Cancel

Open app

Search

Ponte Vecchio

4.3 (215 reviews)

Ponte Vecchio Photos

Recommended Reviews - Ponte Vecchio

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Views of Ponte Vecchio from the riverbank
Christina H.

If you came to Ponte Vecchio without any context, it's pretty underwhelming. However, upon further AI deep dive, you'll learn it's the oldest bridge in Florence (1345) that survived WWII and once had butchers and fishmongers along the bridge, but were later replaced by goldsmiths and jewelers. While the original medieval vendors no longer exist, the bridge is still lined with goldsmiths and jewelry shops today. For the best experience, don't just walk across the bridge, take it in from different angles. My favorite view is from the riverbanks, but many prefer seeing it from a distance at Ponte Santa Trinita.

Pat B.

Pretty area over the river with several bridges most especially the historic Ponte Vecchio. One street here is full of jewelry stores. We had the best focaccia pizza here. Pretty spot in the evening for a stroll and sunset color.

Eloy Y.

There can be few sights that capture the alluring beauty of Florence better than the Ponte Vecchio, meaning "Old Bridge" in Italian, renowned for its timeless charm and history. Its soft yellow facade and mighty brick piers were gently illuminated under the soft light of the Tuscan sun and reflected in a perfect mirror image in the glassy waters of the river Arno, where my partner, our friends, family members, and I visited last Tuesday. First constructed in Medieval times, it was the only bridge across the Arno River up until 1218. Since the 13th century, shops have been populated with butchers, tanners, and fishmongers. The arrival of jewelers dates back to the late 16th century. As of today, 48 shops exclusively sell jewelry or high-end trinkets such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, pendants, and much more. One can even watch the goldsmiths craft their creations by hand through the shop windows. It does get crowded. We managed to escape the rain showers with the building covering. From the middle of the bridge at the plaza, one gets stunning views of the river and its surroundings. A must-visit spot for history, beauty, and atmosphere!

Ponte  Vecchio
Helene S.

Ponte Vecchio is a medieval stone segmental arch bridge over the Arno River in Florence. It was the only bridge not destroyed in Florence during WWII. The romantic reason? That it was too beautiful to destroy. The military reason? It was too narrow for the Allies to cross. Not sure which explanation is true. Historically, the bridge has held a variety of shops. Initially, the bridge was filled with butchers, tanners and farmers selling their goods. Like a local farmers market and ranchers' market with produce, meat and fish. You can imagine the stench with all of the "fresh" foods and no refrigeration. This all changed when Cosimo I de'Medici got married. His new "princess" royal bride refused to live in the "old" castle, Palazzo Vecchio, next to where he worked. Eleonora wanted more space. She wanted a garden, that was removed from the crowded, city center. So, they bought and remodeled the huge Palazzo Pitti on the left bank of the River Arno and moved their growing family. But how to get to work? Walking through the streets of Florence like a commoner? Of course not. Cosimo commissioned Giorgio Vasari to build the Corridoio Vasariano. This suspended passageway runs between Palazzo Vecchio, Uffuzi and Palazzo Pitti so that the Grand Dukes and their court could move undisturbed between the spaces. An elevated corridor of 760 meters from its beginning to its end. The corridor passes over the streets, runs along the Arno River and crosses it. It enters palaces, bypasses the Mannelli Tower, overlooks the Church of Santa Felicita, and goes on with views over the city that allowed the Grand Dukes to enjoy its beauty and control it as well. So, what happened to the markets? Well, the powerful bankers and their wives did not want to enjoy the smell on their daily walk to work, so the fishmongers, butchers and farmers were kicked off the bridge and replaced by goldsmiths and jewelers. Those specialties still remain on the bridge to this day. A very interesting piece of history in Florence.

Lexie K.

Classic tourist trap with a deep history. If you're interested in shopping for gold, there are plenty of shops along both sides of the bridge. Hours vary so double check before you go. It gets absolutely packed right before sunset for the perfect photo op.

Jason M.

