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We’ve been to Venice twice now, and it’s funny how our opinion completely changed between those visits. After the first trip, we were in the “we’ve seen it once, no need to come back” camp. But after the second one? We officially switched to “we need to go again.”
The first time, we didn’t even stay overnight — just left our car in Mestre (which we still recommend if you’re visiting Venice for a day and want to save a ton on parking). But once we finally spent a night in the city, everything felt different. Mornings and evenings are pure magic.
Staying right in the heart of the city meant we could wake up early and wander the narrow streets almost alone, long before the crowds arrived. And at night, once the day-trippers left, we had the canals and bridges all to ourselves again.
It’s peaceful, romantic, and feels completely different. And there’s one more thing — you don’t need to hassle with morning traveling, which is a nice plus.
If there’s one thing we learned, it’s that where you stay in Venice makes all the difference. Each area has its own character — from the quiet corners of Dorsoduro to the lively buzz of San Marco — and picking the right one can change your experience.
In this guide, we’re sharing the best places to stay in Venice based on first-hand experience — with honest insights, practical tips, and hotels we’d actually book again.
In a hurry?
These are our top hotels in Venice we’d book again
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Palazzo Keller (our top pick) – Beautiful mid-range hotel in the heart of San Marco with elegant rooms, friendly staff, and a courtyard breakfast area.
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⭐️⭐️ Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection – Stylish luxury hotel in Dorsoduro offering spacious rooms, great breakfast, and easy access to the water taxi.
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⭐️ iH Hotels Venezia Salute Palace – Beautiful, affordable hotel with classic Venetian charm, and comfortable rooms.
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If you plan to visit in the spring or summer, be sure to book in advance. The best hotels — especially those with canal views or rooftop terraces — tend to sell out quickly, and prices climb the closer you get to your travel dates.
Where to stay in Venice: Our experience
After our first visit, we clearly hadn’t had enough of this enchanting city — so we came back. And honestly, we’ll probably come again. this city just has that kind of magic that stays with you.
During our first trip, we didn’t stay overnight. We explored the city entirely on foot and didn’t even use the vaporetto — public water bus that connects different parts of the city through the canals. It’s the main local transport and a really fun way to get around once you understand how it works.
On our second visit, we got the 24-hour vaporetto pass, and it completely changed how we explored. Walking everywhere is great, but getting from one end of Venice to another can take time. With the vaporetto, we moved quickly and got to see the city from a completely different perspective — from the water, passing under bridges and along quiet canals most visitors never notice.
Thanks to the 24-hour pass, we also managed to visit Burano Island, which you definitely shouldn’t miss. It’s colorful, peaceful, and feels like a different world compared to central Venice. You can even visit Murano, famous for its glassmaking, although we didn’t have time for that one.
Back then, we were “broken” backpackers and ended up in one of the cheapest hotels we could find — not exactly in the best part of town. But that experience helped us see how different each neighborhood feels. Some are peaceful and authentic, while others are crowded and lively, and each has its own charm.
If we were visiting again, we’d definitely stay in San Polo or Dorsoduro. Both are close to the main attractions, more affordable than San Marco, and still full of that classic Venetian charm.
San Marco, on the other hand, is perfect if you’re coming for a romantic getaway or luxury stay — waking up near St. Mark’s Square feels truly special. And if you’re after something quieter and more local, Cannaregio might surprise you with its relaxed vibe, great food, and friendly atmosphere.
Each of these areas shows a slightly different side of this city. Choosing the right one really depends on how you want to experience the city — whether it’s exploring canals before sunrise, finding hidden cafés after dark, or simply having easy access to the best things to do in Venice.
If you’re still deciding where to stay in Venice, the following section breaks down the most popular areas so you can pick the one that best fits your trip.
Visiting Rome too? Make sure to check out our Where to Stay in Rome guide.
Best areas to stay in Venice
Each part offers a different experience, from quiet canals to lively local streets. On the map below, you can see the locations of the main areas, making it easier to picture how the city fits together.
Based on our own experience, these are the areas that make the most sense for travelers — central, well-connected, and full of great hotels.
San Marco area
San Marco is the heart of Venice — home to St. Mark’s Square, the Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the city’s most famous canals. It’s where you’ll find the postcard views, gondolas passing under the Bridge of Sighs, and elegant cafés like Caffè Florian, one of the oldest in the world.
Even though we didn’t stay here overnight, we spent a lot of time wandering through the area, and once the crowds disappeared, it felt like stepping back in time.
