.

Booking a Celebrity Cruise

Here are some things that can help you book the best cruise tour on a Celebrity Cruise ship:

• Celebrity Cruises offers three different types of shore excursions. To book a shore excursion , you can visit the official site of Celebrity Cruises. You will find the price lists and different itineraries of shore excursions on Celebrity Cruises.
• The ship offers you a private excursion, which is a tour you can create on your own, and tailor to best suit your interests. Besides, there is an array of exclusive amenities for you to enjoy. Moreover, you will have the provision of a personal driver to drive you to the most happening places in the port destinations. 
• Thereafter, the small group discoveries excursion is designed for a few individuals. These are unique in facilitating tours for people enjoying a similar interest. And, last but not the least, the destination highlights excursion promises by leading you to see iconic and must-visit landmarks of the destination .

Also Check:  What are the 4 perks on Celebrity Cruises?

What things to consider while booking shore excursions on Celebrity Cruise?

Follow the headers provided below, to avoid any hiccups in your cruise trip and to ensure a lifetime of an experience:

Check for the captain’s recommendation

• Celebrity Cruises have opened up new and unique Captain-curated shore excursions.
• The Captain-curated tours are a special shore excursion tour to cooking lessons in Olympia, a foot-food walking tour in Mykonos, pottery classes in Rhodes, the old town of Corfu, and more exciting ports. As a person of value who travels more and has more experience of the shores, excursions recommended by him are a must-to-follow.
• Itineraries for captain-curated excursions are for smaller groups of people. These are highly custom-tailored tours made to offer you the best experience and the uniqueness of it all.
• Book your tickets in advance It is recommended to book your excursion tickets before boarding the ship. Advance booking helps to keep your day organized. You can check out all the essentials that you may carry.

Know what interests you

• Celebrity Cruise offers a plethora of mesmerising and unique shore excursions. These excursions are made of a diverse mix of different activities. These activities take into account — serving the interests of all passengers on board. 
• A rainbow of activities are offered — from rejuvenating spas for your mind and body, sampling the finest culinary delights, experiencing local traditions and cultures, aquatic adventure sports, wildlife tours, panoramic views of forests and volcanoes, to sightseeing iconic sites of the destinations. 
• Choose the perfect excursion that fits right for you, by discovering the different excursion trips offered by Celebrity Cruises. Knowing ahead of the kind of tours it offers and finding the ones that you consider worth visiting, will help make your trip a uniquely memorable one. 

Before venturing on any excursion tour, do take a close look at the reviews and testimonials of other visitors. This will help you carefully choose your option. Therefore, know what drives your interests and make the best choice of the multiple exciting shore excursion tours. Also,  check the itineraries of different tours. This will keep you aware and will let you know what’s coming your way at the destination ports.

For any other details, check the site of CruiseBooking.com .

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Small Group Discoveries

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Galapagos Expedition Series

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Everyone saves 40% on every sailing and receives an added savings bonus of up to $200 per stateroom. Plus, on select sailings, 3rd and 4th guests sail for free.

Customize Your Excursion Down To The Last Detail

Shore Excursions Created by You

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to adventures on shore! We’re here to help you create the personalized destination experience you’ve always dreamed of. Our Destination Insiders team will guide and inspire you, offering a range of authentic experiences and exclusive visits. Plus, private cars, limousines, aircraft and individual local guides. If you don’t see what you’re looking for among our tour offerings, or if you’d like to curate a tour to your specific tastes, call our Destination Insiders team today.

BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY

Call (844) 571-7851 (US & Canada), (801) 666-3031 (international), or email us at [email protected] to start planning your own Private Journey. Monday–Friday 8:00 am–5:00 pm EST.

Individual Experiences Crafted for Past Guests

Enchanting sintra and pena palace in lisbon, portugal.

Visitors traveled to the woodlands and magnificent palaces of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming village, tucked away amid protected forests and tranquil lakes, was once the summer residence of Portugal’s kings. Guests visited Pena Palace and enjoyed lunch at the oldest hotel on the Iberian Peninsula, then explored Sintra’s cobbled lanes, dotted with quaint merchant and artisan shops.