There are many hot spots for tourists in Firenze, and Ponte Vecchio is definitely one of them. It goes without saying that we wanted to take a visit while in the city, and during our explorations we found ourselves here on multiple occasions. Technically, the Ponte Vecchio is a stone arch bridge over the Arno - it's definitely pretty to look at and if you're crossing one of the adjacent bridges you can get some great shots of the buildings that line it. Besides the sight itself, what draws people to this area is all the shopping. The bridge is lined on both sides with jewelry stores - so many display windows its such a feast for the eyes. I definitely made a couple of laps just to see everything, and did end up purchasing a gift. Besides the bling, there are a few other retailers leading up to the bridge, as well as several restaurants with nice views of the water. Overall, it's definitely worth checking the Ponte Vecchio out - if not for a purchase then to take in the views.

night time at the Ponte Vecchio
Gerard S.

Nothing more than a busy bridge in Florence. Great for photo opps. A regional landmark. Nothing more nothing less on the Arno River.

J E.

One of the "things to do" when visiting Florence. Though it's very crowded and many of the tourists can be annoying and rude (don't be one of them!), it's still worth visiting. Plenty of shops, places to grab a quick bite, especially desserts, and some amazing views from the middle of the bridge.

Sharon B.

This bridge is lined with gold shops on both sides of the street. Most of the shops are owned by the same company. I did buy some jewelry, but I felt like I was at a used car lot. Their prices are inflated, but I wanted souvenirs from Ponte Vecchio. They give you a high price. You ask about discounts and they will give you 5% off. Promise you that they will give you $ back in VAT, which is probably rolled into the quoted price anyways. Then they have to call their manager/owner to see if they can get you a better discount. Then they come back with 10% off. We spent a couple of hours looking at jewelry in each shop and this was the formula. It got old after a while.

Maruko X.

The Ponte Vecchio is a medieval stone arch bridge over the Arno, and it is the only bridge in Florence survived from destruction during WWII. There are many Jewry shops across the bridge, and expect numerous tourists walking on the bridge.

Christina R.

Obviously, I am not visiting Florence and not visiting Ponte Vecchio. The history of this bridge, from it's inception all the way to WW2, is something to be marveled and we did just that. We were super lucky when we came, as the moment we stepped out onto the bridge, it started raining. This meant we were able to walk across it, and stop in the middle to take pics without many other people around. Everyone else was trying to stay dry and hiding. Not us. These raindrops had nothing on Vegas monsoon season. Obviously, the bridge itself is kind of blah. There are good views from the middle and if you're into super expensive tourist jewelry, this is your place, but I just liked knowing I was crossing this bridge. You know? There are quite a few places on both sides of the bridge, along the river, that provide great photo opportunities.

Ponte Vecchio
Daniel C.

I've seen images of this bridge but never really knew anything about it. When we were in Florence, I just added Ponte Vecchio to our itinerary. As I was taking some photos of the bridge, I overheard a tour guide telling her group the windows are larger because they built that on purpose so Hitler could see the river better for strategic purposes. I'm not sure if that's factual or not but it did get me interested enough to Google the bridge after visiting. It turns out that this bridge is to Florence like the Colosseum to Rome. The bridge is the oldest bridge in Florence over Arno River and called "Old Bridge". There are many shops on the bridge that you can visit. I'm glad that I was able to visit and walk the bridge to be in the footsteps of many before me. Too bad the weather wasn't nicer and the river was so brown. It's still a must visit site in Florence regardless of the weather.

Georgie M.

Ponte Vecchio is a living artistic monument to Florence's Renaissance past and a must see while visiting Firenze. While the original bridge was supposedly build by the Romans. The medieval replacement was a farmer's market. It had small shops, merchants and butchers for several hundred years. Today however, it's very modern with touristy type shops. But it's the view from the River Arno, which will leave you speechless and in awe, while wondering "now how did the do that?" See photos. Btw, unlike the Wiki version of WWII and Ponte Vecchio, our tour guide believes the bridge was wired with explosives and it was only saved by brave resistance fighters. You decide.

View from the bridge's midpoint.

