Caorle
The fishing town with the cylindrical bell tower, a little Venice by the sea
Caorle is an ancient fishing town about 28 km from Jesolo: a historic centre of lanes and colourful Venetian-style houses, the famous 11th-century cylindrical bell tower, the seafront sanctuary of the Madonna dell'Angelo and two long sandy beaches (Ponente and Levante). It is the favourite day trip for anyone staying in Jesolo: 35-40 minutes by car.
Getting there from Jesolo
By car
From Jesolo follow signs for Eraclea and then Torre di Fine–Brian–Caorle along the riviera's provincial roads: about 28-30 km, 35-40 minutes. Alternatively go via San Donà di Piave if coming from inland or the A4 motorway (Noventa/San Donà exit).
By bus
ATVO connects Caorle with San Donà di Piave (trains to Venice) all year round; in summer seasonal lines run along the riviera between Jesolo, Eraclea Mare and Caorle. Check updated timetables on the ATVO website before setting off.
By bike
For trained cyclists: about 35 km from Jesolo via Eraclea Mare, Torre di Fine and Brian, on embankment roads and paths of the Venetian lowlands. A cycle-touring classic among lagoons, rivers and casoni huts.
The beaches of Caorle
Caorle has two main beaches separated by the historic centre: Ponente beach, very long and well equipped, favoured by families, and Levante beach, close to the fishing port and the sanctuary. Both are golden sand with gently shelving water and a long-standing Blue Flag. Don't miss the walk along the 'scogliera viva': the breakwater boulders between the centre and the Madonna dell'Angelo, sculpted by artists from around the world.
Things to do in Caorle
Lose yourself in the historic centre among lanes, little squares and pastel houses, look up at the 11th-century cylindrical bell tower beside the cathedral, and walk to the Madonna dell'Angelo sanctuary perched over the sea. The fishing port is still active: in the evening the trattorias serve the catch of the day. In the lagoon hinterland you can visit the fishermen's casoni huts loved by Hemingway, while kids enjoy the Aquafollie water park. The weekly market and fish festivals complete the picture.
Jesolo or Caorle?
Caorle is the old town: Venetian atmosphere, history, fresh fish and slow rhythms. Jesolo is the modern riviera: 15 km of equipped beach, theme parks, shopping and events. For a long holiday with children and plenty of services, Jesolo offers more; for a romantic weekend or an old-world day out, Caorle is unbeatable. The best solution? Base yourself in Jesolo and day-trip to Caorle (or vice versa): they are 40 minutes apart.
How far is Caorle from Jesolo?
About 28-30 km: 35-40 minutes by car along the riviera roads via Eraclea, or slightly longer via San Donà di Piave.
What can you see in Caorle in half a day?
The historic centre with its colourful lanes, the cathedral and cylindrical bell tower, the scogliera viva walk to the Madonna dell'Angelo sanctuary and, time permitting, the fishing port when the boats come in.
Is Caorle or Jesolo better for a holiday?
It depends: Jesolo wins on services, events, parks and nightlife; Caorle on old-town atmosphere, history and seafood cuisine. They are 40 minutes apart: many pick one base and visit the other on a day trip.
What is Caorle's cylindrical bell tower?
It is the town's symbol: an 11th-century cylindrical bell tower about 48 metres tall, beside the cathedral of Santo Stefano. It is one of very few Romanesque cylindrical bell towers left in Italy.
Are there free beaches in Caorle?
Yes, alongside the concession stretches there are free areas at both Ponente and Levante, plus the natural beach towards the lagoon in the Falconera area.
Make Jesolo your base
Hotels, restaurants, beaches and events: everything you need to explore the riviera from Jesolo.