Built in white Istrian stone towards the end of the 1500s, the Rialto Bridge rises majestically and elegantly over the Grand Canal, enchanting the millions of people who visit Venice.

The city’s most beautiful and best known, it is the oldest of four bridges crossing the canal, namely Ponte dell’Accademia, Ponte degli Scalzi and Ponte della Costituzione.

The single imposing archway, spanning more than 28 metres, houses twenty-four luxurious shops (twelve on each side) and allows large boats to pass underneath.

Here are some of our tips for a stop for “Venetian cicchetti” near the Rialto Bridge:

-Osteria Ruga Rialto

Very close to the Rialto Market, it is a historic, retro-style, family-run establishment frequented by many of the city’s inhabitants, where you can sample good wines and Venetian dishes. -Rosticceria Gislon

A stone’s throw from the Rialto Bridge, it is a small restaurant hidden among the calli where you can enjoy delicious dishes, even quick ones, of the Venetian tradition. If you pass by the rotisserie, don’t forget to try the exquisite “mozzarella in carrozza” with ham or anchovies (the best in town!).

-Osteria Antico Dolo

Located in Calle Ruga Rialto, the osteria is a restaurant with an intimate and familiar atmosphere, offering a rich menu of delicious typical dishes.

-Al Mercà

A two-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge, this is a quaint tavern where you can take a short break, enjoying one of the best Venetian spritzes, glasses of good wine and delicious Venetian cicchetti made with local produce, such as the paninetti with salami that are the restaurant’s speciality.

Prosecco, you need wine to feel