Ponte Vecchio

A golden place or a place where you can buy a lot of gold. All the tourists come here and clearly you can see this bridge from many locations all around the city. We were there both at night and in the afternoon. I do recommend visiting it

Another must see sight in Florence. It’s very much a street selling jewellery throughout the span of the bridge. There are however some open spaces to view the river which is quite good photo spot. The bridge is still open to traffic so be careful. It’s a great place to relax along the bridge. From here too you can get a glimpse of the cathedral’s dome as well as the tower in the Piazza.

This is a medieval stone bridge over the river Arno. It was somehow spared from destruction during WW-II. It features shops on both sides of the bridge; mostly jewellers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers. Products offered are priced high - it's a tourist trap. It's worth a visit though, but the best idea is to walk across it in both directions, and then add it to your "been there, done that" list of things to see and do.

Ponte Vecchio is an iconic landmark in Florence that truly lives up to its reputation. The historic bridge, lined with charming jewelry shops, offers stunning views of the Arno River and the city’s skyline. It's a perfect spot for a romantic stroll, especially at sunset when the atmosphere is magical. A must-visit for anyone exploring Florence!

The Ponte Vecchio is Florence's most famous landmark, a medieval stone closed-spandrel segmental arch bridge over the River Arno. It is well known for the shops that are built on it; making it a lively and busy tourist attraction. A unique and fascinating must -see in Florence

Really gorgeous view from both directions with a ton of mostly jewellery shops to look at on the bridge itself. Walking to it be mindful of random cars as a lot of people walk in the middle of the road so I thought it was pedestrian only and it was not. I would suggest going earlier in the morning as when I was there by 11am it was super crowded with tours and a lot of people pushing to take selfies and photos.

What can I say that hasn't been said about this famous bridge? The architecture is unique, there are random shops around the area. It's a picturesque place and it stands out from all other bridges in Florence. I believe it's the oldest bridge in Florence so if this bridge could talk, what wonders would it speak of? This bridge is a symbol of Florence, it has historical significance, architectural beauty and romantic charm. If you're in Florence, you have to see this beautiful bridge 😊

This was a surprise visit for me…and a lovely new cross necklace to go with it! 🤩 It was very busy but the area is very beautiful. There’s a lot of shopping especially jewelry (the new necklace ❤️). The views and the atmosphere are lovely. I would recommend a visit.

A golden place or a place where you can buy a lot of gold. All the tourists come here and clearly you can see this bridge from many locations all around the city. We were there both at night and in the afternoon. I do recommend visiting it

Another must see sight in Florence. It’s very much a street selling jewellery throughout the span of the bridge. There are however some open spaces to view the river which is quite good photo spot. The bridge is still open to traffic so be careful. It’s a great place to relax along the bridge. From here too you can get a glimpse of the cathedral’s dome as well as the tower in the Piazza.

This is a medieval stone bridge over the river Arno. It was somehow spared from destruction during WW-II. It features shops on both sides of the bridge; mostly jewellers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers. Products offered are priced high - it's a tourist trap. It's worth a visit though, but the best idea is to walk across it in both directions, and then add it to your "been there, done that" list of things to see and do.

Ponte Vecchio is an iconic landmark in Florence that truly lives up to its reputation. The historic bridge, lined with charming jewelry shops, offers stunning views of the Arno River and the city’s skyline. It's a perfect spot for a romantic stroll, especially at sunset when the atmosphere is magical. A must-visit for anyone exploring Florence!

The Ponte Vecchio is Florence's most famous landmark, a medieval stone closed-spandrel segmental arch bridge over the River Arno. It is well known for the shops that are built on it; making it a lively and busy tourist attraction. A unique and fascinating must -see in Florence

Really gorgeous view from both directions with a ton of mostly jewellery shops to look at on the bridge itself. Walking to it be mindful of random cars as a lot of people walk in the middle of the road so I thought it was pedestrian only and it was not. I would suggest going earlier in the morning as when I was there by 11am it was super crowded with tours and a lot of people pushing to take selfies and photos.

What can I say that hasn't been said about this famous bridge? The architecture is unique, there are random shops around the area. It's a picturesque place and it stands out from all other bridges in Florence. I believe it's the oldest bridge in Florence so if this bridge could talk, what wonders would it speak of? This bridge is a symbol of Florence, it has historical significance, architectural beauty and romantic charm. If you're in Florence, you have to see this beautiful bridge 😊

This was a surprise visit for me…and a lovely new cross necklace to go with it! 🤩 It was very busy but the area is very beautiful. There’s a lot of shopping especially jewelry (the new necklace ❤️). The views and the atmosphere are lovely. I would recommend a visit.

