Venice, Italy, is a city of stunning beauty and rich history, making it a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Where is the best to stay in Venice?
With its winding canals, charming bridges, and stunning architecture, Venice is a city that truly must be experienced in person.
But with so many options for accommodations, it can be tough to decide where to stay.
To help you plan your trip, here's a guide to the best places to stay in Venice.
You will find here the best places to stay in Venice according to your interests.
Summary:
- Best places to stay in Venice Italy
- Which area of Venice is best to stay in?
- Where to stay in Venice for a central location
- Where to stay if you are a first time visitor
- Where to stay in Venice for Culture
- Where to stay in Venice for Luxury
- If you want some romance
- If you want to face the Grand Canal
- If you are traveling with family and kids
- Where to stay if you are traveling on a budget
- Is staying in Mestre a great alternative to Venice?
- Our tips from a local perspective
Best Places to Stay in Venice Italy
One of the best places to stay in Venice is in the San Marco neighborhood.
This central location is home to many of the city's top attractions, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in shopping, as the neighborhood is filled with high-end stores and designer boutiques.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Castello neighborhood is a great choice. Located on the eastern side of the city, it is home to many affordable hotels and guesthouses. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in exploring the city's military history, as it's home to the Arsenale, a former shipyard that played a key role in the city's naval history.
Which Area of Venice is Best to Stay In?
Another factor to consider when deciding where to stay in Venice is the type of atmosphere you prefer. If you're looking for a lively and vibrant neighborhood, the Cannaregio district is a great choice. Located in the north of the city, this neighborhood is home to many bars, restaurants, and clubs. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in exploring the city's Jewish heritage, as the Cannaregio district is home to the Jewish Ghetto of Venice.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a more laid-back and residential atmosphere, the Dorsoduro neighborhood is a great choice. Located on the southern side of the city, this neighborhood is home to many charming residential streets and squares. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in art, as it's home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia.
Where to Stay in Venice for a Central Location
If you want to be in the heart of the action during your stay in Venice, the San Marco neighborhood is the best place to stay.
One of the major benefits of staying in the San Marco neighborhood is that it's within walking distance of many of the city's top attractions. The Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo and the Palazzo Ducale are both located in the San Marco neighborhood, making it easy to explore the city's rich cultural heritage. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in dining out, as the San Marco neighborhood is home to many of the city's top restaurants.
Where to stay if you are a first time visitor
If you're a first-time visitor to Venice and wondering where to stay, there are a few neighborhoods that are particularly well-suited for first-time visitors.
As we saw in the previous paragraphs, one of the best neighborhoods to stay in as a first-time visitor is San Marco.
Another good option for first-time visitors is the Cannaregio neighborhood. Located in the north of the city, the Cannaregio neighborhood is well-connected to the rest of the city, making it easy to get around.
Finally, the Dorsoduro neighborhood is a good choice for first-time visitors who are interested in art. Located on the southern side of the city, the Dorsoduro neighborhood is home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia.
Overall, any of these neighborhoods would be a good choice for a first-time visitor to Venice. It's just a matter of deciding which one best fits your interests and needs.
Where to Stay in Venice for Culture
If you're interested in immersing yourself in the culture of Venice during your stay, there are a few neighborhoods that are particularly well-suited for this.
One of the best neighborhoods to stay in for culture is the San Polo neighborhood. Located in the central part of the city, the San Polo neighborhood is home to many of the city's top cultural attractions, including the Frari Church and the Rialto Bridge. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in food, as the San Polo neighborhood is known for its many fine dining restaurants and food markets.
Another good option for culture is the Dorsoduro neighborhood. Located on the southern side of the city, the Dorsoduro neighborhood is home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in art, as the neighborhood is home to many galleries and artist studios.
Finally, the Castello neighborhood is a good choice for those interested in history and military culture. Located on the eastern side of the city, the Castello neighborhood is home to the Arsenale, a former shipyard that played a key role in the city's naval history. The neighborhood is also home to the Castello di San Pietro di Castello, a castle that dates back to the 8th century.
Overall, any of these neighborhoods would be a great choice for those interested in immersing themselves in the culture of Venice. It's just a matter of deciding which one best fits your interests and needs.
Where to Stay in Venice for Luxury
If you're looking to indulge in a bit of luxury during your stay in Venice, the San Polo neighborhood is a great place to stay. Located in the heart of the city, the San Polo neighborhood is home to many high-end hotels and guesthouses. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in food, as the San Polo neighborhood is known for its many fine dining restaurants and food markets.
One of the major benefits of staying in the San Polo neighborhood is that it's within walking distance of many of the city's top attractions. The Rialto Bridge and the Frari Church are both located in the San Polo neighborhood, making it easy to explore the city's rich cultural heritage. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in shopping, as the San Polo neighborhood is home to many high-end stores and designer boutiques.
Examples of luxury accommodations
Venice is a city that's full of unique and memorable places to stay, ranging from grand hotels to charming guesthouses.
