Overview
The Bridge of Sighs is a beautiful white limestone enclosed bridge with small windows with stone bars. It connects the Doge's Palace to the state prison and is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice.
The bridge is named for the sighs of prisoners as they were led to their cells, and it is a prime example of Venetian Baroque architecture.
Location
Address
Piazza San Marco, 1, Venice, Veneto
Neighborhood: San Marco
Coordinates
45.434296, 12.338972
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • Carnival in late February/March
- • flowers
summer
hot and humid
- • extended daylight hours
- • outdoor concerts
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall colors
- • Venice Marathon in late October
winter
cold and sometimes rainy
- • Christmas markets
- • New Year's Eve celebrations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather forecast
- Wear comfortable shoes
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • uneven surfaces
- • stairs
Medical facilities: first aid available at nearby St. Mark's Basilica
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
Euro
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, beachwear
Booking Tips
- • at least 1 week
- • official website or reputable third-party sites
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • available for purchase online
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Venice Official App
Size: 60 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Events calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: nearby cafes, piazze (squares)
Charging Stations: nearby cafes and restaurants
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)
Distance: 15 km
Travel Time: 20-30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1-2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The Bridge of Sighs is an iconic symbol of Venice, representing the city's rich history and unique architecture.
Historical Significance: The bridge was built in the 17th century to connect the Doge's Palace to the state prison, allowing prisoners to be led silently to their cells. The name is said to come from the sighs of the prisoners as they took their last view of Venice through the small windows.
Insider Tips
- The best views of the bridge are from the other side of the canal
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- The bridge is beautifully lit at night, making for stunning photographs
Local Recommendations
- • Try a local cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at a nearby bacaro
- • Ask for a local guide to learn more about the bridge's history
- • Visit the nearby St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Italian, English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Bridge of Sighs
Best Time: Golden hour (late afternoon)
Tips: Low angle for the bridge's reflection in the canal, or from the other side of the canal for a full view
Result: Stunning photographs of the iconic bridge with beautiful lighting
View from the bridge's windows
Best Time: Daytime
Tips: Capture the view of the canal and surrounding buildings
Result: Unique perspective of Venice from the enclosed bridge
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
St. Mark's Basilica
Distance: 50m
Walking: 1 min
Type: Cathedral
Doge's Palace
Distance: 50m
Walking: 1 min
Type: Museum
Campo San Zaccaria
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Square
Piazza San Marco
Distance: 50m
Walking: 1 min
Type: Square
Correr Museum
Distance: 100m
Walking: 2 min
Type: Museum
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Church
Reviews
Based on 25,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds"
- "Combine your visit with a tour of the Doge's Palace"
- "Take a gondola ride for a unique perspective of the bridge"
- "Don't forget to look down at the reflection in the canal"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
100
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
25,000
Adult Entry
€15 (includes entry to Doge's Palace and Correr Museum)