Rialto Bridge

Venice’s busiest and most iconic bridge, the Rialto gives visitors a wonderful view of the Grand Canal.

TravelCurious Tip

The regular vaporettos (water buses) that ply the Grand Canal are a great way to get a different perspective of the bridge.

The Rialto Bridge is a world-renowned symbol of Venice. Connecting the historic districts of San Marco and San Polo, the bridge is one of the city’s most iconic and visited landmarks, and for three hundred years it was the only way to cross the Grand Canal on foot. It is now visited by millions of tourists each year, but despite the crowds it remains utterly unmissable.


Setting it in Stone

There has been a bridge of one sort or another on this site since the 12th century. However, after various burnings and collapses of these flimsy timber structures, it was finally decided that a more permanent stone bridge should be built. Various designers were considered, including Michelangelo himself, but the job was eventually given to Antonio da Ponte, who completed the work in 1591. At the time, the design was so audacious that many contemporary architects predicted that it would collapse before long.


A Cultural Icon

Over four hundred years later, the bridge is still standing, and the beautiful stone arch continues to dazzle its visitors. Two covered ramps from either bank meet to form a beautiful arched portico in the middle. From here you get a lovely view looking south-west down the Grand Canal towards the Ca' Foscari University. The ramps are lined on both sides by shops which sell the usual souvenirs and knick-knacks, and buskers can usually be heard strumming or singing on either side of the canal.


Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in Venice
Marco Polo's House
Believed to have been the residence of the world famous explorer and his family, the ancient Corte del Milion is a must see for adventure lovers.
Rialto Market
A historic market where Venetians buy fresh frutti di mare from friendly fishmongers.
Venetian Cicchetterie
Local food taverns full of delicious food and crisp wine.
Rialto Fish Market
This traditional fish market, located right by the Grand Canal, offers a wide variety of fresh fish that marvels both locals and tourists. You can find squid, spider crabs and even moeche, straight from the Venetian lagoon.
Rialto Vegetable & Fruit Market
Explore the colours and scents of fresh produce at the Rialto fruit and vegetable market that marvels both locals and tourists.
Venetian Cicchetti
Enjoy a local food and wine

Related Tours

Venice in a Day: Private Tour including St. Mark's & Doge's Palace
Whether you are a first-time visitor or you want to make the most of your time in Venice, this full-day tour is the perfect opportunity to see the most popular highlights as well as off-beaten-path landmarks. Discover the architectural and artistic highlights of Venice in a day including St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and more!

On your private tour, you will:

  • Visit the centuries-old Venetian market for fruit and fish, that sits along the Grand Canal;
  • See the Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge crossing the Gran Canal, famous for its artisans and shops selling jewellery, linens, Murano glass and more; 
  • Explore the picturesque neighbourhood of San Polo, and visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, the largest church in the city that boasts masterpieces by Titan, Giovanni Bellini and Donatello as well as the body of Antonio Canova;
  • Discover Campo Santa Margherita, one of the liveliest in the city, filled with bars and restaurants it is a popular hangout spot for the locals;
  • Walk through the Dorsoduro neighbourhood and cross the famed wooden Accademia bridge, which offers two of the most iconic views of the Gran Canal;
  • Take a stroll down the neighbourhood of San Marco home to the Fenice Theatre, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo spiralling "snail" staircase and of course the famed St. Mark's Square;
  • Take in the grandeur of St. Mark's Square and its magnificent buildings, including the Clocktower and the Belltower;
  • Step into St Mark’s Basilica to admire the extensive gold mosaic decorations, and hear the story of how St. Mark's body was laid to rest here after Venetian merchants stole it in Egypt and brought it back to Venice;
  • Visit the magnificent Doge’s Palace, the former seat of the Venetian government and home to the Doge, the highest official of the republic of Venice for more than 1000 years (tickets included);
  • End the tour in a less-touristic area of the city, Campo Santa Maria Formosa, where your guide can suggest dining options or can help you get on a Venetian gondola.

