The Ponte Vecchio ("Old Bridge", Italian pronunciation: [ˈponte ˈvɛkkjo]) is a medieval stone closed-spandrel segmental arch bridge over the Arno River, in Florence, Italy. The only bridge in Florence spared from destruction during the Second World War, 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. The Ponte Vecchio's two neighboring bridges are the Ponte Santa Trinita and the Ponte alle Grazie.
The bridge connects via Por Santa Maria (Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli and Lungarno degli Archibusieri) to via de 'Guicciardini (Borgo San Jacopo and via de' Bardi).
Interesting history attached to this bridge over the river Arno in beautiful Florence. Lined completely with sparkling jewellery shops which, when closed for business, fold up tight into wooden jewellery boxes giving the bridge a mythical quality whether you know it's histories or not. A great walk with lots of opportunities for stunning photos.
j oomFeb 11, 2018
It is nice to see but all of the shops are very expensive things. It is nothing like the way it used to be (when explained by tour guides). It is very easy to take some nice pictures of this from different sides of the river. Also there is a statue in the middle with locks(symbolizing love?) attached from visitors.
Taylor CiryakFeb 18, 2018
A fun bridge crossing the Arno River and connecting the two sides of Florence. It's the oldest bridge in Florence since it's the only one not destroyed during World War II. It's covered in jewelry stores that are gorgeous to look at as you stroll on by. Not the coolest place in Florence, but definitely a fun place to be nonetheless.
Paul JohnsonFeb 28, 2018
It’s very cool old medieval arch bridge on Arno River. Amazing city view, also has a lot of jewelry stores. I did buy anything since I thought it could be very expensive. Great place to visit. From here, you can walk through to the other side of river to go straight to Duomo, and so many shop and restaurants, around, including the opened market selling handbags, scarfs, ties, ...
Khanh TranFeb 26, 2018
The Ponte Vecchio is one of the oldest bridges in Venice Italy. It spans the Arno River. The views from the bridge are fantastic. There are many shops along the sides selling everything from jewelry, clothing and food. The atmosphere is festive. It is very popular and crowded. Note: Watch for possible pick pockets. Worth a memorable visit.
Nicalena NearyDec 31, 2017
It’s one of the most crowded places in Florence, but from historical point of view it’s a must-see. There are a lot jewelry and souvenirs shops around which together with street sellers only make it busier. This bridge has a long and rich history, it was destroyed several times by floods in medieval times and rebuilt again. During the WW2, Ponte Vecchio was the only bridge in Florence not destroyed by Germans - allegedly because of Hitler’s express order. Despite the crowd, it is surprisingly possible to take photos in the middle of the bridge with view at the river.
Natalia DanilovichMar 18, 2018
Nice place, but way too crowded on a weekend. The construction over the bridge are really nice. Worth a visit if you have a day to spend near Pisa.
Pankil TaranekarApr 3, 2018
It's an amazing spot, Florence is one of the most beautiful city I've ever seen. You can lose sight of the time standing there relaxing, beautiful to walk through on evenings as well. A "must go" place in Florence. Love it.
Marco PhoenixMar 6, 2018
If you are going just to enjoy the view it is great. But when purchasing from here it is kind of a bummer to know that majority of the shops are run by one company. What does that mean for the shopper? Less variety, most pieces you will notice the same barcode, a symbol of corporate takeover. It also means less bargaining and good deals. But the experience is cool.
Ashley CervasioApr 16, 2018
Lovely area and all the shops were very welcoming. All laid our very well and will have an amazing view of the river. Very classical location of Florence and it is worth going to when just to pass over and look through the windows
Ronan McHughApr 12, 2018
What a beautiful bridge in such a wonderful city! We couldn't afford to walk into most of the shops in there, but it was fun walking around and looking none the less. And the view standing on the bridge looking out over the river is a wonderful sight.
