Where to Stay in Venice – The Best Areas and Hotels!

Venice is one of the most special destinations around Italy, but also the rest of Europe as well! It’s a charming, extremely romantic city (maybe the most romantic in the entire world!) on a lagoon, surrounded by water. It’s the perfect destination for all types of tourists, regardless if you’re a solo traveler, a couple or a group of friends looking to have some fun.

Now that you have decided to visit this unique place, you might be wondering where to stay in Venice during your trip there, am I right? Well, let me be honest: choosing your Venice accommodation is a very important aspect that can make or break your vacation, but also a very hard challenge, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.

Venice is not a big city, but it’s a maze of streets, stairs, canals and “vaporetti” (canal boats) and it is divided into different neighborhoods and areas, each of them with its own charm and advantages. 

NOTE: Because Venice is so extremely popular as a vacation destination, visited by no less than 20 million people each year, hotels WILL sell out extremely FAST. If you’re visiting during the Carnival (which takes place 40 days before Easter), finding a good hotel that has free rooms will be even harder. This can only add up to one piece of advice: do your best to book your accommodation as far in advance as you can (at least 3-4 months in advance), so you won’t risk losing the perfect hotel. 

That being said, let’s go!

If you’re in a hurry…

The best area to stay in Venice for first-timers is San Marco. This is the main tourist area of the city and the spot where Piazza San Marco is located as well, so it just doesn’t get more central than this!

• Best luxury hotel: The Gritti Palace
• Best middle-priced hotel: CàPatron
• Best budget hotel: Locanda Antico Casin

Officially, Venice has six main sestieri (neighbourhoods on the “mainland” of Venice), here’s a map to give you a better visual representation of them:

1. San Marco – for first timers
2. Cannaregio – on a budget
3. Dorsoduro – for nightlife
4. San Polo – with family
5. Santa Croce – with a car
6. Castello – the local area
7. Giudecca – the artistic area

1. San Marco – where to stay in Venice for the first time

If you want to stay right in the heart of Venice on the Grand Canal, where all the main tourist attractions are located, then San Marco is your answer!

This is definitely the place to stay during your first visit to the city or if you only have one or two nights in the city. San Marco (which is the Italian form of “St. Mark”) is the most visited part of Venice and the place where Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square) is located as well – yes, it’s the iconic, postcard-worthy square in Venice that everybody knows about!

One of the main advantages of staying here is that you’ll be near all the unmissable landmarks, so you won’t have to walk around much or rely on boats to get to places. Sounds just perfect, right? If you agree, here are the best Venice hotels close to St. Mark’s Square, just make sure you book them far in advance:

Luxury (US$300 and up)

• The Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel – If case you’re dreaming of staying on the Grand Canal, right near St. Mark’s Square, this hotel is for you! This is actually one of the best hotels in the city, where you can have a delicious breakfast in the rooftop terrace.
• Hotel A La Commedia – If you want a 4-star property for stay in Venice instead, look no further than this accommodation! It’s only 500m away from Doge’s Palace and I definitely recommend checking out the terrace – it offers great views over the city!

Middle-priced (US$160 – US$250)

• Hotel Mercurio Venice – If you’re a traveler looking for a great mid-range hotel in Venice San Marco, 400 m away from Rialto Bridge, this one’s for you! This is a charming, beautifully decorated family-run accommodation and it has Venetian antique furnishings.
• Lanterna Di Marco Polo – Still haven’t find the perfect accommodation for you on the Grand Canal? No worries, I have another choice for you! Although it’s located in the busy neighborhood of San Marco, this bed and breakfast offer all the warmth and coziness you’ll need!

Budget (up to US$150)

Venice might not be the cheapest place on Earth, but let me tell you that staying in the heart of Venice with less than US$150 is actually possible! 

