Portogruaro
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Latest page update: 27 August 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Portogruaro
Portogruaro offers a modest but well-reviewed selection of established hotels, supported by its historic centre, waterways and convenient transport links across eastern Veneto. The best options focus on comfort, accessibility and proximity to the town’s main streets, porticoed squares and museums.
Hotel Spessotto, in the centre, is the most established choice, appreciated for its comfortable rooms, professional service and excellent location for exploring Portogruaro on foot (€€€). Hotel Alla Botte, just outside the historic area, provides a practical alternative with welcoming hospitality, reliable comfort and easy access to the main road network (€€). For guests seeking a stay with wider facilities in the surrounding countryside, Il Cigno near Cinto Caomaggiore offers a peaceful setting, spacious rooms and a convenient base for touring both Portogruaro and the Veneto coast (€€).
Hotel Spessotto, in the centre, is the most established choice, appreciated for its comfortable rooms, professional service and excellent location for exploring Portogruaro on foot (€€€). Hotel Alla Botte, just outside the historic area, provides a practical alternative with welcoming hospitality, reliable comfort and easy access to the main road network (€€). For guests seeking a stay with wider facilities in the surrounding countryside, Il Cigno near Cinto Caomaggiore offers a peaceful setting, spacious rooms and a convenient base for touring both Portogruaro and the Veneto coast (€€).
Where is
Where is Portogruaro?
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The town of Portogruaro is located within the Metropolitan City of Venice province and has a population of 24,909 inhabitants. It's situated around 75 kilometres to the north east of Venice, the regional capital of Veneto.
The most famous sight in the town is its leaning tower that rises above the cathedral on Piazza Duomo, the cathedral square. |
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Comune di Portogruaro
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Province: Metropolitan City of Venice
Region: Veneto Population: 24,356 (in 2024 - source) Size: 102 km² Elevation: 5 metres Highlights: Leaning Tower, Duomo di Sant'Andrea, river views Close by: Bibione, Caorle, Lido di Jesolo, Venice, Conegliano |
What People Ask About Portogruaro
What is Portogruaro known for?
Is Portogruaro worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Portogruaro?
How do you get to Portogruaro?
What is the link between Portogruaro and Concordia Sagittaria?
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Discover
Discover Portogruaro
Although it's only a small town, Portogruaro leaves a lasting impression and it's that wonky tower that lingers longest in the memory. The free-standing tower is located next to the town's cathedral, the Duomo di Sant'Andrea and climbs to a height of 59 metres. From the adjacent Piazza della Repubblica, it seems to be protruding from the buildings behind the square but a quick walk round to the smaller Piazza Duomo confirms that's not the case.
Both Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza Duomo are full of character; the largest of the two is Piazza della Repubblica whose western side is occupied by the beautiful gothic facade of the Palazzo Comunale. Built in 1265, the historic building is also know as the Palazzo del Municipale as it's used by local government.
Both Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza Duomo are full of character; the largest of the two is Piazza della Repubblica whose western side is occupied by the beautiful gothic facade of the Palazzo Comunale. Built in 1265, the historic building is also know as the Palazzo del Municipale as it's used by local government.
Further sightseeing
The Piazza is completed by a war memorial and a row of multi-coloured buildings, underneath which is a cafe with seats and tables outside. To the west of Piazza della Repubblica is the town's main thoroughfare Corso Martiri della Libertà with its wide boulevards lined by palm trees and porticoed buildings.
One of the most attractive areas of the town is across on the western bank of the River Lemene. From the Ponte di Sant'Andrea bridge that crosses the river you get the full effect of the tower's lean, but even better than that are the views created by the water mills next to the bridge. It's on this western side of the river that you'll also find the National Museum of Concordia which displays artefacts from the ancient Roman city of Iulia Concordia.
One of the most attractive areas of the town is across on the western bank of the River Lemene. From the Ponte di Sant'Andrea bridge that crosses the river you get the full effect of the tower's lean, but even better than that are the views created by the water mills next to the bridge. It's on this western side of the river that you'll also find the National Museum of Concordia which displays artefacts from the ancient Roman city of Iulia Concordia.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Portogruaro
- Mills on the Lemene River are two 12th-century watermills situated directly over the river, symbolising the town’s medieval origins and early economic life. Built on stilts with wooden structures, they were used for grinding grain and later restored for cultural purposes. The surrounding area includes small bridges and riverside walkways. They remain among the most photographed sites in Portogruaro.
- Town Hall (Palazzo Municipale) is a 13th-century Gothic building located in Piazza della Repubblica, the town’s main square. It features pointed arches, battlements, and a red-brick façade with a central tower. The building was later embellished with frescoes and stone reliefs. It reflects the town’s medieval wealth and civic pride.
- Duomo di Sant’Andrea is the main church of Portogruaro, built in the 19th century in neoclassical style, with a façade inspired by Roman temples. It houses older artworks, including altarpieces from the Renaissance period. Adjacent is a tall, freestanding bell tower with a noticeable tilt. The duomo faces a peaceful square near the town centre.
- Museo Nazionale Concordiese holds artefacts from the nearby Roman city of Concordia Sagittaria, including mosaics, inscriptions, statues, and ceramics. Housed in a former convent, the museum gives insight into the area's ancient past. Highlights include funerary stelae and fragments of Roman architecture. It’s a key stop for understanding the region’s continuity from antiquity.
- Corso Martiri della Libertà is the main thoroughfare of the historic centre, lined with arcaded buildings, Renaissance palaces, and small shops. Many façades are decorated with frescoes or wrought-iron balconies. The street is ideal for walking and offers access to cafés, artisan workshops, and side alleys. It ends at a gate marking the former entrance to the walled town.
