If you're spending any real time in Florence, you're pretty likely to cross the Ponte Vecchio, which spans the Arno and more or less connects Palazzo Pitti to the Duomo. You'd walk it even if it were just any old bridge, but it is in fact The Old Bridge: a medieval stone arch bridge, and the only bridge in Florence to survive World War II. We never made a point of visiting Ponte Vecchio, but we walked across it several times during our two days in town. It's a lovely bridge, with shops built onto both sides--I guess this was a common thing in medieval times. The shops give the bridge an interesting building block look from the outside, and form a vibrant commercial corridor within. No car traffic, but plenty of pedestrians at all times. Most of the shops on Ponte Vecchio seem to sell gold jewelry. I recognized a few chain jewelers, but I think those were in the minority. I doubt Ponte Vecchio is the place to get a good deal on gold jewelry, but if you want a gold souvenir from Florence, it's probably worth a browse. We didn't shop on Ponte Vecchio, but we enjoyed the bridge as a bridge, a practical monument full of beauty and history. It offers prime views of the city and is, of course, a marvel in itself. We enjoyed seeing the shops open, but the bridge was even prettier at night, when they were closed. The storefronts all had these wood shutters that made them look like treasure chests. So charming. We were in Florence in mid-November and saw the Christmas lights go up over Ponte Vecchio but didn't stay long enough to see them turn on. I'll bet this bridge is magical during Christmas, but it's not like it isn't special all year round. It's one of the places that makes Florence Florence. read more

Along the Arno River, the Ponte Vecchio is one of the city's most noteworthy landmarks, lined with shops and rich in history. The Ponte Vecchio ("old bridge" in Italian) is a working part of Florence's daily activities. Crossing the bridge for the first time, what stands out immediately is how unusual it is. It feels like a narrow street or marketplace suspended above the water, sprinkled with small shops. This distinctive layout with shops built directly onto the structure has existed for centuries and gives the Ponte Vecchio a special character unlike any other bridge in Europe. The current bridge dates to the mid-14th century, rebuilt in 1345 after earlier versions were destroyed by floods. Over time, it has evolved from a practical commercial crossing into a symbol of Florence's artistic and cultural identity. Originally filled with butchers and traders, it was transformed during the Renaissance when the Medici decreed that only goldsmiths and jewelers could operate here. Today, virtually every retail type is featured. read more

Ponte Vecchio - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

See all

Ponte Vecchio was a cool experience. Had I known the history of the bridge prior to actually going there, it would have definitely made the experience much better but overall it was still cool to see. Being on the river and overlooking the mountains in the distance was absolutely stunning. Looking at the infrastructure was really cool how they created this bridge that has shops hanging over water. While it was pretty sweet to see the leather and jewelry market, that's not necessarily our scene. We walked across the landmark and explored what was to offer on both sides. If you're in Florence, it's definitely a sight to see but do your due diligence and find out what it is and why it's there (unlike me) before heading that way! Also, it is crowded - so expect crowds! read more

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. read more

See all

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. read more

See all

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! read more

See all

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. read more

See all

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. read more

See all

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. read more

See all

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

Ponte Vecchio - night time at the Ponte Vecchio - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

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. read more

See all

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. read more

See all

This is the one bridge in this region that Hitler's evil forces didn't destroy in WWII. I had my (our) picture made here for posterity, but the place is a carnival of "gold" dealers and other shysters. Get your pic on this historical bridge and keep on walking. read more

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. read more

See all

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. read more

See all

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. read more

Ponte Vecchio - Ponte Vecchio - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

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. read more

See all

We had a bit of time to kill between lunch and our tour time at the Duomo. This site was only a 10-minute walk away (down streets busy with tourists and other pedestrians). We had planned to check it out at some point, so we went ahead then. The bridge itself has a somewhat medieval vibe. Both sides of the bridge are lined with 2-story shops with street-level display windows. All of these places sell jewelry, gold, silver, or expensive watches. I think this is now by ordinance. I don't know what percentage of visitors actually buy something, but it is interesting to just wander along and window-shop. While some places just have racks of gold chains, some places had more interesting sub-displays of figurines, odd themed cufflinks, etc. It appeared that traffic was allowed on the bridge, but it was unusual to see a vehicle there. They probably avoid it due to all the foot traffic that spills into the street. There are some good views from the bridge itself. At the midpoint, there is a gap between the shops so that you can look up or down stream. If the weather is nice, you can get good photos of other bridges over the river off into the distance. You can also get photos of the bridge itself if you walk along the river in either direction for a hundred yards or so. There appeared to be two types of locals who will try to engage with you: a) late middle-aged Italian ladies who get in your face and beg for money, and b) young African guys selling trinkets, but who often first try to strike up a seemingly random conversation. Both of these groups were really common near the historic / tourist areas. If you're in Florence and just want a quick walkable side trip, a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio is worthwhile, and is definitely a signature Florentine experience. read more