During the day, it’s full of life — street musicians, tourists with gelato in hand, and boats gliding through the Grand Canal.
It does get crowded between 9 AM and 7 PM, but many people don’t mind that at all — for some, the lively energy is part of its charm. Early mornings and late evenings, though, show a completely different side of the city: calm and romantic without the crowds.
Just keep in mind that prices here are higher than anywhere else in the city, and restaurants near the main square tend to charge more for the same dishes you’d find cheaper elsewhere. Still, if your goal is to experience the most iconic and romantic side of Venice, San Marco delivers.
✅ Pros: Central, iconic landmarks, great for short stays and romantic trips
❌ Cons: Expensive, crowded during the day, limited budget options
⭐️ Best for: Couples and first-time visitors who want to stay in the heart of this city
Once you’ve found your perfect base, don’t miss our Best Things to Do in Rome guide — perfect if you’re combining Venice and Rome in one trip and want to experience both cities like a local.
San Polo area
San Polo sits just across the Rialto Bridge from San Marco and is one of the most central and character-filled areas to stay in. It’s compact, easy to explore on foot, and full of local charm — from the bustling Rialto Market to the beautiful Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, known for its impressive art and peaceful interior.
We spent a lot of time wandering here, and it quickly became one of our favorite parts of the city.
Even though it’s less crowded than San Marco, it can still get busy — especially around the Rialto Bridge and Rialto Market. But the further you go from the main canal, the quieter it gets.
You can reach most major landmarks within 10–15 minutes on foot, yet it feels noticeably more local. The area has a great mix of small restaurants, cafés, and bacari (traditional wine bars), and it’s also well-connected by vaporetto, making getting around easy.
Tip: For one of the best views of the Grand Canal, stop by the Rialto Bridge at sunset — it might be busy, but the light over the water makes it worth it.
Insider tip: For one of the best views of the Grand Canal, stop by the Rialto Bridge at sunset — it’s busy, but the light over the water makes it worth it.
✅ Pros: Central, walkable, authentic atmosphere, great dining and views
❌ Cons: Can get crowded near the Rialto Bridge and the market during the day
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want to stay central but prefer a slightly more local and relaxed feel
Dorsoduro area
Dorsoduro is one of those areas that instantly feels different — quieter, more local, and filled with art at every corner. We spent some time exploring, and quickly realized it’s one of the places we’d love to stay next time.
It’s home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, the Gallerie dell’Accademia, and the beautiful Zattere promenade overlooking the Giudecca Canal. You’ll see students cycling to class, shopkeepers chatting outside, and boats unloading fresh produce in the mornings.
What we really liked was how balanced it felt — close enough to reach St. Mark’s Square in about 15 minutes, but quiet enough to hear the water lapping against the canals at night. If you’re after a calm base with plenty of charm, this is it.
If you’re deciding where to stay in Venice and want a peaceful base without being too far from the main sights, Dorsoduro is one of the best choices.
Tip: For a quiet sunset spot, we recommend walking along the Zattere promenade — it’s wide and offers some of the best canal views without the crowds.
✅ Pros: Peaceful, artistic, local vibe, easy walk to main sights
❌ Cons: Limited nightlife and can feel too quiet late at night
⭐️ Best for: Couples, art lovers, and anyone wanting a slower, more authentic side of this city
Cannaregio area
Cannaregio is where it still feels like a real, lived-in city — the kind of place where you see laundry hanging across canals, and locals chatting over espresso. We didn’t stay here overnight, but we spent a few hours wandering around and loved how different it felt from the busy center.
It’s one of the easiest areas to reach when you arrive by train or vaporetto, and it’s filled with great little restaurants, bakeries, and wine bars that exude local charm. The Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest in Europe, is also located here — peaceful, rich in history, and well worth exploring.
Compared to San Marco or even San Polo, Cannaregio feels more relaxed and less crowded. You’ll still find plenty of nice hotels and boutique stays. We loved sitting by the Fondamenta della Misericordia, watching boats pass and locals enjoying aperitivo.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Venice and want something authentic and convenient, Cannaregio is a great pick — especially if you’re catching an early train or flight, since it’s one of the quickest areas to reach from Santa Lucia Station or the airport ferry terminal.
✅ Pros: Authentic, affordable, great food, easy access from the train station
❌ Cons: Slightly farther from main landmarks (around 30 minutes on foot)
⭐️ Best for: People who want a local experience or need quick access for early trains or flights
Best hotels in Venice
This list brings together the best places to stay in Venice — hotels we’d confidently book after exploring the city from end to end.
