Help me choose neighborhood in Venice
 

Hi. I've narrowed my choice down to two great hotels for our four night stay next May:
Locals San Barnaba in Dorsoduro or
Al Ponte Mocenigo in Santa Croce.
Both look great to me in terms of location- a little off the beaten track and great value. The San Barnaba may be a little closer to the big sights.-close to the Accademia bridge. I'd love to hear any thoughts or comments. It's our first time in Venice. Thanks in advance! Ellen

I'm a big fan of Dorsoduro, which I feel is a bit less touristed than much of Venice while still being very central. San Barnaba is close to Campo Santa Margherita, a sort of living room for the sestiere, full of markets, cafes and playing children that is used as much, if not more, by the locals than the tourists.

I'm not as familiar with the location of the Al Ponte Mocenigo but have walked around the area and find it less appealing; to me it feels like you'd be passing through Piazza San Marco a lot to get places, something I avoid at all costs. On the other hand, if it's your first time you may want to be closer to the more touristy sites.

You probably can't go too wrong with either place.

We have stayed in both areas, around San Barnaba, and near Al Ponte Mocenigo.

I would choose Locanda San Barnabe, and the Alilaguna ferry from the airport stops at the Ca' Rezzonico stop, just metres ( and no bridges) from the hotel.

Thank you both for your replies-very helpful.

I've stayed at Dorsoduro twice (my only trips to Venice) at La Calcina. I loved the area. Thought it was pretty much perfect for being convenient but not right in the thick of the crowds and easy to get to on the vaporetto from the train station.