Bridge of Sighs
Last updated on September 13, 2026The Bridge of Sighs is a bridge in Venice that creates a connection between the prison and the Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace). It crosses the Rio di Palazzo canal and is made of limestone.
The bridge was built in 1600 under the supervision of Antonio Contino, the nephew of the architect of the Rialto Bridge.
The name stands from the stories that prisoners would get a quick glance at the beautiful city when being moved back from the Palace to their cells.
Visiting tips and strategy
When to go
The bridge is best viewed from the Ponte della Paglia, a short walk away facing the lagoon, and this spot draws steady crowds throughout the day -- early morning offers the clearest view before crowds and gondola traffic on the canal below both build up.
Getting there and getting in
The Bridge of Sighs itself cannot be walked across by the public -- it's viewed from outside, either from the Ponte della Paglia facing the lagoon or by gondola passing beneath it on the Rio di Palazzo. Walking across its enclosed interior is possible only as part of the Doge's Palace's Secret Itineraries tour, which includes the old prison cells the bridge connects to.
Quick facts
- Type: Famous Wonder, Historic Place, Bridge
- Local name: Ponte dei Sospiri (vedi la pagina italiana)
- Visitor access: Open to visitors
- Built: c. 1600
- Designed by: Antonio Contino
- Architectural style: Baroque
Where it is
Get directions Open in Apple Maps
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Visit responsibly
The Ponte della Paglia viewing spot is narrow and consistently busy, so a brief look and photo rather than a long stay helps keep foot traffic moving for others. Gondola prices for a pass beneath the bridge are set by the city, not negotiable per gondolier, so comparing quotes elsewhere first is more useful than haggling at the spot itself.