Jason P CargillMay 1, 2018
It's one of the most romantic place that I'm visited in my life. I like very very much. You must go there one time in you're life.
chitacvirgilApr 26, 2018
Nice to look at from a distance, but packed once you get there with people walking incredibly slowly. You have to go here when you are in Florence, but really it's overrated. There are nicer places if you just want to cross the river.
claireMay 6, 2018
Great view of the river and surrounding Florence, though it's not a must see. I think it's impossible to visit any time during the day when it isn't overcrowded with people. Try to be respectful of others while they take their pictures, and wait your turn before trying to take your own. Everyone is looking to make the same great memories and take the same unforgettable pictures. There are many shops along here and a few restaurants close by. If you're looking for a quieter place to shop and eat, you'll find it on some of the smaller streets a few blocks North.
Matthew WicksMay 15, 2018
The view was nice, but the bridge was quite crowded. Most of the shops were very high end. There is some interesting architecture and design in the stores windows and shutters. Also. Its neat to see the boats, youth crew teams practicing, and even some interesting birds in the water below.
R-A MazzolaMay 29, 2018
Jeweler’s row peppered with other shops built into a beautifully built medieval bridge. Walk through once and never go back unless you are looking to shop UNLESS you pass through at night. Live music, shops closed, fun vibe.
Joe MarattoJun 12, 2018
Wow, what a great place to visit. The view is wonderful and the city is so alive. You are at the heart of the city. The bridge is part of the jewelry district with great shopping one bridge over. Many great place to explore.
Whoami 0070May 25, 2018
It's okay. Even though I am here as a tourist I hate tourists. This place has a bit too many of them. The shops are really not that interesting, they are there for tourists and sell tourist-stuff. Conceptually it's cool to see a bridge combined with buildings and a street. But yeah, tourists...
Patrick RadiusMay 23, 2018
Scenic view!! Very crowded at the bridge itself. If want to take good photos, take it from afar that is less crowded. Perfect view for couple and family shot. Should visit at least once if you are in Florence. Is just 20-30mins walking journey from Florence city. Enjoy the sun and have fun by exploring around.
Fanglicia QuekJun 28, 2018
must visit if you are in the area, one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy! read some books about the bridge, its history is very interesting! don’t forget your camera and take some pics, it will be worth it i can totally recommend it to everybody!
Stefan PreuJul 7, 2018
Pretty and unusual, but extremely crowded and touristy even at the beginning of the season. I'm glad we went but wouldn't be fussed to return. There are much nicer places in Florence with more character such as the lovely piazzas with buskers - much more down to Earth and entertaining.
Sue RiddleJun 26, 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. ;)
Darx KiesJul 30, 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.
Dimitri De PetterJul 26, 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.
Gong DJul 23, 2018
Beautiful bridge. Quirky and different with all its little jewellery shops. Pedestrians only which is nice and in the evening at the weekend you can find street performers there, playing music and creating quite a cheerful, party atmosphere!
Jennifer ThompsonAug 2, 2018
Interesting history attached to this bridge over the river Arno in beautiful Florence. Lined completely with sparkling jewellery shops which, when closed for business, fold up tight into wooden jewellery boxes giving the bridge a mythical quality whether you know it's histories or not. A great walk with lots of opportunities for stunning photos.
j oomFeb 11, 2018
It is nice to see but all of the shops are very expensive things. It is nothing like the way it used to be (when explained by tour guides). It is very easy to take some nice pictures of this from different sides of the river. Also there is a statue in the middle with locks(symbolizing love?) attached from visitors.
Taylor CiryakFeb 18, 2018
A fun bridge crossing the Arno River and connecting the two sides of Florence. It's the oldest bridge in Florence since it's the only one not destroyed during World War II. It's covered in jewelry stores that are gorgeous to look at as you stroll on by. Not the coolest place in Florence, but definitely a fun place to be nonetheless.
