Florence · Signoria and the river
Ponte Vecchio
Florence's oldest bridge, rebuilt in 1345 and lined with jewellers' shops. Crossing takes a few minutes, but the crowd slows it down.
- 30 min
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Signoria and the river
Data checked on October 4, 2026
The bridge was rebuilt in stone in 1345 after a flood and has carried shops since the Middle Ages. Butchers worked here until the end of the 16th century, when the Medici replaced them with goldsmiths and jewellers, who are still there. Above the shops runs the Vasari Corridor, a private passage the Medici used to cross the river. The bridge is short, so the visit is a slow walk across and a look back from the next bridge.
What to look for
- The jewellers' shops over the water
- The Vasari Corridor above the shops
- The bust of Cellini at the centre of the bridge
- The view of the bridge from Ponte Santa Trinita
Opening hours
Always open.
Source: Visit Tuscany, checked October 4, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free.
Getting there
The bridge is an eight minute walk from the Duomo, and the Borgo San Iacopo bus stop is on the south bank next to it.
Tip
Cross early in the morning, before the crowd builds. For the full view of the bridge, look from Ponte Santa Trinita.