We arrived in Venice around 5:00 am at Mestre Station. As luck would have it, the next bus to the island of Venice was already there at the station to leave, so we took the next bus to the island of Venice. The journey took about 30 minutes. When we got there, we went to eat our breakfast at a stall next to the station. I had a sandwich and a croissant with cappuccino, while Ingrid just ordered a sandwich with hot chocolate. We spent around 14 euros to buy everything.
We then walked to the hotel, where we struggled to get in and unlock the door. This is because we have to ask the hotel manager for access to the doors. He gives us access codes, we type the code into the padlock and take the keys to get in.
As soon as we had solved the problem of getting in, we slept for a while, about 3 hours. When I woke up, it was around 12 noon, so I went out to enjoy Venice. I left first and Ingrid stayed asleep. Then we met on the street by the Rialto Bridge.
First Impressions of Venice
Walking through Venice until I reached the Rialto Bridge, I realized how well preserved the city is, how history has been maintained there over the years, history is alive. The monuments are very old, some of them very well preserved, others not so much, others abandoned. The streets where cars would pass are like canals, there are no cars in Venice, but there are several boats. I realized that everything there is done by boat. Goods are transported as far as the entrance to Venice by truck or conventional transport, but from there in, only by boat. People literally carry everything in a boat, food, groceries, I saw people carrying a huge piece of glass, quite possibly for decoration or for a house or bathroom. I saw people carrying various boxes, food, very unusual things. There are also gondolas for lovers in the center, near the Rialto Bridge, where you pay 80 euros and take a short tour of Venice’s canals. It’s a very romantic stroll, especially if you do it at sunset, for couples in love.
The streets are too narrow for a car, so it’s left to the tourists to walk. Speaking of tourists, there are a lot of people there, and you can see that Venice is a small town that lives off tourism, as there is no other activity there that keeps the place economically alive. Restaurants, hotels, local accommodation, the sale of traditional masks and costumes, decorative items, souvenirs, cultural events, the promotion of Italian culture and food. I realized that Venice has more to do with promoting Italian culture, food, traditions, keeping that local culture alive and perpetuating local history than actually making money and turning Italy’s economy around. Of course, there are people who go there and spend a lot of money, but compared in a macro scenario, that’s what I realized, Venice is more about promoting Italian culture itself than generating wealth in financial terms.
I went for coffee, had a croissant with orange juice and a cappuccino. I paid 5.5 euros for everything.
Insert breakfast image
Getting to know the Rialto Bridge
Then I met Ingrid at the Rialto. We walked around the center of Venice and had a slice of pizza. It’s a very crowded area, you’ll be amazed at how many people there are.
The Rialto Bridge, the oldest in Venice, spans the Grand Canal with grace and resilience. Dating back to the 16th century, it’s not just a bridge; it’s a testament to the city’s endurance through the ages.
At the heart of the Rialto Bridge lies the bustling Rialto Market, a sensory explosion of colors and aromas. Immerse yourself in the daily life of Venetians as you explore the vibrant stalls filled with fresh produce, seafood, and local treasures. For a magical experience, visit the bridge at sunset. The warm hues reflect off the canal, casting a romantic glow over the city. It’s a moment you won’t forget. I did it and as a prove I let the photo here below.
Insert photo of the sunset on the rialto bridge
Another point to mention is that the food is a bit expensive, I paid 4.5 euros for a piece of pizza, in Positano I also paid more, 5.50 euros, but I realized how expensive it was when I arrived in Venice. It’s a place full of history and there are always street performers on the Rialto Bridge. We saw a boy playing his violin, and in the end the place, which was already crowded, became even more crowded, with everyone stopping to watch the boy play his violin on the Rialto Bridge.
Insert video of boy playing his violin from youtube shorts
The center of Venice, around the Rialto Bridge, is a place where you can spend hours and hours walking around and not notice the time passing. I imagine that around 5 days in Venice is more than enough to get to know the city well, the small streets, restaurants, food, culture and events that take place there, of course, from the point of view of a tourist and not a local, after all, it is a small place.
There are also famous watch and jewelry stores right on the Rialto Bridge, and they’re strategically placed there, as it’s where wealthy people from all over the world pass through.
Venice’s farewell atmosphere
By then it was evening, around 8pm, so we went to the market to buy breakfast for the next day. We spent around 15 euros, buying cheese, bread and juice. We then went for dinner at Trattoria Pizzeria da Sara, a restaurant on one of the small streets in the direction of the Rialto Bridge. There, the menu is varied, with very good Italian food, pizza and pasta with excellent wine at a very good price.
We ordered two carbonaras, a bottle of wine and a coke. There, the atmosphere was already one of farewell, we knew that the next day we would be saying goodbye, and I already felt a tightness in my heart at having to say goodbye to her. But living with goodbyes is part of life, and we have to deal with it until the next meeting.
From there we went to the hotel to sleep. That was our last night in Venice.
Are there events or celebrations that may impact the accessibility of the Rialto Bridge?
Venice Carnival is a major event that draws crowds to the Rialto Bridge. During this time, access can be challenging, but the festive atmosphere is worth it. Check the local calendar for other events that might influence bridge accessibility.
What is the best time of the day to take a gongola ride?
To avoid the crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. Exploring the bridge during weekdays can also be less hectic than weekends. Additionally, taking less-traveled side streets around the bridge allows for a more relaxed experience.
What is the best spot for capturing picturesque photos of the Rialto Bridge and Venice’s skyline?
For breathtaking photos, head to the nearby Fondaco dei Tedeschi terrace. It offers a panoramic view of the Rialto Bridge, the Grand Canal, and the red-tiled rooftops of Venice. Sunset is an ideal time, as the soft light bathes the scene in a warm glow.
Are there any guided tours or local experiences to get to know Venice?
Yes, numerous guided tours offer a fascinating journey into the history of Venice. Knowledgeable guides share stories of its construction, the significance of its location, and its role in Venetian commerce. These tours often provide a richer understanding of the bridge’s cultural importance.
