The Enigmatic Beauty of the Bridge of Sighs
Discover the haunting beauty and history of Venice's Bridge of Sighs, a must-see tourist attraction connecting the past with the present.
The Bridge of Sighs is one of Venice's most iconic landmarks, steeped in history and architectural beauty. This enclosed bridge, constructed in the early 17th century, connects the Doge's Palace to the historic prison. Its name is derived from the sighs of prisoners who would take their last glimpse of the beautiful city before being led to their cells, making it a poignant symbol of Venice's darker past. Visitors to the Bridge of Sighs are often struck by its elegant Baroque design, with its white limestone facade and intricate details. The bridge is perhaps best viewed from the nearby waterfront, where you can appreciate its unique structure against the backdrop of the serene waters of the canal. It's a popular spot for photographs, especially during sunset when the light casts a magical glow over the scene. Aside from its architectural allure, the Bridge of Sighs offers a glimpse into the historical narratives of Venice. Tourists often enjoy guided tours that delve into the stories of the Doge's Palace and the prison, enriching their understanding of this remarkable city. The bridge stands as a testament to Venice's complex history, making it an essential stop on any tourist's itinerary. For those looking to explore further, the surrounding area is filled with charming streets and picturesque canals, perfect for wandering and discovering local shops and cafes. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a lover of beautiful sights, the Bridge of Sighs promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Venice.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Bring a camera; the bridge and surrounding canals are incredibly photogenic, especially at sunset.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the bridge's history and its connection to the Doge's Palace.
- Look for vantage points along the canals for the best views of the bridge and its stunning architecture.
- Check the opening hours, especially if planning a visit in the off-season, as times may vary.
A brief summary to Bridge of Sighs
- Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, 30124, IT
- +39848082000
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-11 pm
- Saturday 9 am-11 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco), head towards the Basilica di San Marco. Once you are facing the basilica, walk to your left along the edge of the square. Continue walking until you reach the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale). The Bridge of Sighs is located just behind the Doge's Palace. Look for the entrance to the bridge on the right side of the palace; you can take pictures from both sides of the bridge.
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Walking
If you are coming from the Rialto Bridge, make your way to the San Marco area. Head south along Calle dei Fabbri and continue straight until you reach the Grand Canal. Cross over the Grand Canal using the Accademia Bridge (Ponte dell'Accademia). After crossing, go straight along Campo Santo Stefano, and then turn right onto Calle del Ridotto. This will lead you to St. Mark's Square. From there, follow the previous directions to reach the Bridge of Sighs.
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Water Taxi
If you prefer to arrive by water, you can take a water taxi from any point along the Grand Canal. Request to be dropped off at the nearest water taxi stop to St. Mark's Square. Once you disembark, follow the directions provided earlier to reach the Bridge of Sighs by walking from St. Mark's Square.
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Public Vaporetto
Take Vaporetto line 1 or 2 to the San Marco Vallaresso stop. After getting off, walk towards St. Mark's Square. Once you are at the square, follow the directions given earlier to find the Bridge of Sighs behind the Doge's Palace.
Attractions Nearby to Bridge of Sighs
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Ponte della Paglia
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Circolo Artistico - Palazzo Delle Prigioni
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Palazzo delle Prigioni
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Scala dei Giganti
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Doge's Palace
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Carta Gate
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Portrait of the Four Tetrarchs
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Saint Mark's Basilica
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Colonna di San Marco
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P.za San Marco & Piazzetta S. Marco
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Carmagnola Head
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Bacino di San Marco
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Gondola Danieli
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St. Mark’s Museum
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Colonna di San Todaro
Landmarks nearby to Bridge of Sighs
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P.za San Marco, 328
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Vecchia Murano V.M. srl
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P.za San Marco
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Ponte dei Carmini
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Riva degli Schiavoni
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National Archeological Museum
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Residenza Veneziana
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Museo Correr
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Campo Santa Maria Formosa, 5263
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Campo Santa Maria Formosa
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Campo San Gallo
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Venice Tours
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Foresteria Valdese Venezia
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Ponte dei Baretteri
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Museo di Palazzo Grimani