Tours and Activities
Portogruaro Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Portogruaro
- Ristorante Spessotto: Located in the historic centre, within a former noble residence, Ristorante Spessotto offers refined Venetian and Friulian cuisine. The menu includes dishes such as seafood risotto, grilled meats, and seasonal specialities, all served in an elegant setting with period features. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria La Dogana: Situated close to the River Lemene, this welcoming osteria serves traditional dishes with an emphasis on local ingredients. Specialities include bigoli pasta, duck ragù, and fish from the nearby lagoons, presented in a rustic but carefully curated environment. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Alla Botte: Found a short walk from the town’s main piazza, Alla Botte is a family-run trattoria offering hearty portions of regional favourites. The menu features polenta, grilled meats, and homemade desserts, with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Alla Torre: Located near the town’s medieval tower, this restaurant combines a traditional menu with modern touches. Expect seafood dishes, fresh pasta, and local cheeses, served in a comfortable and stylish setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Da Mario: A casual option in Portogruaro, Da Mario is known for its crisp, thin-crust pizzas and quick service. It’s a popular spot for a relaxed, budget-friendly meal, ideal for families and groups. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Portogruaro Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Portogruaro
- Caorle (approx. 25 km southeast of Portogruaro): A picturesque coastal town known for its colourful buildings and charming historic centre. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, the Cathedral of Santo Stefano, and the iconic bell tower. Caorle is also renowned for its sandy beaches and the nearby lagoon, offering opportunities for boat trips and birdwatching.
- Lignano Sabbiadoro (approx. 40 km west of Portogruaro): A popular beach resort on the Adriatic coast, Lignano Sabbiadoro is famous for its long sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. The area offers a variety of water sports, a lively beachfront promenade, and nearby attractions such as the Parco Zoo Punta Verde, where visitors can see a wide range of animals.
- Concordia Sagittaria (approx. 10 km northeast of Portogruaro): An ancient Roman town with several archaeological sites, including a Roman Forum and the ruins of a theatre. The town is also home to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, an example of early Christian architecture, and is an interesting spot for history enthusiasts.
- San Donà di Piave (approx. 20 km southwest of Portogruaro): Known for its historical significance during World War I, San Donà di Piave offers attractions such as the Monument to the Fallen and the Church of San Giovanni Battista. The town is located along the Piave River, providing scenic views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling.
- Jesolo (approx. 45 km southwest of Portogruaro): A well-known beach resort destination with a lively promenade, Jesolo offers vibrant nightlife and numerous attractions such as Aqualandia, one of Europe's largest water parks. The town is ideal for families, with a wide range of recreational activities, restaurants, and shops.
Veneto Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Portogruaro
In terms of public transport, you can take a direct train from Portogruaro to Venice city centre in 56 minutes (5 stops) or to Padova in an hour and nine minutes with one stop.
The train station is called Portogruaro-Caorle and located a ten minute walk from Piazza della Repubblica. Direct bus services run to the seaside town of Caorle; the number two bus which takes 42 minutes with around 20 stops along the way.
By car, it's just under an hour to Venice (70 km), 50 minutes to Treviso (60 km) or a little under two hours to Verona (180 km). The most convenient airports for Portogruaro are Venice Marco Polo Airport (57 km) or Treviso Airport (60 km).
Public transport: Central train station, local buses
By train: Venice - 56 minutes, Padova - 1 hour 9 minutes
Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network
By car: Venice - 1 hour, Treviso - 50 mins, Verona - 1 hour 52 mins
Fly to: Venice Marco Polo Airport (57 km), Treviso Airport (60 km)
The train station is called Portogruaro-Caorle and located a ten minute walk from Piazza della Repubblica. Direct bus services run to the seaside town of Caorle; the number two bus which takes 42 minutes with around 20 stops along the way.
By car, it's just under an hour to Venice (70 km), 50 minutes to Treviso (60 km) or a little under two hours to Verona (180 km). The most convenient airports for Portogruaro are Venice Marco Polo Airport (57 km) or Treviso Airport (60 km).
Public transport: Central train station, local buses
By train: Venice - 56 minutes, Padova - 1 hour 9 minutes
Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network
By car: Venice - 1 hour, Treviso - 50 mins, Verona - 1 hour 52 mins
Fly to: Venice Marco Polo Airport (57 km), Treviso Airport (60 km)
Private Transfers
Portogruaro Private Transfers
A private transfer to or from Portogruaro offers direct, door-to-door transport with no need to navigate train connections or local bus services. It’s a practical choice for reaching this well-connected town on the eastern edge of the Veneto region.
Portogruaro lies in the Metropolitan City of Venice, close to the border with Friuli Venezia Giulia. The town has its own railway station with regional and long-distance connections, but a private car journey can be more convenient, especially when travelling with luggage or outside regular train times.
Venice Marco Polo Airport is the nearest international airport, about 65 kilometres away, with a journey time of around 50 minutes. Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport is also an option, located about 75 kilometres to the east, with a drive of roughly 55 minutes.
If you’d like to book a private transfer, please complete the form below with the details of your journey.
Portogruaro lies in the Metropolitan City of Venice, close to the border with Friuli Venezia Giulia. The town has its own railway station with regional and long-distance connections, but a private car journey can be more convenient, especially when travelling with luggage or outside regular train times.
Venice Marco Polo Airport is the nearest international airport, about 65 kilometres away, with a journey time of around 50 minutes. Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport is also an option, located about 75 kilometres to the east, with a drive of roughly 55 minutes.
If you’d like to book a private transfer, please complete the form below with the details of your journey.