Paul JohnsonFeb 28, 2018
It’s very cool old medieval arch bridge on Arno River. Amazing city view, also has a lot of jewelry stores. I did buy anything since I thought it could be very expensive. Great place to visit. From here, you can walk through to the other side of river to go straight to Duomo, and so many shop and restaurants, around, including the opened market selling handbags, scarfs, ties, ...
Khanh TranFeb 26, 2018
The Ponte Vecchio is one of the oldest bridges in Venice Italy. It spans the Arno River. The views from the bridge are fantastic. There are many shops along the sides selling everything from jewelry, clothing and food. The atmosphere is festive. It is very popular and crowded. Note: Watch for possible pick pockets. Worth a memorable visit.
Nicalena NearyDec 31, 2017
It’s one of the most crowded places in Florence, but from historical point of view it’s a must-see. There are a lot jewelry and souvenirs shops around which together with street sellers only make it busier. This bridge has a long and rich history, it was destroyed several times by floods in medieval times and rebuilt again. During the WW2, Ponte Vecchio was the only bridge in Florence not destroyed by Germans - allegedly because of Hitler’s express order. Despite the crowd, it is surprisingly possible to take photos in the middle of the bridge with view at the river.
Natalia DanilovichMar 18, 2018
Nice place, but way too crowded on a weekend. The construction over the bridge are really nice. Worth a visit if you have a day to spend near Pisa.
Pankil TaranekarApr 3, 2018
It's an amazing spot, Florence is one of the most beautiful city I've ever seen. You can lose sight of the time standing there relaxing, beautiful to walk through on evenings as well. A "must go" place in Florence. Love it.
Marco PhoenixMar 6, 2018
If you are going just to enjoy the view it is great. But when purchasing from here it is kind of a bummer to know that majority of the shops are run by one company. What does that mean for the shopper? Less variety, most pieces you will notice the same barcode, a symbol of corporate takeover. It also means less bargaining and good deals. But the experience is cool.
Ashley CervasioApr 16, 2018
Lovely area and all the shops were very welcoming. All laid our very well and will have an amazing view of the river. Very classical location of Florence and it is worth going to when just to pass over and look through the windows
Ronan McHughApr 12, 2018
What a beautiful bridge in such a wonderful city! We couldn't afford to walk into most of the shops in there, but it was fun walking around and looking none the less. And the view standing on the bridge looking out over the river is a wonderful sight.
Jason P CargillMay 1, 2018
It's one of the most romantic place that I'm visited in my life. I like very very much. You must go there one time in you're life.
chitacvirgilApr 26, 2018
Nice to look at from a distance, but packed once you get there with people walking incredibly slowly. You have to go here when you are in Florence, but really it's overrated. There are nicer places if you just want to cross the river.
claireMay 6, 2018
Great view of the river and surrounding Florence, though it's not a must see. I think it's impossible to visit any time during the day when it isn't overcrowded with people. Try to be respectful of others while they take their pictures, and wait your turn before trying to take your own. Everyone is looking to make the same great memories and take the same unforgettable pictures. There are many shops along here and a few restaurants close by. If you're looking for a quieter place to shop and eat, you'll find it on some of the smaller streets a few blocks North.
Matthew WicksMay 15, 2018
The view was nice, but the bridge was quite crowded. Most of the shops were very high end. There is some interesting architecture and design in the stores windows and shutters. Also. Its neat to see the boats, youth crew teams practicing, and even some interesting birds in the water below.
R-A MazzolaMay 29, 2018
Jeweler’s row peppered with other shops built into a beautifully built medieval bridge. Walk through once and never go back unless you are looking to shop UNLESS you pass through at night. Live music, shops closed, fun vibe.
Joe MarattoJun 12, 2018
Wow, what a great place to visit. The view is wonderful and the city is so alive. You are at the heart of the city. The bridge is part of the jewelry district with great shopping one bridge over. Many great place to explore.
