This calm fishing town on Italy's Adriatic coast has a distinctive cathedral from 1038 and colorful houses along its historic center's narrow streets.
Located north of Venice, Caorle draws visitors to its 15-kilometer stretch of sandy coastline. You'll find fishermen mending their nets in the harbor, walk past pastel-colored houses in the medieval center, and spot traditional reed huts dotting the lagoon. The town's landmarks include an 11th-century cathedral with a 48-meter cylindrical bell tower and the white Madonna dell'Angelo church perched above the waves.
Walking Through Caorle's Centro Storico
The medieval center consists of narrow calli (alleys) and small squares where pastel-colored houses line the streets. Local shops sell everything from fresh seafood to handmade crafts, while the working fishing harbor buzzes with activity each morning as boats return with their catch. In summer evenings, the streets fill with people dining at restaurants, while artists set up their easels to paint portraits or perform street magic.
Beaches and Swimming
Two main beaches extend from the historic center: Spiaggia di Levante (east) and Spiaggia di Ponente (west). Both have Blue Flag status, indicating water quality that meets European standards. You can access free beach areas or rent equipment in designated zones. The water stays shallow for about 50 meters from shore, with a gradual slope that makes swimming safer for children.
Religious Architecture
The Cathedral of St. Stephen (built 1038) dominates the town center, displaying Romanesque-Byzantine architecture. The interior contains several Venetian artworks, including "The Last Supper" by Gregorio Lazzarini, teacher of the renowned Tiepolo. From its position on a rocky promontory, the Church of the Madonna dell'Angelo marks the end of the western beach. The church hosts two celebrations: the annual Feast of Incoronation with fireworks launched from the bell tower, and the Feast of the Virgin of the Angel every five years.
Life on the Lagoon
Between the Livenza and Lemene rivers, traditional casoni (reed huts) dot the lagoon landscape. Local fishermen still use these simple structures to store their equipment. You can join boat tours through the waterways to watch traditional fishing methods in action. The town's fishing port supplies fresh catches to local restaurants daily.
Getting to Caorle
ATVO runs regular bus services connecting Caorle with Venice Marco Polo Airport and Venice city center. If you're arriving by train, take a local bus from Portogruaro station to Caorle (50-minute journey). Three airports serve the area: Venice Marco Polo (53 km), Treviso (66 km), and Trieste (82 km).
When to Visit
The main beach season runs from June through August. May and September have temperatures around 25°C (77°F) with fewer crowds. In winter, you'll find Christmas markets and an ice-skating rink from December to early February, with several hotels remaining open year-round.