There are many hot spots for tourists in Firenze, and Ponte Vecchio is definitely one of them. It goes without saying that we wanted to take a visit while in the city, and during our explorations we found ourselves here on multiple occasions. Technically, the Ponte Vecchio is a stone arch bridge over the Arno - it's definitely pretty to look at and if you're crossing one of the adjacent bridges you can get some great shots of the buildings that line it. Besides the sight itself, what draws people to this area is all the shopping. The bridge is lined on both sides with jewelry stores - so many display windows its such a feast for the eyes. I definitely made a couple of laps just to see everything, and did end up purchasing a gift. Besides the bling, there are a few other retailers leading up to the bridge, as well as several restaurants with nice views of the water. Overall, it's definitely worth checking the Ponte Vecchio out - if not for a purchase then to take in the views.

This bridge is lined with gold shops on both sides of the street. Most of the shops are owned by the same company. I did buy some jewelry, but I felt like I was at a used car lot. Their prices are inflated, but I wanted souvenirs from Ponte Vecchio. They give you a high price. You ask about discounts and they will give you 5% off. Promise you that they will give you $ back in VAT, which is probably rolled into the quoted price anyways. Then they have to call their manager/owner to see if they can get you a better discount. Then they come back with 10% off. We spent a couple of hours looking at jewelry in each shop and this was the formula. It got old after a while.

The Ponte Vecchio is a medieval stone arch bridge over the Arno, and it is the only bridge in Florence survived from destruction during WWII. There are many Jewry shops across the bridge, and expect numerous tourists walking on the bridge.

The Ponte Vecchio is a must see when in Florence! Great place to shop, eat and walk! We had so much fun at all of the stores.

I've seen images of this bridge but never really knew anything about it. When we were in Florence, I just added Ponte Vecchio to our itinerary. As I was taking some photos of the bridge, I overheard a tour guide telling her group the windows are larger because they built that on purpose so Hitler could see the river better for strategic purposes. I'm not sure if that's factual or not but it did get me interested enough to Google the bridge after visiting. It turns out that this bridge is to Florence like the Colosseum to Rome. The bridge is the oldest bridge in Florence over Arno River and called "Old Bridge". There are many shops on the bridge that you can visit. I'm glad that I was able to visit and walk the bridge to be in the footsteps of many before me. Too bad the weather wasn't nicer and the river was so brown. It's still a must visit site in Florence regardless of the weather.

Obviously, I am not visiting Florence and not visiting Ponte Vecchio. The history of this bridge, from it's inception all the way to WW2, is something to be marveled and we did just that. We were super lucky when we came, as the moment we stepped out onto the bridge, it started raining. This meant we were able to walk across it, and stop in the middle to take pics without many other people around. Everyone else was trying to stay dry and hiding. Not us. These raindrops had nothing on Vegas monsoon season. Obviously, the bridge itself is kind of blah. There are good views from the middle and if you're into super expensive tourist jewelry, this is your place, but I just liked knowing I was crossing this bridge. You know? There are quite a few places on both sides of the bridge, along the river, that provide great photo opportunities.

It's cool to have a bridge that is incredibly old and historic but feels like all the gold shops take away from the authentic vibe. It makes for a cool picture in the background but not much to do other than shop for overpriced jewelry.

Ponte Vecchio is a living artistic monument to Florence's Renaissance past and a must see while visiting Firenze. While the original bridge was supposedly build by the Romans. The medieval replacement was a farmer's market. It had small shops, merchants and butchers for several hundred years. Today however, it's very modern with touristy type shops. But it's the view from the River Arno, which will leave you speechless and in awe, while wondering "now how did the do that?" See photos. Btw, unlike the Wiki version of WWII and Ponte Vecchio, our tour guide believes the bridge was wired with explosives and it was only saved by brave resistance fighters. You decide.

