DeAnn

We are taking our first trip to Venice and would like to know the pros and cons of the two hotels we are contemplating. The Besanzio and the Accademia are in different locations but comparable in price. We were offered a room with a garden view at the Accademia, is this disappointing? No mention of a view was mentioned at the Besanzio - do they have one? Your experiences will be helpful in our decision makiing. Thank you so much!
D

sandi

DeAnn,

I haven't stayed at either but I know in the last few days there have been many discussions about the Accademia on this board. You may want to do a search and read about it.

Sue

Ditto Hotel Bisanzio--have read many good things recently on this forum. Do a search. But spell it right.

Jen

DeAnn,

My husband and I stayed at the Accademia while on the Venice leg on our honeymoon in 1999. While the building and grounds are lovely and atmospheric, our room was a shoebox and dark. And it was supposed to be "Deluxe". They knew we were on our honeymoon. Yes, I know all about European hotel rooms being small, having traveled a lot, but this was really teeny. No way to change rooms, they were booked solid. Also, the gentleman at the desk wasn't exactly Mr. Personality. I would say if you really want to go there (I know it gets good reviews in the guide books), try to make sure you don't get stuck like we did.

But I will tell you this about your trip - you will NEVER forget Venice! The most unreal city in the world. It's beauty stays with you always.

Have a blast - go to St. Mark's Square really early in the morning for the most surreal experience. Truly, it looks just like a painting!

gary

The Accademia is popular--haven't stayed there but heard that you need to be clear about the type of accommodation that you desire. We stayed at the Hotel San Marco, a Best-Western property. Skeptical about Best-Western at first, our travel agent assured us that Best Westerns in Eurpoe were much different(better, more interesting) than in the US, and she was absolutely right. The hotel is a comfortable, clean, small property about 1 block (1 canal) off of the Piazza San Marco and was a great location and value. Be sure to take the ferry to Murano for glass and Burano for lace. About a 45 minute ride and a wonderful experience.

Kim

We stayed at the Hotel Riva on our honeymoon in October. We had a huge room by Venetian standards with a brand new bathroom and it had a canal view. It was along the gondola serenade route and I thought it was incredibly romantic. Although the hotel is only one star (no a/c, no phone, no tv), we didn't miss any of it! We paid L180,000 per night and we'd definitely stay there again. Have a good trip!

Kim

betsy

Hi Kim

Does the Hotel Riva have a more specific name? I am having a difficult time getting information when doing a search.

Thanks

richard j vicek

Good afternoon, Kim or XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
The Hotel RIVA is listed as a one star
hotel its phone is 041-5227034
fax is 0415285551, might check into
www.veniceinfo.it for possible further
hotel information.
Richard of La Grange Park, Il..

Celeste

You might also want to check out Locanda Sturion, which is a three star right near the Rialto Bridge. Website is www.locandasturion.com

RJD

My wife and I have stayed a few times at the Pensione Calcina, which has a fine waterfront location near the Academmia bridge. It's a fine hotel with clean modern rooms a bit larger than ordinary and a friendly staff. If you book early enough you can get a waterfront room. We plan to stay there again later this year.