Summary
Venice, often dubbed the “City of Canals” and the “Floating City,” is also referred to as the “City of Bridges.” This is due to the extensive number of bridges that traverse its picturesque waterways. While many of Venice’s over 400 bridges serve practical purposes, many also showcase the stunning beauty and rich history of this vibrant photographic destination.
Here are the notable bridges to explore during your journey to Venice.
Bridge of Sighs
Address: 30124 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Phone: +39 848 082 000
The infamous Bridge of Sighs links the Doge’s Palace with the prisons. While many view its name romantically, it historically provided prisoners a final glimpse of Venice before facing their fate. This bridge is also renowned as one of the most popular places to kiss in Venice.
Rialto Bridge
Address: 30125 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
The acclaimed Rialto Bridge serves as the primary pedestrian crossing over the Grand Canal, offering stunning views and housing numerous shops. Close by is the famous Rialto fish and food market, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.
Academy Bridge
Address: Campo S. Vidal, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
The Academy Bridge (Ponte dell’Accademia) spans the Grand Canal, located near the Galleria dell’Accademia, one of Venice’s top museums.
Originally built in the mid-19th century and rebuilt in the 1980s, the bridge features unique high-arch construction and is made of wood, making it a distinct architectural treasure.
Scalzi Bridge
Address: Ponte degli Scalzi, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy
Named after the nearby Chiesa degli Scalzi (Church of the Barefoot Monks), this elegant stone bridge connects the Santa Croce and Cannaregio neighborhoods.
Having been established in 1934, the Scalzi Bridge is one of four vital crossings over the Grand Canal, making it a significant landmark, especially for those arriving via Venezia Santa Lucia Station.
Calatrava Bridge
Address: Ponte de la Costituzione, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy
Inaugurated in 2008, the Calatrava Bridge, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, completes the set of four bridges spanning the Grand Canal. Its modern design and construction have sparked debate, yet it serves an essential function by linking Santa Lucia Rail Station to Piazzale Roma.
Ponte delle Guglie
Address: Ponte delle Guglie, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy
The charming Ponte delle Guglie is one of the two bridges that span the Cannaregio Canal. Close to its western end and in proximity to the Grand Canal, this bridge showcases exquisite ornamentation, featuring gargoyles and metal spires, making it unique among Venice’s architectural offerings.
Ponte della Paglia
Address: 30124 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
This historical bridge, dating back to 1847, offers the best viewpoint of the Bridge of Sighs. According to local legends, its name derives from the use of the bridge for docking boats that carried straw into Venice.
Ponte della Liberta
Address: Ponte della Libertà, Venezia VE, Italy
The Ponte della Liberta connects the Venetian mainland to the city center, originally named the Ponte Littorio. Opened by Benito Mussolini in 1933, it was later renamed to symbolize Italy’s liberation post-World War II. This impressive bridge is often the first crossing for visitors arriving by train at Venice Santa Lucia station.
