
Around Rialto Bridge (Self Guided), Venice
Having first appeared in documents that date back to the 9th century, the Rialto district was almost completely destroyed by fire in 1514, with the church of San Giacomo as the only structure left standing. Today, it is a busy urban village with a daily vegetable and fish market, several historic sights, plus a wide variety of shopping and dining options. Our self-guided walking tour takes you to explore the area on the west side of the famous bridge.
Dig into the neighborhood by first getting familiar with traditional gondolier sweaters and hats (sold at reasonable prices), then check out the elegant white Palazzo dei Camerlenghi, which once housed the city’s treasures.
For higher cultural diversions, visit the San Giacomo and the San Giovanni – two churches of very ancient foundation, the latter completely destroyed by fire in the 16th century and subsequently rebuilt. In between these, Osteria Bancogiro offers cuisine of the highest quality and presentation, with views of the Grand Canal to match.
On the last stage of the itinerary, a visit to Rialto’s food market will forge a deeper connection to the food culture of Venice and reveal local delicacies that you may otherwise have missed. ‘’
Take this self-guided walking tour to meander the streets of the Rialto district at your own pace and immerse oneself in all that is Venice, both past and present.
Getting to Sight #1. The first tour stop (Rialto Bridge) can be reached by: Alilaguna Water Taxi: Arancio (A), Water Bus: 1, 2, 2/, N (night line).
Dig into the neighborhood by first getting familiar with traditional gondolier sweaters and hats (sold at reasonable prices), then check out the elegant white Palazzo dei Camerlenghi, which once housed the city’s treasures.
For higher cultural diversions, visit the San Giacomo and the San Giovanni – two churches of very ancient foundation, the latter completely destroyed by fire in the 16th century and subsequently rebuilt. In between these, Osteria Bancogiro offers cuisine of the highest quality and presentation, with views of the Grand Canal to match.
On the last stage of the itinerary, a visit to Rialto’s food market will forge a deeper connection to the food culture of Venice and reveal local delicacies that you may otherwise have missed. ‘’
Take this self-guided walking tour to meander the streets of the Rialto district at your own pace and immerse oneself in all that is Venice, both past and present.
Getting to Sight #1. The first tour stop (Rialto Bridge) can be reached by: Alilaguna Water Taxi: Arancio (A), Water Bus: 1, 2, 2/, N (night line).
How it works: Download the app "ϳԹ: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Around Rialto Bridge Map
Guide Name: Around Rialto Bridge
Guide Location: Italy » Venice (See other walking tours in Venice)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.4 Km or 0.2 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Italy » Venice (See other walking tours in Venice)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.4 Km or 0.2 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Ponte di Rialto (Rialto Bridge)
- Emilio Ceccato
- Palazzo dei Camerlenghi (Camerlenghi Palace)
- Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto (Church of St. James of Rialto)
- Osteria Bancogiro
- Chiesa di San Giovanni Elemosinario (Church of St. John the Almsgiver)
- Mercato di Rialto (Rialto Food Market)
- Mercatino Antiquariato Campo San Maurizio (Antiques Market)
1) Ponte di Rialto (Rialto Bridge) (must see)
There are only four bridges in Venice spanning the Grand Canal, and if you explore the city on foot, you will inevitably find yourself crossing at least one of them. The Rialto Bridge, the oldest and certainly most renowned among the four, connects the Eastern and Western quarters of Venice, specifically the districts of San Marco ("Saint Mark") and San Polo ("Saint Paul").
Originally constructed of wood in the 12th century, it was later replaced by the current stone version four centuries later. The engineering solution employed seemed so audacious at the time that certain architects predicted its future ruin. However, the bridge has defied critics to become one of Venice's architectural marvels. Until the construction of the Accademia bridge in 1854, it remained the sole pedestrian crossing over the Grand Canal.
If you're comfortable navigating through the throngs of tourists bustling across the bridge, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the canal opening in both directions. Beyond the souvenir stalls are the centuries-old markets that traditionally showcase the abundance of fruits and vegetables harvested on the lagoon islands, as well as the fish freshly caught in the bordering Adriatic Sea. You may even catch sight of boats unloading their daily catch from the islands of Burano and Pellestrina.