This tour is all about making sure you experience the best of Venice in a single day –nearly an impossible task. You will see the world-famous St Mark’s Square— probably one of Italy’s most iconic locations and Venice’s largest urban open space. 

This square is enclosed by the astonishing St Mark’s Basilica and the magnificent Doge’s Palace. Not only will you visit St Mark’s Basilica but also explore the Doge’s Palace, which rises majestically above the waters of the Grand Canal on St Mark’s Square. It remains one of the best examples of Venetian gothic architecture. 

Your guide will be sure to show you the highlights, including the Rialto Bridge, famed as the oldest bridge to cross the Grand Canal, its arcade full of small souvenir shops is the best place to buy beautiful Venetian masks and feathers. 

You will also visit the breathtaking building of the Frari Church, and the Accademia bridge, and expertly navigate the charming alleyways of the neighbourhoods of San Polo, Dorsoduro, San Marco and Castello. 

At the end of your tour, your guide will be sure to give you expert recommendations on how to spend an evening in Venice –from a gondola ride to the best spots for dinner. 
The Accademia Gallery of Venice: Private Guided Museum Tour
Enjoy a fascinating guided tour of The Accademia Gallery of Venice, one of the most popular and important museums in Venice, followed by a visit to the beautiful Frari Basilica where you'll see masterpieces by Titian, Donatello, Bellini, and the tomb of Canova and enjoy a scenic stroll through the San Polo neighbourhood to the Rialto Bridge. 

On your private tour you will: 

  • Admire some of the most stunning views of Venice from the Accademia bridge, one of only four bridges that span the Gran Canal; 
  • Enjoy a guided tour of The Accademia Gallery, the most important museum for Venetian Paintings and the city's most prestigious art gallery;
  • See paintings by Giorgione, Titian, Canaletto, Bellini, Da Vinci, and more as your expert guide shows you around this treasure trove of a museum;
  • Admire Veronese's vast canvas depicting The Feast in the House of Levi - the largest painting of the 16th century measuring 560cm by 1309cm;      
  • Learn about the brilliance and patriotic significance of Tintoretto's masterpiece the 'Miracle of the Slave' showing Saint Mark - patron saint of Venice - post-humously intervening in the torture of a slave for praying; 
  • Enjoy several splendid masterpieces of Venice by Canaletto - famous for his precise and atmospheric depictions of his home city;
  • Walk into the room reserved entirely for the massive works by Giovanni Bellini - Venice's influential and pivotal Renaissance artist; 
  • Gaze on the complex, multi-layered painting of The Tempest by Giorgione, a milestone painting in landscape and political allegory - and warning;
  • Explore the magnificent Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, the largest church in Venice that houses the tomb of Antonio Canova, Venice's beloved neo-classical sculptor; 
  • See extraordinary, priceless masterpieces in their original location, including the mesmerizing Assumption of the Virgin Altarpiece by Titan, the Pesaro Triptych by Giovanni Bellini, and St. John the Baptist by Donatello;
  • Let your guide expertly navigate you through the labyrinth of Venetian streets and see some of the locals' favourite meeting locations, such as Campo Santa Margherita and Campo San Polo especially popular during the Venetian Carnival;
  • Stop at the Rialto bridge, Venice's most famous bridge lined with artisanal Venetian shops - it is one of only four like it in the world;
  • End your tour in the Rialto area, where your guide can suggest a great cicchetteria for a well-deserved snack and a glass of wine or a spritz! 

Meet your private guide on the Accademia Bridge - with stunning views down the Gran Canal of Venice - to begin your fascinating private tour of the famous Accademia Gallery of Venice, followed by a visit to the magnificent Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, usually just called the Frari, and a scenic stroll through the San Polo district - ending by the famous Rialto Bridge. 

The Accademia or Gallerie dell'Accademia is famous for its incredible and extensive collection of Italian Renaissance masterpieces.  Founded in 1766, the Accademia Gallery is home to some of the finest examples of Venetian painting from the 13th to the 18th century, ranging in style from Byzantine, to Gothic to the Renaissance era and beyond. 