See all

Photo of Steph C.
4172
5097
118

7 months ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 2
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Delores L.
4894
1273
16852

1 month ago

Helpful 25
Thanks 11
Love this 20
Oh no 0

21 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

9 months ago

Helpful 40
Thanks 12
Love this 36
Oh no 1

1 year ago

Helpful 14
Thanks 4
Love this 14
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 4
Thanks 2
Love this 5
Oh no 0

10 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of J E.
128
3723
13346

9 months ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 1
Love this 4
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Adam H.
359
883
2350

1 year ago

Helpful 4
Thanks 2
Love this 5
Oh no 2

2 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 0
Love this 4
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 9
Thanks 5
Love this 8
Oh no 1

3 years ago

Helpful 12
Thanks 2
Love this 14
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Fred T.
1741
1652
52342

3 years ago

Helpful 7
Thanks 0
Love this 6
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Andrea U.
5000
3475
28212

4 years ago

Helpful 19
Thanks 0
Love this 20
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 33
Thanks 0
Love this 36
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Bruce K.
2415
25929
76017

4 years ago

Helpful 11
Thanks 0
Love this 9
Oh no 0
Photo of Jesus F.
110
13
10

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 21
Thanks 2
Love this 32
Oh no 0
Photo of Ric T.
579
1183
4765

7 years ago

Helpful 7
Thanks 0
Love this 6
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Anton K.
45
767
4790

6 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 1
Love this 4
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Sanjay G.
612
1559
21470

7 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 0
Love this 6
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

9 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 3
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 3
Oh no 0
Photo of Robbie C.
42
89
131

6 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 6

Ponte Vecchio Reviews in Other Languages

Review Highlights - Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio is a living artistic monument to Florence's Renaissance past and a must see while visiting Firenze.

Mentioned in 72 reviews

Read more highlights

Verify this business for free

Get access to customer & competitor insights.

Verify this business

Statua del David

Statua del David

4.6(5 reviews)
0.2 kmDuomo

Michelangelo's David is breathtaking in person! When we visited Florence, I thought the statue of…read moreDavid outside the Duomo was the authentic Michelangelo's David, and it actually is not. I think the Duomo area I reference may actually be the Piazza della Signoria. The real David statue is located at the Galleria dell-Accademia, or Accademia Gallery in Florence, and he stands almost seventeen feet tall at sixteen feet and 11.15 inches! David weighs in at 12, 478.12 pounds and he is made of solid marble stone! The sling on his left shoulder and the tree trunk behind his right leg were once covered with gold leaf, however, being outdoors in the elements in Piazza della Signoria for over 400 years washed the gold leaf away. I bet it was incredible to see the golf leafed version! In person at the Accademia Gallery, the statue is breathtaking! He is giant, and depicts the story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel in the Bible. i love that Michelangelo decided to depict David before his battle with the giant Goliath, with the slingshot resting on his shoulder and the rock he will use, poised in his right hand not to mention the posture of David, poised and ready to defeat the giant! Do see David in person if you get the opportunity - see the original for certain and also the replica which you will pass often in the popular Duomo area of Florence Italy.

Statua del David Can't believe I just found this page. I…read morespent a lot of time in Florence enjoying the city. I love all the works of Michelangelo. Words are not coming. You must go! Get your photos I'll look for more of mine.

Photos
Statua del David
Statua del David
Statua del David - 06/21/26

See all

06/21/26

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore - Dome

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore

4.6(108 reviews)
0.6 kmDuomo

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore. Also known as Florence Duomo, is the defining landmark of…read moreFlorence and one of the most impressive cathedrals in the world. Dominating the city skyline, it is instantly recognizable for Brunelleschi's magnificent dome, a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering and artistic vision. The exterior is eyecatching , with its intricate façade of white, green, and pink marble that feels both elegant and monumental. Standing in Piazza del Duomo, the scale of the cathedral is awe‑inspiring, especially when viewed alongside Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery. Inside, the cathedral is huge and relatively restrained compared to its ornate exterior. This simplicity emphasizes the immense size of the space. Climbing the dome was a highlight for sure although it nearly took out the hubs. Smile. Folks back in the day must have been tiny because there steps are so small and curvy. When you reach the top, you think you can walk out on the ledge for the spectacular panoramic views. No!!! You have to climb a ladder to get to the perimeter. Similar exhale to that of crossing the finish line at a marathon. The panoramic views are spectacular!

