Walking through the Rialto Market, prepare to be amazed by the sights, sounds and smells as you explore endless stalls alongside the Grand Canal. Located right in the heart of historic Venice, the Rialto Market has been a popular attraction since the 11th century, and today you’ll find it’s as popular as ever with delicious produce drawing in crowds of tourists and locals alike.
To reach the iconic market, hop on the vaporetto water taxi and get off at Rialto before crossing the bridge to enter the first rows of stalls. Starting at the Erberia (greengrocer stands), you’ll see a huge array of seasonal fruit and vegetables on offer, from glossy red cherries to fresh baby artichokes, before arriving at the iconic Pescheria (fish market).
Found in a Neo-Gothic hall, the fish section is the most popular area of the Rialto Market, and for very good reason. The stallholders have an impressive range of freshly-caught seafood for sale, including crabs, octopus, eels and swordfish, so take your time as you browse the counters and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
After browsing row upon row of stalls, walk beyond the market to explore the narrow streets in the local area. Find a café, rest your feet and recharge with a strong espresso before walking over to St. Mark’s Square to take in the historic sights. Doges’ Palace is also close by. If you’re planning to see the Rialto Market, it’s worth visiting between Tuesday and Saturday when both the fish and fresh produce sections are open.
More Things To Do ideas
Find more Things To Do in Venice: Doge's Palace | Galleria Dell Accademia | Gondola Hire | Grand Canal Venice | Peggy Guggenheim Collection | Piazza San Marco | Rialto Bridge | Sighs Bridge | St Mark's Basilica | Teatro La Fenice | Venetian Secret Wine Tour | Waterbus Tour on Grand Canal