Here are a few of the most unique places to stay in Venice:
- Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel: Located in the San Polo neighborhood, this luxurious hotel is housed in a stunning 18th-century palazzo. The hotel features elegant, ornately decorated rooms and suites, as well as a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
- PalazzinaG: Located in the Giudecca neighborhood, this chic boutique hotel is housed in a former glass factory. The hotel features modern, minimalist rooms and suites, as well as a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
- The Gritti Palace: Located in the San Marco neighborhood, this luxurious hotel is housed in a 15th-century palace. The hotel features opulent, ornately decorated rooms and suites, as well as a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.
- Casa Bella Venice: Located in the Cannaregio neighborhood, this charming guesthouse is housed in a 19th-century building. The guesthouse features cozy, individually decorated rooms and suites, as well as a charming courtyard garden.
- Hotel Danieli: Located in the San Marco neighborhood, this grand hotel is housed in a 14th-century palace.
Overall, these are just a few of the many unique places to stay in Venice. No matter where you choose to stay, you're sure to have a memorable and special experience in this beautiful city.
If you want some romance
Venice is a city that's long been associated with romance, and there are few better places to stay if you're looking to experience a bit of amore than the Santa Croce neighborhood.
Located on the eastern side of the city, this neighborhood is home to many charming streets and squares that are perfect for leisurely walks and romantic dinners. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in art, as the Santa Croce neighborhood is home to the Ca' d'Oro, a stunning Gothic palace that houses one of the city's top art collections.
Anyhow, here are a few of the most romantic places to stay in Venice:
- Ca' Sagredo Hotel: Located in the San Polo neighborhood, this luxurious hotel is housed in a stunning 15th-century palazzo.
- Palazzo Sant'Angelo sul Canal Grande: Located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood, this luxurious hotel is housed in a 17th-century palazzo.
- Of course, the Danieli hotel, Casa Bella Venice and The Gritti Palace are other great choices.
Overall, these are just a few of the many romantic places to stay in Venice. No matter where you choose to stay, you're sure to have a memorable and special experience in this beautiful city.
If you want to face the Grand Canal
If you're looking to stay in a location that faces the Grand Canal, there are a few neighborhoods that are particularly well-suited for this.
One of the best neighborhoods to stay in if you want to face the Grand Canal is the San Polo neighborhood. Located in the central part of the city, the San Polo neighborhood is home to many hotels and guesthouses that offer views of the Grand Canal. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in exploring the city's cultural attractions, as it's home to many of the city's top museums and churches.
Another good option for facing the Grand Canal is the Dorsoduro neighborhood. Located on the southern side of the city, the Dorsoduro neighborhood is home to many hotels and guesthouses that offer views of the Grand Canal. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in art, as the neighborhood is home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia.
Finally, the San Marco neighborhood is a good choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action. Located in the central part of the city, the San Marco neighborhood is home to many of the city's top attractions, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in shopping, as the neighborhood is filled with high-end stores and designer boutiques.
Hotels that face the Grand Canal
Overall, these are just a few of the many neighborhoods in Venice that offer views of the Grand Canal. It's just a matter of deciding which one best fits your interests and needs.
- The Gritti Palace: Located in the San Marco neighborhood.
- Hotel San Cassiano: Located in the San Polo neighborhood.
- Ca' Sagredo Hotel: Located in the San Polo neighborhood.
- Palazzo Sant'Angelo sul Canal Grande: Located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood.
- The Westin Europa & Regina: Located in the San Marco neighborhood.
- Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel: Located in the San Polo neighborhood.
- Hotel Flora: Located in the San Marco neighborhood.
- Hotel Carlton & Grand Canal: Located in the San Marco neighborhood.
- Hotel Sant'Antonin: Located in the San Polo neighborhood.
If you are traveling with family and kids
The Giudecca neighborhood is a great place to stay in Venice if you're traveling with kids.
Located on a series of islands just south of the main part of the city, the Giudecca neighborhood is home to many family-friendly hotels and guesthouses. It's also a great place to stay if you're looking for a bit of peace and quiet, as the Giudecca neighborhood is slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
One of the major benefits of staying in the Giudecca neighborhood is that it's easy to get around. The neighborhood is serviced by a regular water bus service, which makes it easy to get to and from the city center. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in outdoor activities, as the Giudecca neighborhood is home to a number of parks and green spaces.
If you're looking for alternative neighborhoods to stay in Venice with your family, there are a few other options to consider.
One option is the Dorsoduro neighborhood, which is located on the southern side of the city.
This neighborhood is known for its laid-back atmosphere and residential streets, making it a great place to stay if you're looking for a more relaxed setting. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in art, as it's home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia.
Another option is the Santa Croce neighborhood, which is located on the eastern side of the city.
This neighborhood is known for its charming streets and squares, making it a great place to stay if you're looking for a romantic atmosphere. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in art.
Finally, the Castello neighborhood is another good option for families.
Located on the eastern side of the city, the Castello neighborhood is home to many affordable hotels and guesthouses. It's also a great place to stay if you're interested in exploring the city's military history, as it's home to the Arsenale, a former shipyard that played a key role in the city's naval history.