Idyllic Symi Island by Motor Yacht in Rhodes, Greece

This private voyage navigated guests off the beaten path to discover a hidden gem in the Greek Isles. They boarded a motor yacht and cruised to the island of Symi, where they went ashore for a day of swimming, sunshine, and exploration. They also traveled to a storybook seaside village, strolled the charming alleyways, and enjoyed lunch at a local tavern.

Jade Mountain Beach and Spa Day in Castries, St. Lucia

Travelers spent the day immersed in the solace of St. Lucia's less-traveled west coast. They sailed by private boat to Jade Mountain, a resort heralded for its oneness with nature. Guests kayaked, snorkeled, and took in the tropics. Finally, they enjoyed a relaxing treatment at the beachside Kai en Ciel Spa and savored an al fresco lunch at the resort.

GET YOUR GROUP TOGETHER

Take a Private Journey with the whole gang. Reserve a tour exclusively for your group or customize a uniquely spectacular itinerary just for you — and everyone you’re traveling with. Meet locals to see how they live, work and play. Visit estates, vineyards, temples and remote natural wonders. Our Destination Insiders will be happy to customize excursions for your group. Email us at [email protected] to start customizing your private tour today.

How can I contact the Celebrity Private Journey’s team?

The Destination Insiders can be contacted by phone at 844-571-7851 (Toll Free U.S. and Canada), 801-666-3031 (International), or by email at  [email protected]

What are the Destination Insiders hours of operation?

Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Standard Time.

Who can book a Celebrity Private Journey?

Any guest booked on a Celebrity Cruises voyage

How far in advance should I begin arranging my Private Journey?

The earlier the better. Once you’ve made your cruise reservation, please contact the team to arrange your Celebrity Private Journey. Optimal planning allows at least 21 days prior to sail date. Please also allow one business day for our Destination Insiders to review and process your request before they respond.

What is the cancellation policy?

Because these are special arrangements made exclusively for you, Celebrity Private Journeys are non-refundable at 21 days prior to the departure date.

Will the ship wait for me if my tour is late?

Yes, when you book a Private Journey with Celebrity Cruises, we guarantee that if your tour is delayed, the ship will wait for you. In the unlikely event that your tour is significantly delayed, and the ship cannot wait, we will make all the arrangements for you to return to the ship at no expense to you.

Are Private Journeys offered by insured Tour Operators?

Yes. Our Private Journeys are thoughtfully planned and meticulously executed by reputable, local independent operators.

Do I receive a refund if the ship misses the port?

Yes, full refund will be applied for the private tour. Pre-reserved tickets for special events, where the ticket is non-refundable (for ex. Edinburgh Tattoo, British Open, etc.) could be exempted from refund rule.

Can you provide accessible transportation?

Any accessible needs should be directed to the experts on our Accessibility Shore Excursion team at  [email protected]

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These are the four things I always pay extra for on a cruise

Consider splurging on your next sailing—it'll really make a difference

I consider myself an experienced cruiser, as I take about five cruises a year. Some are short weekend cruises for a quick escape to a sunny destination, while others are seven-night cruises to several islands in the Caribbean. I also sail to non-tropical destinations. For example, this past summer I traveled to Alaska for a front-row seat to the glorious glaciers and wildlife that the bucket-list Crystal cruise line offered. I sailed on the exceptional ship Crystal Serenity. And, just last week, I stepped off the Celebrity Beyond, which exceeded my expectations. The service, food and entertainment are top-tier and I highly recommend Celebrity Cruises, especially Celebrity Beyond. As a frequent cruiser, there are specific experiences I commonly pay extra for to enhance my cruise vacation. Here’s what I feel is worth the splurge.