See all

Really 3.5 stars but I rounded up. This is one of the many landmark bridges in Florence. Spanning the Arno river it makes for spectacular photography. I wont delve into a history lesson but the origins of the bridge go back to 996. It has been destroyed and rebuild throught it's history. Viewed from the other bridges it is a spectacular image. However crossing it is another story. I did so twice and may avoid it in the future. It was beyond packed and the selfie stick crowd taking shots for thier social media did not help matters. Once experienced it may be faster to take the up or down river bridges unless you need something right across. The shops and building are cool, but it screams tourist trap. The Uffizi side is fairly crowded but if you walk to the other side its thins out for up river views read more

See all

It's cool to have a bridge that is incredibly old and historic but feels like all the gold shops take away from the authentic vibe. It makes for a cool picture in the background but not much to do other than shop for overpriced jewelry. read more

Ponte Vecchio - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

See all

One of Florence's landmarks is Ponte Vecchio. We walked across the bridge a few times while in Florence cause we were staying nearby. Loved our evening strolls the most. Less people and beautiful skies. There are mostly jewelry shops, some leather shops and souvenir shops. Beautiful views from all around. It's picturesque and one of most photographed bridges of the world. So many tourists walking around and taking pictures. Just beautiful. read more

See all

The Ponte Vecchio is a must see when in Florence! Great place to shop, eat and walk! We had so much fun at all of the stores. read more

Ponte Vecchio - Ponte Vecchio - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

See all

A bridge lined with beautiful jewelry & fine leather shops. What could be better? There have been shops on Ponte Vecchio since the 13th century. Initially, there were all types of shops; butchers, fishmongers, & tanners, whose waste caused a pretty rancid stench in the area. In 1593, Ferdinand I decreed that only goldsmiths & jewelers can have their shops on the bridge in order to improve the wellbeing of all, including their own as they walked over the bridge. The was the only bridge to cross the Arno in Florence until 1218. The current bridge was rebuilt after a flood in 1345. During World War II it was the only bridge across the Arno that the fleeing Germans did not destroy. read more

Ponte Vecchio - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

"My idea of heaven still is to walk the gravel farm roads of Umbria and Tuscany, very pleasantly lost." - Under the Tuscan Sun Ponte Vecchio will not appeal to everyone. Some will see a very old bridge and nothing more. Others will see a glorious bridge built just after ancient Roman times. For me, as a historian, I see a story in it! Most reviews recite Wikipedia and after the 100th generic review it gets boring to read. Yes, everyone mentions the butchers, tanners, and farmers that initially occupied the shops built on the bridge. And how today the tenants are jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir shops. Toss in the occasional pickpocket and you get the Wikipedia version of this bridge. My experience with Ponte Vecchio was walking to each side of the 1,000 years old bridge. Strolling over the hundreds of years, millions of stories, with the Florentines and curious tourists alike. It's one of those landmarks where you soak in the moment and pause just knowing you're there. The many jewelry shops that line the bridge was a site, but I'm more into the moment in this life and previous lives I've lived. I can close my eyes and see chariots... The best views of Ponte Vecchio are the bridges directly across of her. The rowers on the Arno River reminds one to slow down in this blessed life. To realize this bridge, in some form, has stood for over a thousand years is astonishing. Medieval times, the birth of the Italian Renaissance, she also survived the bombing of Italy by Allied forces during WWII, as it was said that the art and history of Florence must be spared for the sake of humanity. Amen! In the end, a walk on Ponte Vecchio is a must if you're blessed to be in Tuscany. Again, not everyone will view it exactly alike, some will see old and crumbly, some with see a historic part of the world we live in. No matter how you feel just realize the best Florentine Steak and Artesian Gelato can be found on both ends of this bridge! Ti Amo! ;) read more