We had a bit of time to kill between lunch and our tour time at the Duomo. This site was only a 10-minute walk away (down streets busy with tourists and other pedestrians). We had planned to check it out at some point, so we went ahead then. The bridge itself has a somewhat medieval vibe. Both sides of the bridge are lined with 2-story shops with street-level display windows. All of these places sell jewelry, gold, silver, or expensive watches. I think this is now by ordinance. I don't know what percentage of visitors actually buy something, but it is interesting to just wander along and window-shop. While some places just have racks of gold chains, some places had more interesting sub-displays of figurines, odd themed cufflinks, etc. It appeared that traffic was allowed on the bridge, but it was unusual to see a vehicle there. They probably avoid it due to all the foot traffic that spills into the street. There are some good views from the bridge itself. At the midpoint, there is a gap between the shops so that you can look up or down stream. If the weather is nice, you can get good photos of other bridges over the river off into the distance. You can also get photos of the bridge itself if you walk along the river in either direction for a hundred yards or so. There appeared to be two types of locals who will try to engage with you: a) late middle-aged Italian ladies who get in your face and beg for money, and b) young African guys selling trinkets, but who often first try to strike up a seemingly random conversation. Both of these groups were really common near the historic / tourist areas. If you're in Florence and just want a quick walkable side trip, a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio is worthwhile, and is definitely a signature Florentine experience.

Really 3.5 stars but I rounded up. This is one of the many landmark bridges in Florence. Spanning the Arno river it makes for spectacular photography. I wont delve into a history lesson but the origins of the bridge go back to 996. It has been destroyed and rebuild throught it's history. Viewed from the other bridges it is a spectacular image. However crossing it is another story. I did so twice and may avoid it in the future. It was beyond packed and the selfie stick crowd taking shots for thier social media did not help matters. Once experienced it may be faster to take the up or down river bridges unless you need something right across. The shops and building are cool, but it screams tourist trap. The Uffizi side is fairly crowded but if you walk to the other side its thins out for up river views

Ponte Vecchio is packed as of late March, but it's definitely the place to be. Lots of fancy designer brands and things to see - it absolutely exudes class. Be sure to take your time!

I mean it's a highlight of the city. And it's history is drenched in the Medicis. It used to be the row where all the butchers worked and threw the waste (meaning the guts) into the river, but Cosimo was disgusted by it and since he was running things in Florence had them moved out and moved the gold brokers in. Also, this is one of the few bridges Hilter didn't bomb so he could use it for his tanks once he over, took the city. Everything is overpriced. But who cares, you will forever be able to tell the story that you bought your piece of jewelry or had it bad for you on Ponte Vecchio.

One of Florence's landmarks is Ponte Vecchio. We walked across the bridge a few times while in Florence cause we were staying nearby. Loved our evening strolls the most. Less people and beautiful skies. There are mostly jewelry shops, some leather shops and souvenir shops. Beautiful views from all around. It's picturesque and one of most photographed bridges of the world. So many tourists walking around and taking pictures. Just beautiful.

If you want to walk where some ancients walked, then come here. You can Google the history for yourself but it's like stepping back in time, even with all of the modernization to the area. There's also an incredible view of the river.

A bridge lined with beautiful jewelry & fine leather shops. What could be better? There have been shops on Ponte Vecchio since the 13th century. Initially, there were all types of shops; butchers, fishmongers, & tanners, whose waste caused a pretty rancid stench in the area. In 1593, Ferdinand I decreed that only goldsmiths & jewelers can have their shops on the bridge in order to improve the wellbeing of all, including their own as they walked over the bridge. The was the only bridge to cross the Arno in Florence until 1218. The current bridge was rebuilt after a flood in 1345. During World War II it was the only bridge across the Arno that the fleeing Germans did not destroy.

"My idea of heaven still is to walk the gravel farm roads of Umbria and Tuscany, very pleasantly lost." - Under the Tuscan Sun Ponte Vecchio will not appeal to everyone. Some will see a very old bridge and nothing more. Others will see a glorious bridge built just after ancient Roman times. For me, as a historian, I see a story in it! Most reviews recite Wikipedia and after the 100th generic review it gets boring to read. Yes, everyone mentions the butchers, tanners, and farmers that initially occupied the shops built on the bridge. And how today the tenants are jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir shops. Toss in the occasional pickpocket and you get the Wikipedia version of this bridge. My experience with Ponte Vecchio was walking to each side of the 1,000 years old bridge. Strolling over the hundreds of years, millions of stories, with the Florentines and curious tourists alike. It's one of those landmarks where you soak in the moment and pause just knowing you're there. The many jewelry shops that line the bridge was a site, but I'm more into the moment in this life and previous lives I've lived. I can close my eyes and see chariots... The best views of Ponte Vecchio are the bridges directly across of her. The rowers on the Arno River reminds one to slow down in this blessed life. To realize this bridge, in some form, has stood for over a thousand years is astonishing. Medieval times, the birth of the Italian Renaissance, she also survived the bombing of Italy by Allied forces during WWII, as it was said that the art and history of Florence must be spared for the sake of humanity. Amen! In the end, a walk on Ponte Vecchio is a must if you're blessed to be in Tuscany. Again, not everyone will view it exactly alike, some will see old and crumbly, some with see a historic part of the world we live in. No matter how you feel just realize the best Florentine Steak and Artesian Gelato can be found on both ends of this bridge! Ti Amo! ;)