• Locanda Antico Casin – Are you on the search for an excellent budget stay, right in the city center, near the Grand Canal? Look no further than this hotel! It’s extremely close to St. Mark’s Square and all the important attractions in the city center, all for an unbeatable price.
• Large room in Venice – Here’s another amazing choice for anyone that’s traveling on a tight budget. This spacious room is located in a strategic position, close to Piazzale Roma and the best fish markets, a small fine restaurant, a tipical taverna and places for drinks!

Things to do in San Marco:

• Wonder around the incredible Piazza San Marco 
• Cross the famous Rialto Bridge!
• Visit Doge’s Palace
• Enjoy stunning city views from Campanile di San Marco!
• Have a tour of the magnificent Basilica di San Marco!

2. Cannaregio – best area for budget travelers

Don’t want to stay in the most touristic area of Venice? Do you want to live like locals and enjoy a more authentic atmosphere, while also saving some money on accommodation? Then I only have one answer: Cannaregio!

Cannaregio is along the banks of the Grand Canal as well and it’s a charming, traditional part of the city, where 1/3 of the total number of residents live. So I wasn’t kidding when I said that you can actually enjoy Venice like a local here! Ah, and by the way, if you choose to stay here, you will only be 15 minutes away by foot to all the attractions in San Marco!

Cannaregio also hosts Venice’s Jewish ghetto and it’s a place that’s definitely worth visiting, regardless if you choose to also book your hotel here or not. During the night, this “sestiere” comes alive and you’ll be able to enjoy your evening in one of the numerous bars, pubs or restaurants scattered all around the neighborhood!

Luxury (US$200 and up)

• Ca’ Bonfadini Historic Experience – If you’re dreaming of the ultimate spoiled vacation in Venice Cannaregio, this hotel will offer the best experience you can think of! Besides the luxury facilities, one of the best things about this 5-star property is that it’s near all the important tourist attractions!
• Kosher House – If you want to receive a royal-like treatment at your hotel, then this hotel is the right choice for you! You will surely love the clean apartment, the canal views and delcious Kosher breakfast!

Middle-priced (US$120 – US$160)

• CàPatron – One of the best things about this awesome mid-range hotel in Cannaregio is that it’s only a short walk away from the city center and it offers amazing views over the Grand Canal! By the way, Rialto Bridge is only 500m away from this place – how awesome is that?
• Scalon del Doge – If you want to save some money on accommodation that you can later spend on taking the water taxi to all the interesting sights in the city, please know that this hotel will offer a super pleasant stay and I’m sure you’ll enjoy your time here!

Budget (up to US$120)

• Archie’s House – In case you’re on a tight budget but still want to stay in Cannaregio, near the Grand Canal and only a short walk away from all the main sights of Venice, this hostel is the right answer, offering family rooms and free Wi-Fi.
• Moon Room – Here’s a lovely room for you, perfect to stay in Venice on a budget! This property is located in a traditional Venetian building and features comfortable rooms and free wifi!

Things to do in Cannaregio:

• Walk around the oldest Jewish ghetto in Europe!
• Visit the Jewish Museum
• Check out the beautiful Ca d’Oro Palace
• Gaze at Madonna dell’Orto Church and Santa Maria dei Miracoli

3. Dorsoduro – where to stay in Venice for nightlife

In case you want to be close to central Venice but not be right in the heart of San Marco, or if you’re a party animal that wants to get a true taste of this city’s nightlife, I’m pretty sure you’ll fall in love with Dorsoduro!

Dorsoduro is definitely a bohemian place that offers beautiful art and art galleries for everybody, regardless of your favorite style or period!

While you’re around, you can visit the famous art gallery called Galleria dell’Accademia di Venezia, the contemporary Peggy Guggenheim Foundation and Zattere as well, which is a long street where you can take a walk. Oh, and don’t forget to go on Pont dell’Accademia and admire Venice from there, it offers a charming view!

