Chioggia

Chioggia is a fishing port town at the southern end of the Venice Lagoon, within the province of Venice. Crossed by the Canal Vena, it is sometimes referred to as 'little Venice' thanks to its network of canals, bridges and colourful houses lining the waterways. The Corso del Popolo, the main street lined with shops and cafés, leads to the town's cathedral (Duomo di Chioggia) and to the Ponte di Vigo, one of its most photographed bridges. Fishing remains an important local trade, clearly reflected in the daily fish market, where fresh seafood is sold and forms the basis of much of the local cuisine. A few kilometres away, the seaside resort of Sottomarina offers long sandy beaches and tourist facilities suited to summer stays. The town makes a convenient, quieter base from which to visit Venice, around 25 kilometres away, while offering a more authentic atmosphere. The area enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers well suited to beach holidays and water-based activities.