Venice Street Food and Sightseeing Walking Tour — Rialto Market Cicchetti & City Sights
Walk through Rialto Market, taste cicchetti in working bacari, and see key Venetian landmarks on this 2.5-hour tasting tour. Early in your trip, it’s a practical and flavorful primer for navigating Venice’s food culture.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring small change
Many bacari accept only cash or prefer small bills for quick cicchetti purchases—carry €10–30 in change in addition to cards.
Notify about allergies early
The tour can accommodate vegetarians but not vegans, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets—advise the operator when booking.
Comfortable shoes for cobbles
Expect uneven stone, short bridges and standing while sampling—closed shoes with good soles prevent slips and sore feet.
Start mid-morning
Rialto Market is most active in the morning; this timing gives the freshest fish displays and quieter streets before cruise-ship crowds.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Try a tiny fritto misto at a quieter bacaro in Campo San Polo
- •Step into the back alleys near Frari for artisan bakeries and less-touristed cicchetti bars
Wildlife
- •Seagulls scavenging the market
- •Mute swans and moorhens on quieter canals
Conservation Note
Venice’s delicate lagoon environment is vulnerable to pollution and overtourism—pack out waste, avoid single-use plastics, and follow local signage to protect historic sites.
Rialto has been Venice’s commercial center since the 11th century; the market and bridges evolved to support maritime trade that shaped the Venetian Republic.
Photographer's Notes
- • Rialto Bridge looking over the market stalls
- • Campi facing the Frari basilica for architectural compositions
- • Along quieter canals near Campo San Polo for reflections
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Good grip and support on cobbles and bridge steps make the tour more enjoyable.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated between wine and salty snacks is essential, especially in warm months.
Light rain jacket
The tour runs rain or shine; a compact waterproof keeps you comfortable during sudden showers.
Small cash pouchEssential
Use for quick payments at cicchetti bars that prefer cash for small purchases.
Common Questions
Where exactly do we meet the guide?
Meet at Campo San Bartolomeo next to the statue; the guide will hold a sign labeled "Street Food Tour"—arrive 10 minutes early.
Can this tour accommodate vegans or gluten-free diets?
No; the operator can accommodate vegetarians but cannot support vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free participants—note restrictions when booking.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No; the route includes bridges and uneven cobbles and is not wheelchair accessible.
Is tipping expected?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; for good service, a small tip for the guide or local bars is customary.
What languages is the tour offered in?
Guides typically conduct the tour in the language listed on the booking page—confirm at checkout or with the operator if you need another language.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; check your booking confirmation for details.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Venice, Veneto
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—requires standing, short walks across uneven cobbles and stairs over bridges.
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