Tastes and Traditions of Venice: Rialto Market Tour

Supplied by: City Experiences

Overview

Step away from the tourist trail to discover Venice’s culinary history throughout the centuries: from the days when the city was a major spice trade port up to the present. As you learn about the influence of Venice’s maritime history on regional cuisine, learn where the locals go to eat and taste some of the city’s standout dishes for yourself. Explore the Rialto Market and visit a few renowned cicchetti bars to enjoy Venetian-style "tapas" with wine.
When you know how to tell authentic eateries from tourist traps, Venetian food is a surprising delight. Learn what to eat and where to eat it on this expert-led guided tour.

Your tour starts with sandwiches and coffee at a local cafe followed by an introduction to cicchetti, Venice’s signature tapas-like bites. The second stop of the morning is a family-run bar where you’ll enjoy two local favorites paired with a drink.

Next, it’s time for an exploration of the famous Rialto fish market. With a local on hand to give you insider information, learn about one of Venice’s oldest industries and spot strange species you may not find at home.

From there, it’s time for more food! Pop into a bright, friendly little shop for a street-food style take on Venetian seafood—made with products fresh from the market just steps away.

After that, at the nearby Rialto produce market, you’ll extend your knowledge to include the seasonality of vegetables and locally produced specialties. Stop at a fresh fruit stand and taste incredible seasonal delights.

Just a quick stroll away from the market, your next stop is another beloved cicchetti bar. You’ll enjoy a panino of your choice here and one of their best-selling spritzes.

The fastest way to travel in Venice is by water. You'll hop on a gondola for a short ride to cross the famous Grand Canal with your guide en route to Cannaregio. Formerly the city’s Jewish Ghetto, today it’s where locals go to eat, drink and socialize.

After disembarking from the gondola, you’ll make your way to a cozy modern bar to enjoy homemade risotto and a glass of wine.

Your tour ends at an innovative gelateria tucked down a hidden side street. Cap off your morning on a delicious note with your choice of one of their creative flavors.

Points of interest
Rialto, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Al Mercà, Campo Bella Vienna, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Bar Rialto da Lollo, Ruga dei Spezieri, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Taverna al Remer, Cannaregio, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Mercato di Rialto, Calle Prima de la Donzella, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Mercato di Rialto, Sestiere S. Polo, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Cannaregio Canal, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Bar All'Arco, Calle Arco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Rialto Bridge, Sestiere San Polo, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy