Five must-do experiences for your luxury honeymoon in Venice, Italy.

Learn to row the traditional way with Guiseppe, a professional gondolier

In Italy, it’s a crime to visit Venice and not go on a gondola boat. It’s like skipping the rollercoaster at a theme park. Forever the city’s most iconic, and romantic, mode of transport, gondolas are built to squeeze through the city’s narrow canals and glide under the low-lying bridge with ease. However, today you’ll experience the waterways in a different way; alongside a professional instructor, Guiseppe. A 4th generation gondolier, Guiseppe will guide you through Venice’s narrow canals and teach you the techniques aspiring gondoliers must learn to pass their exams. En route back to the hotel, ask to make a slight detour to the Bridge of Sighs, where legend states a kiss underneath it, will result in a forever lasting love between you and your loved one.

Read more: After mastering the art of gondoliers, head out on an exclusive foodie tour through Venice.

Live like Venetian royalty at the 15th century Gritti Palace at the waters edge.

The former home of Venetian Doge, Andrea Gritti, Gritti Palace has long been a historical treasure. Now, post-restoration in 2013, Gritti Palace stands as one of Venice’s most glamorous hotels but still retains the old charm of what was a private residence. Upon check-in to your Grand Canal-view bedroom, take a moment to study the Murano glass chandelier, freestanding bathtub, golden grand mirrors and silk damask walls; and on the balcony, peer out over the Grand Canal at Venice’s white-stoned church, Santa Maria della Salute. Designed in lavish Baroque style by Italian architect Baldassare Longhena, the Salute was built as a sign of thanks for those who survived the devastating plague of 1630, and from Gritti Palace you’ll get the best view of the iconic domes.

Read more: Treat your loved one to a relaxing couples massage at Gritti’s Sisley Paris Spa.

Tucked underneath Venice’s oldest bridge a romantic dinner at Trattoria Alla Madonna awaits

Tucked under Rialto Bridge in Venice, we’ve stumbled upon our favourite family-run restaurant, Trattoria Alla Madonna. Opened in 1954 by Fulvio Rado and now managed by his son Lucio, you’ll be welcomed in like two old friends and looked after by the friendliest team Venice has to offer, including Lucio himself. Famous for its delicious fish specialties, dine out on fresh softshell crab, squid ink tagliatelle and grilled cuttlefish, or for the meat lovers, try slow-cooked veal escalopes and grilled fillet of ox. Playing home to an impressive wine cellar crammed with local Friulian wines, choose a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino or Chianti Riserva and toast to your perfect Venice honeymoon.

Read more: Finish the evening with a romantic boat ride back to Gritti Palace under the starlit sky.

Learn to make glass in the glassblowing capital of the world: Murano

Today you’ll take a short water taxi north of Venice to Murano Island. Now the glassmaking capital of the world, Murano’s reputation was born back in 1291 when the Venetian Republic ordered glassmakers to relocate their furnaces as a precaution of roaring city fires. With a private guide, you’ll take an exclusive tour of the glass factory, before meeting a renowned glassblowing master who’ll demonstrate the ancient art for your eyes only. Together, experience first-hand the melting process involved and just how the delicate glass is decorated.

Read more: After some glassblowing, head for a rustic dining experience at Locanda Cipriani restaurant.

Take a trip down Italy’s Prosecco Road in Valdobbiadene, Italy

Today you’ll drive an hour north of Venice to discover prosecco country. Located at the foothills of the Alps, the village of Valdobbiadene sits at the end of Italy’s Prosecco Road and is graced with the perfect climate conditions for growing these luscious grapes. Here, you’ll take a guided tour around the verdant vineyards and wine cellars before a prosecco tasting session with an expert sommelier. If you’re after something really special, ask us to arrange a romantic picnic lunch on the vineyards packed full of your favourite sweet treats⁠—and you guessed it⁠—a bottle of Italy’s finest. The most romantic setting from which to enjoy some alone time, we’ll keep it a surprise from your partner if you do.

Read more: After filling your boots on prosecco, head to the Amalfi Coast on our 12-night Switzerland and Italy itinerary.