The Ponte Vecchio, Europe’s most picturesque bridge, had quite a different scene in the past with buzzards, meat, and leather shops adorning its structure.
Cosimo I de Medici’s concern for his safety led to the construction of a kilometer-long corridor connecting his private palace (Pitti Palace) and the government headquarters (Palazzo Vecchio).
Giorgio Vasari was commissioned for this task, resulting in the iconic Vasari Corridor soaring above the original shops on the Ponte Vecchio.
The Duke’s aversion to the meat market’s odor led to the removal of meat sellers, eventually replaced by jewelry, goldsmith, and silversmith shops that persist through generations, still thriving today.
As one of the world’s oldest segmented archway bridges, the Ponte Vecchio carries its history within its framework and tales, symbolizing the city’s endurance through floods and even the presence of Nazis, standing as a testament to resilience.
This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets to the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.
Top Ponte Vecchio Bridge Tickets
# Florence Pontevecchio Bridge and City Sights Rafting Cruise
# Florence Ponte Vecchio and City Sights Guided Kayak Cruise
# Florence Pass
Table of contents
- What to expect at Ponte Vecchio Bridge
- Where to book tickets
- How do online tickets work
- Ponte Vecchio Bridge ticket price
- Ponte Vecchio Bridge tickets
- How to reach Ponte Vecchio Bridge
- Ponte Vecchio Bridge timings
- How long does the tour take
- Best time to visit Ponte Vecchio Bridge
- FAQs about the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.
What to expect at Ponte Vecchio Bridge
Embark on a leisurely stroll along Florence’s Arno River to reach the famed Ponte Vecchio.
Delve into the bridge’s intriguing history, crafted in the 14th century and later complemented by the Vasari Corridor in the 16th century at the Duke’s behest, facilitating his private passage between palace and government.
Marvel at the charming pastel façades of the bridge’s shops and boutiques, each adorned with intricate architectural details steeped in ancient beliefs and faith.
Experience the Arno River’s beauty with a scenic raft ride, gliding beneath Ponte Vecchio and passing by Florence’s iconic landmarks like the National Library, Uffizi Gallery, and Santa Trinita bridge, ending with an exhilarating descent down San Niccolo Dam’s waters.
Glide beneath Ponte Vecchio’s ancient arches, absorbing captivating tales of these landmarks from your knowledgeable guide. For a more adventurous spirit, opt for a solo kayak journey along the Arno, passing under four historic Florence bridges and enjoying a unique view of the Vasari Corridor and the bridge’s goldsmith shops from below.
Amidst the bustle, street performers and musicians infuse Ponte Vecchio with a lively and artistic atmosphere, adding to the bridge’s vibrant ambiance.
| Ticket | Ticket cost |
|---|---|
| Florence Pontevecchio Bridge and City Sights Rafting Cruise | €35 |
| Florence Ponte Vecchio and City Sights Guided Kayak Cruise | €45 |
Where to book tickets
Pontevecchio Bridge Rafting Tickets are available online and at the tourist agency’s office.
Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the agency.
When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.
When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.
Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, during peak days they may sell out. Booking online also helps avoid last-minute disappointment and delays.
How do online tickets work
Go to Florence Ponte Vecchio ticket booking page, select the date and number of tickets, and book.
Once you complete the bookings, the tickets will be emailed to you.
You don’t need to carry printouts.
On the day of your visit, you can show the e-ticket on your smartphone and begin the tour.
Bring your official IDs.
Ponte Vecchio Bridge ticket price
For the Pontevecchio Bridge and City Sights Rafting Cruise, an adult ticket for all ages is €35.
For the Ponte Vecchio and City Sights Guided Kayak Cruise, an adult ticket for all ages costs €45.
For the Palazzo Vecchio: Skip-the-Line Entry and Secret Passage Tour, an adult ticket for all ages above 26 costs €25.
Ponte Vecchio Bridge tickets
Ponte Vecchio tickets offer a range of itineraries for you to pick from according to your interests and your budget:
Florence Ponte Vecchio Bridge and City Sights Rafting Cruise
Your ticket grants you access to an Arno River rafting excursion.
An experienced rafting instructor and bilingual (English and Italian) tour guide will lead the expedition.
All necessary equipment, including life jackets, waterproof bags, paddles, and more, will be provided.
Please note, food and drinks are not included in this package.
This tour requires a minimum of two participants.
Meeting Point: Head down the slope opposite the front of the San Niccolò Tower. You’ll find a sandy beach by the Arno River, where a grey van with red rafts and kayaks will be stationed. Get detailed directions for precise location information.
Ticket Price: €35
Florence: Ponte Vecchio and City Sights Guided Kayak Cruise
Your ticket grants you access to a solo kayaking tour on the Arno River.
An experienced rafting instructor and bilingual (English and Italian) tour guide will accompany you on a separate kayak adventure.
All necessary equipment, including life jackets, waterproof bags, paddles, and more, will be provided.
Please note, food and drinks are not included in this package.
This tour requires a minimum of two participants.
Meeting Point: Head down the slope opposite the front of the San Niccolò Tower. You’ll find a sandy beach by the Arno River, where a grey van with red rafts and kayaks will be stationed.
Ticket Price: €45
Save time and money! Buy the Florence Pass, the key to exploring the city’s top attractions. Visit the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery and get skip-the-line access to Brunelleschi’s Dome. The pass also includes a downloadable audio guide app.
How to reach Ponte Vecchio Bridge
The Ponte Vecchio bridge connects the two main areas of Florence, with the Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery on one side and the Pitti Palace and the Oltrarno district on the other.
Address: Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy. Get Directions.
By Bus
The Canto Alla Quarconia bus station is a 1-minute walk away.
The Bardi bus station and the Santa Maria Soprarno bus station are a 4-minute walk away.
The Frescobaldi bus station is a 5-minute walk away.
By Train
The Unita Light Rail Station is an 18-minute walk from the bridge.
The Firenze Santa Maria Novella station is a 21-minute walk away.
By Car
Put your starting point here to navigate to the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.
A number of parking spots are found in the vicinity.
Ponte Vecchio Bridge timings
The Ponte Vecchio Bridge is a public medieval bridge that connects the two main areas of Florence, across the River Arno.
It is open 24 hours a day, everyday.
Shops and boutiques on the bridge have separate opening and closing hours.
Kayaking tours and raft tours have specific time slots in the day, the details of which you can find out on their booking page.
How long does the tour take
The Ponte Vecchio tour typically spans an hour, encompassing sightseeing, shop visits, and dining at local restaurants.
Kayaking and boat tours usually require around 2 hours to fully experience and enjoy.
Best time to visit Ponte Vecchio Bridge
The best time to visit the Ponte Vecchio Bridge for a tranquil experience and photography is in the early morning, ideally around 7 am or 8 am, avoiding the bustling crowds.
For those interested in exploring the shops, the late afternoon to early evening offers a perfect window. This time frame allows you to shop at leisure while also capturing the beautiful sunset views.
FAQs about the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.
Here are a few frequently asked questions about the Ponte Vecchio Bridge:
No, crossing the Ponte Vecchio is free of charge. It is a public bridge that is open for exploration at no cost to tourists.
Go ahead and book a Ponte Vecchio Rafting tour from their ticket booking page.
Ponte Vecchio is one of the most photographed bridges in Europe, known for its lovely aesthetics, but please be mindful of the policies of individual shops.
The bridge itself is wheelchair-accessible, but narrow walkways and steps in individual shops might prove a hindrance to people with mobility issues.
No, Vasari Corridor cannot be entered from the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.
Popular attractions in Florence