Where to Stay in Venice: Best Areas and Hotels

Planning a trip to Venice can be an exciting adventure, but finding the perfect place to stay can be overwhelming. With its winding canals and charming streets, the city offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. Here’s your ultimate guide to where to stay in Venice, packed with essential tips and recommendations to make your visit truly unforgettable.

Best neighborhoods to stay in Venice and areas to avoid

When it comes to choosing a place to stay in Venice, the options can feel endless. However, we recommend focusing on a few key areas that provide the best blend of convenience, charm, and ambiance. The prime locations include San Marco, known for its iconic landmarks, and the Grand Canal, famous for its luxurious hotels. If those don’t suit your budget, there are other intriguing neighborhoods worth exploring.

Let’s dive into the best areas to stay and the hotels that shine in each neighborhood, based on our research and experiences. If you're wondering what is the best area to stay in Venice, read on for our top recommendations.

Map of the best areas and hotels to stay in Venice

Using a detailed map can be incredibly helpful in navigating the city's unique districts or 'sestieri': San Marco, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, and Castello. This visual guide will help you quickly understand how these areas are laid out:

• San Marco: The heart of Venice, bustling with life and activity.
• Grand Canal: Renowned for its stunning palaces and luxury accommodations.
• San Polo: Offers a more authentic experience while still being centrally located.
• Dorsoduro: Home to the university, this area boasts a vibrant nightlife.
• Santa Croce: A practical and quieter option, great for budget travelers.
• Cannaregio: Less touristy, ideal for those seeking a taste of local life in Venice.
• Castello: A tranquil area, though parts of it may feel too far from the action.
• Mestre: Affordable but requires daily transport to Venice.

While it’s tempting to stay near the main attractions, consider that the prices drop as you move away from San Marco. The experience of winding canals and charming balconies can greatly enhance your trip, making every moment feel magical. For those asking where to stay in Venice, exploring the lesser-known neighborhoods can often lead to delightful surprises.

San Marco, our top choice for staying in Venice

Why choose San Marco?

San Marco is the jewel of Venice, filled with history and beauty. The St. Mark's Square is the vibrant heart of the city, surrounded by cafes, shops, and breathtaking architecture like the Basilica di San Marco. Staying here means you are steps away from iconic sights. If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Venice, Italy, San Marco is hard to beat.

If you desire to be close to everything Venice has to offer, San Marco is your best bet. With its abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions, everything you need is just around the corner.

Pros and Cons of choosing San Marco as your accommodation spot

✔️ It’s the epicenter of Venice, making it easy to explore the city.
✔️ The area is vibrant with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops.
✔️ Offers a wide range of hotels to suit various tastes and budgets.

❌ It can be the most expensive neighborhood in Venice.
❌ The area is often crowded and noisy, especially in tourist season.

Recommended hotels in San Marco

🛏️ Hotel Bel Sito e Berlino: Located near the beautiful Santa Maria del Giglio church, this hotel offers serene views and is just a short walk from St. Mark's Square.

🛏️ Hotel Torino: A historic gem just 300 meters from St. Mark's, featuring classic decor in a charming setting.

🛏️ Hotel San Gallo: A practical choice with all the major sights just minutes away.

🛏️ Foresteria Levi: A simple yet affordable option located 10 minutes from St. Mark's.

🛏️ Hotel Gorizia a La Valigia: Offers stunning views of the iconic campanile and features a unique art installation in its lobby.

Many hotels in San Marco offer breathtaking views of the city, providing a truly magical Venetian experience.

Grand Canal, the most charming area to stay in Venice

Why choose the Grand Canal?

The Grand Canal is the most famous waterway in Venice, lined with stunning palaces and vibrant activity. Staying here allows you to fully immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the city. It is often regarded as the best area of Venice to stay for those who appreciate stunning architecture and luxury.

In this area, you’ll find some of the most elegant hotels housed in historic buildings, creating a luxurious experience.

Pros and Cons of choosing the Grand Canal for your stay

✔️ Enjoy priceless views from your hotel, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
✔️ Close to major attractions like the Rialto Bridge and the Accademia Gallery.
✔️ Experience the magical ambiance of the canal with convenient water transport options.

❌ Staying near the Grand Canal is generally more expensive than other areas.
❌ The canal can sometimes be less than pristine, with debris from boats.

Recommended hotels along the Grand Canal

🛏️ Hotel Antiche Figure: A historic hotel offering a classic Venetian ambiance just steps from the Grand Canal.

