Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs is one of Venice's most famous landmarks, a small, enclosed limestone bridge that spans the Rio di Palazzo canal. It connects the interrogation rooms of the Doge's Palace to the New Prison (Prigioni Nuove). The bridge gets its name from the sighs of prisoners who, as they were led to their cells, would catch their last glimpse of Venice through the bridge's small windows. Despite this somber history, the bridge has become a symbol of romance, thanks to the legend that couples who kiss beneath it at sunset will enjoy eternal love. The bridge is best viewed from the Ponte della Paglia (Straw Bridge) or from a gondola passing underneath. Its white limestone facade is adorned with Baroque carvings, and its two small windows are framed by stone grilles. While you cannot walk across the bridge independently, it is included in tours of the Doge's Palace.

Don't miss

• Viewing the bridge from the Ponte della Paglia for the classic photo
• Taking a gondola ride under the bridge for a unique perspective
• Walking through the bridge on a Doge's Palace tour to see the interior
• The carved stone masks and Baroque details on the bridge's facade
• The romantic legend of kissing beneath the bridge at sunset

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Bridge of Sighs

Cheapest way inSan Marco to Rialto Walking Tour & Spritz Like a Local4.5★ · 891 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$21 per personSee dates →Best full dayVenice In a Day St Mark's Doges Palace Gondola Ride and City Tour4.8★ · 4,539 travelers4-6 hoursFrom$129 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate or Semi Doge's Palace & Saint Mark's Basilica Guided Tour5★ · 389 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$231 per personSee dates →

Getting there

Know before you go

• The best photo spot is from the Ponte della Paglia, just a few steps away.
• Gondola rides under the bridge are popular but expensive; agree on the price beforehand.
• The romantic kiss legend is just a myth, but still fun for couples.
• Book Doge's Palace tickets online to avoid long queues.

A bit of history

Built in 1600 by architect Antonio Contino, the bridge was designed to connect the Doge's Palace's interrogation rooms with the new prison across the canal. The name 'Bridge of Sighs' was popularized in the 19th century by Lord Byron, who romanticized the prisoners' sighs.