Ponte di Rialto
Ponte di Rialto
4
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
About
Considered the true heart of Venice, this landmark bridge, characterized by its 24-foot arch, is built on approximately 12,000 wooden pilings that still support the bridge more than 400 years after it was built.
Duration: < 1 hour
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The area
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Neighbourhood: San Marco
The most famous sestiere (district) in Venice has one of the world's most famous squares, St. Mark's (Piazza San Marco). Anchored on one end by the basilica, clustered around it are restaurants, museums, shops, orchestras playing in the square, pigeons, the grand pink Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), the soaring campanile bell tower, an astrological clock tower, plus gorgeous cafes and restaurants like Florian and Quadri. Piazza San Marco is beloved by Venetians themselves. They book a table anytime, which offers a buffer from the fray. This grand outdoor drawing room attracts Venetians for a stroll too, especially late in the afternoon when the hoards of daytrippers thin out. It's simply a grand place to meet.
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1,558 within 5 kms
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992 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- Berke AyrancıoğluGraz, Austria765 contributionsOne of the iconic bridges in Venice, a tourist must seeOne of the most iconic bridges and famous views in Venice. The view is amazing on both sides. A must see location for tourists. Only problem is there are lots of tourists all the time(as expected) and it is sometimes hard to find a nice spot on the bridge.Visited February 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 1 March 2024
- Jeffry bEssendon, Australia13,719 contributionsHistoric Rialto is charming bridgeThe Ponte di Rialto, called "The Rialto" is a bridge over the Lagoon in Venice. The Rialto dates from ancient times; it features in literature, including featuring Shakespear's well-known drama "The Merchant of Venice. When Venice was the New York of Western Europe, the Rialto held a gold market and stock exchange. The Rialto is charming, it's well worth crossing the Venetian Lagoon.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 22 March 2024
- ExmoorTravellerExeter, United Kingdom93 contributionsTacky Tourist NightmareA must-see if you’re in Venice, I guess. We’ve “done it” now but wouldn’t say it was the highlight of the trip Thousands of people and not even peak-season. Not so much a ‘market’ as hundred of shops selling the same ‘made in China’ tourist tat. Anyway horses for courses.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 6 April 2024
- luciussilvaeVilvoorde, Belgium5,475 contributionsBravely popular oldie.This historic bridge built at the end of the 16th century connects San Marco with San Polo and is still in excellent condition. The disadvantage is that it is always very busy and it is impossible to thoroughly admire the bridge. It remains one of the most popular Instagram spots.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 10 June 2024
- SteveDiGrossi9 contributionsThe most famous bridge in the city of the Doges.Absolutely magnificent, this bridge built in 1591 is the most recent of several versions destroyed and then rebuilt in the same place. Photogenic viewpoint for its view of the Gran Canale, several vaporretti stops nearby and shops on the bridge in the central alley; to visit both day and night. Be careful, however, of nearby restaurants which take advantage of the geographical location and the breathtaking view of the bridge to exaggerate prices or even allow themselves a little scam here and there (as is the case with the Ristorante Rialto Sul Canallgrande which is an absolute catastrophe to be avoided urgently). There are a plethora of restaurants in Venice whose quality is the same or even better without the prices being so exorbitant, just wander around the many streets of this magnificent city.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 16 June 2024
- travelbob1New Windsor, New York1,132 contributionsA Selfie Mess of crowdsThe goal was to take a photo . The bridge was crowded with individual and group selfie takers. Just how many selfies are needed by one person? It was a crowded mess across the bridge and hopeless to enjoy taking one photo. Then, we spotted two piers on each side of the canal. One was crowded but the other empty. We walked across the bridge and found the small alley that led to this small wooden pier where we stood a few feet from the bridge for a great photo opt. Alas, others saw what we found and shortly the selfie hordes arrived.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 June 2024
- Ramesh APhiladelphia, Pennsylvania302 contributionsBeautiful and historic bridge ! See my tipsBeautiful place and landmark in Venice,Italy. This looks so pleasing in the morning , evening, and night. The place is so lively with a lot of people. There are plenty of places to eat closer by. Watch out for limited bathroom availability. They have gondola services and water bus and taxi services. every. The gondola services, most of them will cut it short by 10 minute. Be ready to be thrilled and amazed !!! For gondola rides, I suggest taking one closer street and having them take through the grand canal and go via bridge.Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 19 June 2024
- Sofia R5 contributionsIconic and bustling!The Rialto Bridge is iconic and offers the best views of the Grand Canal. The shops on the bridge sell beautiful souvenirs, though they can be a bit pricey. It’s always bustling with tourists, so try to visit early in the morning or late at night for fewer crowds. Perfect for a romantic evening stroll or some great photo ops!Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 23 June 2024
- AnuradhaNew Delhi, India1,410 contributionsMost iconic bridge in VeniceThe iconic Rialto Bridge is one of the world’s most famous bridges. It connects the neighbourhoods of San Marco and San Polo. It’s always bustling with crowd, with a lot of cafes and shops around. Our hotel was close by, so enjoyed the view multiple times !Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 24 June 2024
- phat_dawg_21Alpharetta, Georgia17,331 contributionsVisit Early or LateThe is one of the busiest places in Venice. We found that it was best to be there before ten in the morning, or after four in the afternoon. The rest of the time it was hard to cross because of the crowds of people trying to get pictures. The center is lined with shops selling souvenirs and jewelry.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 23 July 2024
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Wikumj
Redhill, UK433 contributions
July 2023 • Couples
Obviously this bridge is incredibly busy at most times of the day, but I don't see how you visit Venice without seeing this as it is probably the city's most famous icon, and it is very distinctive in its design and architecture. Recommend taking photos of the bridge itself, and also views out onto the canal from standing on the bridge, and at different times of day. There are small market stalls that line the bridge as well selling typical tourist items.
