Where to Stay in Venice – Best Areas & Hotels
Going by the thousands of visitors who flock to Venice every year, there is no doubt that it is one of the best holiday destinations in the world. However, it’s not always easy to find the best accommodations when staying in this fantastic city.
With that said, if you’re looking for information about where to stay in Venice during your vacation, you have come to the right place. I will tell you all about the best areas to visit and the hotels to book during your Venice visit in the sections below.
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Why Choose to Stay in Venice
Although no historical records directly relate to Venice’s founding, tradition and available evidence make historians agree that the city’s first inhabitants were refugees from nearby Roman cities.
The name “Venice” comes from the ancient Veneti people who lived in the region as early as the 10th century BC. For nearly a millennium, from 697 to 1797, the city served as the capital of the Republic of Venice.
It was a prominent financial and maritime force during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Nowadays, it’s one of the go-to cities for vacationers to enjoy and learn more about Italy’s distinct culture and rich history.
Venice is undoubtedly a one-of-a-kind Italian city. It’s home to a plethora of fascinating attractions that anyone can enjoy. Venice has it all – from gorgeous views to history to delicious food.
So, whether you’re a solitary traveler, a group of friends, a couple, or family looking for a good time, Venice is the place to go.
Why Stay in San Marco
Staying in the center of Venice means being surrounded by ancient architecture. It also means having easy access to the city’s iconic water taxis and gondolas.
With that said, San Marco is the place to be if you like to be in the thick of things. This is where to stay in Venice if you like gazing up at the buildings because you will have a fantastic treat for your eyes.
You can also quickly get around the rest of the city by taking advantage of the city’s public transportation system. Moreover, you can watch people with an espresso in the bustling Piazza San Marco on hot days.
Meanwhile, evenings in San Marco give you the opportunity to see a show at the La Fenice Opera House.
Best Place to Stay in San Marco
If you’re looking for the perfect accommodations in San Marco, check out the Hotel Sant’Antonin. It comes with a panoramic patio and a sculpture garden that allows you to relax and unwind even in the middle of the bustling city.
What’s more, is that it’s just a 10-minute walk from Saint Mark’s Square. You’ll also find the Venetian Arsenal just 5 minutes away from the Sant’Antonin.
This hotel perfectly blends modern amenities with Italian history, characterized by a 16th-century building with free Wi-Fi and furnished with antiques. Breakfast is offered in the room or the garden for guests.
What Guests Loved the Most
- Beautiful antiques
- Room service
- Mouthwatering breakfast
- Proximity to Saint Mark’s Square
Why Stay in Dorsoduro
This popular neighborhood borders San Polo, and it’s just a short walk from St. Mark’s Square in the heart of Venice. The neighborhood of Dorsoduro offers a distinct nightlife scene and an overall Bohemian charm.
Aside from that, it’s also the city’s highest land region. This means that you’ll get some of the most spectacular views when you stay in this area. You’ll also find two of the city’s most important art museums right outside your door.
In Venice, nightlife consists of late-night bars, conversation, and laid-back clubs rather than a boisterous bar scene. Overall, Dorsoduro is a budget-friendly region close to big sites with much to do and excellent lodging.
The Best Place to Stay in Dorsoduro
The Hotel Ducale is the perfect place to stay in Dorsoduro, located in Favaro Veneto. It’s also about 10 kilometers from Venice Marco Polo Airport. It is also possible to arrange a shuttle service to the Venice Airport.
Each room comes with various amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV. You’ll also find a private bathroom, air conditioning, and gorgeous wood floors in every room.
The Ducale, which is run by a family, provides a warm, personal service. The breakfast buffet is extensive and offers various cuisines. In the foyer, you’ll find a free internet terminal you can use if needed.
What Guests Loved the Most
- Great Dorsoduro nightlife
- Shuttle service to the airport
- Free parking
- Incredible customer service
Why Stay in San Polo
This historic neighborhood is on the other side of Rialto Bridge. At San Polo, you’re not far from any of the city’s big attractions. This is where to stay in Venice if you want simple access to public transportation.
Staying at San Polo is the best way to avoid expensive water taxis, as you can always use the local buses or rent a car to get to and from the airport.
Of course, this region is slightly more expensive than Santa Croce, but it has a lot to offer in terms of food and drink options. You can also find the Rialto Bridge and countless other tourist attractions right on your doorstep.
Best Place to Stay in San Polo
Dreamland Corte Pozzo is the best place to stay in San Polo if you want something that offers air-conditioned accommodations. It’s where to stay in Venice for free Wi-Fi and incredible customer service. The facility is located about 300 meters from the Rialto Bridge and around 7 kilometers from Venice Marco Polo Airport.
Each room has a seating area, a bathroom with all the necessary utilities, a flat-screen TV, a bidet, a hot tub, and a shower. A kitchen with an oven, stovetop, and toaster is also available in some apartments.
