Artistic Umbria
A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Magical, unique no words can fully do justice to the sights of Venice, the most serene of cities.
Italy
Culture
Sep
Average group size: 12-14
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
This is a Grade 2 leisurely holiday which involves active whole day sightseeing. Expect active whole day sightseeing exploring the major sights, lesser-known ones and quiet backwaters all on foot with some use of water taxis to link them – thus we visit all the main areas/islands of Venice. Apart from bridges to cross canals, Venice is almost flat and car free. It pays to look out for uneven surfaces but generally they are good, though walking on any city streets can be tiring on the feet so comfortable footwear is essential. There is always something to see or investigate along the way so you probably won’t realise that in the process you may have walked 3-4 miles and on one day a little more. Because there is so much to see in both Venice and Padua the only countryside walk is short- across the island of Torcello to visit the ruins of the cathedral there.
Meticulously curated, guided walking holiday itineraries that delve into the culture, wildlife, cuisine, and rich history of the world.
Overview
If you are looking to visit Venice with us have you ever considered going to Rome first? If so why not book our two week holiday Rome & Venice!
The great double bend of the Grand Canal is lined with the impressive Palazzi of Venice’s merchants spanning 800 years and now repurposed. The lesser canals and quiet walkways often evade the day-tripper but we’ll have time to explore the nooks and crannies seeing something of how real Venetians live. The boat journey to the outer islands is an experience in itself. See master craftsmen making the famous Murano glass into flowers, indented leaves, and multi-coloured ornaments, the coloured houses of Burano- home to lace making, the cathedral on tranquil Torcello Everything moves by boat - how many different things will you see – Amazon parcels, a grand piano?
This is the city of Titian, Tintoretto and other Venetian greats whose art can be found in the buildings and churches for which they were painted. Works by Palladio – the great influence on Western Architecture include San Giorgio and the Redentore churches with their unusual double interlocking triangular pediments.
We also take the train inland for a day, across the plains of the Veneto to Padua once part of the Venetian Republic. It is the home to one of the first Universities, the exotic Basilica of San Antonio with its minaret like spires and Byzantine domes, the renowned Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto and much more. The time will pass all too quickly!
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
18180
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Magical, unique no words can fully do justice to the sights of Venice, the most serene of cities.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
Discover the quiet charm of Hotel Rigel on Venice Lido, a peaceful retreat just a short boat ride away from the lively heart of Venice. Immerse yourself in the comfort of thoughtfully designed rooms equipped with essential amenities including air-conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. Unwind in your private en-suite bathroom after a day of exploration.
During your stay, take a leisurely stroll through the hotel's well-tended gardens or relax with a book in the cozy lounge area. Enjoy the convenience of 24-hour front desk service, ensuring your needs are met at any time. Wake up each morning to a hearty breakfast served in the hotel's dining area, preparing you for a day of adventures.
Hotel Rigel provides a peaceful ambiance, allowing you to appreciate the simple pleasures of your surroundings.
Trip Information
This is a Grade 2 leisurely holiday which involves active whole day sightseeing. Expect active whole day sightseeing exploring the major sights, lesser-known ones and quiet backwaters all on foot with some use of water taxis to link them – thus we visit all the main areas/islands of Venice. Apart from bridges to cross canals, Venice is almost flat and car free. It pays to look out for uneven surfaces but generally they are good, though walking on any city streets can be tiring on the feet so comfortable footwear is essential. There is always something to see or investigate along the way so you probably won’t realise that in the process you may have walked 3-4 miles and on one day a little more. Because there is so much to see in both Venice and Padua the only countryside walk is short- across the island of Torcello to visit the ruins of the cathedral there.
The incredibly rich treasures of Venice are under threat as never before from a combination of subsidence of the city caused by natural gas and water extraction (now ceased), rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events - both a result of global warming. This means that high tides (acqua alta) are more frequent and some flooding of parts of Venice (especially St Mark’s Square) is more common. Local shop keepers, hoteliers and restauranteurs are well prepared and remarkably resilient and adaptable.
You also need to be adaptable and prepared too with wellington boots to just below the knee and waterproof over-trousers. Should you struggle in packing wellington boots you can buy disposable versions locally and we suggest you spend around €20 avoiding the really cheap versions.
We hope not, but you may be one of the last generations to see the splendour of Venice if it proves impossible to defend it in the coming decades.
Local Transport Costs
We include a 7 day vaporetto pass that offers free transport anywhere on the lagoon for the time we stay in Venice. The only limitation of this card is it cannot be used for trips to the airport but as we include airport transfers anyway this should not be an issue.
Your Ramblers Walking Holidays leader will purchase these tickets and hand them out on the first morning in Venice. For interest details of the Venice transport system can be found at: www.actv.it
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
When budgeting for your holiday, you will need to consider drinks, any meals not included in the holiday price, non-included entrance fees, optional excursions you may choose to participate in locally and any souvenirs or additional services such as laundry. A general guideline for lunches and drinks is £10-£20 per person per day. (This includes €10 for a light lunch with water.) In Venice all lunches will be taken in local cafes or restaurants for very good reasons which are fully explained later both in the section on "Meals" and the section on "Italian Laws and Customs", which follow later in our information.