🛏️ H10 Palazzo Canova: Features a rooftop terrace providing stunning views of the canal.

🛏️ EGO' Boutique Hotel: Offers a unique interior inspired by the Silk Road, located in the heart of San Marco.

San Polo, a central yet less exclusive option

Why choose San Polo?

San Polo is one of Venice’s oldest neighborhoods, rich in history and vibrant life. Although it may not be as glamorous as San Marco, it offers a genuine Venetian experience at a more reasonable price. If you’re searching for the best area to stay in Venice, San Polo is an excellent alternative.

If you’re looking for an economical alternative without sacrificing location, San Polo is a fantastic choice.

Pros and Cons of choosing San Polo for your stay

✔️ One of the most historical and lively neighborhoods in the city.
✔️ Centrally located, just steps from major attractions like the Rialto Bridge.
✔️ Offers a great variety of hotels and restaurants.

❌ The area can be crowded with tourists, especially during peak season.
❌ You might find prices here are higher compared to less central locations.

Recommended hotels in San Polo

🛏️ Palazzetto Madonna: A charming hotel housed in a historic building, known for its excellent breakfast.

🛏️ Hotel Marconi: Located on the Grand Canal, featuring classic Venetian decor.

🛏️ Grifoni Boutique Hotel: A hypoallergenic hotel near the Grand Canal, known for its air purification system.

Dorsoduro, for those seeking nightlife

Why choose Dorsoduro?

Dorsoduro is known for its vibrant atmosphere, housing the university. This area is alive with youthful energy and offers numerous affordable dining and entertainment options. Although it’s a bit further from the center, staying in Dorsoduro allows you to experience Venice from a local perspective. It is often considered one of the best areas in Venice to stay for nightlife enthusiasts.

Pros and Cons of choosing Dorsoduro for your stay

✔️ A young and lively atmosphere with fewer tourists.
✔️ Home to significant museums and galleries like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
✔️ Close to the Grand Canal with stunning views.

❌ Not the best choice if you’re seeking a calm environment for children.
❌ Hotel prices can be higher near popular tourist spots.

Recommended hotels in Dorsoduro

🛏️ Pensione Accademia: Offers a charming atmosphere in a former villa near the Grand Canal.

🛏️ Palazzo Guardi: Located in a historic Venetian house, featuring original wooden beams and scenic views.

Santa Croce, for budget-friendly lodging

Why choose Santa Croce?

For those looking to stay in Venice without breaking the bank, Santa Croce is a solid option. It’s the only district where cars are allowed, making it accessible and convenient, especially if you’re arriving by bus or train. This area is also known as the best area to stay Venice for budget travelers.

While it may not be as glamorous as other areas, it has a quaint charm and several palaces worth visiting. The local dining scene here is also delightful, with various options for seafood and vegetarian dishes.

Pros and Cons of choosing Santa Croce for your stay

✔️ A practical and affordable area for travelers.
✔️ Easily accessible via public transport.
✔️ Close to other interesting districts like San Polo.

❌ Lacks the charm and vibrancy of more popular neighborhoods.
❌ It’s a bit further from major attractions, which requires additional travel time.

Recommended hotels in Santa Croce

🛏️ Residenza d'Epoca San Cassiano: Features stunning canal views and is just a 5-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge.

🛏️ Hotel Al Duca Di Venezia: Offers elegant rooms in a historic setting.

Cannaregio, a more local atmosphere

Why choose Cannaregio?

Cannaregio is perfect for those who want to experience a more authentic side of Venice. It offers more affordable accommodation options compared to touristy areas, making it a wise choice for budget travelers. If you're looking for the best area in Venice to stay that captures local life, Cannaregio is a great choice.

This charming neighborhood is filled with historic churches and picturesque canals. With a vaporetto station nearby, getting around Venice is convenient.

Pros and Cons of choosing Cannaregio for your stay

✔️ Less touristy, which means lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.
✔️ Close to public transport options for easy access to other parts of Venice.
✔️ Offers a rich local culture with plenty of dining and shopping options.

❌ Some areas may require a vaporetto ride to reach popular attractions, adding time and cost to your travels.
❌ A few accommodations might be older or less renovated.

Recommended hotels in Cannaregio

🛏️ Hotel Villa Rosa: Affordable and conveniently located near the Santa Lucia train station.

