jbtuffy

Husband and I are leaving next Wednesday for our first european excursion, travelling with the in-laws. First stop, 5 days in Prague followed by night train to Venice. I've been doing considerable research on Venice hotels and have found some desirable locations away from the Grand Canal, but have recently discovered that Lido is just a short vaparetto (sp?) away from City Center and appears to be much quieter. Any suggestions, City Center or Lido?

Surlok

Undoubtedly Venice. Lido is a short vaporetto ride, but unless for the big hotels, is totally unappealing. The casino there is the ugliest I've seen so far, and so is the attendance. The beach is nothing special too, unless you there with the movie stars during the festival. <BR> <BR>Staying in Venice itself gives you a totally different perspective. Besides, shall you wish to have dinner in Venice, and go backto Lido late in the evening, you might have problems going back. <BR> <BR>Surlok

Seamus

Lido is not far from Venice proper, but it does take 30 minutes or more each way (depending in time of day) to get from there to the main area. If you want to have more comfort and a beach nearby, travelling in to spend time in the traditional parts of Venice, it's fine. What won't be convenient is to take a midday break at your hotel to recharge /refresh. The hotels in the Lido area do tend to be a bit larger and often less expensive. It's rather like (forigve this blasphemous comparison!) visiting Walt Disney World and staying in Kissimmee/ St Cloud rather than onsite or in Orlando.

Deborah

I've stayed in both. I would never choose to stay on the Lido again. The city of Venice is too good to miss, and when you are away, you will not see the very early morning or late evening. Also, if you (or your in-laws) want a quick nap, a clothing change before dinner, or need to drop off some shopping items, you are over an hour (round trip) away from your hotel to do these things. <BR> <BR>Stay in Venice! <BR> <BR>Have a great time. <BR>Deborah

A.M.

Hello jb, <BR> Stay in Venice proper. If you want away from the maddening crowds, there are many nice hotels a short walk from ST. Marks. Recently I stayed at the Giorgione. Do a search above, there are lots of recommendations here. <BR>A.M.

zz-top

Stay in city of Venice --- it's very small & a hotel away from the Grand Canal can be just as nice & pleasant. Yes, I did stay ON the canal for my first visit last year. I don't feel you'll be missing alot by not having that experience. Do agree with others in that city is much preferred over the lido.

Leslie

Key clue: "...leaving next Wednesday..." And you haven't made a hotel reservation for Venice? I would also vote for Venice central, but I can't imagine you'll find anything decent at this late date. Best of luck!