Saluti da Firenze!…read more Bathed in architectural beauty, artist charm, and centuries of history, my partner, our friends, family members, and I arrived in this Italian city of culture last Monday afternoon. Located in the heart of the stunning Tuscany region, the city is surrounded by natural and manmade beauty at every turn. Home to globally renowned landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral and Michelangelo's David, Florence offers a journey of discovery and enlightenment. Situated at the Piazza del Duomo, which is the busiest square in the city, Florence Cathedral is dedicated to Santa Maria del Fiore, dominates the skyline, and gives it real character and grace with its famous Brunelleschi's red dome. The construction of the building started at the end of the thirteenth century because the Florentines wanted to excel not only in commercial terms but also in architectural terms. It was not completed until the 15th century and is the fourth largest cathedral in Europe. We visited the area on our 2 days during the day and evening. It is highly recommended to visit the square in the evening, when the day trippers have gone home. Admission to the cathedral was free, and the huge line moved quickly. The marble façade in green, pink, and white was absolutely stunning. The rest of the interior may seem simple at first until one stands beneath the dome and gasps at the masterpiece above. No words can describe its presence and the sheer scale; it's a must-visit!

Photos
Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore - Just arrived to Florence meeting tour guide

Just arrived to Florence meeting tour guide

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore - @endoedibles on Instagram 03/07/24

@endoedibles on Instagram 03/07/24

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore - @endoedibles on Instagram 03/07/24

See all

@endoedibles on Instagram 03/07/24

Gli Uffizi - Botticelli

Gli Uffizi

4.3(278 reviews)
0.2 kmDuomo
€€

25th Wedding Anniversary trip alert (European vacation)…read more.. The Uffizi Gallery is housed in a long, elegant structure designed in the 16th century by Giorgio Vasari for the powerful Medici family, the gallery retains an air of purpose and grandeur, its corridors opening toward views of the Arno River and the city's historic skyline. The Uffizi collection is widely considered one of the finest in the world, particularly for Italian Renaissance painting, and includes works by masters such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Iconic paintings like Botticelli's Birth of Venus and Primavera feel both familiar and astonishing when encountered in person. Their scale are beyond belief. The depth and breadth of the gallery is a bit overwhelming, with dozens of rooms and hundreds of masterpieces, creating moments where wonderment converges with a bit of tiredness. What lingers most is the sense of continuity: the Medici legacy encapsulated every wall, and the feeling that one is walking through the very cradle of Renaissance thought. The building itself is stunning...frescoed ceilings, eye-catching statues, and glimpses toward Florence's landmarks. Uffizi Gallery reinforces the idea that art, history, and city are intricately connected. Prepare to take adequate time to view the exhibits

November 6, 2024 3:45-6:45PM…read more We initially didn't plan to visit but was told this is a must do in Florence. I'm glad we did. I love art museums and thought this was more religious artifacts but glad to see some of my new favorite paintings in person. Silly me! Upon entering the museum, there a lot of stairs to climb. Get your exercise in for sure! I did see a very tiny elevator a little bit hidden to the side, so they definitely can accommodate those needing accessibility but plan accordingly as the elevator was tiny, probably one stroller/wheelchair at a time. The Botticelli's Birth of Venus and Spring are both so amazing to see in person. The works of Caravaggio were very powerfully presented. The da Vinci, the Michelangelo, the Raphael... so many great artist and their works are housed here. Lots of Sweet Baby Jesus and the Madonna, various Adam and Eve paintings.. My favorite besides Botticelli's, was from Pietro Perugino's a Portrait of a young man.. the eyes, the emotions, almost the sadness... what a great painting. The various views from the Uffizi Galleries of Florence was also pretty amazing, from Ponte Vecchio, along the Arno River and the view of the city... so glad we went during sunset as I caught some pretty great shots with just my iPhone. I definitely think this is worth the stop and glad to have this as an impromptu visit. Got in pretty quickly without a reservation either, we were very lucky.

Photos
Gli Uffizi - Courtyard of UFIZZI

Courtyard of UFIZZI

Gli Uffizi - Botticelli

Botticelli

Gli Uffizi - @endoedibles on Instagram 03/08/24

See all

@endoedibles on Instagram 03/08/24

Ponte Vecchio - localflavor - Updated June 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...