The Rialto Bridge area also offers numerous shops and restaurants, usually on the pricier side, but masterfully tucked in so as not to disrupt the heritage exterior. Additionally, near the bridge, not to mention persuasive gondoliers who just happen to have a vacant gondola with your name on it, in case you're in for a boat ride.
Tip:
Evening is by far the best time to visit – much quieter and looks stunning.
Originally constructed of wood in the 12th century, it was later replaced by the current stone version four centuries later. The engineering solution employed seemed so audacious at the time that certain architects predicted its future ruin. However, the bridge has defied critics to become one of Venice's architectural marvels. Until the construction of the Accademia bridge in 1854, it remained the sole pedestrian crossing over the Grand Canal.
If you're comfortable navigating through the throngs of tourists bustling across the bridge, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the canal opening in both directions. Beyond the souvenir stalls are the centuries-old markets that traditionally showcase the abundance of fruits and vegetables harvested on the lagoon islands, as well as the fish freshly caught in the bordering Adriatic Sea. You may even catch sight of boats unloading their daily catch from the islands of Burano and Pellestrina.
The Rialto Bridge area also offers numerous shops and restaurants, usually on the pricier side, but masterfully tucked in so as not to disrupt the heritage exterior. Additionally, near the bridge, not to mention persuasive gondoliers who just happen to have a vacant gondola with your name on it, in case you're in for a boat ride.
Tip:
Evening is by far the best time to visit – much quieter and looks stunning.
2) Emilio Ceccato
If one's gaze has been captivated by the dapper striped T-shirts, luxuriously soft winter wool hats, and flowing crepe pants adorning the noble gondoliers of Venice, then it is advised to direct one's steps purposefully towards the esteemed purveyor known as Emilio Ceccato, situated in close proximity to the Rialto Bridge. Within this establishment, a vast assortment of meticulously crafted shirts, trousers, jackets, and impervious shoulder bags awaits, all adorned with the emblematic and undeniably chic insignia of the gondoliers.
Furthermore, in an exemplary display of patronage, a portion of the proceeds generated from these acquisitions is channeled towards initiatives dedicated to the preservation of the cherished gondola tradition, as well as the sustenance of the specialized occupations that underpin the profession of gondoliers. These initiatives encompass the craft of gondola making, the establishment of educational institutions tailored to the training of gondoliers, and other related endeavors.
Furthermore, in an exemplary display of patronage, a portion of the proceeds generated from these acquisitions is channeled towards initiatives dedicated to the preservation of the cherished gondola tradition, as well as the sustenance of the specialized occupations that underpin the profession of gondoliers. These initiatives encompass the craft of gondola making, the establishment of educational institutions tailored to the training of gondoliers, and other related endeavors.
3) Palazzo dei Camerlenghi (Camerlenghi Palace)
The Camerlenghi Palace, located at the base of the Rialto Bridge, is a grand edifice that was completed in 1488 and later expanded in the 1520s. It served as the headquarters for several financial officials, including the Camerlenghi (from whom it takes its name), Consuls of the Traders, and Supra-Consuls of the Traders. The lower floor of the palace functioned as a jail for debtors who had defaulted on their obligations, strategically positioned near the bustling Rialto Bridge as a deterrent for onlookers, hence earning the name Fondamenta delle Prigioni ("Foundation of the Prisons") for the adjacent canalside area.
Due to a Venetian tradition where departing magistrates left religiously themed paintings and portraits in their former offices, the palace became home to a wealth of artworks. Some of these paintings conveyed civic virtues and social-political ideals; however, many were removed during the French occupation, and while some eventually returned to Venice, they found their place primarily in the Gallery of the Academy ("Gallerie dell'Accademia").
Today, the Camerlenghi Palace houses the regional main offices of the Italian Comptroller and Auditor General. The three-story palace gracefully follows the curve of the Grand Canal, featuring tall windows adorned with decorative friezes and false columns, although the once-present polychrome marble and porphyry slabs have been lost to time.
Due to a Venetian tradition where departing magistrates left religiously themed paintings and portraits in their former offices, the palace became home to a wealth of artworks. Some of these paintings conveyed civic virtues and social-political ideals; however, many were removed during the French occupation, and while some eventually returned to Venice, they found their place primarily in the Gallery of the Academy ("Gallerie dell'Accademia").