Written 6 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CityScrolls
Venice, Italy144 contributions
Oct 2024 • Solo
I never grow tired of witnessing the captivating bustle at Venice's acclaimed 'true heart.' As the Grand Canal is at its narrowest here, observing the resulting boat traffic is a spectacle in itself!
The bridge we see today dates back to 1591 and is the 4th iteration of what was once the only bridge crossing the Grand Canal. Even today, there are only three other bridges spanning it.
I would recommend three great ways to experience the bridge:
1.From the Water: Take the #1 water bus or ride in a gondola. There are plenty of gondoliers available on-site, or you can book a more affordable shared ride online.
2.From Above: The rooftop terrace of Fondaco dei Tedeschi offers stunning views of the bridge and the city. Be aware that it has become so popular that reservations need to be made well in advance.
3.Day and Night: Cross the bridge at different times of the day to experience its dynamic atmosphere.
While you're there, don’t miss the Rialto Market (best visited early in the morning) and the Church of San Giacomo at Rialto, which features a striking 15th-century clock on its facade.
The bridge we see today dates back to 1591 and is the 4th iteration of what was once the only bridge crossing the Grand Canal. Even today, there are only three other bridges spanning it.
I would recommend three great ways to experience the bridge:
1.From the Water: Take the #1 water bus or ride in a gondola. There are plenty of gondoliers available on-site, or you can book a more affordable shared ride online.
2.From Above: The rooftop terrace of Fondaco dei Tedeschi offers stunning views of the bridge and the city. Be aware that it has become so popular that reservations need to be made well in advance.
3.Day and Night: Cross the bridge at different times of the day to experience its dynamic atmosphere.
While you're there, don’t miss the Rialto Market (best visited early in the morning) and the Church of San Giacomo at Rialto, which features a striking 15th-century clock on its facade.
Written 30 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeffry b
Essendon, Australia13,719 contributions
Nov 2024 • Couples
" Ponte di Rialto" is the Italian name of the Rialto Bridge. The Rialto is located in the main area of Venice; it has more than 20 vendors, who cater to visitors. The Rialto was constructed between 1588 and 1591, when it was a place in Venice where merchants congregated. In his play "The Marchant of Venice," Shakespeare asked "What news upon the Rialto?" The Rialto is always interesting to visit and there are always things to see.
Written 26 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Heather D
1 contribution
Jan 2025 • Family
Tourists beware of scam! Literally right out of the train station just getting to Venice, my daughter and I were just going up the stairs on the bridge with luggage when 2 guys in black dress pants and black fleece coats came up behind us and took our bags and starting walking over bridge. We had to run after them but as soon as they got to other side, they demanded money for carrying our bags. They would not let go of the bags until we paid. I know I shouldn't have paid but I was afraid they were going to take off with my daughter's luggage. They were so aggressive!!! In hindsight, I know I should have walked away but I did not feel safe and I do not do well in confrontational situations. I am new to travelling alone so lesson learned and I was definitely more vigilant.
Written 21 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
noushwani
wellywooder24 contributions
Apr 2023
Iconic bridge with views straight out of a James Bond movie. The idea is to get up early to catch sunrise and beat the crowds but we love our bed too much, Make sure you grab a classic Aperol Spritz at a restaurant on the riverside near the bridge. You wont regret!.
Written 9 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laura B
Newcastle-under-Lyme, UK214 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
Visited in April, had great weather so the bridge was super busy. Great photo opportunity but be aware they’ll be plenty of other people in your pictures as you could only just stop for how busy it gets. We spent the full day in Venice, so also went back in the evening & it’s a little less busy then and beautiful views both day & nighttime.
Written 31 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gloria.dmtorres
Rio de Janeiro, RJ151 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
Interesting place, with many shops selling Murano objects and jewelry. However, in September, which is the end of the high season, it was like a carnival party with so many people. Residents of Venice are right to ask for a limitation on the number of tourists, because the city, despite being beautiful and peculiar, left a terrible impression on me due to the crowds everywhere.

