Venice is also called the city of bridges and rightly so. There are over 400 connecting bridges in different parts of the city. Today some of these bridges are a peak tourist attraction in Venice, the likes of which are:
1. Rialto Bridge
It was initially a wooden drawbridge which was rebuilt in stone in the 16th century by Antonio da Ponte. It is the main pedestrian crossing over the Grand Canal with shops lined across selling jewellery, glass, and clothing etc. The Rialto fish and food market is also located nearby, making it great for shopping, which is one of the Things to Do in Venice.
2. Bridge of Sighs
Also known as Ponte dei Sospiri, it is a white Istrian stone bridge, which connected the Palazzo Ducale to the city’s historic prison. Back in the day, the prisoners serving their sentences could only get a glimpse of the city from a small window. Today the bridge is somewhat romanticized and is visited by couples and others.
3. Ponte dei Pugni
The bridge connects Campo San Barnaba and Campo Santa Margherita. The name of the bridge translates to Bridge of Fists as it was the central spot for the two rival groups the Castellani and the Nicolotti to tussle and toss one another in the water. Today, you can find traces of the dangerous history by looking at four stone footprints on the bridge.
Some of the other famous brides to go on a stroll for or admire while riding a Gondola are Academy Bridge, Ponte della Liberta, Ponte della Paglia, Calatrava Bridge and Ponte delle Guglie.