What Guests Loved the Most
- Proximity to Rialto Bridge
- Well-furnished kitchen
- Great theaters nearby
- Easily accessible from the airport
Why Stay in Castello
There is an abundance of fine lodging available here in Castello. You can stroll to most of Venice’s attractions or take a boat to some of the adjacent islands.
With that said, staying here provides an off-the-beaten-path vibe without losing the feeling of being in the heart of the city. Thanks to the abundance of local pizzerias and tiny cafes, you will find delicacies everywhere you turn. For an authentic Italian experience, you can pick up gelato and take a walk in the side alleyways.
Best Place to Stay in Castello
Appartamento Ca Silva, vicino Biennale is a few steps from Ca’ d’Oro, making it the perfect place to stay in Castello. In fact, the facility is located just 800 meters from Doge’s Palace.
Each room features free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a shared lounge. The hotel has city views. It is less than a kilometer from the Basilica San Marco and an 11-minute walk from Piazza San Marco.
You’ll also find a single bedroom, a washing machine, a flat-screen TV, a fully furnished kitchen with a dishwasher and microwave, and a bathroom with a hot tub included in the apartment. Towels and bed linen are also provided for your comfort.
What Guests Loved the Most
- Proximity to Doge’s palace
- Fantastic city views
- Fully furnished rooms
- The hotel is close to a theater.
Why Stay in Santa Croce
Santo Croce is also located on the other side of Rialto Bridge, just behind San Polo. Santa Croce is an excellent option for budget travelers who don’t mind walking to the center of Venice.
That’s because Santa Croce is more affordable than the neighboring Santa Polo, but there are still plenty of things to see and do in this area. In fact, you will find countless food and drink options in Santa Croce. There is also the Rialto Bridge and many other tourist attractions right on your doorstep.
Best Place to Stay in Santa Croce
Venezia Bella is a hotel with city views and free Wi-Fi in Venice’s Cannaregio neighborhood. There is a water bus stop 400 meters away that provides connections all around Venice.
The apartment is just 1 km from the Venice Casino. This is an excellent choice for where to stay in Venice because Venice Santa Lucia Train Station is within a 10-minute walk. Venice
What Guests Loved the Most
- Great city views
- You can easily access the city from this hotel
- Well furnished rooms
- Free Wi-Fi
Why Stay in Giudecca
Giudecca is a genuinely authentic local location to stay in if you want to enjoy the stunning views of San Marco across the lake. Although there are no bridges connecting the island to the city, there are plenty of boats to serve as transportation.
What’s even better is that fewer tourists stay here. As a result, the place can feel like your own private piece of heaven. Giudecca is ideal for those who have visited Venice before and wish to relax and enjoy the calm pace. Here, you get a chance to watch spectacular sunsets over the city.
Best Place to Stay in Giudecca
Ca’ Maddalena offers free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, air conditioning, and a patio for guests staying in Giudecca. It’s located about 400 meters from Rialto Bridge.
Aside from the Rialto Bridge, the Basilica San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, and Piazza San Marco are some of the most popular tourist attractions you’ll find nearby. The Venice Marco Polo Airport is also just 7 kilometers from the hotel.
What Guests Loved the Most
- A shared lounge for relaxing and interacting
- Italian breakfast
- Close to great tourist attractions
- Proximity to the airport
Why Stay in Cannaregio
Cannaregio is an area that has its own unique charm. It’s only a fifteen-minute walk from San Marco. However, it’s much quieter and significantly more affordable.
Walking about Cannaregio, relaxing with a drink, and going in and out of cafes and souvenir shops are some of the pleasurable experiences you’ll enjoy in this neighborhood.
There’s plenty to do in the area, such as visiting the Jewish Museum in the Venetian Ghetto, which is a must-see for anyone visiting the site. While you’re in Cannaregio, you can also try one of the kosher restaurants for a delicious lunch.
Best Place to Stay in Cannaregio
Venezia Bella is one of the best hotels you’ll find in the Cannaregio neighborhood. Accommodations here offer guests free Wi-Fi and fantastic views of the city.
The apartment is also just 1 kilometer from the Venice Casino. Likewise, the Venice Santa Lucia train station and the Ponte degli Scalzi bridge are only a 10-minute walk away.
What Guests Loved the Most
- City views
- Close waterbus stop connects guests to the city
- Proximity to the airport
- Friendly customer service
Why Stay in Lido de Venezia
This is where to stay in Venice if you want to avoid most tourist traps this destination tends to attract. Lio de Venezia is a famed six-mile-long strip of a beach.
What’s remarkable is that it’s on its own island and home to just 20,000 people. As such, the island offers a tranquil and laid-back vacation. This is in stark contrast to Venice’s more bustling atmosphere, canals, and streets.
Best Place to Stay in Lio de Venezia
The Ghetto Venezia Apartment is the perfect accommodation in Lio de Venezia, as it offers city views and free Wi-Fi. There’s also a kettle, a refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop in each room.
The Piazza San Marco, La Fenice theatre, and Rialto Bridge are some of the popular tourist attractions near the property. The ghetto Venezia Apartment are located only 8 kilometers from Venice Marco Polo Airport.
