I lived in Florence for a semester, right next to the Ponte Vecchio. Despite the constant flow of tourists during the day, it is a must see experience. Visit this attraction in the evening to appreciate its romantic elegance. Some nights, there are musicians that play on the bridge, and the lights of the city reflecting off the water embody... more

We went because it's on the map. The best picture was FROM the Ponte Vecchio with an adjacent bridge behind us - the Vecchio is ugly, boring, and overpriced shops. Historic perhaps, but not worth your time or effort. more

I guess this famous bridge is a victim of its own fame, be prepared for the crowds and jostling, and forget about trying to take pictures on there. From afar the bridge is beautiful and have many nice photos of it, however up close the 'charm' of the bridge is spoiled by tat shops, street traders of doubtable quality goods,... more

Supposedly, this is supposed to have the best jewelry in Florence, and maybe all of Italy. I have to say , I disagree with it. Most of the jewelry looked antique to me, and was not what I was expecting. This is an okay place to look, and maybe get ideas if you're a jewler, but I wouldn't actually buy... more

I wouldn't rate the PV as the best in Florence, it is actually just a bridge where they have precariously build shops around, but it's one of those things you have to see, just to know what it is like more

Absolutely breathtaking, can be busy, but so what. Wait for a spot at the edge and enjoy the views, be sure to note the reflections of the builings in the Arno river. It is wonderful to inagine what life was like when The Ponte Vecchio was built. Shops and restaurants close by can be pricey, but pick a side street... more

Yes, the Ponte Vecchio is filled with overpriced gold and jewelry shops, but so what. One look at this photo and you can understand why it does not matter. To stand in the center and look out over the peaceful Arno you tune out all of the bustle and feel like you are transported back in time. The sky reflects... more

This 1345 bridge crossing the arno is lovely to view from the side- for example, while in front of the uffizi there is a great angle. Walking across it (midday, height of the tourist season) was crowded, and since I was really not that interested in jewelry (the shops on the bridge), I simply made my way across in less... more

After all the 'hype' I'd read I found it all quite disappointing. As with the rest of Florence the street traders clogged the streets and it was impossible to get across for hours. We finally made it after 10pm. This was September this year (2004). Again, as with the rest of Florence, the place is just crammed with tourists and... more