Gondola Getaway: A Day Trip to Italy

A Day Trip to Italy: Little Italy, the Del, & a Touch of Venice

No passport needed for this charming summertime “day trip to Italy!”

From the moment you arrive in San Diego’s beloved Little Italy, the day feels like a gentle escape. Stroll at your own pace through the colorful farmers market, where the scent of fresh flowers, baked goods, and seasonal produce fills the air, and friendly vendors welcome you with a smile. In a relaxed small-group setting, you’ll also enjoy a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, discovering its rich history, hidden gems, and inviting local spots. There’s plenty of time to enjoy lunch just the way you like it—perhaps a cozy café, a classic Italian trattoria, or a fresh seafood favorite—followed by a bit of browsing in the charming shops.

The coastal beauty of Coronado awaits this afternoon. At the iconic Hotel del Coronado, take a moment to relax, enjoy a complimentary ice cream, and soak in the ocean breeze and timeless elegance of this historic beachfront landmark. Then, settle into one of the most unforgettable moments of the day: a private gondola cruise through the tranquil canals of the Coronado Cays. Aboard an authentic Venetian gondola, guests are gently guided by a traditional gondolier dressed in classic Italian attire as you glide peacefully through shimmering waterways lined with magnificent multi-million-dollar waterfront estates, elegant private docks, and luxurious yachts. Framed by swaying palms and the glow of the Southern California sun, the experience feels wonderfully serene and romantic — a charming little taste of Venice, right here at home.

This is a day designed for comfort, connection, and simple pleasures—filled with moments you’ll truly savor.

Little Italy Mercato Farmers' Market

Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church

Little Italy

Historic Hotel Del Coronado

Enjoy a complimentary ice cream at the Del

Gondola ride in the Coronado Cays

Gondoliers

Tour Manager:* 

• Mark Jocobson

*Tour Manager is subject to change without notice.

Activity Level: High

This trip includes a guided walking tour in Little Italy, as well as a gondola ride. Guests should be aware that the amount of walking, periods of standing, and access to and from certain activities may be challenging for individuals with limited mobility.

What's Included in the Tour Fare

• Round-trip luxury motor coach transportation from pickup locations throughout San Diego County

• Professional Tour Manager throughout the trip

• Complimentary bottled water and snacks on the coach

• Guided walking tour of Little Italy

• Free time in Little Italy for lunch and exploring

• Complimentary ice cream at the Hotel Del gelato shop

• 50-minute gondola ride in the Coronado Cays

What's Not Included in the Tour Fare

• Meals

• Cancellation Protection

• Gratuities for the Tour Manager and driver

How to Make a Reservation

Making your reservation is easy. Simply click the Book Now button above to select your date and confirm your space online, 24/7. You can also call the DayTripper Tours reservations department at (619) 334-3394 during business hours M-F, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Smartphones

Although not necessary to fully enjoy your trip, a personal smartphone can greatly enhance your tour experience. Take high-quality photos, share your experience on social media in real time, search for nearby restaurants and topics of interest, set reminders, and more.

14-Day Cancellation Deadline

• If you purchased the optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) prior to the deadline, you can cancel your booking for any reason up until 1 hour prior to tour departure and you'll receive a full refund of the tour fare, less the cost of the CPP.

• If you declined the CPP, you may cancel your reservation fourteen (14) or more days prior to the departure date to receive a refund less a $15 per person cancellation fee. Alternatively, when you cancel your booking fourteen (14) or more days prior to the departure date, you can avoid the cancellation fee by transferring the funds to another tour or a non-refundable voucher, which can be applied to any future excursion booked within one year of the original tour date. Bookings canceled within 14 days of the departure date are nonrefundable and nontransferable for any reason. Name changes on daytrips are permitted at no additional cost if they do not require pre-clearance, such as with tours visiting government facilities.