The "Old Bridge" is an iconic segmented arch bridge over the Arno that dates back to when it connected Roman Florentia with the Via Cassia Nuova commissioned by the emperor Hadrian in 123 AD. Today, the bridge is pedestrian only and vehicles are prohibited. It is noted for the shops built along it; building shops on such bridges was once a common practice. Butchers, tanners, and farmers initially occupied the shops; the present tenants are jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers. You can expect big crowds pretty much any time and with crowds comes vendors and also pickpockets. So be aware of your stuff and where it is on your body. [Review 17046 overall - 241 in Italy - 562 of 2022.]

AWSOME! Love this place nothing but cultural tradition food and wine! I don't won't to go home anymore! This is life!

Ponte Vecchio was definitely on my to see list when I spent time in Florence. My traveling companion at the time has the last name Vecchio. Naturally we could not leave until we saw this historic landmark. I'm definitely recommending. Florence is such a beautiful city. I love to see Bridges and take photos. You will have to take my word for it. I've got thousands of photographs. When I find my photos of the Ponte Vecchio I'll definitely post it! Definitely you should visit Florence and this historic landmark.

Ponte Vecchio is one of the world's most famous bridges. The views are spectacular. There are many stores and musicians scattered along the bridge. It is very enjoyable to walk across.

Going toFlorence, you have to check out Ponte Vecchio. It's one of the major landmarks in Italy. The bridge was originally constructed in Roman times and rebuilt in the medieval period. It crosses the Arno River. There are presently jewelers, dealers and souvenir shops on the bridge. Very picturesque. A must.

We stayed in the neighbourhood and on our first evening passed the Ponte Vecchio. In itself it is an amazing bridge with the shops either side (although the shops themselves are maybe not worth the visit). What made place special, however, was the sunset over the Arno, visible from the Ponte Vecchio at the top of the bridge. A great golden view of the river and the buildings on either side. And that in a bustling atmosphere.

if you are in Florence definitely have to make your way here and just appreciate the view. i mean in theory it is just a couple of bridges, water and buildings but if you are traveling the point is to see new sights right? plenty of people and shops nearby. worth stopping by, snap a few pics and be on your way

The Ponte Vecchio, Florence's most famous bridge, dates back to 1000 CE, and has a legendary history. Alas,in present day Florence, what you get are teeming crowds of tourists packing the bridge and taking selfies, and numerous overpriced leather and jewelry shops. Not my thing, but we crossed once just to feel we've done it. No pickpocket encounters, but be alert when you're here. The bridge is better to admire from a distance. A walk along the north shore of the Arno River provides excellent views of the bridge without the crowds and makes for nice pictures.

Ponte Vecchio or "Old Bridge" has been documented as to its' existence since at least 996 C.E. but probably has been in existence much longer. The Via Cassia, the super highway of it's time probably crossed the Arno river in Florence during the time of Emperor Hadrian. Originally the base of the bridge was constructed of stone piers with a wooden construction above the waterline. It has been destroyed by flooding in 1117, 1373 and rebuilt in 1345. The latest damaging flood came in 1966. In Medieval times it had a stone enclosure, segmented and with a distinctive arch. Butchers, tanners, fish mongers in the interior of the bridge. and farmers had shops along A major reuse of the bridge came during the Medici eras when the these shop keepers were thrown out and replaced by goldsmiths and jewelers. These merchants exist in spades today. You will even find a Rolex shop. A bronze bust of Florentine sculptor and master goldsmith artist, Benvento Cellini stands atop a fountain in the middle of the Eastern side of the bridge. Besides the many jewelry, goldsmith and souvenir shops, there are mimes, those that beg for money, musicians and tons of tourists. There are warnings to tourists of pick pockets. Aside from the negatives the Ponte Vecchio has Medieval charm, the neighbor on both side of the bridge have tons of atmosphere. Ponte Vecchio is open late. Check-out the gelato shops on both sides of the bridge.

