The Rialto Markets (Mercati di Rialto) are the perfect place to discover the real heart of the city when it's just beginning to stir and to experience the true Venetian way of living. They are located in the centre of the city, by the Rialto Bridge, and they are the oldest market in Venice.
On this private tour, you will:
- Avoid the crowds of tourists and get a taste of local Venice with this early morning tour;
- Walk over the Rialto Bridge, one of the most popular highlights of the city and the oldest bridge over the Gran Canal;
- Explore the buzzing Rialto District, Venice's trading hub in the heart of the city and the oldest market area of the Venetian lagune;
- Mingle with locals and spot the Venetian ladies expertly navigating the market stalls with their shopping trolly - they know what to buy and where for the best quality products and best prices;
- Learn about the island of Sant'Erasmo, known as the vegetable garden of Venice, where many of the Rialto market vegetables come from;
- Walk around the famous Venetian fish market, held in a beautiful red brick loggia building with elegant arches, and take in the rich variety of sea produce ranging from fish to squid, molluscs and shellfish;
- Learn the tricks to buying fish here, you can find the best selection of fresh fish early in the mornings, but the best deals happen around 12.00 pm right before the market closes!
As the saying goes, the early bird catches the worm, and on this tour, you will certainly explore the hotspots before the crowds awaken.
Not only will you see Venetian's famous canals, squares, and landmarks, but you will also see the millenary trade centre come alive at the stroke of sunrise where Venetians of all ages come to do their shopping.
Explore the Venice Rialto markets and venture through authentic Venice to get a feeling of the true Venetian lifestyle. Watch fishermen at work as they prepare and cut Venetian squid, and observe the slicing of artichoke before they are sold at food markets.
Be sure to ask your private guide for a local espresso recommendation for a burst of caffeine before you commence your tour!
Tour duration2.5 hours 30 minutes
Type of tourWalking tour: no transportation is included
Attractions along this route:
Rialto BridgeVenice’s busiest and most iconic bridge, the Rialto gives visitors a wonderful view of the Grand Canal.
Venetian LagoonThe Laguna Veneta is the heartbeat of the city and is best experienced in the early morning before tourists descend.
Rialto Fish MarketThis traditional fish market, located right by the Grand Canal, offers a wide variety of fresh fish that marvels both locals and tourists. You can find squid, spider crabs and even moeche, straight from the Venetian lagoon.
Rialto Vegetable & Fruit MarketExplore the colours and scents of fresh produce at the Rialto fruit and vegetable market that marvels both locals and tourists.
