Little Venice- The less known Chioggia
Slow Travel Guide to Chioggia, Italy: Embrace the Tranquil Charm
Chioggia, often dubbed “Little Venice,” is a place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to savor its unique charm at a leisurely pace. Located on the southern tip of the Venetian Lagoon, this small fishing town offers an authentic slice of coastal life, away from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist destinations. This guide will help you experience Chioggia in the most relaxed and immersive way, focusing on its beautiful old town, incredible seafood, serene beaches, and peaceful boat tours.
From our 10 day stay in Veneto, we stayed for 3 nights in Chioggia, in a charming air b&b that was located right in the heart of the old town. We ate amazing seafood throughout our stay, enjoyed the beach (20 min walk from the old town to the newer part of town), took a boat tour, visited the seafood market and enjoyed the old town. Chioggia is close to Venice (you can also take the fairy to Venice) which makes it a great place to explore other beautiful towns in Veneto.
Getting to Chioggia from Venice
To reach Chioggia from Venice, you have several options. Chioggia is located approximately 35 kilometers (about 22 miles) south of Venice, just under an hour by car. It is also convenient to take a boat from Venice's San Zaccaria vaporetto stop. Alternatively, you can opt for a bus ride or even a combination of bus and boat. The journey is relatively short and makes for an easy and rewarding day trip from Venice.
Immerse Yourself in the Old Town’s Charm
As you arrive in Chioggia, allow yourself to settle into the slow rhythm of the town. Choose a charming accommodation in the heart of the old town. This central location makes it easy to explore the town on foot and be in walking distance to the best restaurants. Have coffee with other locals in one of the little cafes overlooking the water. You will find a lot of fishermen in the morning, coming into the harbour with their daily catches.
Explore the Old Town Begin your slow exploration of Chioggia by wandering through its narrow streets and alleyways. The old town is a maze of colorful buildings, picturesque canals, and charming piazzas that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Start on Corso del Popolo, the main street lined with cafes, shops, and local life. The slower you walk, the more you’ll notice the small details that make Chioggia special: the laundry fluttering from windows, the gentle hum of conversation, and the occasional fisherman mending his nets.
Visit the Fish Market Make your way to Mercato del Pesce, the town’s vibrant fish market. Chioggia’s seafood is renowned, and the market is the beating heart of the town’s daily life. Here, you’ll find an array of freshly caught fish, clams, mussels, and—most notably—moeche, the local soft-shell crabs that are a seasonal delicacy. Take your time to chat with the vendors, learn about the different types of seafood, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Lunch: Savor Local Seafood After exploring the market, treat yourself to a seafood lunch Order a plate of moeche, delicately fried and served with a squeeze of lemon. Pair it with a glass of local white wine, such as a crisp Soave, and enjoy the simple yet exquisite flavors that Chioggia is famous for. Also have crab pasta, langostinos and delicious scallops. Granseola (Spider Crab): A specialty in Chioggia, spider crab is often prepared in a creamy pasta sauce or served as a delectable seafood salad.
Afternoon: Slow Stroll Along the Canals Spend the afternoon slowly exploring the canals that wind through the town. Chioggia’s canals are reminiscent of Venice but quieter, offering a more intimate experience. Walk along Canal Vena, one of the most scenic spots in town, where colorful boats bob gently in the water and historic buildings reflect in the canal’s surface. Don’t rush—allow yourself to be captivated by the serene beauty of this lesser-known gem.
Evening: Relaxed Aperitivo and Dinner As evening approaches, join the locals for an aperitivo at Baruffino, a waterfront bar with a laid-back vibe. Sip on a spritz or a glass of prosecco as you watch the sunset cast a golden glow over the lagoon.
For dinner, head to Trattoria Al Ponte, a family-run establishment where you can indulge in more local seafood. Try the grigliata mista di pesce (mixed grilled fish) or bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti with anchovy sauce). The relaxed setting and delicious food make it the perfect end to your first day.
Embrace the Coastal Life
Morning: Boat Tour of the Lagoon Start your second day with a peaceful boat tour around the Venetian Lagoon. Book a tour with a local operator who offers small group excursions. As you glide through the water, you’ll see Chioggia from a new perspective, passing by fishing boats, small islands, and the beautiful coastline. Some tours include a stop at Pellestrina, a quiet island where you can walk along the shore and enjoy the tranquility.