A nice picturesque bridge with a rich history! In terms of shops, there were basically only jewelry shops. I didn't go into any of them but they were nice to see from the outside. They're all quite fancy and nice inside! The bridge can get quite crowded since it is a touristy spot. Be careful of pick-pocketers and the like. Near the center of the bridge, it opens up so you can see the river on both sides. I think if you look east you'll see the mountains and you'll get this gorgeous view of the river and the buildings.

One of the most widely recognized icons of the city of Florence and its graceful arches topped by a jumble of shops is most certainly one of the city's prettiest scenes. It is one of Florence's oldest and most photographed bridges. Noted for its three segmented arches. The bridge has traditionally been the home for the shops of Florence's talented goldsmiths. A dazzling array of fine jewelry can be seen upon strolling through it. Between readers - there is a history. it wasn't always like this and much like London's Tower Bridge, the Ponte Vecchio was built to replace an earlier bridge. Once dominated by butchers and bakers, the original bridge was washed away during a flood in the early 14th century. When the new Ponte Vecchio was completed, it too was home to local food stores until Grand Duke Ferdinand I of the Medici family decided to designate this unadorned bridge the epicenter of the city's gold and jewel trade. It has maintained this identity ever since. But most tourists don't realize that another set of treasures hides above their heads. The purpose of the bridge, of course, was to link the two sides of the Arno, and the Medici needed to cross frequently between their offices in the Palazzo Vecchio and their apartments in the Pitti Palace. So they commissioned the architect Vasari to build a passageway, officially called the Percorso del Principe (Passageway of the Prince), but now more often known as the Corridoio Vasariano, Vasari Corridor. You can see its line of evenly matched windows above the shops. The Vasari Corridor or the Passageway of the Price has walls lined with priceless collections of portraits by artists like Velasquez, Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt, among Florence's top attractions.

I felt like I was in a fairy tale when I was on this bridge. Like a fairy tale with Gucci, Versace, and Chanel. It's pretty funny how many of these ancient cities have become commercialized and the surrounding area of the bridge is as commercialized as it gets. With that being said, the bridge is pretty awesome and the views will not be forgotten. Sure, there a ton of people in June, but I can't imagine how bad it's going to be in July. One way or another walk on this bridge and enjoy it when you come to visit as it's really one of a kind.

I love the story of the history. Built in the 1300s by the Romans. Judging by how often bridges need to be rebuilt here in the US, I'd say we would be far better served to get some ancient Roman architects to help us out!! The bridge sits on the Arno river, and has seen a lot since it's origin in medieval times. Local small businesses have sold their wares here for centuries. Butchers and tanners were replaced by Goldsmiths during the Medici era, and thus began Italy's reputation as the home of fine gold jewelry. Luckily, Hitler spared it in the German bombing raids of World War II. The only bridge spared in all of Florence. Our guide told us that Hitler is said to have given that order himself. Many choose to walk across it, but the crowds are simply too big. And slightly intimidating. Day or night. I think it is best viewed from a distance. Don't make this your main destination. Loop it in with other sights. Maybe spend the day at the Uffizi gallery, cross the small street toward the river and admire it from afar.

Ponte Vecchio is a wonderful place to take some breathtaking photos. The stone bridge is amazing. You get the Venice vibe in the middle of Florence. The river surrounded by buildings and bridges. There are a ton of small jewelry, art, and souvenir shops here. I was here on a sunny clear day and was able to get really nice pictures.

The most iconic bridge in Firenze. Now it's a total tourist trap with jewelry shops and fine leather merchants, but still a must see. Architecturally, it is a simple bridge but one of the most beautiful in that it has been modified over the centuries to include shops extending out over the water. It's a hodgepodge that works beautifully. It was on Ponte Vecchio that I was first introduced to Corum watches by shopkeeper Antonella Cinelli. A jeweler whose enthusiasm for jewelry is outstripped only by her love of Florence and its history.

