Rialto Market Food and Wine Lunchtime Tour — Venice Culinary Walking Tour
Taste Venice’s market life on a four-hour walking tour from Rialto Bridge to bacari bars. Sample cicchetti and paired wines while a local guide explains the market’s history, seasonal seafood, and the rhythms of lagoon life.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive on time
Guides wait a maximum of 10 minutes; late arrivals cannot join the group, so plan extra time for narrow Calle and bridge crowds.
Wear sturdy shoes
Cobblestones and slick alleys demand closed-toe, grippy footwear for comfort during four hours of walking and standing.
Hydrate and pace the wine
You’ll sample several wines and eat small plates—drink water between tastings and bring a reusable bottle to refill.
Notify dietary needs in advance
The tour cannot accommodate vegans or strict gluten/dairy-free diets; vegetarians must confirm ahead of time.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Try a tiny spritz and seafood skewer at a back-alley bacaro on Calle dei Do Mori
- •Explore the quieter side of the market near the Ponte delle Guglie for local bread and produce stalls
Wildlife
- •Seagulls commonly hover above the market
- •Occasional grey herons along quieter canal edges
Conservation Note
Venice faces pressure from overtourism and aqua alta; respect local neighborhoods, avoid single-use plastics, and follow guide advice to minimize impact.
Rialto has been Venice’s commercial hub since the medieval era; its market shaped the city’s trade networks and culinary tastes for centuries.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along Ponte di Rialto looking toward the fish stalls
- • A small campo off the main market for close-ups of cicchetti
- • Grand Canal edge near the meeting church for wide water views
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Grippy, closed-toe shoes make cobbles and damp steps manageable.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated between tastings and avoid buying single-use plastic.
Light waterproof jacket
Protects against canal spray or sudden rain and the occassional acqua alta.
Small daypack
Holds purchases, camera, and any layers you shed during the tour.
Common Questions
Where do we meet the tour guide?
Meet at 10:45 outside Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto, Campo San Giacomo 1, near the Rialto Bridge—do not confuse this with Campo San Giacomo dall'Orio.
Is food and wine included?
Yes—lunch and multiple wine tastings are included in the tour price.
Can the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
The tour cannot accommodate vegans or strict gluten/dairy-free diets; vegetarians can be accommodated if advised in advance and cross-contamination may occur for nut allergies.
What happens if I’m late?
Guides wait no more than 10 minutes; late arrivals cannot join and there is no refund for missed tours.
Are children allowed?
Children are permitted but must be accompanied by an adult; the route involves crowded markets and standing at bars.
Is the fish market always open?
Stalls at the fish market are closed on some Sundays, Mondays and public holidays; the itinerary may change accordingly.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Venice, Veneto
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with a moderate level of fitness who can stand and walk for several hours on uneven surfaces.
Ready to Explore Venice?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now