Late Morning: Explore Sottomarina Beach After your boat tour, head to Sottomarina Beach, just a short walk from the old town. Unlike the more crowded beaches of Italy, Sottomarina offers a relaxed atmosphere with wide stretches of golden sand. Choose a lido where you can rent a sunbed and umbrella, and let the sound of the waves lull you into a state of relaxation. Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea, stroll along the water’s edge, or simply sit back and enjoy the sun.
Lunch: Beachside Dining For lunch, enjoy a casual meal at one of the beachside restaurants, such as Bacaro Rosso, where you can savor fresh seafood with a view of the sea. Try the spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or a simple insalata di mare (seafood salad), accompanied by a glass of chilled white wine.
Afternoon: Leisurely Beach Time After lunch, continue to unwind at the beach. Whether you prefer reading a book under the shade of your umbrella, taking a nap, or collecting seashells along the shore, Sottomarina’s peaceful ambiance makes it easy to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Evening: Sunset and Seafood Dinner Return to the old town in the early evening, and find a spot along the waterfront to watch the sunset. The changing colors of the sky and the reflections on the water create a mesmerizing scene that’s perfect for slow travel.
For your final dinner, visit Osteria Penzo, a local favorite known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious seafood. Order the risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) or frittura mista (mixed fried seafood), and savor each bite as you reflect on the tranquil beauty of Chioggia.
Morning: Final Stroll and Departure On your last morning in Chioggia, take a leisurely walk through the town one last time.
Visit Chiesa di San Domenico, a beautiful church located on a small island connected by a bridge, where you can admire
works of art by famous Venetian painters.
Stop for a coffee at a local cafe like Caffè Pedrocchi, and enjoy the slow pace of the morning as you watch the town wake up. As you prepare to leave, take one last look at the canals, the colorful houses, and the peaceful lagoon, knowing that you’ve experienced Chioggia in the most authentic and relaxing way possible.
Chioggia, with its timeless charm, fresh seafood, and serene surroundings, is a destination that invites you to slow down and appreciate the beauty of life at a gentle pace. Whether you’re exploring the old town, enjoying a meal by the water, or simply sitting on the beach, Chioggia offers a truly immersive and relaxing travel experience.
Here’s a small list of cute and charming restaurants in Chioggia, Italy, where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine in a cozy, authentic atmosphere:
1. Osteria Ai Coppi
Location: Calle Forno Filippini, 267
Vibe: Nestled in a quiet street, Osteria Ai Coppi offers a warm and intimate setting with rustic decor. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed meal featuring fresh seafood and traditional Venetian dishes.
Must-Try: Moeche (soft-shell crabs), Risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto)
2. Trattoria Al Ponte
Location: Calle Ponte Caneva, 70
Vibe: This family-run trattoria is tucked away in a charming corner of the old town. With a cozy interior and a few outdoor tables, it’s a lovely spot to enjoy homemade pasta and freshly caught fish.
Must-Try: Bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti with anchovy sauce), Frittura mista di pesce (mixed fried seafood)
3. Osteria Penzo
Location: Corso del Popolo, 1403
Vibe: Located along the lively Corso del Popolo, Osteria Penzo has a quaint and welcoming atmosphere with traditional decor. It’s a favorite among locals for its authentic Venetian flavors.
Must-Try: Sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), Grigliata mista di pesce (mixed grilled fish)
4. Ristorante El Gato
Location: Corso del Popolo, 1167
Vibe: With its charming outdoor seating area overlooking the canal, El Gato is perfect for a romantic dinner or a relaxed lunch. The ambiance is casual yet refined, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
Must-Try: Spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), Seppie alla griglia (grilled cuttlefish)
5. Ristorante Bella Venezia
Location: Viale Padova, 8
Vibe: Set in a historic building with a lovely garden, Bella Venezia combines old-world charm with modern touches. The atmosphere is elegant but unpretentious, making it a great spot for both casual and special occasions.
Must-Try: Risotto di pesce (seafood risotto), Tiramisu
These restaurants each offer a slice of Chioggia’s culinary heritage, served in atmospheres that range from cozy and rustic to elegantly charming.
