About this tour
Navigate Venice's backstreets and waterside squares with a seasoned local guide who knows where residents actually eat. This 2.5-hour walk starts at the Church of San Salvador and takes in the 12th-century Rialto Bridge before landing in neighbourhood bacari—small standing bars serving cicchetti (Venetian small plates). You'll taste your way through the city's food culture, sampling what locals order rather than what guidebooks prescribe.
Highlights
- Church of San Salvador meeting point, steps from Rialto Bridge
- 12th-century Rialto Bridge spanning the Grand Canal
- Campo San Polo, heart of residential Venice
- Cicchetti tastings in authentic neighbourhood bacari
- Expert local guide with insider knowledge
- Food included; vegetarian options available with advance notice
What to expect
You'll start near San Salvador church and walk towards the Rialto Bridge, one of Venice's oldest structures. From there, the route winds through quieter squares and alleyways, away from the main tourist corridors, towards Campo San Polo. Your guide will lead you into small bars tucked into corners where Venetians grab a quick bite—expect standing-room only and cramped but convivial spaces. Food arrives in small portions: crostini, seafood bites, vegetables, and local specialities. Bring sturdy shoes; you'll cover ground on foot, and some areas have uneven paving.
Good to know
Beverages aren't included—budget for your own water or wine. Inform the tour operator of dietary needs at booking; vegetarian works, but vegan and gluten-free cannot be accommodated. Note: a €5 Venice day-visitor fee applies on certain dates. The tour runs regardless of weather. Moderate fitness required.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.