RECOMMENDED: The ship-within-a-ship experience can actually change your mind about cruising

A pre-cruise vacation stay

Flying in the same day of your cruise is risky due to airline delays, weather issues, airplane maintenance reasons, and many more issues that could cause your flight to arrive late or be canceled. You may think that flying in the day of your cruise can save you money, but you’ll be out a lot more money if your flight doesn’t arrive in time to board the ship before it leaves without you. So, flying in a day (or even two days) before your cruise is a better game-plan as you can board the ship with ease and experience a taste of the city where your cruise begins. For example, if you sail from Miami, flying in early allows you to experience the culture and culinary scene of Miami. I’ve stayed at the Lowes Miami Beach Hotel several times for a pre-cruise stay and it's a perfect home base while visiting South Florida. The property is beach-front, has a fabulous pool with private cabanas to rent, and a year-round children’s program. Plus, the onsite Rao’s Miami Beach restaurant is worth splurging for, too.

Onboard spa treatments

The spas on cruise ships are a destination for health, wellness and relaxation. The treatment rooms are quiet and the staff is dedicated to providing the best service and treatments possible. I’ve had several different spa treatments, from pedicures to facials to massages, and each was worth the money. Be sure to check to see if the spa has any port day specials and understand that appointments fill up on sea days so book your appointments early.

Specialty dining

Your cruise fare, in most cases, includes wonderful dining choices on board, from the main dining rooms to pool-side grills to special lunch options on sea days. It’s best to check your ship’s daily program or your app to see what’s complimentary. There’s a common theme of cruise ships offering specialty dining venues for an upscale dining experience. On my recent Celebrity Beyond sailing, I dined at Fine Cut Steakhouse, and it was a spectacular meal. I highly encourage you to try a specialty dining venue on your next cruise.

Shore excursions

Your ship’s itinerary is often the highlight of your cruise. When you arrive at your port, whether in the tropics, a town in Alaska or a city in Europe, your goals should be to explore and immerse yourself in that destination. To that point, the best way to do it is through a ship-curated shore excursion. I choose to book excursions through the ship all the time because the vendors and operators are vetted and the tour is guaranteed to get you back to the ship on time. When you book independently, if the tour runs late, and you miss “all aboard time,” you could miss the ship. Understand this: the ship won’t wait for you unless you are on a ship-operated excursion. So, my advice is to work with the ship’s shore excursion team, who are very knowledgeable, or read about the tours in advance online so you can match your interests with your vacation goals.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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Venice cruise port: How to spend your day in Italy’s most romantic city

Setting sail from Italy's Stazione Marittima (Venezia Terminal Passeggeri) near sunset is one of the most magical cruising experiences in the world. And if you're aboard a smaller cruise ship, gliding down the Grand Canal as the sinking sun colors iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace in golden hues is likely a memory you will never forget.

Renowned for its romantic canals, historic architecture and rich cultural heritage, Venice is an enchanting port call on many European and Mediterranean itineraries. The port's location offers easy access to major transportation hubs, including Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) and Treviso Airport (TSF), making it convenient. Numerous hotels in the vicinity provide excellent options for pre- or post-cruise stays.

As a gateway to the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas, the historic Venice port has seen a significant increase in activity in recent years, with more than 1.5 million passengers passing through annually. It currently accommodates more than 30 cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean , Celebrity Cruises , MSC Cruises , Oceania Cruises and Silversea Cruises .

However, this increase in tourism over the years has created concerns about the impact of cruise ships on the city's delicate architecture and environment. As such, Italian officials have begun redirecting larger ships to other ports, with these changes set to take full effect in the coming years. These ports include Chioggia, roughly 30 miles south of Venice; Ravenna, about 90 miles south of Venice; and Trieste, about 100 miles northeast of Venice. If you are starting or ending your cruise in Venice, you will want to double-check what port you are departing from.

3 things TPG loves about Venice

• The enchanting canals and historic architecture
• World-renowned landmarks
• Distinctive shopping and dining experiences, like grabbing cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and wine at a bacaro (local wine bar)

What we could do without

• Crowded tourist spots, especially when cruise ships are in port
• High prices
• Impact of mass tourism (increased water pollution and foot traffic damage to Venice's historic buildings)

Venice cruise port overview

Stazione Marittima is on the western side of Venice's historic center, near Piazzale Roma and the Tronchetto parking island. It's used as both a home port and a port of call for smaller cruise ships and river cruise vessels, including Seabourn , Windstar Cruises , Ponant Cruises and Viking .

