Rialto Bridge, Venice

One of Venice’s most visited attractions, the Rialto Bridge is the most famous of the bridges crossing the Gran Canal, as well as the oldest. Constructed at the end of the 16th century by Antonio da Ponte, there had previously been a floating bridge and a wooden bridge at the spot, the canal’s narrowest point and the former dividing line between the San Marco and San Polo districts. The bridge has suffered damage over the years due to both its age and its vast number of visitors, but is due to be restored with funds donated by one of Italy’s richest men. The bridge has an external crossing offering a great vantage point of both the canal and the surrounding palaces. Whether you go over, under or simply stroll past the bridge, make sure you stay in one of our cheap hotels, hostels, B&Bs and apartments in Venice.