Originally Posted by zebec

Pam, we have a great deal of experience in Venice (the good, bad and the ugly; mostly good) so I'll try to offer some advice here. Cannaregio is one of the more residential neighbourhoods and often serves as a sort of default locale for 'where can I go to escape the crowds and see how real Venetians live?' It will never win any beauty contests, especially in Italy, but a stroll there remains a good way to unwind. Truth is, if one arrives with an open mind and an attitude conducive to the magic of Venice, then there are few corners that could be called unattractive. That being said, the places that hold the most appeal for us have been San Polo, Castello and Dorsoduro.
Extra tips, most of which will be 'old hat' to some: try to see the doc 'The Venice Syndrome' before departure; avoid San Marco except for sunrise and sunset---otherwise the crowds may blow your mind; take vaporetto #1 its entire route and enjoy one of Travel's great inexpensive moments (be sure to leave luggage/bags back at your lodgings then, because the boats are normally over-crowded); if you visit Torcello and Burano islands (you should), then try to return home on the very final vaporetto boat. The quotient of nocturnal magic then is quite high, particularly if one sits at the very back of the stern. And night time is also the right time for a gondola ride, say around the San Polo district. If you might be able to grab a few other passengers, then a motoscafi (water taxi) ride is another unforgettable experience.
Venice is not cheap in any sense, so your budget will need to acknowledge that fact. But it is without doubt worth every penny. *We once traveled to Venice with a close relative who refused to acknowledge city's high costs and ruined the trip with their cheapness and contrarian behaviour. I repeat, it is way expensive.
Good luck!
I am done. The Doge.

Originally Posted by bigtyke