I would simply say that this is basically a bridge and leave it at that, but really, it isn't actually any ordinary bridge. In fact it is apparently what London Bridge was before it fell down (if it ever actually fell down). Okay, unlike London Bridge, the Ponte Vecchio is made from stone, but it still has shops lining either side of it, and no ordinary shops either, but some high end jewellery shops - no touristy things here. Really, there really isn't all that much to see here, but what is a trip to Florence without going to the Ponte Vecchio.

Chances are you'll walk over the Ponte Vecchio on a visit to Florence. I've visited the city twice, so I've probably transversed the bridge half a dozen times by this point, but I really don't think it's anything all too special..unless you're in the market for gold jewelry. I don't think I've ever seen it NOT bustling with hoards of tourists. It's great to snap a photo on and next to, but I'd say move on after that.

One of the stops while we were touring Florence was this infamous 3-section stone bridge. What makes it unique is that there are shops built along both sides of it with a fairly wide walkway in the middle for foot traffic only. The shops were originally occupied by butchers and fishmongers; today they're filled with less smelly business such as jewelers, tourist junk, and even knock-off designer goods laid out on blankets on the ground. The middle section features 3 open arches, great for viewing and taking pics of the Arno River that it crosses at its narrowest point. The different colors of the bridge stones, buildings, window shutters, and surrounding city-scape only add to its old-world charm. OVERALL: A free and highly photo opportunistic sight to see while in the area in addition to the Statue of David.

This landmark on the Arno river is a fun, free sight. From the river side, the bridge contains many buildings lining both sides of the bridge and has a very 'old world' feel. While on the bridge, you will pass jewelry store, after jewelry store. Some include antique pieces. This is a pedestrian only bridge. Halfway along the bridge you will find an open area where vendors show their wares and you can take photos. There is also a tower here and a plaque with a brief description of the bridge on the tower wall. It was our first stop while visiting Florence and a nice introduction to the city.

Ponte Vecchio, "Old Bridge," is picturesque scenic Italy at its very best. Without a doubt it is one of most famous, most photographed bridges of the world. Bridging over a gentle river, it exudes itself with an old world charm that could never be built or duplicated today. When walking across it, it brings about a certain romance and indeed you'll see plenty of lovers holding hands as they stroll along. Along both sides of the walkway are rather elegant boutique type shops, most of them being high to ultra-high end jewelry shops. And though there are plenty of tourists, you'll hardly know it as none of the shops are the low end trinket, t-shirt and cheap souvenir types so common to other touristy areas. If you are anywhere near the vicinity of Ponte Vecchio, it is a must see.

Beautiful views on this bridge. And so peaceful, except for this rude lady who told me to move out of her shots of her teen daughter (who was taking pics for awhile and wasn't that close to me). You can see the bridge too from my favorite spot in Florence, Piazzale Michangelo.

Everyone who comes to Florence must cross this iconic bridge sooner or later. It is one of the most postcard-perfect bridges from any direction. This is the only bridge spared during 1944 bombings by retreating German forces. It is the home of some wonderful jewelry stores. Most tourists do not realize that it was once populated with butchers' and fishmongers' stores; but, Grand Duke Ferdinando I, who did not like the smell, decided that only jewelers could be on the bridge. Take a walk across the bridge and be dazzled by the jewels you will see. I can clearly remember the first time my Dad brought me here in 1962 as a young girl and how smitten I was just looking at all the jewels!

Romantic place to visit with lots of history. IN this bridge they have a lot of shops that you can buy your jewelry. Tip: Go to the other bridge to get a good photo of Ponte Vecchio.

When I first laid eyes on this mesmerizing old bridge I was walking on the north bank near the Galleria degli Uffizi. I did not know the history of the bridge when I first saw it on October 20, 2011. I found out later it could have been destroyed during World War II with the rest of the bridges in Florence. Ponte Vecchio means "Old Bridge". It was originally constructed in the year 996, was destroyed by floods a couple times, and most recently reconstructed in 1345. When I approached the entrance to the bridge I spotted many old locks attached to a gate and near a vintage looking bicycle. See my photo. I did not know the significance of these locks at the time, but it didn't surprise me to later find out there's a romantic legend to go along with this. The following website describes the legend of the Ponte Vecchio padlocks. http://www.firenzealbergo.it/EN/Experience-Florence/romantic-getaway/pages/leggende-amore-ponte-vecchio.aspx There are many jewelry shops on the bridge as well as many spots to take photos, especially in the middle where there is an open section that is perfect to take a seat. Looking toward the east you can see the Uffizi Gallery to the left and a little waterfall up the river. If you cross the street and look to the west you can see many of the other bridges. I am so happy I was able to see this exquisite old bridge in person and take lots of photos as a momento of the first time I saw it in person.

