In recent history, bolstered also by poems from Casanova, a modern myth emerged: lovers who kiss under the bridge at sunset, while hearing the bells of San Marco Campanile, will be blessed with eternal love.

Origin of the name

The bridge earned its name because it was the last bittersweet view of beautiful Venice that convicts saw through its windows, before being taken to their cells, prompting them to ... sigh!

Bridge of Sighs : One last sigh, looking at the lagoon

Discover more about Bridge of Sighs through 10 photos with explanations.

Open gallery

What to expect here

Walk inside one of the world's most famous bridges.
Retrace the path convicts took on their way to eternal imprisonment.
Feel a new sense of freedom once you're out!

Ways to experience the bridge

Photograph the exterior of the Bridge of Sighs from nearby vantage points, or cross it yourself for a glimpse into its storied past.

Walk inside it

Bridge of Sighs : Crossing the bridge toward Doge's Palace

As you pass through the dark interior of the bridge, imagine the emotions prisoners must have felt as they cast one last glance at freedom.

This experience is an integral part of your visit to Doge's Palace.

View the bridge from afar

Most visitors gather at Ponte della Paglia - where Riva degli Schiavoni begins - for that classic view of the Bridge of Sighs.

For a quieter yet equally remarkable view, try to see the bridge from Ponte de Canonica. The lagoon forms a beautiful backdrop, just as shown in the header photo.

Pinpoint on Google Maps

Pass under the bridge

Bridge of Sighs : View facing inland, from the touristy Ponte della Paglia

The intricately carved faces on the underside of the arches, each expressing a different emotion, can only be fully appreciated while gliding beneath the bridge.

The best way to do this is on a gondola with a gondolier who shares the stories behind them.

While gondolas can always be rented on site at the regular fixed rate, we suggest booking a shared gondola for solo travelers seeking convenience and a more affordable ride.

Inspired by another Venetian bridge

The Bridge of Sighs was designed by Antonio Contino, nephew of the renowned Antonio da Ponte, the architect of the iconic Rialto Bridge.

The two actually collaborated on constructing the Rialto, which helps explain the similarities between the two bridges.

Rialto Bridge : This is the view of the bridge from the south as you cross Grand Canal on a traghetto from Riva del Vin

Explore the Rialto Bridge

Your questions, answered

We've answered some of the most common questions about Bridge of Sighs to help you plan your visit:

Can I walk across the bridge without a ticket?

No. Access to the interior of the Bridge of Sighs is only possible as part of a visit to the Doge's Palace. During the standard itinerary, you cross the bridge twice: once to go from the ornate interrogation rooms to the prisons, and once to return.

Is the bridge lit up at night for photos?

Yes. White spotlights illuminate the exterior of the bridge, making its Istrian stone glow against the dark water below. Night visits are perfect for capturing beautifully haunting photos and avoiding the usual daytime crowds.

Do I have to pay extra for a gondola to go under the bridge?

No extra fee, just tell your gondolier before boarding. Most gondolas starting from Bacino Orseolo or in front of Doge's Palace include the Bridge of Sighs in their route. Expect traffic jams of gondolas around sunset because of the romantic legend discussed earlier.