Rialto, with its famous bridge, is one of the places most visited by tourists. But, a stone’s throw from here, there is a place that preserves its authenticity intact, and that still tries to keep away from the tourist chaos. This place is the Rialto Market, one of the oldest markets in Venice. A historical place, where you can immerse yourself in the real popular Venetian atmosphere!
If you come from the Rialto Bridge, go down the opposite side to that of San Marco. After a few steps you will find yourself in Campo San Giacometo. The homonymous Church, considered one of the oldest in Venice, is very beautiful, with a clock and a small portico made of wood and stone (the only original example left in the city).
Around this square, under the arcades, there are some of the most authentic bacari in Venice: typical bars where you can try Venetian cicchetti accompanied by a good glass of wine. The tables of these bars are located on the other side of the building, in a small square overlooking the Grand Canal: it is one of the most suggestive places in the city, ideal for a quiet break away from the confusion.
From here, following the canal bank, you will arrive at the Rialto Market, which is divided into two areas: the fruit and vegetable market and the fish market. Every morning, from Monday to Saturday, the market is animated by vendors, by Venetians busy shopping and by the most curious tourists who get lost among the perfumes and the voices of the stalls!
The best time to experience the authentic atmosphere of the Rialto market is early in the morning, before 7:30 am. Going to Campo della Pescaria around this time, you will see the vendors arrive with boats loaded with goods to set up the counters. But if you want to do great business, the recommended time is noon, before closing, to buy the products at the best price!
The Fish Market takes place indoors, under the loggias of the Pescheria. All around, the large arches are shielded by heavy red awnings. Their twilight is interrupted only by the lights that directly illuminate the bugs and the freshest products. On the external walls, you can find inscriptions on stone slabs, with the minimum sales measures of the various types of fish, established by the Republic of the Serenissima.
You can reach the Rialto Market on foot by following the signs for the Rialto Bridge and then heading towards Campo della Pescaria or Campo delle Erbe, or by vaporetto with line 1 going down to Rialto Mercato.