The collection tells the story of the evolution of this unique city on the water. It also houses many world-famous Renaissance masterpieces from Leonardo Da Vinci and Giorgione, as well as the crème de la crème of Venetian artists such as Titian, Bellini, Giorgione, and Tintoretto. 

You’ll also see Canaletto, Bellotto, and Longhi from the 1600s. With over 800 paintings, this is Venice’s most important museum of art, a must-see for all art lovers, and lovers of Venice. 

After your tour of the Accademia Gallery, take a short walk to the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, the largest church in Venice, which boasts masterpieces by Titian, Bellini, and Donatello as well as the tomb of Antonio Canova - the exquisite neo-classical sculptor famous for his stunning sculptures of Cupid and Psyche, Paulina Bonaparte Borghese as Venus Victrix and many others. Canova died in 1822 in Venice and is buried here. 

Afterwards, explore the delightful and vibrant San Polo district and learn about local life in Venice!  San Polo is famous for its many aperitif and 'cicchetti' bars and trendy restaurants, the lively Rialto Market selling fresh produce, and of course the Rialto Bridge - possibly the most photographed bridge in Venice famous for being lined with shops and artisanal stalls - it is also the oldest bridge that crosses the Gran Canal, connecting San Polo with San Marco. 
 
Your tour ends in the Rialto area, where your guide will be happy to make recommendations for 'cicchetti'! 
St. Marks Basilica & Doge's Palace: Private Venice Half-Day Tour
If this is your first time visiting Venice, this is half-day tour is the perfect experience to discover two of the city’s must-see sites: St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, and to explore the best of the city of canals in a short amount of time.

On your private half-day tour, you will:

  • Step into St Mark’s Basilica, the cathedral of Venice built to house the remains of St. Mark's, and famously decorated with shimmering mosaics;
  • Explore the magnificent buildings of St. Mark's Square, including the Renaissance St. Mark's Clocktower, and St. Mark's Campanile, the  tallest structure in Venice and one of the city's most recognisable symbols;
  • Visit the Doge’s Palace, built in Venetian gothic style, the former residence of the Doge and the seat of the Venetian government;
  • Learn about the sophisticated ruling system of the Republic of Venice as you stand in the opulent Chamber of the Great Council, one of the largest rooms in Europe,  decorated by some of Venice's most famous artists such as Gentile da Fabriano, Bellini and Titan;
  •  Walk in the footsteps of condemned Venetians, as you cross the Bridge of Sighs that connects the Doge's Palace interrogation rooms to the New Prison; 
  • Enjoy a leisurely walk through Venice, step off the beaten tourist path and explore magnificent Campi (squares) and charming alleys and often missed gems, like the Aqua Alta Library, the house of Marco Polo, and the Church of Miracles;
  • Cross the Rialto Bridge, Venice's oldest and most famous bridge, and end your tour with magnificent views of the Grand Canal.

Your tour begins with a wow – at the heart of the world-famous St Mark’s Square. Probably one of Italy’s most iconic locations and Venice’s largest urban open space, this square is enclosed by the stunning St Mark’s Basilica and the absolutely magnificent Doge’s Palace, both of which you will visit with your private guide. 

The Doge Palace was built in 812 and is celebrated as one of the best examples of Venetian Gothic architecture in the city. Right next to the Doge’s Palace in St Mark’s Basilica, deemed an icon of Italian art and culture; it is indeed one of the city’s top highlights. 

Then, your guide will take you off the beaten path for a leisurely stroll as you head towards Venice’s most iconic bridge - the Rialto. Famous for being the oldest bridge to cross the Grand Canal, its arcade full of small souvenir shops. 

After walking across this fantastic bridge, your tour will end with magnificent views of the Grand Canal where your guide will give you great recommendations for the best food spots during your stay.
Explore Venice Rialto Markets at Dawn: Private Walking Tour
The Rialto Markets (Mercati di Rialto) are the perfect place to discover the real heart of the city when it's just beginning to stir and to experience the true Venetian way of living. They are located in the centre of the city, by the Rialto Bridge, and they are the oldest market in Venice. 

