Rialto Market Food & Wine Tasting Guided Tour — Venice Walking Food Tour
Walk through centuries of trade and taste Venice plate by plate. This four-hour guided tour of Rialto Market pairs cicchetti, local wine, and insider stories for a practical, delicious introduction to Venetian food culture.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to beat lines
The market is busiest mid-morning—start at or before the meeting time to secure seating at popular bacari and avoid peak crowds.
Wear sturdy, water-resistant shoes
Cobblestones and canal-side splashes make good footwear essential—expect uneven surfaces and occasional wet patches.
Declare allergies and dietary needs in advance
This tour cannot accommodate vegan or strict gluten/dairy-free diets; notify the operator early to confirm vegetarian options.
Bring a small amount of cash
Some market stalls and tiny bars prefer cash for quick purchases and tipping; small bills and coins are handy.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Erbaria lane behind the market for lesser-seen produce stalls
- •A quiet bench on the north side of the Rialto Bridge for unobstructed canal views
Wildlife
- •Herring gulls scavenging near fish stalls
- •Urban pigeons around the squares
Conservation Note
Support local vendors and avoid single-use plastics; the lagoon’s delicate ecology benefits when visitors favor sustainable seafood and minimize waste.
Rialto Market has functioned as Venice’s commercial hub since the 11th century, acting as the city’s link to mainland produce and maritime trade.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the upper walkways of the Rialto Bridge
- • Along the market rows facing the Grand Canal
- • The steps at Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Good tread and water resistance help on cobblestones and damp areas near canals.
Light rain jacketEssential
Venice weather can shift quickly; a compact waterproof keeps you comfortable during sudden showers.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Hydration is key during the walking portions; refill at fountains or cafes.
Small daypack
Carry purchases, camera, and layers without blocking narrow alleys.
Common Questions
Where exactly do we meet the guide?
Meet outside the Church of San Giacomo di Rialto at Campo San Giacomo, near the Rialto Bridge—look for the guide with a visible tour sign.
Is lunch included and what will we eat?
Lunch is included: expect a selection of cicchetti, a sit-down trattoria meal featuring local specialties like baccalà mantecato and regional wine.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Vegetarians can be accommodated with advance notice; the tour does not support vegan, strict gluten-free, or dairy-free diets due to cross-contamination risks.
Is the tour stroller or wheelchair accessible?
Strollers are manageable in some areas, but the route includes bridges and cobblestones that limit full wheelchair accessibility.
What languages is the tour offered in?
Tours are conducted in Italian and English unless otherwise specified—confirm language at booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; tours may operate rain or shine and are subject to market closures on certain days.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Venice, Veneto
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderately fit: comfortable walking for 3–4 miles on uneven surfaces and climbing short flights of stairs
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