Bridge of Sighs Tours and Activities

Bridge of Sighs featuring heritage architecture and a river or creek
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Arching high over the water, linking a palace with a prison, is a spectacular bridge steeped in local legends.  

The 17th-century Bridge of Sighs sits above the Palace River. It was designed to connect the interrogation rooms of Doge's Palace with a prison on the other side of the waterway. Discover why this white limestone structure is considered to be one of the most romantic sites in Venice, despite its dark history.

The magnificent crossing was named by the poet Lord Byron in the 19th century, inspired by a local legend. Prisoners who crossed the enclosed walkway on their way to prison gave a sigh of regret. They did so as they took a last look at the city through the bridge’s windows. 

Enter the bridge via the palace to view Venice through the stone bars, just like the prisoners used to do all those years ago. Then take a gondola ride and pass under the structure. From the water, you are able to study the Italian Renaissance-style bridge in more detail. Look up to see the mascarons, decorative ornaments in the form of happy and sad faces. 

A ride on the river to the bridge is the source of another theory about how it got its name. This one claims that lovers who go on a sunset gondola ride and kiss each other under the bridge are granted eternal love and bliss. They sigh because they are overwhelmed with romance.  

The bridge connects Doge’s Palace to the Palazzo delle Prigioni Nuove and is a short walk along the waterfront from Piazza San Marco. Take a tour of the palace, then cross the bridge via one of its two corridors to the former prison. This building was also used as an infirmary. Book ahead for these tours because they fill up quickly, especially during the peak tourist season.

Plan a trip to see Bridge of Sighs

Hotel Marconi
Hotel San Moisè
Hotel Bisanzio
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Reviews of Bridge of Sighs

4.4
Top destination
5 - Excellent
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" "5 - Excellent 49.6437054631829%
4 - Good
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" "4 - Good 38.95486935866983%
3 - Okay
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" "3 - Okay 10.926365795724466%
2 - Disappointing
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" "2 - Disappointing 0.2375296912114014%
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" "1 - Terrible 0.2375296912114014%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
Jun. 21, 2019

venice is beautiful everywhere...lots of canals , so lot of small bridges and stairs AND PEOPLE...but it is the price to pay to visit it. MOST EVERY SMALL PLACES AND GONDOLES ARE CASH PAIMENT ONLY. But you can buy your activities with credit cards at agency Buccintoro Viaggi close by Piazza San Marco, ask your hotel Exemple gondole 80 to 120 euros CASH per person or 33 euros each on credit card at the agency. FOR THE SAME TOUR

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
Jun. 2, 2019

It would only have meaning to you if you understood the history hence the recommendation for a tour guide.

5/5 - Excellent

Raven RavenR
Mar. 10, 2019

I made this out of Popsicle sticks when I was in grade 3, so seeing it in person really made me emotional. A lot smaller than expected though.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
Oct. 29, 2018

Nice but over-rated. Lots of things better to see.

5/5 - Excellent

Pam
Oct. 24, 2018

Its really small and you could miss it - so be aware for taking pictures

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
Oct. 2, 2018

Go early.... difficult for a great view or pic once all he crowds arrive.

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