This city can be overwhelming with so many options, so we’ve done the hard part for you — narrowing it down to the best hotels in Venice that actually live up to their reviews and locations.
Budget hotels typically start at around $120–180 per night, mid-range stays fall within the $210–400 range, and luxury hotels can cost $450+ per night for two people during peak summer months.
Best hotels in the San Marco area
We didn’t stay here overnight, but walking through San Marco early in the morning showed us just how magical this area can be. It’s classic Venice — romantic, central, and full of history — perfect if you want to be right in the heart of it all.
40.17 San Marco $
If we were choosing where to stay in Venice without breaking the budget, we’d pick 40.17 San Marco. It’s located in the heart of the San Marco district, just 5 minutes from the Rialto Bridge and 400 m from St. Mark’s Square. The rooms have a classic Venetian feel with wooden beams and Murano glass details, and the staff are known for being friendly and helpful.
What we like about this hotel is that you can roll your suitcase straight from the vaporetto stop, drop your bags, and be sightseeing in under ten minutes. The vibe here is all about historic charm and value for money. Rooms are compact, so if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or prefer more spacious accommodation, it might feel a bit small.
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⭐️ Best for: Budget or solo travelers seeking a central location close to all major landmarks.
Palazzo Keller $$ (Our Top Pick)
If you’re looking for an amazing mid-range hotel, this is the one we’d pick. Palazzo Keller sits in a beautifully restored 15th-century palace in the heart of San Marco, just a short walk from St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. The location is fabulous — you’re also very close to the Sant’Angelo water bus stop, which makes getting around the city super easy.
What we like about this hotel is how it perfectly balances price, comfort, and atmosphere. The rooms are elegant but cozy, with large, comfortable beds, marble bathrooms, and Murano glass details that add a touch of character. Breakfast is served in a quiet courtyard — a rare peaceful spot in the central area — and the staff are genuinely kind and attentive.
It’s our top pick in San Marco for its unbeatable mix of value, comfort, and location.
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⭐️ Best for: Couples or travelers who want a stylish and central boutique stay.
Nolinski Venezia – Evok Collection $$$
This hotel is for people looking for something truly unique and memorable. Nolinski Venezia – Evok Collection is pure luxury from the moment you walk in — set in a beautifully restored Venetian palazzo just steps from St. Mark’s Square and the Teatro La Fenice.
The interiors mix classic Venetian charm with modern design. What makes it special is how every detail is handled with care. The rooms feature rich fabrics, marble bathrooms, and the beds are large and incredibly comfortable. What we really like is a rooftop space — perfect for sunset drinks or just soaking up the city views. There’s even an indoor pool and a spa.
If you’re coming for a honeymoon, the staff can prepare your room with romantic touches and champagne. Yes, it’s expensive, but it’s one of those places where everything feels absolutely worth it.
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⭐️ Best for: Luxury travelers, couples, or families looking for world-class comfort and unforgettable service.
Best hotels in the San Polo area
San Polo quickly became one of our favorite parts of the city. It’s central and lively around the Rialto Bridge but feels surprisingly local once you wander deeper into the smaller canals — a great base if you want to see the real Venice without giving up convenience.
La Dogaressa Guest House $
If you’re looking for a comfortable stay in a quiet yet central part, La Dogaressa Guest House is a solid budget pick. Located in San Polo, about 5 minutes on foot from the Rialto Bridge and 15 minutes from St. Mark’s Square, it’s perfectly placed for exploring.
The rooms are simple, decorated in traditional Venetian style with warm tones. What we like about this guesthouse is that it offers great value for its location — you can walk almost everywhere, and the nearby vaporetto stop makes getting around even easier.
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⭐️ Best for: Travelers looking for an affordable stay within walking distance of main attractions.
Ca’ della Scimmia $$ (Our Top Pick)
If you’re searching for a stylish mid-range stay, Ca’ della Scimmia is the one we’d instantly book for our next trip. Tucked away in San Polo, right by the Rialto Bridge and just a 10-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square, it’s hard to beat this location — easily making it one of the best places to stay in Venice for its mix of comfort and value.
What we like about this hotel is its modern design and the feeling of extra space — something rare in this city. The apartments are sleek, spotless, and come with small kitchens, making them an excellent choice for longer stays or families.