See all

Dined at this restaurant last night with friends. I ordered the broiled stuffed shrimp, and the shrimp was bad. Waitress called over the manager, and the manager was extremely rude. They did the right thing and took the shrimp off the bill, and the dessert was on the house, However, when I got home, I was sick all night. My husband and I got to this restaurant at least twice a month. We will not be going back anytime soon....... KEEP AWAY FROM THE FISH!!!!!! read more

The "Old Bridge" is an iconic segmented arch bridge over the Arno that dates back to when it connected Roman Florentia with the Via Cassia Nuova commissioned by the emperor Hadrian in 123 AD. Today, the bridge is pedestrian only and vehicles are prohibited. It is noted for the shops built along it; building shops on such bridges was once a common practice. Butchers, tanners, and farmers initially occupied the shops; the present tenants are jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers. You can expect big crowds pretty much any time and with crowds comes vendors and also pickpockets. So be aware of your stuff and where it is on your body. [Review 17046 overall - 241 in Italy - 562 of 2022.] read more

See all

AWSOME! Love this place nothing but cultural tradition food and wine! I don't won't to go home anymore! This is life! read more

Ponte Vecchio - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

I mean it's a highlight of the city. And it's history is drenched in the Medicis. It used to be the row where all the butchers worked and threw the waste (meaning the guts) into the river, but Cosimo was disgusted by it and since he was running things in Florence had them moved out and moved the gold brokers in. Also, this is one of the few bridges Hilter didn't bomb so he could use it for his tanks once he over, took the city. Everything is overpriced. But who cares, you will forever be able to tell the story that you bought your piece of jewelry or had it bad for you on Ponte Vecchio. read more

Ponte Vecchio - It's the perfect place to buy something special for someone special. - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

Ponte Vecchio was definitely on my to see list when I spent time in Florence. My traveling companion at the time has the last name Vecchio. Naturally we could not leave until we saw this historic landmark. I'm definitely recommending. Florence is such a beautiful city. I love to see Bridges and take photos. You will have to take my word for it. I've got thousands of photographs. When I find my photos of the Ponte Vecchio I'll definitely post it! Definitely you should visit Florence and this historic landmark. read more

Going toFlorence, you have to check out Ponte Vecchio. It's one of the major landmarks in Italy. The bridge was originally constructed in Roman times and rebuilt in the medieval period. It crosses the Arno River. There are presently jewelers, dealers and souvenir shops on the bridge. Very picturesque. A must. read more

If you want to walk where some ancients walked, then come here. You can Google the history for yourself but it's like stepping back in time, even with all of the modernization to the area. There's also an incredible view of the river. read more

Ponte Vecchio is one of the world's most famous bridges. The views are spectacular. There are many stores and musicians scattered along the bridge. It is very enjoyable to walk across. read more

The Ponte Vecchio, Florence's most famous bridge, dates back to 1000 CE, and has a legendary history. Alas,in present day Florence, what you get are teeming crowds of tourists packing the bridge and taking selfies, and numerous overpriced leather and jewelry shops. Not my thing, but we crossed once just to feel we've done it. No pickpocket encounters, but be alert when you're here. The bridge is better to admire from a distance. A walk along the north shore of the Arno River provides excellent views of the bridge without the crowds and makes for nice pictures. read more

See all

Ponte Vecchio or "Old Bridge" has been documented as to its' existence since at least 996 C.E. but probably has been in existence much longer. The Via Cassia, the super highway of it's time probably crossed the Arno river in Florence during the time of Emperor Hadrian. Originally the base of the bridge was constructed of stone piers with a wooden construction above the waterline. It has been destroyed by flooding in 1117, 1373 and rebuilt in 1345. The latest damaging flood came in 1966. In Medieval times it had a stone enclosure, segmented and with a distinctive arch. Butchers, tanners, fish mongers in the interior of the bridge. and farmers had shops along A major reuse of the bridge came during the Medici eras when the these shop keepers were thrown out and replaced by goldsmiths and jewelers. These merchants exist in spades today. You will even find a Rolex shop. A bronze bust of Florentine sculptor and master goldsmith artist, Benvento Cellini stands atop a fountain in the middle of the Eastern side of the bridge. Besides the many jewelry, goldsmith and souvenir shops, there are mimes, those that beg for money, musicians and tons of tourists. There are warnings to tourists of pick pockets. Aside from the negatives the Ponte Vecchio has Medieval charm, the neighbor on both side of the bridge have tons of atmosphere. Ponte Vecchio is open late. Check-out the gelato shops on both sides of the bridge. read more