The Castello neighborhood is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to stay if you're looking for outdoor activities.
So, these are some of the best neighborhoods to consider if you're traveling to Venice with your family.
Kids friendly accommodations in Venice
Venice is a city that's well-suited for families, with plenty of kid-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy.
Here are some examples of the best hotels for families in Venice. They all offer a kids' club and a playground.
- Hotel Sant'Antonin: Located in the San Polo neighborhood.
- Hotel Carlton & Grand Canal: Located in the San Marco neighborhood.
- Hotel San Cassiano: Located in the San Polo neighborhood.
- Hotel Flora: Located in the San Marco neighborhood.
- Hotel Antica Casa Carettoni: Located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood.
Overall, these are just a few of the many great hotels for families in Venice.
Where to Stay if you are traveling on a budget
If you're traveling to Venice on a budget, there are a few neighborhoods that offer more affordable accommodation options.
One of the best neighborhoods to stay in for a budget is the Castello neighborhood.
Located on the eastern side of the city, the Castello neighborhood is home to many affordable hotels and guesthouses. The Castello neighborhood is easy to get around.
Another good option for a budget is the Cannaregio neighborhood.
Located in the north of the city, the Cannaregio neighborhood is home to many affordable hotels and guesthouses. It is also well-connected to the rest of the city.
Finally, the Mestre neighborhood on the mainland is a good choice for those looking for budget accommodation.
While staying in Mestre does mean you'll need to take a short train ride or drive to get to Venice, it can be a convenient and cost-effective option for those looking to save on accommodation.
Overall, these are just a few of the many neighborhoods in Venice that offer affordable accommodation options.
Budget friendly options
If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodation options in Venice, there are a few options to consider.
One option is to stay in a hostel. Venice has several hostels located throughout the city, offering shared dormitory rooms as well as private rooms at a lower cost than traditional hotels. Hostels are a great option for budget-conscious travelers who are looking to save on accommodation costs.
Another option is to stay in a bed and breakfast or guesthouse. These types of accommodations are often more affordable than traditional hotels, and they offer a more personal and intimate experience. Many guesthouses in Venice are housed in charming, historic buildings, making them a great option for those who want to experience the city's unique atmosphere.
Finally, another option is to stay in an apartment or vacation rental. Renting an apartment or vacation rental in Venice can be a cost-effective option, especially if you're traveling with a group or plan to stay for an extended period of time.
This type of accommodation allows you to have your own private space and the freedom to come and go as you please.
Is staying in Mestre a great alternative to Venice?
Mestre is a city located on the mainland of Italy, just a short distance from Venice. While staying in Mestre can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative to staying in Venice, it's important to consider the pros and cons before making a decision.
One of the main benefits of staying in Mestre is that it's often more affordable than staying in Venice. Hotels and guesthouses in Mestre tend to be cheaper than their counterparts in Venice, making it a good option for travelers on a budget. Mestre is also a good option for those who prefer a more modern and less touristy atmosphere, as it's a bustling city with a lively local scene.
However, there are also a few downsides to staying in Mestre. One of the main drawbacks is that it's not located on the island of Venice, so you'll need to take a short train ride or drive to get to the city.
This can be inconvenient if you're planning to spend most of your time in Venice and only want to sleep in Mestre. Additionally, Mestre is not as picturesque as Venice, so you may miss out on some of the charm and romance that the island city has to offer.
Overall, whether or not staying in Mestre is a good alternative to staying in Venice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a more affordable and less touristy option, Mestre might be a good choice.
But if you want to be in the heart of the action and experience all that Venice has to offer, it might be worth it to splurge on a hotel or guesthouse on the island.
Our tips from a local perspective
As a local, here are a few tips on where to stay in Venice:
- Consider staying in a neighborhood that's off the beaten path. Venice is a city that's full of charming, lesser-known neighborhoods that are often just as beautiful and interesting as the more touristy areas.
- Staying in one of these neighborhoods can give you a more authentic and local experience.
- Look for accommodation that's close to a vaporetto (water bus) stop. Venice is a city that's best explored by boat, and the vaporetto is the main form of public transportation in the city. Staying near a vaporetto stop will make it easier for you to get around and explore different parts of the city.
- Consider staying in a neighborhood that's close to a major attraction. Venice is a city that's filled with top attractions, and many of these attractions are located in specific neighborhoods. Staying in a neighborhood that's close to a major attraction can make it easier for you to visit that attraction and save on transportation costs.
- Consider staying in a neighborhood that has a good mix of restaurants, bars, and shops. Venice is a city that's known for its excellent food and drink, and staying in a neighborhood that has a good mix of these types of establishments will give you more options for dining and entertainment.
- Look for accommodation that offers extras like a rooftop terrace or garden. Venice is a city that's filled with stunning views, and staying in a property that offers a rooftop terrace or garden can give you the opportunity to take in these views and relax in a more serene setting.
Overall, these are just a few tips on where to stay in Venice from a local perspective. No matter where you choose to stay, you're sure to have a memorable and special experience in this beautiful city.