Polesella, Italy Cruises

Polesella, Italy Cruise Port

• While frequently used for wedding receptions and other events, the picturesque Villa Morosini is worth a visit. With magnificent architecture and a lovely garden, it's easy enough to scope out the outside; if you want to view the indoors, you may want to call ahead for a reservation.
 
• The 16th-century patrician residence called Palazzo Grimani was built by Pietro Morosini and rebuilt in the seventeenth century by Doge Francesco Morosini. It was almost leveled by a tornado in 1892 but rebuilt yet again. Combining several architectural styles, it also includes a central staircase outside, which once led to the bank of the Po River.
   
• Take a ride about 14 miles to Ferrara and check out the Castello Estense or Castello di San Michele (St. Michael's Castle). This gorgeous medieval castle is complete with a moat and drawbridge; don't miss the Ducal Chapel and opulently decorated Chamber of Dawn.
   
• The small Isola Bianca, around 10 miles from Polesella, is a great place to escape the more populated areas. There's a nature preserve on the island, featuring at least 76 species of birds. Visits do have to be booked in advance, and are restricted to non-breeding times of the year.