Chioggia is situated on an island forty kilometers from Venice at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon. This town has an undeniable charm since it recalls a miniature Venice in every detail.

As you stroll through its canals, bridges and calli (streets), you’ll experience the essence of Venice, but in a more tranquil and authentic atmosphere.

What to see in Chioggia in one day

The Fish Market

The connection between Chioggia and the sea is inseparable, a bond that has consistently shaped the town’s most predominant activities and crafts. Fishing is clearly part of this heritage, and a visit to the Fish Market will offer a genuine glimpse into the local culture as well as the opportunity to purchase high-quality seafood.

Located in the historic center behind Palazzo Granaio, the market is accessible through a beautifully decorated portal: the Portale a Prisca by Amleto Sartori. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 7am to 1pm, but we recommend an early morning visit, when the stalls offer the greatest variety of fish and shellfish and the commercial excitement is palpable.

Afterwards, make your way to the Fondamenta di S. Domenico to spot some fishing boats.

Corso del Popolo

Chioggia boasts very ancient origins, dating back to Roman times. Corso del Popolo not only is its main street, but also the ancient cardo of Via Clodia (ancient Roman highroad). Stretching 830 meters, it connects Porta Garibaldi, a fortress built around 1300, and the lagoon view. This lively street has long served as the city’s hub for shops, cafés and services.

As you walk along Corso del Popolo, you will encounter notable buildings, such as the Palazzo Comunale.

Church of S. Maria Assunta

The Cathedral of Chioggia, the city’s main place of worship, was built in the Seventeenth century on the site of an ancient medieval church that was destroyed by a fire. The architectural project was entrusted to Baldassarre Longhena, while the pipe organ above the entrance portal was created by Gaetano Callido.

The Baptistery and the pulpit date back to the Eighteenth century. Inside the church you can also admire a renowned work by Cima da Conegliano depicting the Madonna and Child.

Vigo Bridge, Vigo Square and the Marciano Lion

The most iconic area of Chioggia is probably Vigo Bridge and the namesake square which offers a stunning view of the lagoon. In the center of the square stands a marble column topped with a Byzantine capital holding Saint Mark’s lion.

You might find the lion too small compared to the column – and it is not just an impression. The discrepancy is believed to be a design error. Additionally, due to the long-standing rivalry between Chioggia and Venice, Venetians humorously referred to the statue as gato de Ciosa (dialect for “cat of Chioggia”), a nickname that was not so well received by the locals.

Vena Canal

The Vigo bridge spans the most picturesque canal in Chioggia: Canal Vena. Here, you’ll find nine other bridges connecting the two banks, both lined with restaurants, cafés and the traditional bacari.

This is the ideal place to treat yourself to a good fish dinner or an aperitif with spritz and traditional cicchetti, small portions of food similar to the Spanish tapas.

Street food in Chioggia: not just fish

While we’ve highlighted the local seafood, don’t forget to leave room for dessert. A visit to Chioggia is not complete without a stop at Cremeria Gelateria da Roberto, renowned for its fried cream.

How to get to Chioggia from Venice

There are two options to reach Chioggia from Venice via public transport.

From Venice to Chioggia by bus

To reach Chioggia by bus, first go to Piazzale Roma. From there, board line 80 which runs approximately every 15 minutes and will take you to your destination in just over an hour.

From Venice to Chioggia by boat + bus

This route offers more than just a simple transfer as it passes through many interesting spots before reaching Chioggia. First of all, the Venice Lido.

The second peculiarity is that this journey combines both sea and land travel. Here you will find all the details relating to line 11, including stops and prices.

Finally, we would like to remind you that the starting point of this itinerary, Lido S.M. Elisabetta, is only a few minutes from our hotel by vaporetto (ferry boat).