Bridge of Sighs travel guide

The Bridge of Sighs, known as Ponte dei Sospiri in Italian, is one of Venice's most famous architectural wonders. Built in 1600, it was designed by Antonio Contino, whose uncle Antonio da Ponte also designed the Rialto Bridge.

The bridge was used to transport prisoners from the interrogation rooms in the Doge’s Palace to the New Prison across the Rio di Palazzo. The name 'Bridge of Sighs' was coined in the 19th century, when Lord Byron romanticized the idea that prisoners would sigh at their last view of beautiful Venice through the window before being taken down to their cells.

Today, the Bridge of Sighs is one of Venice's tourism icons, attracting countless visitors each year who are captivated by its baroque design and fascinating history. The bridge also offers a picturesque view of the lagoon and is a popular spot for couples, as local folklore says that lovers will be granted eternal love if they kiss on a gondola at sunset under the Bridge of Sighs.

The Bridge of Sighs is not just a common bridge; it's an encapsulated, covered bridge made of white limestone with windows featuring stone bars. It's one of only four bridges in the world constructed this way. Unlike other bridges, it doesn't serve the purpose of simply crossing a body of water. Instead, it connects the interrogation rooms in Doge's Palace to the New Prison. It offers an eye-catching contrast with the surrounding architecture, as it's adorned with exquisite Baroque sculptures, making it a masterpiece of 17th-century design.

The bridge is also unique in its emotional significance. The name 'Bridge of Sighs' came from the alleged sighs of prisoners who caught their last glimpse of Venice through the tiny windows before being taken to their cells. Thus, it symbolizes the transition from freedom to captivity. Despite its dark history, the bridge has evolved into a symbol of romance. It's believed that a kiss shared on a gondola under the bridge guarantees eternal love. This blend of beauty, history, and sentimentality makes the Bridge of Sighs a truly unique Venetian attraction.

Located in Venice, the iconic Bridge of Sighs is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Venice or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Italy.

Venice is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Venice offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable St. Mark's Square, Rialto Bridge, Doge's Palace, Saint Mark's Basilica, and Teatro La Fenice.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Venice has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Venice - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Bridge of Sighs is located in Venice, Italy, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Venice Marco Polo Airport is approximately 4.95 miles (7.97 km) away from Venice. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Bridge of Sighs is located.

If you’re already in Venice, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the footbridge. The exact address of the attraction is P. Za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy, Italy.

You can also rent a car and drive to Bridge of Sighs. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Bridge of Sighs and other top attractions in Venice at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Bridge of Sighs!

The best time to explore the Bridge of Sighs in Venice, Italy, is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). These periods offer mild weather and fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed and intimate experience. Venice's annual Carnival celebration in February is another great time to visit, with the city's festive atmosphere adding a unique layer to the sightseeing experience. However, be aware that it can be quite busy during this time. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid peak crowd times and to catch the bridge in the most flattering light. Visiting during a weekday can also help avoid weekend crowds. For an extra special experience, consider a gondola ride under the Bridge of Sighs in the evening when it's beautifully illuminated, offering a romantic and memorable perspective of this iconic structure.

No visit to Venice is complete without a trip to Bridge of Sighs, one of the most iconic attractions in Italy drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique footbridge, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Bridge of Sighs starting from 20 EUR below.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Venice and top attractions like Bridge of Sighs with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Bridge of Sighs and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Venice, Italy, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind footbridge in Italy.

Discovering Italy's captivating landscapes and the iconic Bridge of Sighs becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 9 reputable rental car companies near Venice Marco Polo Airport and the city of Venice, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Italy's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Venice and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, Viaggiare currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 8.98 EUR per day or 62.83 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Via Orlanda 216, 30173 in Venice, this rental option ensures you can explore Italy's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Venice by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Bridge of Sighs just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Venice.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Bridge of Sighs below.

Venice offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Venice, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely St. Mark's Square, Rialto Bridge, and Doge's Palace.

St. Mark's Square is a bucket-list square and top attraction in Venice, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 152,982 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of St. Mark's Square is P. Za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Venice is Rialto Bridge. This is just like St. Mark's Square, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 141,666 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this stone bridge is Sestiere San Polo, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy.

Doge's Palace is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Venice. This palace and top attraction in Venice has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Doge's Palace creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of P. Za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Venice below.