It’s super central, and the Vaporetto ferry stop is right there, so getting to and from the train station or Piazza San Marco is a breeze. The beds are large and comfortable, and the soundproofing is solid. It’s our top pick in San Polo because it perfectly combines price, comfort, and practicality.
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⭐️ Best for: Couples or families who want modern comfort, more space, and an unbeatable location near the Rialto Bridge.
H10 Palazzo Canova $$$
For a luxury stay that still feels welcoming, H10 Palazzo Canova is an excellent choice. Set right on the Grand Canal next to the Rialto Bridge, it offers some of the most iconic views.
The interiors are modern and stylish, with marble details and large, comfortable beds. What we like about this hotel is how it blends contemporary comfort with classic Venetian touches.
The staff are friendly and professional, always ready to help with directions or restaurant tips, and the rooftop bar is one of the best in the area — perfect for a sunset spritz with a view over the canals.
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⭐️ Best for: Couples or travelers who want a modern, upscale stay with canal views, a walkable location, and a fantastic rooftop bar.
Best hotels in the Dorsoduro area
We loved how Dorsoduro felt calm yet full of character. It’s artistic, peaceful, and beautifully balanced — close enough to walk everywhere, yet quiet enough to unwind after a long day exploring.
iH Hotels Venezia Salute Palace $
iH Hotels Venezia Salute Palace is a true gem — one of those rare finds where you get real comfort for a budget price. Tucked away in Dorsoduro, just a short walk from the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and a quick ferry ride from St. Mark’s Square, it’s ideal if you want a peaceful stay without being far from the main attractions.
What we like about this hotel is how much value it offers for the price. The rooms are surprisingly spacious, with comfortable beds and a cozy feel that makes it easy to unwind after a day of exploring. The area around the hotel is quiet and full of small cafés and art galleries. It’s also a great pick for families with children, as they offer a dedicated family room
It’s the kind of place that feels far more refined than its price suggests, which makes it one of the best hotels in Venice for travelers who appreciate comfort and atmosphere on a smaller budget.
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⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers, couples, or families looking for a quiet, comfortable budget stay.
Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection $$ (Our Top Pick)
If you’re looking for a mid-range stay that feels a touch luxurious, Palazzo Veneziano is the one we’d pick. Set right on the canal in Dorsoduro, about 15 minutes’ walk from the centre, the location is ideal — quiet yet close to plenty of bars and restaurants, with a water taxi stop just steps away.
What we like about this hotel is its range of rooms — from cozy doubles to spacious family suites — so that everyone can find their perfect fit. Some offer beautiful canal views, and the Luxury Suite with Private Spa is a rare gem, hard to find. The interiors mix Venetian charm with modern comfort, the beds are large and comfortable, and breakfast is excellent for the price.
It’s our top pick because it strikes the perfect balance between location, comfort, and value.
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⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, or travelers who want elegant comfort, canal views, and easy access to both local life and the main sights.
Palazzetto MyVenice $$$
You walk down the quiet street, and then suddenly the glass doors open to reveal a hidden little palace. If you love small, character-filled stays, Palazzetto MyVenice is the kind of boutique hotel that instantly makes you feel at home. Hidden along a quiet canal in Dorsoduro, it’s just 2 minutes from a Vaporetto stop and 3 minutes from a lively square filled with cafés and local life.
The rooms are elegant yet cozy, with wooden beams, marble bathrooms, and large, comfortable beds. Breakfast is a delight, with fresh, high-quality options served in a calm and inviting room. The food is exceptional, and the staff truly go above and beyond — it’s refreshing to stay somewhere where people clearly love what they do.
This is precisely why we love boutique hotels: the blend of top-quality, thoughtful details and a sense of privacy that transforms a stay into something truly memorable. If you’re looking for one of the best places to stay in Venice that feels luxurious and elegant, this is it.
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⭐️ Best for: Couples or travelers who want a luxurious, personal stay with outstanding service and location.
Best hotels in the Cannaregio area
Cannaregio feels like the locals actually live in, and that’s exactly why we liked it. It’s relaxed, full of good food, and perfect if you want to stay somewhere authentic while still being close to the train station or ferry to the airport.
Locanda Casa Martini $
For a cozy and authentic budget hotel, Locanda Casa Martini is a great pick in Cannaregio. Set along a quiet canal near the Guglie Vaporetto stop and about 10 minutes from Santa Lucia train station, it’s ideal if you’re arriving by train or catching an early departure.
Rooms have a classic Venetian style with antique furniture, high ceilings, and warm decor that gives the place a homely feel. It’s peaceful yet close to plenty of local restaurants and wine bars, so you can enjoy quiet nights without being far from the action.