Ponte Vecchio - Ponte Vecchio - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

A nice picturesque bridge with a rich history! In terms of shops, there were basically only jewelry shops. I didn't go into any of them but they were nice to see from the outside. They're all quite fancy and nice inside! The bridge can get quite crowded since it is a touristy spot. Be careful of pick-pocketers and the like. Near the center of the bridge, it opens up so you can see the river on both sides. I think if you look east you'll see the mountains and you'll get this gorgeous view of the river and the buildings. read more

See all

One of the most widely recognized icons of the city of Florence and its graceful arches topped by a jumble of shops is most certainly one of the city's prettiest scenes. It is one of Florence's oldest and most photographed bridges. Noted for its three segmented arches. The bridge has traditionally been the home for the shops of Florence's talented goldsmiths. A dazzling array of fine jewelry can be seen upon strolling through it. Between readers - there is a history. it wasn't always like this and much like London's Tower Bridge, the Ponte Vecchio was built to replace an earlier bridge. Once dominated by butchers and bakers, the original bridge was washed away during a flood in the early 14th century. When the new Ponte Vecchio was completed, it too was home to local food stores until Grand Duke Ferdinand I of the Medici family decided to designate this unadorned bridge the epicenter of the city's gold and jewel trade. It has maintained this identity ever since. But most tourists don't realize that another set of treasures hides above their heads. The purpose of the bridge, of course, was to link the two sides of the Arno, and the Medici needed to cross frequently between their offices in the Palazzo Vecchio and their apartments in the Pitti Palace. So they commissioned the architect Vasari to build a passageway, officially called the Percorso del Principe (Passageway of the Prince), but now more often known as the Corridoio Vasariano, Vasari Corridor. You can see its line of evenly matched windows above the shops. The Vasari Corridor or the Passageway of the Price has walls lined with priceless collections of portraits by artists like Velasquez, Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt, among Florence's top attractions. read more

See all

We stayed in the neighbourhood and on our first evening passed the Ponte Vecchio. In itself it is an amazing bridge with the shops either side (although the shops themselves are maybe not worth the visit). What made place special, however, was the sunset over the Arno, visible from the Ponte Vecchio at the top of the bridge. A great golden view of the river and the buildings on either side. And that in a bustling atmosphere. read more

I felt like I was in a fairy tale when I was on this bridge. Like a fairy tale with Gucci, Versace, and Chanel. It's pretty funny how many of these ancient cities have become commercialized and the surrounding area of the bridge is as commercialized as it gets. With that being said, the bridge is pretty awesome and the views will not be forgotten. Sure, there a ton of people in June, but I can't imagine how bad it's going to be in July. One way or another walk on this bridge and enjoy it when you come to visit as it's really one of a kind. read more

See all

I love the story of the history. Built in the 1300s by the Romans. Judging by how often bridges need to be rebuilt here in the US, I'd say we would be far better served to get some ancient Roman architects to help us out!! The bridge sits on the Arno river, and has seen a lot since it's origin in medieval times. Local small businesses have sold their wares here for centuries. Butchers and tanners were replaced by Goldsmiths during the Medici era, and thus began Italy's reputation as the home of fine gold jewelry. Luckily, Hitler spared it in the German bombing raids of World War II. The only bridge spared in all of Florence. Our guide told us that Hitler is said to have given that order himself. Many choose to walk across it, but the crowds are simply too big. And slightly intimidating. Day or night. I think it is best viewed from a distance. Don't make this your main destination. Loop it in with other sights. Maybe spend the day at the Uffizi gallery, cross the small street toward the river and admire it from afar. read more

Ponte Vecchio - Here it is! - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI

The most iconic bridge in Firenze. Now it's a total tourist trap with jewelry shops and fine leather merchants, but still a must see. Architecturally, it is a simple bridge but one of the most beautiful in that it has been modified over the centuries to include shops extending out over the water. It's a hodgepodge that works beautifully. It was on Ponte Vecchio that I was first introduced to Corum watches by shopkeeper Antonella Cinelli. A jeweler whose enthusiasm for jewelry is outstripped only by her love of Florence and its history. read more

Ponte Vecchio - Halfway down the bridge on the left is a small but wonderful jewelry merchant. Ask for Antonella. - Local Flavor Near Me - Florence, FI