What Guests Loved the Most
- Incredible city views
- Free Wi-Fi
- Unrivaled customer service
- Furnished rooms
Why Stay in Murano
This is an excellent neighborhood to stay in, as Murano’s distinct personality distinguishes it from the rest of Venice. In addition to this, the island is known worldwide for its glass production.
Murano is basically a base for exploring Venice. The island provides a variety of unique and exciting options.
Murano is ideal for those who enjoy walking, stylish cafes with sea views, and cocktail bars. There are also a plethora of glass blowing workshops. You will also find souvenir shops where you can pick up some great glass souvenirs.
Best Place to Stay in Murano
MURANO Place is an excellent facility for your accommodation in Murano. One bedroom, as well as a kitchenette that’s complete with a coffee maker, an oven, and a toaster, are some of the things you will find in their units.
The facility is located 2.9 kilometers from San Marco Basilica. It is only 6 miles from Venice Marco Polo Airport.
What Guests Loved the Most
- Stunning views
- The friendly and accommodating staff
- Cleanliness of the property
- Convenient location
Where to Stay in Venice with Family
The city of Venice is undoubtedly one of the most family-friendly cities you’ll find in Europe, especially since there’s a lot each member of the family can do while on vacation there.
While navigating the city can be somewhat challenging for parents with smaller children, it’s nothing that they can’t handle without a bit of preparation beforehand.
With that said, if you’re looking for the perfect family-friendly accommodation in Venice, check out the San Clemente Palace Kempinski.
It’s also a great hotel with three bars, a spa, three gourmet restaurants, and stylish suites, and it enjoys an exclusive setting by being on its own island. The hotel features a pool as well as a patio with views of the lagoon.
The pool is set in the property’s own park and features pavilions and plenty of tables and chairs. The tennis court and fitness center are also available to guests. Additionally, a sauna and a steam room are available at the on-site spa.
Where to Stay in Venice on a Budget
Many visitors prefer to stay in Mestre rather than Venice if they have budget constraints or want to discover regions less frequented by tourists. One such region is Mestre’s medieval piazza. There are numerous hotels and vacation rentals in Mestre.
The area is within 20 minutes of Venice, and its proximity to the railway station and the airport makes it an appealing destination. In Mestre, vacationing outside of Venice does not mean sacrificing convenience.
With that said, the Venice Michelangelo Hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a place to stay in Mestre, as it’s located in the heart of Mestre. It’s also pretty close to Venice and just steps from the pedestrian zone.
It has plenty of free parking as well. You’ll find that this facility is conveniently located near the historic center of Venice. The train station, highways, and Marco Polo International Airport are easily accessible. Wireless Internet access is accessible throughout the property.
The non-smoking rooms are soundproofed. They are also decorated in a traditional style. The train station in Venezia Mestre is a 20-minute walk away.
Best Place to Stay in Venice for Romance
San Marco is a great place to stay during your Venice tour. Hotels are all within walking distance of the beautiful Saint Mark’s Square, which is at the center of San Marco. It is such a fantastic site that highlights the city’s essence.
It brings out the city’s glorious past, the most important works and monuments, and famous and memorable images. In this case, the Gritti Palace perfectly reflects this. It’s a former noble palace on Venice’s Grand Canal.
Although it’s already a hotel today, the place still retains its charm, notably since it has been restored to its former glory. To begin with, the hotel has views of Santa Maria Della Salute Church. The facility also has Antiques and Murano glass in all luxury rooms.
Air conditioning, a private bathroom with utilities, and a satellite flat-screen TV are provided in each room. Some accommodations also offer fantastic views of the city. The hotel’s Club del Doge restaurant serves cuisine crafted with Rialto Market fresh ingredients.
Best Place to Stay in Venice for Beaches
Lido is absolutely stunning. This beautiful and colorful region is surrounded by water and features hydrangea bushes, as well as lush and towering trees. The best part is that it’s only a 20-minute water taxi journey from Venice, and the boats run all day. Lido is a great area to unwind for a few days and move at a slower pace.
With that said, if you’re looking for a place to stay in Lido, Hotel Excelsior is a 5-star hotel in Venice Lido’s beach offers a tranquil setting. It has a huge heated outdoor pool. Guests can go across the lagoon to St. Mark’s Square in the heart of Venice on a free launch service.
The Hotel Excelsior Venice opened in 1908. If you are looking for the best place to stay in Venice for the beaches, you can book a room in this hotel with a characteristic Moorish style.
A plasma-screen satellite TV and a minibar are included in each hotel room. A private bathroom with plush utilities is also provided in each room. Some rooms feature balconies with views of the Adriatic Sea, while others have panoramic views of Venice.
Where to Stay in Venice – the Bottom Line
Venice is an undeniable draw to all because of its past and its current charms. For the tourist of the twenty-first century, Venice retains all of its allure.
You can read more about Venice at Venice tour information.
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