Luxury (US$180 and up)

• Palazzo Veneziano – Are you looking for the most luxurious place in the entire Dorsoduro? Well, make sure to take a look at this 4-star hotel, I’m sure you’ll fall in love! The rooms are just wonderful, everything is very nicely decorated and the staff is super helpful – what more could you wish for?!
• Hotel Nani Mocenigo Palace – Here’s another 4-star place in Venice! Staying here means that you’ll only receive the best of treatments and that you’ll benefit from free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, free toiletries and more!

Middle-priced (US$110 – US$180)

• Hotel Ca’ Nobile Corner – If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Dorsoduro, I have a great option for you! By the way, this property is actually a wonderful 14th-century palace transformed into a hotel. From here, you can take the vaporetto or water taxi and visit the entire Venice.
• Ca Bea – Still didn’t find the perfect place for your stay in Venice? Here’s another option! This lovely hotel has free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms and great location at walking distance from some good restaurants!

Budget (up to US$110)

• Casa Accademia – Traveling to Dorsoduro on a budget? No worries, there are plenty of good options for you out there! For example, this hostel awaits with a terrace, a cozy lounge where you can relax and simple but clean rooms, perfect for a good night’s sleep!

Things to do in Dorsoduro:

• Visit the famous Galleria dell’Accademia!
• Check out the art exhibitions of Peggy Guggenheim Foundation
• Take a walk on Zattere
• Admire Venice from Pont dell’Accademia!

4. San Polo – where to stay in Venice with a family

San Polo is one of the oldest and most charming districts in Venice and a very good choice for all types of tourists, but especially for families thanks to the great, central location and laid-back atmosphere!

San Polo is right next to San Marco, kind of like an extension to it, connected by the well-known Rialto Bridge. This means that San Polo has an excellent, central location that’s just perfect for people who want to avoid living in the chaotic San Marco, but still want to be a short walk away from all the main attractions in the city. 

You will also be able to choose from countless great restaurants, cafes and bars where you can enjoy some delicious Italian food and sip your espresso while admiring the Grand Canal!

Luxury (US$240 and up)

• Palazzo Morosini Degli Spezieri – Do you want to be a quick walk away from Rialto Bridge? Then this place is for you! This is actually a superb, luxurious apartment located right in the heart of the city. Just browse the photos on their page and I’m sure you’ll fall in love!
• H10 Palazzo Canova – If you want to feel like royalty during your stay in Venice, San Polo is the place to be! This accommodation awaits with modern and luxurious rooms, an on-site bar, a terrace and a seating area in each room!

Middle-priced (US$150 – US$200)

• Residenza Ca’ Dorin – In case you’re looking for mid-range accommodation in Venice San Polo, you should consider this one! It’s a gorgeous bed & breakfast only 500 m away from Rialto Bridge and it’s right near a water bus and water taxi stop as well!
• Hotel Moresco – Here’s another great choice if you plan of being right near Rialto Bridge and Piazzale Roma. This 4-star property awaits with a continental breakfast buffet, free Wi-Fi and super, classical decor.

Budget (up to US$110)

• Al Campaniel – In case you have a very limited amount of money for your trip but still want to stay in this beautiful district, this b&b is for you! It’s surrounded by tons of bars, so you will surely not get bored here!
• San Polo Star – Here’s another very good, cheap hotel, less than 1 km away from Rialto Bridge. The rooms are pretty simple but very clean, and the property has some very good reviews!

Things to do in San Polo:

• Visit the best attractions and hop on a gondola with this tour!
• Check out the Campo San Polo square
• Buy fresh groceries at the Rialto Market!
• Gaze at the pictorial works in Santa Maria dei Frari

5. Santa Croce – where to stay in Venice with a car

In case you’re looking for a non-touristy spot or if you want to stay in the most well-connected, transportation-friendly neighborhood in Venice, Santa Croce is your answer!

Santa Croce is the place where the bus station is located (Piazzale Roma), as well as many water taxis, ferry and vaporetto terminals.