🛏️ Carnival Palace: Combines modern style with traditional Venetian elegance.

Castello, away from the crowds

Why choose Castello?

Castello is home to the renowned Venice Biennale and offers a mix of vibrant bars, restaurants, and shops, especially along Via Garibaldi. If you are looking for the best area in Venice to stay that offers a blend of culture and tranquility, Castello is a top pick.

This expansive district also features picturesque streets and historical buildings, providing a more authentic Venetian experience away from the busiest tourist paths.

Pros and Cons of choosing Castello for your stay

✔️ The largest and most diverse district, with both touristy and traditional areas.
✔️ Abundant green spaces for relaxation, particularly in the Biennale Gardens.
✔️ Offers delicious local cuisine in various charming eateries.

❌ The size of the district can make navigating a bit tiring.
❌ Some areas may feel isolated, lacking nearby services or entertainment.

Recommended hotels in Castello

🛏️ Hotel San Zaccaria: A favorite among travelers, this hotel is just 200 meters from the Bridge of Sighs.

🛏️ Hotel Castello: Ideally located near St. Mark's Basilica, with a lovely terrace view.

Mestre, on solid ground

Why choose Mestre?

Mestre is perfect for travelers looking to stay near Venice while keeping costs down. Hotel prices here are significantly lower than in the city center. It can be a practical choice if you are wondering about the best areas in Venice to stay for budget-conscious visitors.

With excellent bus and train connections to Venice, you can be in the heart of the city in just 10 minutes. Plus, it’s easier to find affordable parking if you're driving.

Pros and Cons of choosing Mestre for your stay

✔️ Much cheaper accommodation than in Venice, freeing up your budget for other activities.
✔️ Quick and easy access to Venice via buses and trains, costing around €1.90.
✔️ A chance to experience local life, away from tourist congestion.

❌ Lacks the charm and beauty of Venice itself.
❌ Requires daily travel to reach the main attractions, which can eat into your schedule.

Recommended hotels in Mestre

🛏️ Hotel Venezia: Conveniently located near the train station, with essential amenities.

🛏️ Hotel Plaza: A 4-star hotel directly across from the Mestre station, with various dining options available.

Other areas: Lido and Giudecca

These two islands offer a different perspective of Venice, showcasing natural spaces and stunning views. Don't worry about transportation; the vaporetto makes it easy to reach the historic center. Here’s what to expect on each island:

• Lido:
  ✔️ A tranquil beach environment with a relaxed atmosphere.
  ✔️ Larger and more affordable hotels compared to central Venice.
  ✔️ Well-connected to the main attractions via vaporetto.
  ❌ Lacks the distinctive charm of Venice’s canals and bridges.
  ❌ May feel monotonous if you’re looking for more activities.
• Giudecca:
  ✔️ Offers a quieter, authentic experience away from the crowds.
  ✔️ Affordable accommodation options available.
  ✔️ Home to attractions like the Church of the Redeemer.
  ❌ Relies on vaporetto for access to central Venice.
  ❌ Limited dining and shopping compared to the main areas.

Here are our hotel recommendations:

• Hotels in Lido:
  • 🛏️ Viktoria Palace Hotel
  • 🛏️ Hotel Villa Mabapa
  • 🛏️ Hotel Le Boulevard
• Hotels in Giudecca:
  • 🛏️ Hotel Giudecca Venezia
  • 🛏️ Angela di Venezia House
  • 🛏️ Generator Venice

Tips for finding accommodation in Venice

• 👉🏻 Stairs vs elevator: Be aware that many historic hotels may not have elevators, making stairs a consideration.
• 👉🏻 Pedestrian city: Venice is car-free, so plan on walking or taking a water bus to your hotel.
• 👉🏻 Room size: Expect compact rooms, as space is limited in Venice.
• 👉🏻 External bathrooms: Some hotels may have shared bathrooms located outside the rooms.
• 👉🏻 Check-in and check-out times: Be sure to understand the hotel’s policies, as some may not have 24-hour reception.
• 👉🏻 Remember: If you stay within Venice, you are exempt from the entry tax during peak hours.

This guide aims to assist you in planning your trip, offering invaluable insights into the best neighborhoods and accommodations in Venice. With careful selection and thoughtful planning, your stay in this enchanting city will undoubtedly become a cherished memory. We hope you find your own "good, beautiful, and affordable" discovery during your journey.

Oli, Paula, and Isaac, from Venice (Italy)

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