Larger cruise lines that home port in Venice now dock at nearby Marghera or other regional ports like Ravenna or Trieste. From there, passengers take a shuttle service to Stazione Marittima. The port has modern facilities, including terminals, shuttle services, and amenities such as cafes and shops. Upon arrival, passengers can easily access Venice's main attractions by foot, water taxi or the city's famous Vaporetto (water bus) system.

Related: Best Italy cruises for a Mediterranean vacation

Venice fast facts

Arrival details

Venice's cruise port is near Piazzale Roma and the Tronchetto parking island. Shuttle services are available to transport passengers to the city center, and from there, most of Venice's main attractions are within walking distance. Larger cruise lines also now shuttle passengers from nearby ports to Stazione Marittima, as ships over 25,000 gross tons are not allowed to dock at the port anymore.

Language: Italian is the official language, but most tourist services use English

Currency: Italy uses the euro

Time zone: Central European Time (CET)

Top things to do in the Venice cruise port

St. Mark's Basilica

This stunning basilica is an absolute must-see in Venice. Known for its intricate Italo-Byzantine architecture, St. Mark's Basilica is adorned with more than 85,000 square feet of beautiful 13th-century mosaics. The basilica also has more than 500 Byzantine columns, some from the 6th century. Visitors can explore the church's interior, climb up to the terrace for spectacular views of St. Mark's Square and visit the museum to see the famous "Horses of Saint Mark" bronze sculptures.

Doge's Palace

Adjacent to St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace is a Gothic masterpiece that served as the Doge of Venice's residence and the seat of the Venetian government. Its opulent rooms are filled with Renaissance art and splendid decorations. The palace's prison cells and the infamous Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the prison, offer a glimpse into the darker side of Venetian history.

Rialto Bridge

One of the most famous bridges in Venice, the Rialto Bridge spans the Grand Canal and offers picturesque views of the bustling waterway below. Completed in 1591, it is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal.

The Rialto Bridge is a marvel of Renaissance engineering and was constructed as a single-span stone bridge. That was a daring design choice in the late 16th century when many believed it would collapse under its own weight. It did not, and its elegant arches have stood the test of time. Stroll across it to feel the city's vibrant energy, capture some unforgettable pictures, and check out the rows of shops selling everything from jewelry to souvenirs.

Gondola rides

No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. These traditional boats offer a unique perspective of the city's canals and historic buildings. Depending on when your cruise departs or if you arrive early or stay late, gondola rides are particularly romantic in the evening, as the setting sun casts a golden glow over the water. For an extra-special experience, consider booking a serenaded gondola ride, where musicians will sing classic Italian songs as you drift through the canals.

Murano and Burano islands

A short boat ride from Venice, the islands of Murano and Burano are acclaimed for their artisanal crafts. Murano is renowned for its glassblowing workshops, where you can watch artisans at work and purchase gorgeous handmade glass pieces. Burano is known for its brightly colored houses and intricate lacemaking. A visit to these islands also provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Popular Venice excursions

Cultural and historical excursions

One of the most popular city excursions is a guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. These tours often include skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass the long lines and delve straight into the history and artistry of these iconic landmarks. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the history of Venice and its rise as a maritime power.

Active excursions

A gondola ride combined with a walking tour is an excellent option for staying active. Start with a scenic gondola ride through the canals, followed by a guided walking and food tour through the winding streets of Venice. You'll get a good taste of the best of Venice in a short amount of time.

Island-hopping

Excursions to the Murano, Burano and Torcello islands are a popular choice if you've been to Venice and are looking for a new excursion. These tours typically include visits to glassblowing workshops in Murano, Burano's colorful streets and Torcello's historic churches. Each island offers its unique charm and a different aspect of Venetian culture.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Best Venice beaches near the cruise port

The closest beach to Venice, Lido di Venezia, has a sandy shoreline and a range of beach clubs where you can chill all day. This barrier island can provide a beachy escape from the city crowds (although it's also sometimes crowded) and offers opportunities for sunbathing and swimming.

Lido is about 4.3 miles from the port, and the journey takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the transport you use. The fastest way to the barrier island is by a private water taxi from the port, which takes about 30 minutes.