PRO TIP: In case you decide to rent a car during your stay in Venice or for your trip to Italy, Santa Croce has big parking spots where you can leave your car, so this is definitely the place to go for this!

A small downside is that you won’t find many important landmarks or things to visit in Santa Croce except for the Museum of National History and a couple of nice churches, but the neighborhood is extremely charming, fairly cheap and has a very authentic feel.

Luxury (US$180 and up)

• AC Hotel Venezia by Marriott Hotel Venice – This is probably the most modern and stylish Venice hotel in this area! I definitely recommend it to anyone that wants to avoid the crowds and enjoy some luxury. By the way, they speak German, English, Spanish and French at the front desk!
• Hotel Al Duca di Venezia – Here’s another excellent choice for those looking for accommodation that offers great value for the money in the city of Venice. The rooms are simply incredible, with luxurious decor that will make you feel just like a queen/king!

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Middle-priced (US$110 – US$210)

• Hotel Olimpia Venezia – Do you want to be only 100 m away from Piazzale Roma? Then you cannot make a better choice than this property! They have beautiful rooms, luggage storage, high-speed free Wi-Fi and more. Plus, it’s not far from the water bus stops!
• Hotel Arlecchino – This elegant 3-star hotel in Santa Croce is just perfect for those that want to enjoy a traditional atmosphere and some luxurious facilities and amenities. If you want to travel to the center, you can either walk, take the water bus or vaporetto!

Budget (up to US$110)

• Hotel dalla Mora – If you still didn’t find the best budget-friendly Venice hotel for your stay, I have some other proposals as well! For example, this cozy place offers canal views, delicious breakfast served each morning and a terrace!
• B&B Venice – Here’s another great, cheap, bed and breakfast in the city of Venice. Some of the best things about this place are the building (a 19th-century Venetian house), the self-service breakfast, the calm location and more!

Things to do in Santa Croce:

• Visit the Museum of National History !
• Have a traditional aperitivo in Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio
• Dine at the delicious Osteria La Zucca

6. Castello – for a local experience

Besides being the biggest neighborhood in Venice, Castello is another beautiful place if you want to be surrounded by locals rather than tourists! It’s also a great starting point if you want to visit the surrounding islands like Burano or Murano.

Castello is right next to San Marco neighborhood and Saint Mark’s Square, but it is definitely less touristy than the latter! I actually recommend taking at least a short walk here, especially if you’re the type of person that wants to get on the off-the-beaten-track!

Although you won’t have lots of notable things to visit here, the entire neighborhood is scattered with small, local churches and tiny squares, all of them offering a nice, authentic atmosphere. But you can rest assured that you cannot get bored here, as you will be surrounded by many great restaurants, pubs, cafes and bars!

NOTE: Castello is also the area where the Venice Biennale (La Biennale di Venezia) is taking place, so you might want to book your hotel here if you want to be within walking distance to all the art exhibitions that take place during the event. But, as you might expect, I’ll recommend booking your accommodation as far in advance as you can, especially if you’re planning on going for the opening/beginning of the exhibitions.

Luxury (US$180 and up)

• Hotel Danieli Venice, a Luxury Collection Hotel – Do you want an extra luxurious hotel in Venice that’s only a quick walk away from all the main attractions you might want to visit? Search no more, you just found it! This property is actually one of the most well-known accommodations in the city and it offers flawless service!
• Hotel Colombina Venice – Here’s another superb option for all those looking for upscale accommodation in Venice Castello. This one has authentic Venetian furnishings, air conditioning rooms and it’s just 100m away from San Marco Square!

Middle-priced (US$110 – US$180)

• San Lio Tourist House – This beautiful and incredibly clean guest house is right in San Lio Square, in the heart of this district. The location is just great, as you’ll be surrounded by an endless number of restaurants, bars and pubs – what more can you wish for?!
• Hotel Sant’Antonin – If you’re looking for the nicest place for your Venetian escape that won’t make you break the bank, then take a look at this hotel! It’s hosted in a 16th-century building and it offers a delicious breakfast as well.

