We are looking for a "nice" hotel in Venice. We will be there for 2 nights only, and would love something a little special" rather than basic.

Does not have to be super luxurious, with room service, etc., but would like something stylish, and not really ornate, frilly or grandma-like.

Someone recommended Calcina, but rooms are too basic for what we want. We are going in May, so high season. Would love a canal view, but I doubt we can afford one.

I am shocked at the rates. Metropole, which looks beautiful, is showing rates of 210 - 465 PER PERSOn, PLUS 104 for view. I'm sure the 465 is high season, so that is 1,100!! Too much. Our very top price is 400/night.

I love the look of Londra Palace, especially the outdoor areas. I also love the "look" of the rooms - elegant and comfortable.

On the cheaper end, we are looking at Colombina, but we don't like as much. Although read one of the rooms has it's own rooftop deck, so that may sway us.

Can anyone mention other hotels along line of Londra same price or little lower? Is Londra in a good area for a "first-timer" to Venice?

everyone seems to rave about the locanda orseolo. look it up on tripadvisor.com.

seems like a very special bed & breakfast if that is something you would be open to...

also try the antico doge -- if you look at their website some of their rooms look incredible...

Have you tried the Pensione Accademia? 3 stars, excellent service, on a canal (not the Grand Canal), in Dorseduro, nice breakfast and lovely rooms. I think this small hotel has enormous charm.

Forgot to mention the pleasant patios at the Accademia. Great place for cocktails/coffee.

We loved the Locanda Barbarigo. Beautiful rooms and great location www.locandabarbarigo.com. I also agree that the Pensione Accademia is a special place, but you should book it far in advance.

Check out Ca' dei Conti, small very pretty 4-star, on a small picturesque canan near San Marco. Our rooms were big with canal views. www.cadeiconti.com
Byrd