In this article, I present Chioggiaa mini-Venice just a few kilometers from the Serenissima!
Here you'll find
- A presentation of Chioggia
- Visits not to be missed
- How to get to Chioggia from Venice
- Practical information to make the most of your excursion
- And much more!
If you're looking for information about Chioggia, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Chioggia: article summary
Visit Chioggia, a little Venice just 50 km away!
Chioggia is a small coastal town located on an island south of the Venice lagoon. It's nicknamed the mini-Venice, for its many similarities to the Serenissima.
However, it is often overlooked by tourists, who concentrate on the Venice and its monuments. It's a shame, because its history and heritage are well worth the detour!
A brief history of Chioggia
In the 9th century, Chioggia lived from salt production and tradeIn the 14th century, the town became a strategic location in the struggle between Venice and Genoa. Genoa attacked Venice from the south, but the Venetians furiously defended the city. It became part of the Republic of Venice until its liberation in 1797, when it was conquered by Napoleon.
It then belongs to the Austrian EmpireIt was the capital of Italy until the Risorgimento and the founding of Italy in 1866. Subsequently, it was threatened but relatively unscathed during the Second World War, before becoming the charming little town you can visit todayThe region's main industries are fishing, textiles and metallurgy.
Chioggia and the island of Sottomarina which is attached to it constitute a choice location for holidaymakers, who come to enjoy its seaside facilities and tranquil lifestyle, far from the tourist hustle and bustle of its Venetian big sister.
Facts and anecdotes about Chioggia
- Chioggia has fewer 50,000 inhabitants
- It is twinned with the town of St-Tropez
- On the third Sunday in June, the Palio, a popular festival reminiscent of the 14th-century Chioggia War
- Carlo Goldoniconsidered the creator of modern Italian comedy, is one of its most famous characters.
- The town is located 50 km from Venice and at the same distance from the superb Padua !
What can you see and do in Chioggia?
There are many things to see and do in Chioggia, because despite its small size, the city and its surroundings have an interesting heritage. Here are the major points of interest in this mini-Venice!
Vigo Bridge
Visit Vigo bridge in Chioggia is similar to the famous Rialto Bridge of Venice! It's the most beautiful of the 9 bridges linking the city's different districts. It's usually used by locals as a meeting point.
It marks the entrance to the lagoon and it's like being in Veniceas you cross it, overlooking the Chioggia Canal.
Canal Vena
The Vena canal is Chioggia's main canal and just like the Venice Grand CanalThe river is lined with monumental facades, historic palaces and rowboats. 9 bridges cross it, and you'll have the opportunity to walk its entire length to reach the city's most visited areas.
It's on one of its banks, roughly in the middle of the canal, that the the fish market of Chioggia from Tuesday to Sunday, between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Don't miss it, for an unusual activity and 100 local %!
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
This masterful cathedral is Chioggia's most important religious building. It dates back to 1633, and consists of a church and an imposing campanile, which you can see from afar.
The relics of two martyrs of the cityThe church's main features include a stained glass window depicting the life of the Virgin Mary, a beautiful altar and an impressive central aisle. The exterior façade features statues of saints and a bas-relief dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
For lovers of religious buildings, you can also visit beautiful churches, such as those of San Martino and San Domenico.
La Torre dell'orologio
The clock tower dominates the town and this medieval clock could be the oldest in the world. Its mechanism is incredibly precise, and the tour will tell you all about its history and special features.
You can climb the tower to enjoy a breathtaking view of Chioggia, and visit the tower's museum, which is very informative and well-done. It only costs 2 euros, so don't miss out!
Corso del Popolo
Corso del Popolo is Chioggia's main street. And the place where the locals gather in the evening! You can browse during the day, take advantage of the arcades for shelter in case of rain, or take a seat in one of the many cafés or restaurants in the area.
To immerse yourself in the lives of local residentsthis is the place to spend the evening!
On a day trip, you'll be able to see most of Chioggia and enjoy its pleasant atmosphere. If you'd like to vary the pleasures you experience on your stay in Venice !
How to reach Chioggia easily from Venice?
Chioggia is about 50 kilometers from Venice, and more or less direct lines take you to the island in barely an hour.
Here are the possibilities from Venice:
- By ferry via line 19 Vaporetto, which departs from the San Zaccaria stop, right next to the place Saint Marc ! It runs mainly in high season
- By ferry from Santa Lucia station (Santa Maria Elisabetta ferry terminal), to reach the Venice Lido. Buses (routes 11) with timetables based on those of the ferries will then take you to the stop. Pellestrina Cimiterowhere you'll have to take another ferry to Chioggia. It takes longer, but it's a change of scenery!
- By busfrom the Piazzale Romafor a journey of just over an hour
- By car via SS 309, in about an hour
Why visit Chioggia?
Did you know that in 2022, the New York Times elected Chioggia No. 1 must-see city during the year? Here are just a few reasons why you should visit!
Away from the mass tourism of Venice
Venice has come to symbolize the abuses of mass tourism. Fortunately, measures have been taken to reduce the harmful consequences by 2022. But there are still plenty of people in the Serenissima! An excursion to Chioggia will give you a real breath of fresh air.
Enjoy the city's gentle atmosphere, and its resemblance to Venice, in complete tranquillity!
For easy relaxation
If you like walking, go for a bike ride and enjoy the sea air on the beaches, then Chioggia is a town that's sure to win you over. It's also a great choice for eco-responsible tourism!
For its condensed heritage
In just one day in Chioggia, you can immerse yourself in its past, discovering numerous buildings, works of art and a fascinating history. It's just the thing for those who are looking for the culture during a stay, than visitors who simply want to enjoy pretty things.
For its gastronomy!
Italy is a great place to eat, and Chioggia is no exception, with its antipasti and main courses. seafood products.
Among them, don't miss the fried sardines preserved in vinegar and onions (Sarde in Saor) and cuttlefish in tomato sauce. But also Boboli de Vida, which are like small snails, or even the Broetoa kind of local bouillabaisse prepared with the fish of the day!
What to see and do in the area?
Chioggia is linked to the coast and to the island of Sottomarina by a bridge, which allows you to enjoy the charm of the town. this nearby seaside resort. Here's what's in store!
- SottomarinaA major seaside resort that attracts large numbers of Italians every year. They come for the beaches, the beautiful surroundings and the many amenities to make life easier for visitors!
- Isola verdeA green paradise with a park, a vast beach and plenty of activities for youngsters. If you're traveling with the family, this is the place to be!
What to do in Venice in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
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