On this private tour, you will:

  • Avoid the crowds of tourists and get a taste of local Venice with this early morning tour;
  • Walk over the Rialto Bridge, one of the most popular highlights of the city and the oldest bridge over the Gran Canal;
  • Explore the buzzing Rialto District, Venice's trading hub in the heart of the city and the oldest market area of the Venetian lagune;
  • Mingle with locals and spot the Venetian ladies expertly navigating the market stalls with their shopping trolly - they know what to buy and where for the best quality products and best prices;
  • Learn about the island of Sant'Erasmo, known as the vegetable garden of Venice, where many of the Rialto market vegetables come from;
  •  Walk around the famous Venetian fish market, held in a beautiful red brick loggia building with elegant arches, and take in the rich variety of sea produce ranging from fish to squid, molluscs and shellfish;
  • Learn the tricks to buying fish here, you can find the best selection of fresh fish early in the mornings, but the best deals happen around 12.00 pm right before the market closes!

As the saying goes, the early bird catches the worm, and on this tour, you will certainly explore the hotspots before the crowds awaken. 

Not only will you see Venetian's famous canals, squares, and landmarks, but you will also see the millenary trade centre come alive at the stroke of sunrise where Venetians of all ages come to do their shopping.

Explore the Venice Rialto markets and venture through authentic Venice to get a feeling of the true Venetian lifestyle. Watch fishermen at work as they prepare and cut Venetian squid, and observe the slicing of artichoke before they are sold at food markets. 
Be sure to ask your private guide for a local espresso recommendation for a burst of caffeine before you commence your tour! 
Venice Legends and Mysteries: Private 2-hour Evening Walking Tour
Enjoy exploring a lesser-known side of Venice as you venture through its myths and mysteries on this private evening walking tour.

On your private 2-hour tour, you will:

  • Explore Venice in the evening, at its quietest and most mysterious, as your guide expertly navigates you through winding alleys and dimly lit squares; 
  • Hear dark the story of Biasio the Buther of Venice, a murderer who cooked his victims in soups to hide their corpses;
  • Walk past the Anatomy Theatre of Venice which opened in 1671 and was used to dissect cadavers;
  • Learn of the bull hunting games and Venice Carnival in Campo San Polo, one of the most popular carnival locations;
  • Explore the Castelletto area, the ancient Venetian Red Light District;
  • Get acquainted with the real stories and legends surrounding Giacomo Casanova, an Italian adventurer known as the most famous lover in history who escaped from prison multiple times;
  • See several of the city’s highlights, including the Rialto Bridge that crosses the Grand Canal, the largest and most famous canal in Venice that separates the city in half;
  • Hear tales of the Ghost of the Rialto Bridge and a ghostly pet that roams St. Mark's Square;
  • End your tour in St. Mark’s Square, as you take in the magnificent play of lights of the Piazza at night, truly a magical experience;

This tour takes you off the beaten path, into the shadier stories of the city's legendary past, even as you explore several of the city’s highlights, like the Campo San Polo, Rialto Bridge, St Mark’s Square, and the Grand Canal, along with other spots off-the-beaten-track, including the Venetian red light district. 

Along your tour, you will uncover answers to questions like: where did the "hangman" live? Who was the "Biasio" of Venice? Who was "Casanova"? Where are the ghosts' palaces, and who was the "Doctor of the Plague"? On your night out, your guide will be sure that you do not find yourself lost in the hidden mazes of the city.

Though we can't give away many details regarding this mysterious tour, we can say with certainty that it is riddled with excitement and intrigue, and is a great way to explore the city outside the heat of the day with a private guide! 

Please note: this tour can be amended in advance to be friendly for children. Please notify us in advance of the tour if you wish for the stories to be told in a kid-friendly way! 
The Best of Venice: Private Tour including St Mark’s Basilica
Discover the best of "La Serenissima" and immerse yourself in a Venice that is not just gondolas, but a city of canals with many grand palaces such as Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace), unique museums and impressive churches like St. Mark's Basilica.

