Greece 2027 • Travel Guide #1

Your Pre-Cruise Arrival Guide

Three inspiring ways to begin your journey to Norwegian Gem.

Greece & the Mediterranean September 5–12, 2027 Pre-Cruise Planning
Archived Greece 2027 Planning Guide

This page preserves information originally shared with our Greece 2027 travelers. Transportation schedules, fares, travel times, attraction hours, and other details may change before departure. Verify current arrangements before travel.

Pre-cruise travel planning for Venice, Ravenna, and Bologna before the Greece 2027 cruise

Before You Board

How Do You Want to Begin Your Italian Adventure?

Before you step aboard Norwegian Gem in Ravenna, you have several enchanting options for how to begin your adventure. Each offers its own mood, pace, and flavor of Italy.

This guide compares three approaches: spending time in Venice, continuing from Venice to Ravenna, or flying into Bologna and using it as your gateway to Ravenna.

1

Fly Into Venice (VCE)

Explore Venice

Step into a world unlike any other in Venice, where winding canals replace roads and centuries of history rise gracefully from the water. Known as La Serenissima, this enchanting city is a masterpiece of art, architecture, and timeless charm.

Glide along the iconic canals, pass beneath picturesque bridges, and take in landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. Whether you are wandering hidden alleyways, enjoying a cappuccino in St. Mark’s Square, or sampling authentic Italian cuisine, Venice offers an unforgettable beginning to your European adventure.

Venice scenery Historic Venice Venice canals and architecture

Transportation Snapshot

Getting From Venice Airport Into the City

ATVO Express Bus ~21 min

Fast, simple, budget-friendly.

ACTV Local Bus ~25–30 min

Generally the lowest-cost option.

Alilaguna Water Bus 29–60 min

Scenic, iconic arrival.

Private Water Taxi 16–25 min

Fastest and most glamorous option.

What to Expect

Venice Is Car-Free

You will walk, roll your suitcase, or take a vaporetto water bus to your hotel. Many hotels sit along narrow alleys, which is charming but can sometimes be challenging with luggage. Porters may be available in key arrival areas.

If You Arrive Early

What You Can See With 1–3 Days in Venice

1 Day Before

A Taste of Venice

  • St. Mark’s Square
  • St. Mark’s Basilica
  • Rialto Bridge
  • Sunset vaporetto ride on the Grand Canal

Travel Tip: Lines at St. Mark’s Basilica may be shorter later in the day.

2 Days Before

A Deeper Experience

  • Doge’s Palace
  • Bridge of Sighs
  • Castello district
  • Murano or Burano

Don’t Miss: Burano is famous for its brightly colored houses.

3 Days Before

Venice’s Quieter Side

  • Dorsoduro’s art scene
  • Peggy Guggenheim Collection
  • Cannaregio’s peaceful canals
  • Cicchetti in local bàcari

Local Idea: Try an ombra, a small glass of local wine traditionally enjoyed in Venice.

Original Newsletter Estimate

Venice to Ravenna

Private car ~2 hr 15 min Bus ~3 hr 40 min Train ~4 hr 30 min with transfers
2

Fly Into Venice (VCE)

Explore Ravenna

Tucked along Italy’s Adriatic coast, Ravenna is a treasure trove of history, culture, and extraordinary artistry. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, the city is especially known for its remarkable mosaics.

Sites such as the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia showcase intricate early Christian and Byzantine mosaics that have endured for centuries. Beyond its historic treasures, Ravenna offers a relaxed and authentic Italian atmosphere.

Historic Ravenna Ravenna architecture and historic mosaics Ravenna historic site

From Venice Airport

Typical Route to Ravenna

  1. Bus to Venice or Mestre — approximately 20–30 minutes.
  2. Continue to Ravenna
    • Bus: ~3 hr 40 min
    • Train: ~4 hr 37 min, generally with a connection.

Why Choose Ravenna?

Less crowded than Venice
UNESCO World Heritage sites
Excellent food and relaxed pace
Convenient pre-cruise base

If You Arrive Early

What You Can See With 1–3 Days in Ravenna

1 Day Before

Ravenna’s Mosaic Masterpieces

  • Basilica di San Vitale
  • Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
  • Sant’Apollinare Nuovo

Travel Tip: A combined admission option may cover several major mosaic sites.

2 Days Before

A Richer Exploration

  • Sant’Apollinare in Classe
  • Dante’s Tomb
  • Ravenna cafés and piazzas

Local Flavor: Try piadina, a warm flatbread filled with cheese, ham, or vegetables.

3 Days Before

Room to Wander

  • Day trip to Bologna, Ferrara, or Cervia
  • Additional museums
  • Archaeological sites
  • Leisurely dinners and evening strolls

Relaxation Tip: Ravenna’s quiet evenings can be a pleasant way to unwind before embarkation.

Original Newsletter Estimate

Venice to Ravenna

Private car ~2 hr 15 min Bus ~3 hr 40 min Train ~4 hr 30 min with transfers
3

Fly Into Bologna (BLQ)

Explore Ravenna

Bologna is a vibrant city where history, architecture, and celebrated cuisine come together. Known as La Grassa for its famous food culture, Bologna is associated with classics such as tagliatelle al ragù.

Stroll beneath the city’s covered porticoes, explore Piazza Maggiore, see its medieval towers, and experience a city that blends historic beauty with a lively university atmosphere.

Historic Bologna Bologna city center Bologna architecture

Transportation Snapshot

Getting From Bologna Airport to Ravenna

Private Driver ~57 min

Fastest and most comfortable.

Train 2 hr 15 min–3 hr 11 min

Requires getting to Bologna Centrale first.

Bus ~2 hr 17–25 min

Budget-friendly option.

Why Choose Bologna?

Easier access toward Ravenna
Great choice for food lovers
Historic city center
Good fit for a simpler arrival
Original Newsletter Estimate

Bologna to Ravenna

Car / private transfer ~57 min Bus ~2 hr 17–25 min Train ~2 hr 15 min–3 hr 11 min

At a Glance

Which Arrival Style Fits You?

Venice Best for an iconic Italian experience

Choose Venice if sightseeing before the cruise is a major part of your vacation plans.

Ravenna Best for a relaxed pre-cruise stay

Choose Ravenna if you prefer to settle closer to the cruise departure area while still enjoying historic sightseeing.

Bologna Best for convenience and food

Bologna can be especially appealing if your priority is a more direct route toward Ravenna.

Let Us Handle the Details

Your Vacation Begins Before You Board the Ship

Planning the perfect trip goes beyond just the cruise. Our Family Travel can help with pre-cruise hotels, flights, ground transportation, rail arrangements, and other travel details so the journey works as smoothly as possible.

Ask About Greece 2027