Whoami 0070May 25, 2018
It's okay. Even though I am here as a tourist I hate tourists. This place has a bit too many of them. The shops are really not that interesting, they are there for tourists and sell tourist-stuff. Conceptually it's cool to see a bridge combined with buildings and a street. But yeah, tourists...
Patrick RadiusMay 23, 2018
Scenic view!! Very crowded at the bridge itself. If want to take good photos, take it from afar that is less crowded. Perfect view for couple and family shot. Should visit at least once if you are in Florence. Is just 20-30mins walking journey from Florence city. Enjoy the sun and have fun by exploring around.
Fanglicia QuekJun 28, 2018
must visit if you are in the area, one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy! read some books about the bridge, its history is very interesting! don’t forget your camera and take some pics, it will be worth it i can totally recommend it to everybody!
Stefan PreuJul 7, 2018
Pretty and unusual, but extremely crowded and touristy even at the beginning of the season. I'm glad we went but wouldn't be fussed to return. There are much nicer places in Florence with more character such as the lovely piazzas with buskers - much more down to Earth and entertaining.
Sue RiddleJun 26, 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. ;)
Darx KiesJul 30, 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.
Dimitri De PetterJul 26, 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.
Gong DJul 23, 2018
Beautiful bridge. Quirky and different with all its little jewellery shops. Pedestrians only which is nice and in the evening at the weekend you can find street performers there, playing music and creating quite a cheerful, party atmosphere!
Jennifer ThompsonAug 2, 2018
Interesting history attached to this bridge over the river Arno in beautiful Florence. Lined completely with sparkling jewellery shops which, when closed for business, fold up tight into wooden jewellery boxes giving the bridge a mythical quality whether you know it's histories or not. A great walk with lots of opportunities for stunning photos.
j oomFeb 11, 2018
It is nice to see but all of the shops are very expensive things. It is nothing like the way it used to be (when explained by tour guides). It is very easy to take some nice pictures of this from different sides of the river. Also there is a statue in the middle with locks(symbolizing love?) attached from visitors.
Taylor CiryakFeb 18, 2018
A fun bridge crossing the Arno River and connecting the two sides of Florence. It's the oldest bridge in Florence since it's the only one not destroyed during World War II. It's covered in jewelry stores that are gorgeous to look at as you stroll on by. Not the coolest place in Florence, but definitely a fun place to be nonetheless.
Paul JohnsonFeb 28, 2018
It’s very cool old medieval arch bridge on Arno River. Amazing city view, also has a lot of jewelry stores. I did buy anything since I thought it could be very expensive. Great place to visit. From here, you can walk through to the other side of river to go straight to Duomo, and so many shop and restaurants, around, including the opened market selling handbags, scarfs, ties, ...
Khanh TranFeb 26, 2018
The Ponte Vecchio is one of the oldest bridges in Venice Italy. It spans the Arno River. The views from the bridge are fantastic. There are many shops along the sides selling everything from jewelry, clothing and food. The atmosphere is festive. It is very popular and crowded. Note: Watch for possible pick pockets. Worth a memorable visit.
Nicalena NearyDec 31, 2017
It’s one of the most crowded places in Florence, but from historical point of view it’s a must-see. There are a lot jewelry and souvenirs shops around which together with street sellers only make it busier. This bridge has a long and rich history, it was destroyed several times by floods in medieval times and rebuilt again. During the WW2, Ponte Vecchio was the only bridge in Florence not destroyed by Germans - allegedly because of Hitler’s express order. Despite the crowd, it is surprisingly possible to take photos in the middle of the bridge with view at the river.
Natalia DanilovichMar 18, 2018
Nice place, but way too crowded on a weekend. The construction over the bridge are really nice. Worth a visit if you have a day to spend near Pisa.
Pankil TaranekarApr 3, 2018
It's an amazing spot, Florence is one of the most beautiful city I've ever seen. You can lose sight of the time standing there relaxing, beautiful to walk through on evenings as well. A "must go" place in Florence. Love it.
