Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge is the oldest of the four bridges crossing the Grand Canal in Venice, connecting the districts of San Marco and San Polo. It is a single-span stone bridge with two ramps leading up to a central portico, lined with covered rows of shops. It is one of Venice's most recognizable icons and a top tourist attraction.

Don't miss

• The oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal, built in stone between 1588 and 1591
• Two covered ramps lined with shops leading to a central portico
• Connects the San Marco and San Polo districts, near the historic Rialto market
• A single-span stone design by Antonio da Ponte, considered audacious at the time

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Rialto Bridge

Cheapest way inPunta Sabbioni to Venice Round-Trip Boat Ticket4.1★ · 105 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$17 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 & flexibleRialto Market Tour & Private Cooking Class in the Heart of Venice5★ · 127 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$149 per personSee dates →

Getting there

Know before you go

• The bridge is a pedestrian walkway with steps; expect crowds during peak tourist hours.
• Shops line both sides of the bridge, selling souvenirs and goods.

A bit of history

The first dry crossing of the Grand Canal was a pontoon bridge built in 1181, called the Ponte della Moneta. It was replaced by a wooden bridge in 1255, which had a movable central section for tall ships. Shops were added along the sides in the early 15th century. The wooden bridge collapsed in 1444 and again in 1524. The present stone bridge was designed by Antonio da Ponte, built from 1588 to 1591. Its engineering was considered audacious, with architect Vincenzo Scamozzi predicting future ruin, but it has defied critics.