The T Fondaco Dei Tedeschi is an unusual store in the center of the city adjacent to the Rialto Bridge. To enter the shopping area is free but to visit the rooftop terrace which gives you remarkable views of the Rialto Bridge and the Grand Canal you have to book a date and time online. There are 15 minute slots to reserve but you need to do this way in advance of your visit. My husband & I were on vacation in Venice to celebrate our #55 anniversary and once we arrived in Venice we attempted to make a reservation, but none were available. We walked up to the 4th floor where the terrace is located but there was such a long, long line and we were still unable to visit. Inside the shopping area are all types of shops and various restaurants.

Fondaco dei Tedeschi Roof Terrace To admire the Venice of the XIII century from a bird's-eye view, visit the free observation deck of the former palazzo, which now houses a luxury department store. A reservation is required 3 weeks before the visit. It was amazing view of Venice! And then a pleasant walk through the luxury shopping gallery and a pleasant shopping experience.

The Fondaco dei Tedeschi is a four storey luxury department store occupied by DFS that fronts the Grand Canal less than 50 metres from the Rialto Bridge. We had read about gaining access to the terrace on the top floor for great views of the Grand Canal and Venice in general but made the mistake of not booking in advance online. We quickly rectified this and got a spot two days later. There are both escalators and elevators up to the terrace. They only allow a certain number of visitors (there appeared to be around 20 in our group) in 15 minute intervals. You get 15 minutes on the terrace to enjoy the fantastic panoramas. It is free and well worth the effort given the 360 degree views. Highly recommended.