On your private tour, you will:

  • Explore the famous Rialto Markets and take a stroll down the famed fish market of Venice, which has been taking place here for nearly 1000 years;
  • Cross over the iconic Rialto Bridge, designed by the architect "Anthony of the Bridge" in the late 1500s, and take in spectacular views of Venice's Grand Canal;
  • Step away from the main tourist path to enjoy some of the city's best sights, such as the gem-like Church of Miracles and quaint Aqua Alta Library, self-proclaimed the "most beautiful bookstore in the world";
  • Take a stroll down Campo San Giovanni e Paolo, one of Venice's most important squares;
  • Admire the Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo, one of the biggest churches in Venice and the official church for the funerals of the Venetian Doges;
  • Marvel at the magnificent Renaissance facade of the Scola Grande di San Marco, originally the home of a major Venetian confraternity, and today the city's hospital;
  • See the Equestrian Statue of Bartolomeo Colleoni, the first of its kind standing on three feet;
  • Admire the iconic view of the Venice lagoon from the waterfront promenade of the Riva Degli Schiavoni;
  • Stop by the Doge's Palace, the seat of the government of the Venetian Republic, known as "The Most Serene Republic of Venice", which existed for 1100 years and was once the greatest naval power in Europe;
  • Stand in awe of St. Mark's Square and the 99-meter-high Campanile (bell tower) of St. Mark's, once a lighthouse to guide ships;
  • Enjoy a guided tour inside St. Mark's Basilica, the former political and religious centre of the Republic of Venice, magnificently decorated with golden mosaics completed in the 12th century.

Trace the city’s fascinating beginnings, learn about its failed defence against the plague and unearth its dark secrets. Your journey will take you through Venice’s grandest central district. The architecture is sublime, the excitement rejuvenating and the atmosphere unique. 

You will begin your tour walking towards Venice’s pre-eminent bridge- Rialto Bridge. Famous for being the oldest bridge on the Grand Canal, its arcade full of small souvenir shops is the best place to buy beautiful Venetian masks and feathers. 

Your private guide will give you the history of the markets, as they have been operating for over seven centuries. Stroll around the bustling Rialto Markets, a picturesque shop primarily selling fish and vegetables. Take in all the sights, sounds, and smells of the market.

Venture through the most magical streets and canals of San Marco, and pass the iconic St Mark’s Square. Probably one of Italy’s most iconic locations and Venice’s largest urban open space, this square is enclosed by the astonishing St Mark’s Basilica and the magnificent Doge’s Palace. 

You will see the Doge’s Palace, built-in 812, which is one of the best examples of Venetian gothic architecture. Right next to the Doge’s Palace is St. Mark's Basilica with its gold mosaics and many domes will also be sure to capture your attention. 

Your tour will finish with tickets and a tour of St Mark’s Basilica. Your guide will take you on a tour of the historic Basilica, deemed to be an icon of Italian art and culture. 

Please note that St. Mark's Basilica is an active church and can be subject to unforeseen closures due to religious reasons. In cases of closure, you will be given alternative touring options.
Secrets of Venice Live Virtual Tour
On this Live Virtual Tour, we will take you to Venice, also known as 'The City of Love'. A city without roads, just emerald canals that captivate all travellers that visit. 

On this Private "Secrets of Venice Live Virtual Tour" you will discover: 

  • The Secrets of Rialto bridge and the Grand Canal of Venice
  • Accademia Wooden Bridge
  • The Venetian Cicheti and Wine
  • The Old Red light district and Courtesans of Venice
  • The secret of the old and new water system
  • The High tide phenomenon
  • Authentic Venetian Lifestyle
Famous for Murano glass,  its canals and Piazza San Marco, Venice is known as the City of Canals and is arguably one of Italy's most Instagrammed cities. With its winding canals, beautiful architecture, and numerous bridges, Venice is a popular destination for travellers from all over the world.
Venice Highlights Live Virtual Tour
Venezia is undeniably charming by day and on this Private "Venice Highlights Live Virtual Tour" you will discover why. Discover the Secrets of Venice on this Private Live Virtual Tour from the comfort of your home and share this unique experience with your friends, family, or co-workers. The curious traveller, history buffs and culture junkies will be mesmerised by this fascinating tour of The Floating City.