Marco PhoenixMar 6, 2018
If you are going just to enjoy the view it is great. But when purchasing from here it is kind of a bummer to know that majority of the shops are run by one company. What does that mean for the shopper? Less variety, most pieces you will notice the same barcode, a symbol of corporate takeover. It also means less bargaining and good deals. But the experience is cool.
Ashley CervasioApr 16, 2018
Lovely area and all the shops were very welcoming. All laid our very well and will have an amazing view of the river. Very classical location of Florence and it is worth going to when just to pass over and look through the windows
Ronan McHughApr 12, 2018
What a beautiful bridge in such a wonderful city! We couldn't afford to walk into most of the shops in there, but it was fun walking around and looking none the less. And the view standing on the bridge looking out over the river is a wonderful sight.
Jason P CargillMay 1, 2018
It's one of the most romantic place that I'm visited in my life. I like very very much. You must go there one time in you're life.
chitacvirgilApr 26, 2018
Nice to look at from a distance, but packed once you get there with people walking incredibly slowly. You have to go here when you are in Florence, but really it's overrated. There are nicer places if you just want to cross the river.
claireMay 6, 2018
Great view of the river and surrounding Florence, though it's not a must see. I think it's impossible to visit any time during the day when it isn't overcrowded with people. Try to be respectful of others while they take their pictures, and wait your turn before trying to take your own. Everyone is looking to make the same great memories and take the same unforgettable pictures. There are many shops along here and a few restaurants close by. If you're looking for a quieter place to shop and eat, you'll find it on some of the smaller streets a few blocks North.
Matthew WicksMay 15, 2018
The view was nice, but the bridge was quite crowded. Most of the shops were very high end. There is some interesting architecture and design in the stores windows and shutters. Also. Its neat to see the boats, youth crew teams practicing, and even some interesting birds in the water below.
R-A MazzolaMay 29, 2018
Jeweler’s row peppered with other shops built into a beautifully built medieval bridge. Walk through once and never go back unless you are looking to shop UNLESS you pass through at night. Live music, shops closed, fun vibe.
Joe MarattoJun 12, 2018
Wow, what a great place to visit. The view is wonderful and the city is so alive. You are at the heart of the city. The bridge is part of the jewelry district with great shopping one bridge over. Many great place to explore.
Whoami 0070May 25, 2018
It's okay. Even though I am here as a tourist I hate tourists. This place has a bit too many of them. The shops are really not that interesting, they are there for tourists and sell tourist-stuff. Conceptually it's cool to see a bridge combined with buildings and a street. But yeah, tourists...
Patrick RadiusMay 23, 2018
Scenic view!! Very crowded at the bridge itself. If want to take good photos, take it from afar that is less crowded. Perfect view for couple and family shot. Should visit at least once if you are in Florence. Is just 20-30mins walking journey from Florence city. Enjoy the sun and have fun by exploring around.
Fanglicia QuekJun 28, 2018
must visit if you are in the area, one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy! read some books about the bridge, its history is very interesting! don’t forget your camera and take some pics, it will be worth it i can totally recommend it to everybody!
Stefan PreuJul 7, 2018
Pretty and unusual, but extremely crowded and touristy even at the beginning of the season. I'm glad we went but wouldn't be fussed to return. There are much nicer places in Florence with more character such as the lovely piazzas with buskers - much more down to Earth and entertaining.
Sue RiddleJun 26, 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. ;)
Darx KiesJul 30, 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.
Dimitri De PetterJul 26, 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.
Gong DJul 23, 2018
Beautiful bridge. Quirky and different with all its little jewellery shops. Pedestrians only which is nice and in the evening at the weekend you can find street performers there, playing music and creating quite a cheerful, party atmosphere!
Jennifer ThompsonAug 2, 2018
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