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Ponte Vecchio

Via Por Santa Maria, Florence

4.5

Ponte Vecchio, or Old Bridge, is a medieval stone bridge in Florence. It used to be the only bridge across the Arno River of Florence till 1218. It was the only bridge that German Nazis didn't destroy during Second World War when fleeing. Ponte Vecchio is a very romantic place to visit in Florence,especially in the evening, with its great views on the waters of Arno.

Ponte Vecchio is also famous for it still has shops built along it, the way it used to be in middle ages. There been shops on the bridge since the 13th century. Originally, shops were selling almost everything from meat to jeweler. However, since 16th century it only suggests golden objects and jewelry.

A bust of Benvenuto Cellini, a 16th century goldsmith,stands on Ponte Vecchio.

You can also take a boat ride to fully admire the bridge from underneath.

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Reviews

  • Ryan Chiang

    5
    - 06 September 2018 -

    Had a nice time waking up in morning for some nice sunrise pictures of the bridge. Very peaceful area to relax when nobody is there. In the daytime the bridge is filled with people and high end gold and jewelry shops. One of the for sure visit tourist areas of Florence.

  • Siddharth Reddy

    5
    - 01 September 2018 -

    This place is one of the best evenings I have ever spent in my life. Had been there with my wife and a small walk by the streets here and on the bridge by just holding her hand felt so romantic, it's one of those moments u would remember for a lifetime, such is the effect of the air in there. Dinner n wine by that place to call it a perfect evening.

  • Davide Villa

    5
    - 26 August 2018 -

    One of the most romantic place in Florence, unfortunately is always full of tourists but you've to understand... It's too beautiful! All of the bridge is surrounded by jewelry shops which help to create the unique atmosphere of this location.

  • Jason Bea

    5
    - 23 August 2018 -

    I cannot wait to go back here. The views are amazing! The history of the bridge is really interesting. It is nice to window shop for jewelry on the bridge, but the shops are a little small for me. The prices were really steep. Beautiful place though.

  • Stephen C

    5
    - 20 August 2018 -

    Loved this bridge, it's a step back in time. You can imagine years ago merchants buying and selling here. It looks a little funny from the other bridges as it seems as though your looking at houses on a bridge (which may be the case) but once there you'll see why this is a special place just to walk back and forth. Gold, high end jewelry and watches are sold here.

  • Darx Kies

    5
    - 30 July 2018 -

    I always wanted to go there. I expected more somehow. Once on the bridge it feels small. Perhaps due to the mass of tourists. What I disliked the most were the expensive shops on the bridge. They were kinda misplaced and IMHO ruined the historical context. But the view from the bridge is really beautiful. If you want pictures on the bridge be patient. ;)

  • Dimitri De Petter

    4
    - 26 July 2018 -

    One of the most famous bridges in Italy. Well known for it's shops that are found in both sides of the inner walkpath of the bridge. From the middle of the bridge you can take a great panoramic view of the canal. You also have a good view on on off the main shopping streets in Firenze. If you visit the bridge don't forget to bring you wallet (and Bank cheque) since the goods sold there come at a hefty price.

  • Roger Fownes

    4
    - 25 July 2018 -

    A special beautiful bridge across the River Arno hosting many shops and even a secret passageway once used by the Medici family. Shame the shops only sell jewellery. Need more variety. Get great photos half way over.

  • Gong D

    5
    - 23 July 2018 -

    Classic bridge that you must walk through. From here you can take a shot to the other bridge. Crown people here sometimes, beware your belonging all the time. Overview of this bridge is quite unique, it's worth to walk around. Atmosphere and surroundings are lovely.

  • Adam Cooley

    4
    - 17 July 2018 -

    The famous Firenze bridge - one of the only ones not blown up during the German WWII retreat. You have good views of the river and plenty of jewelry shops to choose from. I did window shopping only so I can’t comment on the quality or price of the shops on the bridge. It can get quite crowded at times - watch your pockets. There are good restaurants, shops, and gellaterias nearby.

  • Andreas Holzapfel

    - 13 May 2018 -

    Nice to-see

  • Joan Vidal Bosch

    - 13 May 2018 -

    Beautiful :)

  • Jasmine

    - 01 May 2018 -

    It’s beautiful but also very touristic and busy.

  • Bevin Ingalls

    - 30 April 2018 -

    Unique architecture and view is nice at sunset

  • Tim Foster

    - 14 April 2018 -

    Fascinating structure. Very expensive jewellery

  • Irisha

    - 05 April 2018 -

    Different from any bridges in the world. Must see. 10/10.

  • Irisha

    - 05 April 2018 -

    Different from any bridges in the world. Must see. 10/10.

  • Αλκης Αμαλιδης

    - 04 April 2018 -

    A place you have to pass and take a photo

  • Mehmet Adem Kaynak

    - 06 March 2018 -

    it was like a dream

  • Simon Tan

    - 15 January 2018 -

    Watch out for the people with white faces "blessing" you - they're looking for money!

Ponte Vecchio tours

Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner in Florence
Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner in Florence
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Make like a real Tuscan cook on this 4.5-hour evening cooking class in a historical palace (palazzo) in Florence. Working in a modern kitchen in the old building, learn how to create a quintessential Tuscan 4-course dinner of staples such as Hunter’s Chicken (chicken stew), fresh pasta and...

Florence Bike Tour
Florence Bike Tour
4.5

Take a small group bike tour (maximum 15 people) through Florence. Ride around the city and be inspired by the Renaissance on a comfortable bike. You'll cycle in the city of Florence and ducking and weaving between narrow streets along the way too. See all of the major city sites including the Ponte...

Florence River Cruise on a Traditional Barchetto
Florence River Cruise on a Traditional Barchetto
4.5

Cruise along the Arno River and under the incredible Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s famous bridge, on a barchetto, a small traditional boat! Florence’s answer to the Venetian gondola, your barchetto is one of only 4 originals still operating in Florence. Savor this unique experience with a glass of...

Florence Walking Tour
Florence Walking Tour
4.5

Get to know Florence’s history and sights on a 2.5-hour morning walking tour of the city! With an expert local guide, discover the neighborhood of San Lorenzo and learn about the powerful Medici family who ruled the city during the Renaissance era. See the famous Medici Chapels and the Basilica of...

Medieval Florence Evening Walking Tour
Medieval Florence Evening Walking Tour
4.5

Discover the sights and stories of medieval Florence – a time of scandal and intrigue – and see the city’s showstopping attractions alongside lesser-known ‘palazzos’ on a 2-hour evening walking tour. Hear of the Medici family dynasty who ruled the city for centuries and learn of the fierce...

Florence Electric Bike Tour with Farm and Wine Bar Visit
Florence Electric Bike Tour with Farm and Wine Bar Visit
5

Explore Florence and the Tuscan hill town of Fiesole with little effort and lots of fun on this 4-hour electric bike tour, led by a local host. Safe to ride, the bikes have an electric motor that start as soon as you pedal, meaning you’ll see the sights without getting out of breath! After admiring...

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