My wife and I travelled to Italy in 2009. We flew into Rome and took the train to Venice where we boarded a cruise ship. I would strongly recommed the book "Italy for Dummies". It is available at Barnes and Noble and is an invaluable source of information for hotels, trains, customs, etc.
We stayed at Hotel Metropole in Venice, and Hotel Santa Anna in Rome. Both have great locations and I recommend them highly. When in Venice, you need to purchase a vaporetto (water taxi) pass. The unlimited pass will allow you to travel anywhere in Venice. In Rome, we relied mostly on taxis which are plentiful and reasonable. It is quite a distance from Rome to the cruise port. You can take the train, or you can contact RC about a transfer.
You will have a wonderful time. The Italian people are very friendly, and most speak English very well.
However, watch out for pickpockets and beggars. My wife and I both had to fend off pickpockets. I recommend a neck wallet for a man, and for a woman, a small cross body bag with your wallet attached by a chain. Most of the beggars and pickpockets are bands of gypsies who hang out at attractions and busy train stations.
Hope this helps - get the book!
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