On this Live Virtual Tour, we will take you to Venice, also known as 'The City of Love'. A city without roads, just emerald canals that captivate everyone who visits. You will discover: 

  • St Mark's Square, 
  • Bridge of Sighs, 
  • Doge's Palace, 
  • St Mark's Basilica, 
  • The Belltower,
  • The Clock tower,
  • The Mercerie,
  • Rialto bridge,
  • The Grand Canal,
  • And Ca d’oro.
Famous for its canals, gondolas and Piazza San Marco, Venice is known as the City of Canals and is arguably one of Italy's most Instagrammed cities. With its winding canals, beautiful architecture, and numerous bridges, Venice is a popular destination for travellers from all over the world.
The Secrets of Venice Night Virtual Tour
Venice is undeniably charming by day, but it's especially memorable after dark and on this Private "Venice Highlights Live Virtual Tour" you will discover why. Discover the Secrets of Venice on this Private Live Virtual Tour from the comfort of your home and share this unique experience with your friends, family, or co-workers. The curious traveller, history buffs and culture junkies will be mesmerised by this fascinating tour of The Floating City.

On this Live Virtual Tour, we will take you to Venice, also known as 'The City of Love'. A city without roads, just emerald canals that captivate everyone who visits.  You will enjoy: 

  • The Secrets of Rialto bridge and the Grand Canal of Venice
  • Accademia Wooden Bridge
  • The Venetian Cicheti and Wine
  • The Old Red light district and Courtesans of Venice
  • The secret of the old & new water system
  • The High tide phenomenon
  • Authentic Venetian Lifestyle
Famous for its canals, gondolas and Piazza San Marco, Venice is known as the City of Canals and is arguably one of Italy's most Instagrammed cities. With its winding canals, beautiful architecture, and numerous bridges, Venice is a popular destination for travellers from all over the world.
Welcome to Venice: Private 2-hour Introductory Walking tour
Explore the best of Venice and see "The City of Canals" most popular highlights on this private 2-hour introduction tour with a professional tour guide, who will take you to on a journey to discover one of Italy's more picturesque and romantic cities. 

On your private tour, you will:

  • Explore the Rialto area, famed for its markets and of course the iconic Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge crossing the Grand Canal;
  • Navigate through Venice's maze of "calle" streets and canals with the expertise of your tour guide;
  • See Marco Polo’s house, and Santa Maria dei Miracoli Church, often described as the "Marble church" and "treasure chest" due to its precious marble decorations;
  • Stop in Campo San Giovanni e Paolo to hear about the "Scuole Grandi" (great schools) of Venice, confraternities founded in the late 13th century, as welfare and religious institutions that resembled present-day lobbies;
  • Walk along the Venetian lagoon waterfront and marvel at the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the interrogation rooms of Doge's Palace to the New Prison;
  • Learn of the Venetian Doges and the city's complex - and modern - ruling system as you take in the majesty of the Doge's Palace, the seat of the Venetian Government;
  • End your tour in the famed St. Mark's Square, the only "piazza" in Venice and learn the fascinating story of how St. Mark's body was brought to Venice and laid to rest in St. Mark's Basilica.

Trace the city’s fascinating beginnings, learn about its failed defence against the plague and unearth its dark secrets. 

You will begin your tour by visiting Venice's Rialto neighbourhood. Take in all the sights, sounds, and smells of the local markets before crossing the Rialto Bridge. Famous for being the oldest bridge on the Grand Canal. 

Venture through the magical streets and canals of Venice, step off the beaten tourist path to uncover the quieter side of the city, and end the tour in the iconic St Mark’s Square. Probably one of Italy’s most iconic locations and Venice’s largest urban open space, this square is enclosed by the astonishing St Mark’s Basilica and the magnificent Doge’s Palace. 

You will see the Doge’s Palace, built-in 812, which is one of the best examples of Venetian gothic architecture. Right next to the Doge’s Palace is another superb building that will be sure to capture your attention! 
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