Venice · Rialto
Rialto Bridge
A stone arch with two rows of shops, built between 1588 and 1592 and for centuries the only bridge over the Grand Canal. The view from the outer walkways is the reason to cross.
- 45 min
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Rialto
Data checked on October 5, 2026
Antonio da Ponte built the bridge in stone to replace earlier wooden crossings. It rises in two ramps of wide steps to a central arch, with a row of shops on each side and three walkways running between them. The outer walkways have railings and open views along the canal, and the middle one is the busy shopping lane. The market and the quays on the San Polo bank are a short walk from the foot of the bridge.
What to look for
- The view along the Grand Canal from the outer walkways
- The shops built into the arch
- Boat traffic on the canal below
- The quays on the San Polo side
Opening hours
Always open.
Source: Venezia Unica, checked October 5, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free.
Getting there
The Rialto vaporetto stop is at the foot of the bridge on the San Marco side, and Rialto Mercato is on the opposite bank.
Tip
Cross early in the morning, when you can stop on the steps without blocking the stream of people.