Budget (up to US$110)

• Hotel Rio – In case you want the best service ever for a very decent price in Castello, this place is for you! They have an on-site mini-market, shops, a shared lounge, luggage storage and more; plus, you’ll be surrounded by tons of restaurant and bar options! 
• Sweet Venice – If you’re looking for a cheap guest house that will help you save some money during your trip, take a look at this one, it might be the perfect one for you! They have all the facilities you need for a pleasant stay and a super friendly staff.

Things to do in Castello:

• If you’re in time, attend the exhibitions at La Biennale!
• Marvel at the detail of the Museo di Palazzo Grimani

7. Giudecca – the most artistic area

All the 6 neighborhoods that I talked about above are connected by bridges to form the “main island” that is considered to be Venice city, but there are also some nice islands that surround this! Some of the most well-known ones are Murano, Burano and Giudecca, the latter being a great choice for accommodation as well.

I recommend staying in Giudecca if you want to TRULY experience how locals live in Venice, or if it’s not the first time you’re visiting Venice. Why? Well, because Giudecca is not connected to the other parts of Venice by any bridges, so you will have to use the water taxis, water buses or ferries to get to the center, for example. 

Today this quiet neighborhood is home to several artists’ studios and independent shops, so it attracts many young creative types… if you’re one of them, take a look at my hand-picked, fabulous hotels in this area:

Luxury (US$500 and up)

• Belmond Hotel Cipriani – Do you want to receive the ultimate luxury treatment during your Venetian escapade? Well, I’m pretty sure this is one of the most famous 5-star hotels in Venice and that it’s the right choice for you! They offer an excellent daily breakfast, an outdoor swimming pool, tennis court and even wellness facilities.
• Charmsuite Palladio – Here’s another superb option if you want to be spoiled during your stay in Italy, on the beautiful island of Giudecca. This is actually a super charming apartment located 1 water bus stop away from St. Mark’s Square!

Middle-priced (US$130 – US$180)

• Ca’ Delle Erbe – In case you want a pleasant, mid-range accommodation that’s near many restaurants and cafes where you can spend some relaxed moments, this one’s for you! This cute and clean apartment has a balcony and some very beautiful views over the city!
• B&B Giudecca Bella – Still looking for the best, cheap hotels in Venice, more exactly in Giudecca, South of the city center, make sure to book your room at this bed and breakfast! It offers great value for the money and it also has a nice garden where you can relax.

Budget (up to US$130)

• Generator Venice – Are you looking for budget-style accommodation that won’t make you spend a lot of money? Well, I truly think this one’s for you! It’s located right near many public transport options such as vaporetto and water taxi, so getting to the city center will be a breeze!
• Hotel Giudecca Venezia – If you want to enjoy a true Venetian place, look no further than this 3-star hotel! It’s only 10 minutes away from the city center and it awaits with free Wi-Fi, room service, very good breakfast and more!

Things to do in Giudecca:

• Visit the old Santissimo Redentore Church!
• Check out the expositions of the Giudecca Art District

👑 Luxury price:	‎€450
💵 Mid Range:	‎€180
🛏️ Budget:	‎€120
💰 Accommodation prices:	high
📍 Best neighborhood:	San Marco
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	The Gritti Palace
💵 Mid-range hotel:	CàPatron
👛 Best budget hotel:	Locanda Antico Casin

BONUS 1: Where to stay near Venice Beach

What is Venice Lido (or “Lido di Venezia”)? It’s a long island at the East of the city, considered to be the best beach spot for Venice.

The island has a 10-kilometer long strip of beach where you can stay and enjoy some sun on the sun loungers, or you can just sip a coffee on the waterfront in one of the many cafes in the area.

