It’s easy to fall in love with Chioggia, a picturesque seaside town on the Venetian Lagoon. Nicknamed “Little Venice”, the town is a maze of cobbled alleys, bridges and canals. Wander around the historic centre, relax on the sandy beach and enjoy getting to know this hidden gem.
Things to do in Chioggia
Chioggia is made up of a series of islands connected by roads and bridges. Canals criss-cross the town and add to the postcard-perfect setting. Cafes and restaurants spill onto Corso del Popolo, one of the city’s most important thoroughfares. It’s a lovely place to stroll and enjoy a cup of Italian espresso. You’ll also find shops and boutiques along Corso del Popolo, where you can pick up souvenirs like decorative masks and Venetian glass jewellery.
Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta soars over the town and dates to the 1600s. The beautiful Baroque cathedral welcomes you with an exposed brick façade and unique half-moon windows. Within the cathedral are paintings by famous Italian artist Giovanni Battista Tiepolo.
Piazzetta Vigo overlooks the lagoon and is a launchpad for ferries to Venice. Stroll around the plaza, admire colourful fishing boats docked at the pier and walk across Ponte di Vigo, a beautiful stone bridge built in the 1600s. Boat tours also depart from the plaza and are a great way to explore the lagoon.
Swim and sunbathe on Sottomarina Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand on the Adriatic Sea. Rent a sunlounger and top up your tan before heading to an oceanfront bar for aperitivo hour. A spritz made with Aperol, prosecco and soda water is the perfect way to cool down.
Getting around Chioggia
Chioggia is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Ferries run between Chioggia and Saint Mark's Square in Venice during the summer. Alternatively, ride a local bus from Chioggia to Piazzale Roma in Venice. Venice Marco Polo Airport is a one-hour drive away.