Written 27 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wang2383
Longjing, Taichung71,720 contributions
Sept 2023 • Family
Venice, the "Water City", is built on a lagoon with waterways crisscrossing the city. There are no vehicles. The goods are transported from the waterway to a specific dock and then all rely on manpower to pull special carts to the destination. Canale Grande, the "Grand Canal" on Venice Island, runs through the entire island in an S-shape. It is the most important waterway and the main transportation channel on Venice Island. "Rialto Bridge" Ponte di Rialto is the oldest of the four bridges on the "Grand Canal" and the most famous one. The current stone version was designed by architect Antonio da Ponte in 1591 and is one of Venice's most famous tourist attractions.

Written 20 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jean-Philippe R
Biarritz, France438 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
Overrated. The bridge itself deserves respect for its unique architecture and time-tested engineering. You just have to pass through it (there are only 3 others to cross the Grand Canal) and... move away from it to look elsewhere. Luxury boutiques squat the central part, the railings are invaded by selfie-takers, the surrounding restaurants are expensive, in short, that's it.

Written 20 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sokolalene
Bergamo, Italy3,290 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
You will definitely get to the Rialto Bridge, even if you only spend one day in Venice or see it from the water. It is always lively and crowded here - gondolas, restaurants, souvenir stalls, Chinese (yes, there are a lot of them in Venice again), jewelry stores (if you can afford it). The bridge is undeniably beautiful. The views from it are beautiful, but I liked the Academy Bridge more, although they are completely different. A selfie on the bridge or a photo with it is a must-have tourist program. But the real Venice, in my opinion, is in areas further away from Rialto, we checked the box and went to get acquainted with the real city and solve its mysteries. And this is the front facade.

Written 11 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Buongiorno a tutti !!!! Sono stata a Venezia un paio di mesi fa e ho trovato nei pressi del Ponte di Rialto un negozio storico che vende libri e oggetti antichi o riprodotti , tra i quali il Leone di San Marco in pietra di diverse misure : qualcuno di voi sa dirmi il nome del negozio e l’indirizzo esatto ?!?! Vi ringrazio infinitamente!!!!!!!! Marcello , Stresa , Lago Maggiore .
Written 3 July 2018
Non so il nome di questo negozio, tra breve devo andare a Venezia così controllerò. e posso dare il nome esatto.
Written 4 July 2018
Just checking if this bridge is steps or an incline. We are coming from the airport and if we catch the alilunga directly to Rialto we need to cross with our luggage (1 suitcase each on wheels) . Is it possible to wheel our bags across? Thank you
Written 18 June 2018
Steps and it’s kind of the highest in bridges on the grand canal. That’s for all bridges across the canals, steps that is. But doable very easily unless you have any physical ailments (bad back and so on)
Written 25 June 2018
hi, we are in Venice for 1 night. Fly in on a Friday at 1.30 pm and sail on a cruise departing 4.30pm the next day. Would like suggestions for the best place to stay that is central to arrival and departure points but we can still do some sightseeing easily with limited time. THank you
Written 27 November 2017
Hi, Hotel Rialto will be perfect for you. Extremely easy access via water taxi which stops about 50m from the hotel. You will be in the main tourist area with plenty of restaurants and shops. Can you read my review of Hotel Rialto. Enjoy Venice!
Written 12 December 2017
Hi, i'm going to Venice next month for my anniversary, just wondering if they still allow love locks on this bridge or any other bridge in Venice?
Written 21 September 2017
We saw some on the smaller bridges, but not a lot.
Written 27 September 2017
We drove there by car till the city limits and took a water taxi, but if I remember reading correctly you can arrive at the train station and there should be a bus service that takes you there.
Written 16 April 2017
When I visited here 30 years ago, vendors sold lambs wool cardigan sweaters on the bridge. Is this still the case? I'm relying on buying some in order to pack less clothing for this trip!
Written 2 April 2017
No lambs jumpers now only cheap tacky selfie sticks and hassling from people wanting you to go to Murano island - shops full of cheap tack all made in China! Better stuff in Marco Polo airport when you leave which is regulated
Written 27 April 2017
Em Janeiro será bom visitar veneza? muito frio?chuva?
Written 3 November 2016
Het is beter Venetië te bezoeken in de lente. Januari is wellicht inderdaad te koud en te nat. Als het hevig regent (wat dan kan) dan kan de stad zelfs deels onder water staan. Ik zou het dus afraden.
Written 3 November 2016
Hay restaurantes, bares tipicos para comer cerca? me recomendais alguno?
Gracias
Written 14 October 2016
Wir waren diese Jahr nur in einem Restauant. Im Restaurant Antica Sacrestia. Das Essen war durchschnittlich. Leider kan ich Ihnen sonst kein anderen Tipp geben. Die Londrabar war noch gut, ist aber nicht in der näge von der Realtabrücke.
Written 14 October 2016
venice in general , time that shops close thru the day? i belive for nap? also sundays are there no shops open? only in venice for 2 days ?? sat and sun ... thanks
Written 12 May 2016
During the height of the tourist season (May through September) most of the shops do not close during the day. I was only here for three days and was all shopped out by the third. There is to much to buy, especially Murano glass.
Written 12 May 2016
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