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⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a quiet, well-connected budget hotel.
Carnival Palace $$ (Our Top Pick)
If you’re looking for a modern, comfortable mid-range hotel in Cannaregio with a touch of luxury, Carnival Palace is the one we’d pick. It’s clean, comfortable, and perfectly positioned — right by the Tre Archi Vaporetto stop, close to the train, bus, and ferry terminals, which makes getting in and out super easy.
The rooms are spacious and well-designed, with a huge variety of types to choose from — though not all have canal views. Breakfast is delicious and served on the terrace behind the hotel with a pleasant garden area and plenty of hot and cold options. There are also lots of great restaurants nearby, and the staff are consistently friendly and helpful.
It’s our top pick in Cannaregio because it strikes the ideal balance between comfort, convenience, and value. It’s also a great choice for families with kids, thanks to the variety of room types and quiet, relaxed location.
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⭐️ Best for: Couples or families looking for a modern, mid-range and well-connected hotel with friendly service.
Ca’ Bonfadini Historic Experience $$$
For people who want a stay that feels like stepping back in time, we recommend Ca’ Bonfadini Historic Experience, which is one of the most memorable hotels in this city. Set inside a beautifully restored 16th-century palace, just a short 10-minute walk from Santa Lucia train station, it combines historic grandeur with easy city access.
The rooms are pure elegance — each one is unique, with high ceilings, frescoes, chandeliers, and marble bathrooms that make you feel like royalty. What we like about this hotel is how it blends history with comfort: everything feels authentic but perfectly maintained. There’s also a peaceful courtyard garden, ideal for relaxing at the end of the day.
Breakfast is served in a beautiful frescoed dining room, and the staff go above and beyond to make your stay feel special. It’s one of the best places to stay in Venice if you’re after a luxurious, truly Venetian experience full of charm and character.
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⭐️ Best for: Couples or travelers who want a luxurious, historic stay with exceptional service and Venetian elegance.
If you’re heading south after Venice, we can’t recommend Naples enough — it’s vibrant, authentic, and full of flavor. Check out our guide to the best things to do in Naples for our top tips and local favorites.
FAQ about the best places to stay in Venice
Where should first-time visitors stay in Venice?
Based on our own experience, we recommend staying in San Polo or Dorsoduro. Both areas are central and easy to explore on foot, yet less hectic than San Marco. You’ll be close to Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, and plenty of great restaurants.
What is the best place to stay in Venice for couples?
We recommend Dorsoduro for its quiet, romantic vibe and sunset walks, or San Marco if you want the classic Venetian charm with elegant hotels and candlelit dinners nearby.
What are the best adults-only hotels in Venice?
For a romantic adults-only stay, we recommend Ca’ Maria Adele, Madama Garden Retreat, and Arcadia Boutique Hotel.
What is the best place to stay in Venice with kids?
We suggest staying in Cannaregio, especially around the train station and vaporetto stops — it’s extremely convenient for families with luggage and early departures.
What are the best 5-star hotels in Venice?
If you’re looking for luxurious 5-star hotels, you should check out Hotel Cipriani, Ca’ Bonfadini Historic Experience, and Nolinski Venezia – Evok Collection.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Venice
After visiting this city twice — once as day-trippers and once staying overnight — we can confidently say that where you stay in Venice completely changes the experience. Waking up to quiet canals, walking empty streets before the crowds arrive, or enjoying dinner as the city lights reflect on the water — that’s the Venice worth experiencing.
If it’s your first visit, we recommend choosing an area that matches your travel style. San Polo and Dorsoduro are our personal favorites — close to the main sights but with a more local vibe and slightly better value than San Marco.
Cannaregio is perfect if you prefer something quieter, with easy access to the train station and the airport ferry. And if you’re visiting for a romantic escape or special occasion, staying in San Marco still has that unmatched magic, especially in the evenings.
Our biggest tip? Don’t stay too far from the center if it’s your first time. It is best enjoyed on foot and by Vaporetto, and having the main sights within walking distance makes everything easier — especially if you’re traveling with kids or have limited time.
Lastly, book early if you’re visiting in spring or summer. The best hotels — especially those with canal views or rooftop terraces — fill up fast, and prices can rise quickly.
We’ve shared only places we’d genuinely consider for our next trip — a mix of hotels with personality, great locations, and real value for money. Whichever area you choose, staying overnight turns a quick visit into something unforgettable.
