Terri

We are planning a trip to Venice, Spring 2002, and I am undecided whether to stay right on the Grand Canal, near St. Mark's Square, or on the beach. Does anyone have any ideas? We will be doing some other beachside resorts, so unless it is fanatastic, I think I would rather stay in the city. Any hotel suggestions in the moderate to expensive category would be appreciated. Thank you.

Frank

Terri: Stay in Venice proper if at all possible. The beach at Lido is nice but you can always go to a beach anywhere in the world, but there is only one Venice. We stay close to Piazza San Marco but not too close. IMO the best area is on the Grand Canal somewhere between San Marco and the Academia Bridge. We stayed at the Europa Regina in late May and thought the location and hotel were wonderful, it ran about $400 which is the lower end of expensive. Generally one step below the Gritti, Bauer and Danieli. Based on when in spring you arrive the price might be lower.

Caroline

Travel Agent says <BR>Gritti Palace, Luna Baglioni and Bauer or Danieli all are excellent Westin good/fair (hot in Summer)... have fun.

Celeste

I really enjoyed staying at Locanda Sturion on the Grand Canal at the Rialto Bridge. Plenty of shopping and restaurants and easy to walk everywhere because it's pretty much the "center" of Venice.

Book Chick

Another vote for Antica Locanda Sturion. A short walk to Piazza San Marco & very close indeed to Ponte Rialto. Quiet at night. Can't imagine staying anywhere else in Venice. <BR>Buon Viaggio, <BR>BC