Ponte Sisto

The Basics

Commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV in 1473, the current bridge was built upon the foundations of Roman bridge that was destroyed in the early Middle Ages. Connecting Via dei Pettinari in the historic center to Piazza Trilussa in Trastevere where many restaurants and cafés are located.

Travelers may enjoy Ponte Sisto as part of a half-day, full-day, private or group, walking or with a fun mode of transport (Segway, hop-on hop-off river cruise, electric bicycle) and focusing on various themes like Trastevere’s restaurant scene, historic food markets, street art, the Jewish Ghetto or sightseeing excursions to major attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican museums. Go off the beaten track on a spooky nighttime tour delving into the ghosts and sinister mysteries of Rome.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Suitable for travelers of all ages.
• The bridge is pedestrian-only and wheelchair-friendly.
• Tours may include round trip hotel transfers. Check specific tours for details.

How to Get There

Ponte Sisto is located west of Ponte Garibaldi on the Tiber River, between Rome’s historic center and the Trastevere neighborhood. Take a taxi, drive or jump on tram #8 and disembark at either Arenula–Ministero Grazia e Giustizia or Belli, then walk a couple minutes up river.

When to Get There

Ponte Sisto is open year-round and sees a steady stream of pedestrian traffic. At night, it’s especially lively as tourists and locals alike take a stroll over the bridge after an aperitivo in Trastevere. Avoid Rome’s dense tourist throngs by traveling during the pleasant shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Even better for avoiding crowds is the winter, though temperatures can dip to freezing.

Architectural Notes

In Roman times, a fountain at the corner of Via dei Pettinari (now defunct, those its vestiges can be seen) was part of the vast aqueduct system that brought water from a volcanic lake into the city. These days, Ponte Sisto still carries water from the Acqua Paola system, through eight large pipes. A special design note is the round "oculus" hole at the bridge's center, which mitigates pressure on the bridge in case of flood.

Ways to explore

The Renaissance-era Ponte Sisto is around 100 meters (330 feet) long—you can cross it in a few minutes, but you’ll want to linger for the views. For a near-perfect half day in central Rome, explore Campo de’ Fiori market, then stroll across the bridge into Trastevere for a leisurely lunch.

Many guided walking tours follow this route, while others also explore nearby attractions such as the Rome Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Roma) and Tiber Island (Isola Tiberina). Book a food tour to sample the best bites on both sides of the bridge, or a river cruise to pass beneath it.

Accessibility

While the Ponte Sisto is technically wheelchair accessible, entry at both ends is partially chained off—wheelchair users may have trouble navigating the gated area.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, map of Rome’s historic center, small change for street performers

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, sun protection (sunglasses, hat, umbrella), breathable fabrics for summer

Not allowed

Vehicles, open glass alcohol containers after 10pm

Amenities

Seating and drinking fountain at Piazza Trilussa, public restrooms at nearby Botanical Gardens, cafés nearby

Address

Ponte Sisto is a pedestrian-only bridge on the southern edge of Rome’s historic center, within a ZTL (limited traffic zone) where driving is heavily restricted—walk, use public transit, or park outside the zone.

Driving

From Termini Station, head north to Piazza della Repubblica and turn west onto Via Nazionale. Continue along Via Quattro Novembre to Piazza Venezia, then head south on Via di San Venanzio and Via del Teatro di Marcello. Turn north onto Lungotevere de’ Cenci—find the bridge on your left after via del Conservatorio.

Public transportation

Hop on the No. 40, 64, or 70 buses at Termini Station and head west along Via Nazionale. Disembark at Piazza di Sant’Andrea della Valle and walk to Lungotevere de’ Cenci. The 8 tram serves Viale di Trastevere to Ponte Garibaldi, south of Sisto.

Best times to visit

Early mornings offer cooler temperatures, lighter foot traffic, and peaceful views before the nearby streets of Trastevere and Campo de’ Fiori fill with activity.

Best days to visit

Visit Monday through Thursday mornings for a more relaxed atmosphere, or Friday and Saturday evenings when Trastevere comes alive for a vibrant night out.

Best months to visit

There’s no doubt that spring and early fall (April, May, June, late September, and October) bring Rome’s most pleasant weather.

Special events

The Lungo il Tevere (Along the Tiber) festival takes place from June through August. This nightly event fills the waterfront from Ponte Sisto to Ponte Sublicio with food stalls, music, and cultural performances.