Rialto Bridge, known as ‘Lovers Bridge’, is one of the ancient beautiful bridges of Venice. The Ponte di Rialto is the soul of Venice. The present structure of the bridge was built between 1588 and 1591, replacing the boat and three wooden bridges that had spanned the Grand Canal since the 12th century.

About Rialto Bridge

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The Rialto was built by Antonio da Ponte in the year 1180. Many canals flow into the Grand Canal. There are 400 bridges covering 120 islands. Two very popular squares in Venice- San Marco and San Polo are connected by the Rialto Bridge at the highest point. The bridge is bow shaped with stairs on both sides and heavy water traffic passes underneath. This bridge was the most happening point in history. This bridge was the place for most of the trade in Venice, as well as for transmitting new laws or punishing prisoners.
The Rialto Bridge is a majestic, domed stone bridge with pergolas on either side. The high point of the central arch serves as a sentinel via substantial stairs on either side of the bridge.

Things to do on your visit to the Rialto Bridge

With so many things to do and experiences to visit, here is a list of some of the best things that you must try on your next visit to the famous Rialto Bridge with your loved ones for an unforgettable vacation like never before!

1. Rialto Market

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This 700-year-old Rialto Bridge market place is now the most delightful spot on the bridge. This market is full of grocery shops, fish market and other daily cash. It is full of activities during the day. Wherever you are, whatever street you stand on in Venice, all signs lead you to the Rialto Bridge. It is also used as a focal point. There are many shops below the walkway that cater to the needs of tourists who come to this famous bridge to enjoy the view of the Grand Canal waterway filled with Gondola.

A visit to the most delightful little Campi, just off the Grand Canal, can never be forgotten. In Venice you can take a walking tour through the Cannaregio area to see the ancient churches dating back to the 7th century. This memorable trip to Rialto Market will travel far with you.

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2. Selfie

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The bridge was built in 1602 by Doge Marino Grimani. This closed bridge, with stone-framed windows, crosses the Rio di Palazzo, and connects the New Prison (Prigioni Nuove) with the torture chambers in the Doge’s Palace.

The Bridge of Sighs was so named because prisoners or detainees were taken over the bridge for trial. They looked for the last time at the beautiful water and sighed at the thought of the terrible detention that awaited them in the inhuman cells of the Serenissima. Due to being a selfie spot, this place is a favorite of tourists. Since Canal Grande can be seen even for a short while, tourists flock to this place.

3. Night Walk and Gondola Ride

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A night walk across the Rialto Bridge and the other side of the Grand Canal is something no one should miss in Venice. Nothing can be more spectacular than when you stroll under a bridge looking at the reflection of marble in the canal. Listening to the stories, legends and myths will definitely make your tour more interesting. You can relax for a while on a Gondola as you cross the Grand Canal to reach the opposite side of Venice, where the Rialto and San Polo await your visit.

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4. View

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You should not miss the most spectacular views of the Rialto Bridge. These scenes are some of the most sublime images of Venice. Tourists come to the bridge, take photos of it and enjoy the panoramic views from it and spend time watching the picturesque view. It is absolutely amazing to stroll through the San Polo district to get to know the neighborhood of the Rialto Bridge.

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5. Rialto Bridge Painting

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While walking around the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy you can choose your favorite Rialto Bridge painting from the many paintings available there. All the paintings of the Rialto Bridge are world famous and you can take one of them on your way home. The Rialto Bridge, in its various styles, has been one of the center attractions in paintings and photographs over the years.

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6. Stay near the Rialto Bridge

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Most tourists prefer to stay near the Rialto Bridge and there are many hotels near the Rialto Bridge in the historic area of ​​Venice. It’s home to dazzling cathedrals and an acclaimed arts scene. You can choose from 1300 hotels and other similar rooms in and around the Rialto Bridge. You can choose one of them as your home as long as you stay in Venice.

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7. Secret Venice Tour with Cicchetti and Wine

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You should take a guided tour and cross the Grand Canal while strolling down to discover the mystery of Venice. One should not forget the special attraction of a small group tour of the San Polo and Rialto Market areas.
Get a real taste of the Venetians’ pre-lunch wines. Let us tell you that Rialto Market has a mesmerizing effect on you. You walk through it and marvel at its vibrant colors and smells.

The Rialto Bridge was the center of port activity when Venice was a maritime power. A good port for trade, international cargoes used to stop here to unload and sell their products. The Venetians gathered here from across the Alps with silks and spices, textiles and metalwork.

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The Rialto Bridge was like a majestic ring. There used to be bull fights, beautiful palaces and canals. This is a sharp contrast to the narrow streets, dark alleys, delicate bridges and small courtyards of the still hidden Venice. And today the Rialto Bridge is one of the city’s most visited tourist attractions. Your tour of the Rialto Bridge will end in a mesmerizing dream. Plan a trip to Italy for an amazing vacation experience like never before!

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