Comacchio
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Strictly-speaking, Comacchio isn't quite a seaside town as it lies next to a lagoon but the closest beach is only six kilometres away.
Comacchio has a population of 22,114 inhabitants and comes under the jurisdiction of Ferrara Province. It's one of the prettiest towns in Emilia Romagna with its system of canals lined by colourful houses and interrupted by a series of interesting bridges. |
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What People Ask About Comacchio
Is Comacchio worth visiting?
What can you do in Comacchio?
How do you get to Comacchio?
What is Comacchio famous for?
When is the best time to visit Comacchio?
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Discover Comacchio
Comacchio, located in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a picturesque town set in the heart of the Po Delta, offering a unique combination of historical charm and natural beauty. Known for its canals, traditional architecture, and tranquil atmosphere, Comacchio provides a serene setting for visitors looking to explore the surrounding wetlands and discover the town's rich cultural heritage. The town’s narrow streets, traditional buildings, and scenic waterways make it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.
Comacchio is famous for its canals, which meander through the town, creating a unique and picturesque landscape. Visitors can take boat trips along these canals, offering beautiful views of the town and its historic buildings. The town is also home to the Manifattura dei Marinati, a museum dedicated to the region’s traditional eel fishing industry, and the Chiesa del Santissimo Rosario, a charming church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Comacchio offers easy access to the Po Delta Regional Park, where visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and cycling. The town’s blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and tranquil canals makes it a perfect base for exploring the Po Delta and the Emilia-Romagna region.
Comacchio is famous for its canals, which meander through the town, creating a unique and picturesque landscape. Visitors can take boat trips along these canals, offering beautiful views of the town and its historic buildings. The town is also home to the Manifattura dei Marinati, a museum dedicated to the region’s traditional eel fishing industry, and the Chiesa del Santissimo Rosario, a charming church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Comacchio offers easy access to the Po Delta Regional Park, where visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and cycling. The town’s blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and tranquil canals makes it a perfect base for exploring the Po Delta and the Emilia-Romagna region.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Comacchio
- Trepponti Bridge: The most iconic structure in Comacchio, the Trepponti is a 17th-century five-way bridge built over the town’s canals. Made of brick and Istrian stone, it once served as the main gate to the town and today offers scenic views over the waterways and surrounding historic centre.
- Museo Delta Antico: Housed in a former 18th-century hospital, this museum explores the history and archaeology of the Po Delta. Exhibits include Roman shipwrecks, Etruscan artefacts, and displays on the local salt trade, offering insight into Comacchio’s role in regional history and commerce.
- Historic Centre and Canals: Often referred to as “Little Venice,” Comacchio is crisscrossed by canals and connected by arched bridges. The historic centre features pastel-coloured buildings, quiet alleyways, and waterside walkways, perfect for exploring on foot or by small boat.
- Boat Trips in the Po Delta: Guided excursions depart from Comacchio into the Po Delta Regional Park, a protected wetland area rich in wildlife. These trips offer opportunities to see flamingos, herons, and traditional fishing huts, combining nature with the area’s maritime traditions.
- Day Trip to Lido di Spina: Just 10 minutes away, Lido di Spina offers long sandy beaches, pine forests, and seaside resorts. It provides a change of pace from the historic centre and is easily reached for a relaxing afternoon by the Adriatic coast.
