The historic Rialto market is the culinary, social and economic heart of Venetian life, where locals buy their seafood, meat and produce daily amid the colorful stalls that line the Grand Canal. This small island, originally known as Rivoaltus, was one of the first to be settled by early Venetians, and by the 11th century had become the town’s central marketplace. As we visit this lively center with our guide, we will learn about the history of this space of commerce and trade during the Venetian Republic’s many centuries, as well as the marketplace today, with its emphasis on locally grown produce and seafood.
Our guide, a culinary expert, will lead us through the market explaining the produce that is particular to Venice, for example the small artichokes that come from the nearby island of S. Erasmo, and <em>schie</em>, tiny shrimp fished from the lagoon, and what they mean to Venetian cuisine. This walk will give us the confidence and the knowledge not only to shop in this and other markets in the city but also to be more adventurous in trying the specialties in Venice’s restaurants and wine bars. After about an hour of exploring the marketplace, we will stop in at a local eatery for <em>cicchetti</em>, Venetian snacks, and an <em>ombra</em>, a small glass of wine, which is a local ritual. Here, we will learn about and sample some of the delicious seafood delicacies that have made Venetian cuisine famous, and continue our conversation about the economy and culture of seafood in Venice, as well as, more broadly, how this marketplace connects us to Venice’s past and present.
Language
English
Redeem informationVoucher type: Printed
Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.
LocationStarting point: Rialto Mercato boat stop
End point: Same as starting point
ScheduleOpening datesTuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday/Saturday, 09:30 - 11:30
Duration: 2 Hours
Guiding optionsGuiding type: Guide
RecommendationsPlease be aware that the tour includes Walking Tours, we kindly advise you to use comfortable clothes and shoes and be ready for some walking.
Bemerkungen
Meeting Point: You will meet your docent under the portico just off the "Rialto Mercato" Vaporetto stop, which is served by line 1 and is located on Fondamenta Vin Castello.
Directions:The "Rialto Mercato" stop is different from the "Rialto" stop, which is served by lines 1 and 2 but stops on the opposite side of the canal. Please, be sure to be at "Rialto Mercato" Vaporetto stop.
Additional Info: You have prepaid for the time with the docent and a set amount of tastings. Though not obligated, you are certainly welcome to make purchases during the course of the walk. Given the complicated nature of transportation and city navigation in Venice, we suggest allowing yourselves more time than you feel necessary to arrive at the meeting point.
Duration of the tour: 2 hours
Tour start time: 9.30 am
Guide languages: English
Customers must be at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour.
Tour operates rain or shine
We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes for walking
Remember to bring the voucher and valid photo ID with you.