Another nice thing about Lido is that you’ll find plenty of traditional workshops that you can visit and learn more about glass blowing, one of the local crafts in Venice! Also, the well-known Venice Film Festival takes place each year in Lido, which is another nice bonus!

NOTE: Even if Venice is a great destination year-round, I wouldn’t say the same about Lido, as the resorts and food places here are rather seasonal. During winter, there won’t be plenty of things to do around!

Luxury (US$160 and up)

• Ausonia Hungaria Wellness & Lifestyle – Here’s a superb choice if you want to spend your time in Italy just relaxing and laying on the beach! This 5-star hotel has fabulous reviews and it awaits a wellness center, sauna, Turkish bath, clean rooms and more!
• Apartment Doge Beato – In this beautiful apartment you’ll immediately feel at home, featuring accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning and a garden where you can relax or take some sun.

Middle-priced (US$110 – US$160)

• Hotel Villa Laguna – This 4-star property is the ideal choice if you want to enjoy some authentic Venetian décor during your stay! The rooms are bright and very nicely decorated and the closest vaporetto station is only 50m from the hotel.
• Hotel New Reiter – Book a room here if you want to be minutes away from Lido beach (450 m away, to be more precise)! This place also has an on-site bar and even a children’s playground – so great if you’re traveling with family and kids!

Budget (up to US$110)

• Villa Casanova – This cute and cozy bed and breakfast is the ideal choice for anyone that wants to stay in Lido without spending a fortune on accommodation! The beautiful building is from the 1930s and some of the best advantages of staying here include a delicious breakfast, a nice garden, free Wi-Fi and free parking.
• Hotel & Residence – This 3-star hotel is another excellent choice if you want to save some pennies. This beachfront accommodation features a panoramic terrace with views of Lido di Venezia and the Adriatic Sea!

BONUS 2: Where to stay in Mestre

In case you’re traveling on a veeery budget and cannot afford an accommodation on the Grand Canal, a good idea would be to stay in Mestre, which is basically the part of Venice located on the Italian mainland!

If you stay here, you can still get to the main attractions in the city center by taking the bus up to Piazzale Roma and then reach Saint Mark’s Square by foot. Plus, you won’t be far away from the airport either, which is another nice advantage!

Luxury (US$110 and up)

• Ca’ Bonfadini Historic Experience – If you’re dreaming of the ultimate spoiled vacation in Venice Cannaregio, this hotel will offer the best experience you can think of! Except for the luxury facilities, one of the best things about this 5-star property is that it’s near all the important tourist attractions!

Middle-priced (US$60 – US$110)

• Leonardo Royal Hotel Venice Mestre – Do you want a true, authentic Venetian experience during which you’ll still receive a luxurious treatment? This is the place for you! This 4-star accommodation has an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, room service and more.

Budget (up to US$60)

• Hotel Garibaldi – Looking for a budget-friendly stay in Venice Mestre? Look no further, as you just found the one for you! This guest house has some incredible reviews and it awaits with free Wi-Fi, friendly staff and family rooms as well!

Frequently asked questions about Venice

Conclusion

Phew! You have reached the end of this super detailed, in-depth article that explains everything you need to know about Venice accommodation! I hope this post already made you an expert in Venice hotels and that you already found the perfect stay for your trip!

I know you’ll find absolutely everything you need here, but don’t forget to book your favorite hotel way in advance to secure yourself a spot!

Still not sure about where to stay in Venice? Let me help you with my best choices, both with great central location and reviews:

• Hotel A La Commedia – If you want a 4-star luxury hotel with great views over Venice, look no further than this accommodation! 
• Hotel Mercurio Venice – If you’re a traveler looking for a great mid-range hotel in Venice San Marco, this boutique hotel is for you! 

By the way, if you need more tips about this wonderful country, you can find all our posts about Italy here.

Are you traveling to Venice soon? Do you have any other questions or concerns? Let me know in the comments below, I’m happy to help!

Have a great time in Italy, Venice,

Romina

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