Entrance Fees
Our entry into the Scrovegni Chapel is included in the holiday price.
Entrance fees to other sites visited are not included. If all museums, galleries and churches (which also house much great art well worth seeing) are visited this could cost a further £60.00 to £70 for the week.
The different combinations of museums and church passes and age discounts are confusing.
For over 65’s we recommend buying the 11 Civic Museums pass €18 and the Chorus ticket €12 (which gives entry to several churches) as the best combined value and most flexible.
Similarly for under 65’s we recommend the Venice Card €39.90 (no concessions) which combines the above two + The Jewish museum and 2 places you are unlikely to visit. Your Leader will help you to buy them on the first day to get the most value from them. There will not be time later on to obtain them and you may have to buy a more expensive alternative.
The 11 Civic Museums ticket includes the Lace and Glass museums which you are likely to visit on your day to the islands and the Doge’s Palace, Correr Museum and Cà Rezzonico which you may choose to visit on your day off. You can find more information at https://www.visitmuve.it/en/home/
There are other Museums, Galleries and Churches not covered by these tickets some of which we may visit during our programme and some you may wish to visit independently.
Currency in Italy
The currency in Italy is the Euro.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
Local Guides
To enhance your experience, as well as your tour leader, each holiday will be accompanied in some centres by a well qualified and knowledgeable English-speaking local guide.
We fly from London Heathrow to Venice (Marco Polo) Airport.
Transfers between Venice Airport and the hotel are by public transport and foot for a short distance. Airport to hotel should take about an hour. It is an easy journey for those making their own way. Please ask us for details.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport, depending on your flight arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that your flight must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Hotel Transfers
When you book a Flight-Inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.
Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents
If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
European Passport Advice
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.
Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.
Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.
Each morning will start with breakfast in the hotel before heading out for our days activity.
Lunches are not the normal Ramblers Holidays packed lunches because to protect the fragile environment of Venice the city authorities have banned the consumption of food and drink in public spaces. This means that picnics are not an option so we will be eating in cafe/ restaurants. You can get a light lunch for around €10 with drinks extra. On the plus side there is somewhere to sit and have a chat, a handy toilet, also warmth and shelter inside should the weather be less kind!
To finish each day your leader will take you to sample local culture further in local restaurants experiencing the different local cuisine and of course sampling the classic Italian dishes including fresh pastas, pizza, or rich local seafood.
Please note that in Italy it is customary to pay for water consumed at the dinner table estimating around €2-3 per 0.75cl bottle.
Footwear
Good quality waterproof walking shoes or trail shoes with a thick, moulded sole with a good tread and a low heel are likely to be all that is required for these holidays. If you are a frequent walker and are comfortable in good quality hiking sandals, these may be adequate for some walks. You can wear lightweight walking boots if you prefer.
Remember to take knee length wellington boots in case there is an acqua alta (high tide) and parts of Venice are flooded or be prepared to buy over boots locally. It may only be for one day in the week but it will be worth it!
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Venice Dress
We will be visiting many churches and religious buildings in Venice. Local rules require you do not wear shorts, nor for ladies to wear revealing clothes. In deference to these rules please dress appropriately.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Electricity in Italy
Electricity in Italy is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Italy
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Italy.
You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK.
You may wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
EHIC & GHIC Cards
Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.
It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.
For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Italian Laws & Customs
In some Italian towns and cities you may be fined for dropping litter and in some towns or cities it’s an offence to sit on monument steps or to eat and drink in the immediate vicinity of main churches, historic monuments and public buildings. It’s also an offence to enter or bathe in public fountains.
In May 2019, the Municipality of Capri introduced a law forbidding the use of any disposable plastic objects such as bags, cutlery, plates, cups, food packaging, trays, straws on the island of Capri. Violations can incur a fine of up to 500 euros.
Illegal traders operate on the streets of all major Italian cities, particularly tourist cities like Florence, Venice and Rome. Don’t buy from illegal street traders. You could be stopped by the local police and fined.
It is illegal to remove sand, shells or pebbles from coastal areas in Italy. Doing so may result in heavy fines. It’s also forbidden to collect various species of flowers, plants and herbs from mountain and wooded areas. For more information, check with the regional authorities of the area you’re visiting.
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
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Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 67mm
February
Avg. Rain: 62mm
March
Avg. Rain: 63mm
April
Avg. Rain: 61mm
May
Avg. Rain: 56mm
June
Avg. Rain: 47mm
July
Avg. Rain: 35mm
August
Avg. Rain: 48mm
September
Avg. Rain: 64mm
October
Avg. Rain: 89mm
November
Avg. Rain: 96mm
December
Avg. Rain: 82mm
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