Today, the Camerlenghi Palace houses the regional main offices of the Italian Comptroller and Auditor General. The three-story palace gracefully follows the curve of the Grand Canal, featuring tall windows adorned with decorative friezes and false columns, although the once-present polychrome marble and porphyry slabs have been lost to time.
4) Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto (Church of St. James of Rialto)
According to legend, the first church established on this site dates back to the 5th century, coinciding with the initial settlement of the island, making it the oldest church in Venice. The current structure, built for the convenience of the merchants frequenting the Rialto markets, was constructed between the 11th and 12th centuries. Significant restoration work was carried out in 1601. The church is notable for its original Gothic portico, one of the only two remaining examples in Venice, and a large 15th-century 24-hour clock adorning its facade. Interestingly, the clock's inaccuracy has been a running joke in Venice since its installation.
On the square's far side, there is a crouching stone figure known as the Gobbo (hunchback) of the Rialto. During the 16th century, this statue served as a sight for minor offenders who were required to endure a challenging run from Saint Mark's Square ("Piazza San Marco") to this square at the Rialto. Inside the church, there are Veneto-Byzantine capitals on six columns made of ancient Greek marble, which date back to the 11th century. On the exterior of the apse, there is a 12th-century inscription directed towards the merchants of the Rialto, stating, "Around this temple, let the merchant's law be just, his weights accurate, and his promises trustworthy".
On the square's far side, there is a crouching stone figure known as the Gobbo (hunchback) of the Rialto. During the 16th century, this statue served as a sight for minor offenders who were required to endure a challenging run from Saint Mark's Square ("Piazza San Marco") to this square at the Rialto. Inside the church, there are Veneto-Byzantine capitals on six columns made of ancient Greek marble, which date back to the 11th century. On the exterior of the apse, there is a 12th-century inscription directed towards the merchants of the Rialto, stating, "Around this temple, let the merchant's law be just, his weights accurate, and his promises trustworthy".
5) Osteria Bancogiro
Located in a prime spot between the market and the Rialto Bridge, Osteria Bancogiro is a fantastic choice for indulging in authentic Venetian cuisine. Renowned for its sophisticated menu and excellent reputation for dinner, this establishment showcases a passion for the finest cheeses and offers delightful 'cicchetti' (bite-sized dishes) options at the bar. For an elevated, more substantial dining experience, the upstairs area presents a range of Venetian classics, although it is advisable to make a reservation in advance.
This restaurant and coffee bar occupies one of Venice's most coveted locations, situated beneath the portico where affluent Venetians dispatched their servants to settle outstanding debts. During warmer weather, the terrace is open, providing guests with a splendid view of the majestic Grand Canal.
This restaurant and coffee bar occupies one of Venice's most coveted locations, situated beneath the portico where affluent Venetians dispatched their servants to settle outstanding debts. During warmer weather, the terrace is open, providing guests with a splendid view of the majestic Grand Canal.
6) Chiesa di San Giovanni Elemosinario (Church of St. John the Almsgiver)
The Church of Saint John the Almsgiver is tightly squeezed among the surrounding buildings, with its 15th-century bell tower being the only prominent sign of its existence. Originally established in the 11th century, it suffered severe damage during the massive fire of 1514. Only the bell tower survived, and after the church was reconstructed between 1527 and 1529 according to designs by Scarpagnino, a bell was rung every evening as a signal for all fires to be extinguished for the night.
The majority of the church's ornamentation dates back to the decades following its reconstruction. It houses several paintings by the prolific Palma il Giovane, as well as artworks by Leonardo Corona. However, the most notable pieces are the high altarpiece by Titian titled "Saint John the Almsgiver," depicting the 7th-century Patriarch of Alexandria, and Pordenone's nearby painting "Saints Catherine, Sebastian, and Roch". The latter portrays a robust and monumental San Sebastiano, with his nearly naked figure exuding strength, a vibrant and absorbed Santa Caterina gazing skyward, and a spontaneous San Rocco displaying a healed leg, symbolizing his recovery from the bubonic plague. Additionally, the cupola features frescoes by Pordenone, showcasing a group of cherubs with robust figures.