Comune di Comacchio
Where to Stay in Comacchio - My Recommended Accommodation
- Al Ponticello Located in the historic centre near the Trepponti Bridge, this charming B&B offers individually styled rooms with canal or courtyard views. Guests appreciate the homemade breakfast, helpful hosts, and easy walking access to Comacchio’s museums, churches, and canals. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Cavour Set in a restored historic building overlooking the canals, this bed and breakfast combines antique charm with modern comforts. Visitors enjoy the central location, tasteful décor, and proximity to the Manifattura dei Marinati and traditional eel fishing sites. €€ (mid-range)
- Locanda La Comacina Situated near the town’s main square, this hotel features classic-style rooms and an on-site restaurant serving local seafood dishes. Guests value the central position, canal views, and short walk to the Museo Delta Antico. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Pitagora Located in a quiet area just outside the town centre, this friendly B&B offers clean, well-kept rooms and a garden. Visitors enjoy the relaxed setting, homemade cakes at breakfast, and easy parking, with the centre reachable on foot in around 10 minutes. € (budget)
- Agriturismo Valle Isola Set within the Po Delta Park about 10 minutes’ drive from Comacchio, this agriturismo provides rustic rooms and panoramic views over the wetlands. Guests appreciate the peaceful natural surroundings, birdwatching opportunities, and connection to local cycling routes. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat in Comacchio - My Recommended Restaurants
- Trattoria Vasco e Giulia: Located near the canals in the centre of Comacchio, this long-established trattoria specialises in local seafood, including eel, a signature product of the town. The menu also features traditional pasta dishes and fish stews, served in a simple, homely setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Al Cantinon: Situated alongside one of Comacchio’s bridges, Al Cantinon offers a refined take on regional cuisine, with a focus on fresh fish from the surrounding lagoons. The small dining room has a rustic-chic feel, and the wine list features labels from across Emilia-Romagna. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria La Barcaccia: A casual spot popular with locals, La Barcaccia serves a mix of grilled fish, pasta, and traditional Comacchio specialities. The atmosphere is informal and friendly, making it a good choice for lunch or dinner after exploring the town. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Locanda La Comacina: Found close to the Trepponti bridge, this restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with a menu that highlights seafood and regional dishes. The service is professional, and the lakeside-style setting adds to the dining experience. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Pizzeria Aurora: Located just outside the historic centre, this pizzeria offers a wide range of pizzas, as well as salads and pasta. It’s a relaxed, budget-friendly option, popular with families and ideal for a casual evening meal. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Comacchio Gallery
Places close to Comacchio
- Cervia (approx. 40 km south of Comacchio): A charming town known for its beautiful beaches along the Adriatic Sea. Cervia is famous for its salt pans, where salt is still harvested in the traditional way. The town also offers a lovely historic centre, with quaint streets, the Piazza Garibaldi, and the impressive Cervia Cathedral. It’s a great place for a relaxing seaside visit and outdoor activities.
- Ravenna (approx. 35 km southwest of Comacchio): Known for its rich history and stunning early Christian mosaics, Ravenna is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Key attractions include the Basilica di San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Dante’s Tomb. The city offers a unique blend of art, culture, and history, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.
- Ferrara (approx. 50 km west of Comacchio): A Renaissance gem, Ferrara is home to beautiful medieval architecture, including the Castello Estense and the Cattedrale di San Giorgio. The town is known for its bike-friendly streets, charming squares, and historic landmarks, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely day out exploring its cultural and architectural heritage.
- Lido di Volano (approx. 20 km north of Comacchio): Part of the Parco del Delta del Po, Lido di Volano is a tranquil coastal area offering sandy beaches and beautiful natural surroundings. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to relax by the sea in a peaceful, less crowded environment.
- Lido degli Estensi (approx. 10 km west of Comacchio): A popular beach resort on the Adriatic coast, Lido degli Estensi offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place for those who enjoy seaside activities, with beautiful beaches and a wide variety of water sports available. The area also has a pleasant promenade for leisurely walks by the sea.
How to get to Comacchio
By Rail: Comacchio does not have its own train station. The nearest railway station is in Ostellato, located approximately 20 kilometres to the west, on the Ferrara–Codigoro line operated by Ferrovie Emilia-Romagna (FER). Alternatively, Ferrara station, around 50 kilometres away, offers more frequent Trenitalia services to Bologna, Venice, and other major cities. From both stations, Comacchio can be reached by taxi or local bus services, although connections may be limited outside peak periods.
By Road: Comacchio is situated in the province of Ferrara, within the Po Delta area of Emilia-Romagna, and is surrounded by canals and lagoons. It lies about 100 kilometres north-east of Bologna and 55 kilometres east of Ferrara. The drive from Bologna takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A13 motorway and SS309 Romea road. From Ferrara, the journey takes about 1 hour. Public car parks are available near the historic centre and in coastal areas such as Lido degli Estensi and Lido di Spina.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Comacchio is situated in the province of Ferrara, within the Po Delta area of Emilia-Romagna, and is surrounded by canals and lagoons. It lies about 100 kilometres north-east of Bologna and 55 kilometres east of Ferrara. The drive from Bologna takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A13 motorway and SS309 Romea road. From Ferrara, the journey takes about 1 hour. Public car parks are available near the historic centre and in coastal areas such as Lido degli Estensi and Lido di Spina.
Nearest International Airports:
- Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Located approximately 105 kilometres south-west of Comacchio, the drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Train and bus combinations are possible via Ferrara or Ostellato, followed by a taxi or local bus.
- Venice Marco Polo Airport (Aeroporto di Venezia Marco Polo): Situated about 120 kilometres north of Comacchio, the journey takes around 2 hours by car. Public transport involves train travel to Ferrara or Ostellato and a connecting bus or taxi.
- Rimini Airport (Aeroporto di Rimini Federico Fellini): Approximately 120 kilometres south of Comacchio, the drive takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Public transport options include train travel via Ravenna and then onward travel by bus.