We didn't actually walk along the Ponte Vecchio, but we were able to see it from a distance, which per some of the more negative reviews, was a better choice. The crowded, touristy Ponte Vecchio would have ruined our experience and the awe that overcame us as we took it in silently. The architecture and rustic beauty can be seen from a couple blocks down on a prior bridge. We didn't dare venture through the tourist trap, but we got to admire the historical landmark from a distance, as well as get some great photos. Worth the walk, but not worth fighting the tourist attraction aspect.

The Ponte Vecchio is an old Medieval stone bridge that spans the Arno River in Firenze. This beautiful and historic bridge is most famous for having shops built along either side of the bridge. These shops were first occupied by butchers, but in 1593 butchers were prohibited from occupying the shops in order to fill the shops with more prestigious gold merchants. Today the bridge maintains it's prestige and the Ponte Vecchio is lined with jewelry boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops. The Ponte Vecchio was initially constructed with wood and stone during Roman times in 996, but it was destroyed by a flood in 1117 and rebuilt in stone. Another flood swept away the bridge in 1333 and so it was rebuilt once again in 1345. The bridge managed to avoid any damage during World War II in 1944, unlike all other bridges in Firenze, but the bridge was severely damaged in the 1966 flood of the Arno. I highly recommend tourists to grab a cone of gelato at Perchè No! and stroll along the Ponte Vecchio for some great window shopping and people watching.

Walking on the bridge itself is underwhelming. Tourists for days, just expensive shops full of jewelry and leather goods. Lots of street hustlers, so be careful with your wallet. Better from a distance so you can see the lights and interesting formation of the shops over the bridge. More of a pit stop to a final destination rather than anything else.

Beautiful bridge fill with shops and restaurants. The best time of day to go here is in the morning (like we did). After 11:00 am it gets ridiculously crowded and it becomes really hard to walk through it. The souvenirs here are more expensive than other places so consider buying them at a further spot :)

I mean how much can you say about it. It's picturesque, it's romantic, it's the most beautiful part of the Arno. Really great for an evening stroll to look over and take a few pictures. Some really cool history behind it as well. Yes, I am a fan.

This is the place to take a knock out picture at sunset with your travel companions or even by yourself. Window-shopping is a must; there are beautiful jewels in the shops along this historic bridge (the "old" bridge according to its name). Even on a rainy day you should take pictures, the scenery is splendid. This is part of the normal route for many Florentines strolling from the Centro Storico to the Oltrarno (south of the River Arno). If you plan ahead, you might be able to arrange a visit through the Vasari Corridor that is above the shops. I wish I could be standing on the Ponte Vecchio right now! It is a special place to be!

You can't go to Florence without spending some time shopping on the Ponte Vecchio. The many shops have interesting items but the most important are the leather goods. I guess they have to do something with the leather because so many people are eating all that steak!!

OLD BRIDGE! No really, that's what "Ponte Vecchio" literally means in English and the funny thing is that it's being called the old bridge even during the Renaissance. Now, the title is even more fitting because this is actually the only remaining bridge that wasn't destroyed in WWII. Yeah I bet that caught your attention! As iconic as the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio is a symbol of Florentine resilience and ingenuity. Although it's lined with shops, you probably don't want to shop here because of the crowd and the prices. Sadly, it could also be a much more unpleasant river crossing than the nearby bridges because everyone and his or her moms want to cross this bridge. But my recommendation is to simply admire this bridge from faraway! The best viewpoints are immediately outside the archway under the Uffizi Gallery and the window facing the bridge on the 3rd floor in the Uffizi's turnabout. You don't need to squeeze with the crowd to cross the bridge, but no photo album of Florence travel is complete without snapping the beauty of this old bridge! --- tl;dr version: 1) Florence's only remaining old bridge - hence the name, old bridge! 2) Not a pleasant crossing because of the crowd so not a must-do experience 3) Definitely take a photo from near or in the Uffizi!

Great bridge whether viewing it or crossing it and looking at its shops. Even better there is no motorized traffic to watch out for. All.the shops are jewelry shops but there are​ good people watching on this historic stone bridge. On the other side is a nice upscale shopping zone.