Typically, when you think of northern Italy, you think of Venice and its lagoon. But just beyond this world-famous city is its coastline, the Costa Veneta.
This sandy stretch forms part of the Costa Adriatica Veneta, full of seaside resorts, lagoons, family-friendly beaches, towns, and unique cultural activities.
In this guide, we will explore the map and location of the Costa Veneta, its most popular beaches, towns, top activities, and useful tips for planning your holiday. We’ll also share why Agenzia Lampo is your trusted partner for accommodation in this beautiful region.
History, beaches and tourism highlights of the Costa Veneta
The Costa Veneta covers about 150 kilometres of the Veneto coastline, running from the lagoon areas north of Venice down to the Po Delta in the south. This part of Italy has a strong connection to the Adriatic Sea, filled with fishing communities, trade routes, and the Venetian navy.
This area’s rich history makes it a great location to visit and enjoy tourism. The Costa Veneta beach resorts are known for wide sandy stretches, pinewoods, and well-equipped facilities and lidos. It’s best for families with young children, as there are many appropriate beaches and waterparks. Nearby nightlife in Jesolo also makes it a fun place to visit for the whole family.
Pros of the Costa Veneta
- Excellent balance of lively resorts and quieter natural areas
- Sandy, well-maintained beaches/lidos with modern amenities
- Good transport links from northern Europe and major Italian cities
- A mix of cultural highlights, family activities, and outdoor sports
Cons to consider
- Resorts can get crowded in July and August
- Prices peak during high season
Map and location of the Costa Veneta
Looking at a cartina Costa Veneta (map of the Venetian coast), you’ll see how accessible and diverse this area really is.
From north to south, the main areas include:
- The Venetian Lagoon, with the peninsula of Cavallino-Treporti dividing the lagoon from the sea
- Long stretches of sandy beach at Jesolo, Eraclea Mare, and Caorle
- Expansive resort areas at Bibione and Lignano (on the Friuli border)
- The southern reaches around Chioggia, Sottomarina, and Rosolina Mare, leading into the Po Delta Regional Park
What are the most popular beaches of the Costa Veneta?
The Costa Veneta is famous for its beaches. Here are the most popular spots to add to your itinerary:
1. Jesolo Lido
- Over 15 kilometres of sandy shoreline
- Modern restaurants, shopping streets, and a buzzing nightlife
- Attracts more than 5 million visitors annually
- Pros: dynamic, full of services, great nightlife
- Cons: can feel crowded and commercial
2. Cavallino-Treporti
- Peninsula between the Venice Lagoon and the Adriatic
- Perfect for camping holidays and cycling routes
- Family-friendly and quieter than Jesolo
3. Eraclea Mare
- Known as the “Green Pearl” of the Adriatic thanks to its pinewoods and dunes
- Calmer atmosphere, ideal for families and nature lovers
4. Caorle
- Golden beach plus a colourful old town with Venetian charm
- Popular for combining seaside relaxation with culture
- Famous Caorle Market to explore and try local foods
5. Bibione
- One of the most visited seaside towns in Italy
- Famous for its wide sandy beaches and a natural thermal spa
- Great for families thanks to excellent facilities
6. Sottomarina & Rosolina Mare
- Southern end of the Costa Veneta, close to the Po Delta
- Natural dunes and quieter beaches compared to the north
Must-do checklist for Costa Veneta beach days
Arrive early to secure a good spot in high season
Explore both the beach and the nearby dunes or lagoons
Try local seafood at beachside restaurants
Look for Blue Flag certification for water quality
Stay for sunset. The Adriatic views are spectacular
What are the main towns and villages on the coast?
Beyond the beaches, the Costa Veneto has many nearby towns that bring culture and history to your seaside stay.
Venice: The world-famous lagoon city is inseparable from the Costa Veneta. Even if your base is Jesolo or Cavallino, a day trip to Venice is a must.
Chioggia: Known as “Little Venice,” Chioggia combines canals, a lively fish market, and easy access to the beach at Sottomarina.
Caorle: A secret spot within the Costa Veneto, Caorle’s historic centre is painted in pastel hues. Many narrow streets lead to the sea, where the Sanctuary of the Madonna dell’Angelo stands on the shore.
Bibione: A purely modern seaside resort, Bibione shines for its beach infrastructure, its thermal spa, and family entertainment.
Jesolo: A holiday town that never sleeps, Jesolo is perfect for travellers looking for nightlife and events alongside sunbathing.
What activities and tourism can you enjoy on the Costa Adriatica Veneta?
A holiday on the Costa Veneto is not only about enjoying the beach; in fact, there are many activities to take part in.
To begin with, you can enjoy beach and water sports such as windsurfing, sailing, or kitesurfing in Jesolo and Bibione, while calmer lagoons are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, and certain areas are better suited for diving excursions.
Moving away from the sea, you can explore nature through birdwatching and eco-tours in the Po Delta Regional Park, cycle along the Jesolo–Cavallino paths or Bibione’s pinewood trails. Don’t forget to go hiking across coastal dunes and river estuaries.
The coast also has plenty of culture and history, with Venetian villas in the countryside, historic churches in Caorle and Chioggia, plus local crafts and traditional fishing.
When it comes to food and wine, we recommend eating seafood risotto, sipping Veneto wines such as Prosecco, Soave, or Valpolicella, and trying specialities like sarde.
Finally, the region is always buzzing with events and festivals, including the Jesolo Summer Festival, traditional Venetian regattas, and lively seafood fairs.
Why you should visit the Costa Veneta
The Costa Veneta is a diverse stretch that combines world-class beaches, family-friendly resorts, natural parks, and cultural experiences.
To truly enjoy the region, having the right accommodation makes all the difference. Agenzia Lampo, with decades of experience in seaside rentals, offers apartments, holiday homes, and villas across Jesolo, Bibione, Caorle, and other destinations. With local expertise and tailored options, you can find the perfect base for exploring the Costa Veneta.
