Rialto Market: Gastronomic Tours & Experiences

Situated alongside one of the city’s most famous canals, there is no better place to purchase fresh produce in Venice than the Rialto Market. The market is known for its fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables and other locally grown ingredients.

Taking part in a Rialto Market tour in Venice provides you with the opportunity to familiarize yourself with local flavors and see where Venetians purchase some of their groceries. Admire the neatly stacked piles of fruit and vegetables, and chat with the friendly market vendors!

Here's everything you need to know about Rialto Market tours, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Venice.

What are the most popular Rialto Market tours in Venice?

Rialto Market food and wine tour

Take part in a fun-filled, half-day tour of the Rialto Market that provides insight into Venice’s buzzing food and wine scene. Not only will you visit the market, but you’ll explore pastry shops, osterias, trattorias and wine bars with your local guide.

Starting near the Rialto Bridge, you’ll stroll toward the Rialto Market, which is filled with fruit, vegetables and seafood. After your market visit, you’ll head to a local osteria, where you’ll taste Venetian wines accompanied by traditional cicchetti.

Along the way, you’ll see a few other nearby attractions, including Marco Polo’s house and enjoy a cup of Italian coffee alongside one of Italy’s most famous desserts—tiramisu!

Rialto Market tour with cooking class

Visit one of the most iconic markets in all of Venice with this Rialto Market tour, led by a local chef. At the market, you’ll pick out fresh ingredients that you will later use to cook a traditional Italian meal in a hands-on Venetian cooking class, accompanied by a glass of wine.

Explore the vibrant and colorful market stalls as your guide tells you more about the market’s fascinating history. Once you have spent some time learning about its heritage and fresh produce, you’ll make your way to a local home to begin your cooking class.

Your instructor guides you on how to prepare a homemade 3-course meal, which includes pasta and a dessert, from authentic family recipes. Sip on a glass of regional as you prepare your typical Venetian dishes, which you’ll eat at the end of the tour.

Private food and wine tour of Rialto Market and San Polo

Make the most of your time in Venice with a private tour that explores the famous Rialto Market and San Polo. Your tour begins at Campo San Bartolomeo, where you’ll meet your guide and take a stroll through Rialto Market and discover its many stalls.

Take a break to enjoy a glass of wine and an appetizer at a nearby osteria before you take a traditional gondola ride across the Grand Canal. Once on the other side of the canal, you’ll explore the Cannareggio district, where you’ll see one of the oldest churches in Venice.

Next up is the Castelletto area, which was the notorious red-light district during Venice’s medieval era. From here, you’ll explore the San Polo neighborhood, where you’ll see some of the city’s most ornate buildings before your tour ends at the Rialto Bridge.

Street food and Rialto Market tour in Venice

Avoid Venice’s many tourist traps and join a local guide as you explore the Rialto Market and discover some of the city’s best local eateries on this small-group food tour. See where the Venetians eat and drink as you explore foodie hotspots and small bars surrounding the Grand Canal.

The first stop is the Rialto Market, where your guide will translate—giving you the opportunity to chat with market vendors. As you explore the neighborhood, you’ll stop to sample Venetian cheeses, alcoholic beverages and cold cuts.

Your guide will provide you with tips on where to eat and drink during the rest of your time in Venice and show you some of the lesser-known bars and eateries.

What will I see and do on a Rialto Market tour?

In addition to the Rialto Market stalls, you may visit local eateries, wine bars and nearby attractions, including the Rialto Bridge, Campo San Bartolomeo and Marco Polo’s house. You may also take a gondola ride across the Grand Canals and explore the Cannareggio and Castelletto neighborhoods.

What are the prices of Rialto Market tours in Venice?

Rialto Market tours in Venice usually start at around €90 per person, which includes a variety of food and wine tastings at nearby eateries and wine bars.

Rialto market tours that include a cooking class, typically cost around €130 for a group experience, while private market and sightseeing tours cost roughly €230 per person, depending on group size.

What is included?

When you book a Rialto Market tour in Venice, you’ll get to explore the market with a local guide, who will provide information as well as translation services should you want to chat with any of the local vendors.

Rialto market tours also include food and wine tastings at various eateries and wine bars in the area, providing you with a comprehensive introduction to Venice’s culinary scene.

Where do they start?

Rialto Market tours usually begin at easy-to-find landmarks near the market, such as the Church of San Giacomo di Rialto or Campo San Bartolomeo.

How long do they last?

Rialto Market tours in Venice typically last between 3 and 4 hours, however there are a few 2-hour tours available for those with limited schedules.

Are Rialto Market tours accessible to wheelchair users?

Unfortunately, Rialto Market tours are generally not wheelchair friendly, as the area gets very crowded and can be quite challenging for travelers with mobility issues.

When is the best time for a Rialto Market tour in Venice?

The best time for a Rialto Market tour is in the morning, when the market is most active. Arrive early, around 8 or 9 AM, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and avoid peak tourist crowds. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists than the busy summer months, making them ideal alternatives for a market tour in Venice.

Is it safe?

Rialto Market tours are safe, however, you must inform your tour operator of any dietary restrictions or allergies. Keep in mind that not all tours can accommodate vegan, gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Are children allowed?

Children are generally allowed to join Rialto Market tours in Venice, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

Travel tips

• Make sure to plan your visit Tuesday through Saturday, as the market is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
• Given the amount of walking involved on these tours, comfortable shoes and clothing are highly advisable. It can get crowded in the market, so pack lightly with a smaller bag or backpack.
• Respect the local customs and do not touch produce, unless invited to do so by the vendor.