One of the most iconic features of the Venetian cityscape, the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) has stood on its spot over the Grand Canal for more than five hundred years. With its immediately recognisable V-shaped design, stone arcades and balustrades, it is a popular spot for photographers, lovers, tourists—any and all who flock to this beautiful city.
The legendary bridge was constructed by Antonio Da Ponte (Antonio of the Bridge, fittingly enough) who beat Michelangelo himself to secure the commission to build it. The Rialto Bridge stands at the same spot where a 12th century bridge once stood, and, at 7.5 metres at its arch, is tall enough to allow ships to pass underneath. Its central peak, as well as its symmetrical ends, make it by far the most famous and most photographed of the hundreds of bridges of all sizes that connect the different islands of Venice.
When you arrive on foot, head for one of the three walkways leading to the top of the Rialto. Two of them lie along the outer balustrade, while the central passageway runs between a row of shops in which you’ll find local Murano glassware, jewellery and other crafts on offer.
The Rialto of course is not merely a pretty, functional piece of city planning. It is a lively spot where local street vendors and entertainers flock to ply their trade. As the music plays and the crowds gather, from the top of the bridge you’ll be privileged enough to enjoy a mesmerising view of the Grand Canal wending its way through the city and its houses.
By night the bridge is a rather more peaceful, quieter spot. As the shops shut, the bridge lights up the way for all the couples ambling by on their romantic moonlit strolls.
About halfway along the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge links the market area of San Polo with the tourist focal point San Marco. You can reach the bridge by taking a vaporetto or gondola ride to the Rialto stop, or set off from St Mark’s Square on foot and head north.