To save some cash, walk about 20 minutes from the port. You can also take the People Mover train (the ride takes about five minutes and a one-way ticket costs 1.50 euros) to Piazzale Roma. From there, take Vaporetto Line 1 or Line 5.1 directly to Lido. For a scenic tour of the Grand Canal, take Line 1 in one of the directions, but know the trip is longer, close to an hour. Line 5.1 is more direct and takes about 45 minutes.

How to get around Venice on your own

On foot: Venice is a pedestrian city, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Strolling through the narrow streets and across the picturesque bridges is one of the best ways to experience the city's charm and discover hidden gems.

Water taxi: In Venice, water taxis offer a quicker and more convenient way to get around. These private boats can be pricey, though, costing around 70-80 euros for a short trip for up to four passengers. However, they offer a direct and comfortable mode of transportation, especially for those who are traveling with luggage or in a group.

Vaporetto (water bus): The Vaporetto is Venice's primary mode of public transport. These water buses run regular routes along the Grand Canal and to the outer islands. They provide an affordable and efficient way to navigate the city, with tickets available for single journeys costing 7.50 euros and a 24-hour card for unlimited travel costing 20 euros.

Venice restaurants near the cruise port

The Cannaregio and Dorsoduro districts are known for their authentic Venetian cuisine and are great places to explore for a meal. Here, you can find traditional dishes such as cicchetti, risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) and fresh seafood dishes.

These areas are less touristy than the eateries near St. Mark's Square and usually have better quality food at more reasonable prices. Don't forget to try a classic Venetian dessert like tiramisu or a refreshing gelato from one of the many gelaterias scattered around the city.

Venice cruise port shopping

Venice is a great shopping city with a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops and vibrant markets. The historic Rialto Market is an excellent place to start. Near the Rialto Bridge, it is a lively spot where locals pick up fresh produce, seafood and other Venetian specialties. It is easy to get lost just wandering the stalls here. The surrounding shops also offer an assortment of souvenirs, from Venetian carnival masks and handmade lace to Murano glass and marbled paper.

Head to Calle Larga XXII Marzo for high-end boutiques. Along this street, you'll find international brands like Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton, as well as local designers. It's a shopper's paradise, offering everything from fashion to jewelry and accessories.

Mercerie is another bustling shopping street connecting St. Mark's Square to the Rialto Bridge. It's lined with a mix of local shops and international stores, offering a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories and souvenirs. The Mercerie is excellent for finding unique Venetian items like handcrafted masks and glasswork.

Free things to do in the Venice cruise port

One of the best free ways to experience Venice is simply by wandering through its narrow streets and canals. The city's architecture, bridges and hidden squares are delightful to explore on foot, and you'll often stumble upon charming cafes and shops.

While some attractions in the square require an entrance fee, it costs nothing to walk around St. Mark's Square and admire the stunning architecture of St. Mark's Basilica, the Campanile and the surrounding buildings. The square is also excellent for people-watching and soaking in Venice's vibrant vibe.

Walking across the iconic Rialto Bridge for views of the Grand Canal is a free activity in Venice. The bridge is a piece of history, and the surrounding area teems with shops and lively cafes.

Bottom line

Stazione Marittima offers easy access to the city center, famed for its unique blend of historic charm, cultural richness and scenic beauty. From exploring iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace to enjoying a romantic gondola ride through the canals, this enchanting city has something for everyone.

Despite the challenges posed by mass tourism, Venice remains a must-visit destination, offering unforgettable experiences and a glimpse into Italy's rich heritage.

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• Celebrity Cruises

Shore Excursions before booking

By Anhe2823 , January 7 in Celebrity Cruises

Recommended Posts

Can I have a look at shore excursions before Ive booked a particular cruise?

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Share on other sites.

Oceansaway17

look under itinerary for the cruise and there should be some listed.

Or check the app

6 hours ago, Anhe2823 said: Can I have a look at shore excursions before Ive booked a particular cruise?

Last week someone posted a link and spreadsheet with a hack that allows you to log onto any cruise (even not booked on) and see all package prices and excursions.  

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