The majority of the church's ornamentation dates back to the decades following its reconstruction. It houses several paintings by the prolific Palma il Giovane, as well as artworks by Leonardo Corona. However, the most notable pieces are the high altarpiece by Titian titled "Saint John the Almsgiver," depicting the 7th-century Patriarch of Alexandria, and Pordenone's nearby painting "Saints Catherine, Sebastian, and Roch". The latter portrays a robust and monumental San Sebastiano, with his nearly naked figure exuding strength, a vibrant and absorbed Santa Caterina gazing skyward, and a spontaneous San Rocco displaying a healed leg, symbolizing his recovery from the bubonic plague. Additionally, the cupola features frescoes by Pordenone, showcasing a group of cherubs with robust figures.
7) Mercato di Rialto (Rialto Food Market) (must see)
If you seek to experience Venice in its entirety, then head to the Rialto Market! Just like in any other city, this food market is a pulsating center of the local community. Among other things, the Rialto Market epitomizes the sincerity and joyfulness of the Venetians and their love of life, which is why some people mistake it for an open-air theme park.
To describe the Rialto Market, one must begin with its location, directly overlooking the Grand Canal since as early as the 11th century. Another distinct feature is the creative product signage crafted by the grocers. These signs not only provide information about the origin and price, but also offer detailed characteristics and sometimes even cooking tips, all presented in a very artistic style.
The entire place is as much colorful and lively as it is highly practical. Here, you can buy flowers, spices, seasonal produce, fresh meat and seafood, all of which have a wide range of options and surprisingly reasonable prices. While you may recognize some of the fish, such as salmon, the majority of the selection is quite exotic. For example, you can find cuttlefish used for the famous black ink pasta unique to Venice, as well as a wide variety of shellfish. A mere watching all this is a feast for eyes and a grand source of photo opportunities!
Tip:
As part of tourist etiquette, please keep in mind that it's a regular market, where regular people come for regular shopping – so try and be as little hindrance as possible. It is also important to ask for permission before touching any items for sale, so as not to disturb anyone.
To describe the Rialto Market, one must begin with its location, directly overlooking the Grand Canal since as early as the 11th century. Another distinct feature is the creative product signage crafted by the grocers. These signs not only provide information about the origin and price, but also offer detailed characteristics and sometimes even cooking tips, all presented in a very artistic style.
The entire place is as much colorful and lively as it is highly practical. Here, you can buy flowers, spices, seasonal produce, fresh meat and seafood, all of which have a wide range of options and surprisingly reasonable prices. While you may recognize some of the fish, such as salmon, the majority of the selection is quite exotic. For example, you can find cuttlefish used for the famous black ink pasta unique to Venice, as well as a wide variety of shellfish. A mere watching all this is a feast for eyes and a grand source of photo opportunities!
Tip:
As part of tourist etiquette, please keep in mind that it's a regular market, where regular people come for regular shopping – so try and be as little hindrance as possible. It is also important to ask for permission before touching any items for sale, so as not to disturb anyone.
8) Mercatino Antiquariato Campo San Maurizio (Antiques Market)
There is a compelling reason for this well-established Venetian antique market to take place in Campo San Maurizio. This charming square is notable for its Gothic-style palaces, including Bellavite and Molin, which occupy the western side. On the eastern side, one can find Palazzo Zaguri, another impressive Gothic palace. However, the square's true gem is the Church of San Maurizio, an ancient temple adorned with a neoclassical gabled facade.
For many decades, this historically rich setting has played host to an antique market that never fails to captivate visitors, offering a wide array of precious art objects showcased on traditional wooden stalls. Here, one can admire genuine works of art, including paintings, collectibles, antique furniture, and exquisite jewelry, all presented by esteemed antique dealers from Venice and northern Italy. It is virtually impossible not to discover a treasured piece to take home from this event.
A must-visit for enthusiasts of antiques, vintage items, and collectibles, particularly those fortunate enough to be in Venice during the five annual weekends when this event graces the city.
Note:
The market does not take place every month but rather occurs in April, June, September, October, and December.
For many decades, this historically rich setting has played host to an antique market that never fails to captivate visitors, offering a wide array of precious art objects showcased on traditional wooden stalls. Here, one can admire genuine works of art, including paintings, collectibles, antique furniture, and exquisite jewelry, all presented by esteemed antique dealers from Venice and northern Italy. It is virtually impossible not to discover a treasured piece to take home from this event.
A must-visit for enthusiasts of antiques, vintage items, and collectibles, particularly those fortunate enough to be in Venice during the five annual weekends when this event graces the city.
Note:
The market does not take place every month but rather occurs in April, June, September, October, and December.
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