8 Best Hotels in Venice, Italy

Just a short stroll from Piazza San Marco—though on a quiet side street that seems a world away—this charming hotel will please those seeking traditional, though freshly updated, Venetian decor in an ultraconvenient location. Each room is done up differently, though all feature period furnishings, Murano glass chandeliers, and patterned wallpaper. To truly feel like royalty, stay in the Sansovini Lagoon View or San Giorgio Terrace suites; they contain enormous private terraces where the views of rooftops and water last for miles. All gleaming marble and with double sinks, some bathrooms have deep soaking tubs or even double showers. Dellaluna bath products amp up the sophisticated feel. Canova Restaurant by Sadler offers a Venetian tasting menu with some creative flourishes as well as a vegetarian tasting menu, along with a large selection of à la carte dishes. There's also a brand-new spa with steam baths, a relaxation area, and massage rooms.

Understated Venetian decor, original exposed-beam ceilings and terrazzo flooring, and large rooms suitable for families or small groups are hallmarks of this intimate, family-owned guesthouse. Guest rooms overlooking tranquil side canals are the best in terms of size and view. The spacious common salon overlooks the Rio San Sofia. The location is serene, but only a short street away from the main Cannaregio thoroughfare (Strada Nova), the Ca' d'Oro vaporetto stop, the traghetto across to the Rialto Market, and the San Marco area. Al Palazzetto is also good for small groups or families, as there are triple and quad rooms; some are connecting. Spring for the attic suite if it's available.

The renovated home of owner Eleonora behind the Fenice Opera House offers three spacious, comfortable, and conscientiously appointed rooms; each has its own private bath and overlooks a gondola-filled canal. The largest room has a broad balcony. An ample breakfast (served at a common table) and exceptional service make Al Teatro an excellent value and a relaxing choice in the sometimes-frenetic San Marco atmosphere. Book well in advance.

The heirs of an important Venetian architect have transformed his former residence, on the third and top floors of a palace along the Grand Canal, into an elegant lodging with views of either the Grand Canal or a side canal—or in the case of the smallish Room 6, rooftops, from a terrace twice the size of the room. The inn retains a traditional yet innovative style instilled by the former owner—most of the furniture was his, including an 18th-century briar-wood bureau, and there's a private library accessible to guests. A rich breakfast, including select cheeses and meats from local producers, is served in a salon overlooking the Grand Canal. There's also an attic apartment.

Some pleasant if generic guest rooms overlook a sunny fondamenta and canal, and others a spacious private garden, where breakfast is served in good weather. The interiors are pleasant and comfortable, with traditional furnishings that complement the Venetian terrazzo or parquet flooring. Young owners Matteo and Mattia are attentive and helpful, and the location is around the corner from campos Santa Margherita and San Barnaba, convenient for exploring the sights from San Marco to the Zattere, with easy vaporetto access, too.

Cleverly converted from the former Convento dei Crociferi in 2012, Combo marries minimalist design with atmospheric cloisters and a gorgeous breakfast room--arts venue where a hearty buffet is served. There are a number of room options suited for singles, couples, and families on a budget; all have plain whitewashed walls, large beds, fridges, contemporary desks, and utilitarian bathrooms, some have quirky mezzanines, canal views, and kitchenettes. It's a good bet for those seeking unfussy decor and a hip, studenty Cannaregio bolthole with cultural events, a cafè, and restaurant.

Wooden beams and iron columns are some of the original details still visible in this redbrick former flour mill–turned-hotel, which also features sublime views across the lagoon to Venice, particularly from the lively rooftop bar. Rooms are spacious—some have beamed ceilings and chandeliers, while others are more modern—and have comfortable beds, though only some include water views. Italian food is available at the hotel's two restaurants, and you can’t miss the hotel's buzzy Skyline Rooftop Bar for tasty cocktails and fabulous sunsets. The well-stocked gym is open 24 hours a day, and the spa (for an extra fee) includes a sauna, whirlpool, and Turkish bath. There's also a delightful rooftop pool open from May through September.

Built in 1908, this grand hotel with Moorish decor has old-fashioned charm and loads of amenities—from a private beach with white cabanas and a seasonal bar and restaurant to a swimming pool, gym, and tennis courts (though, oddly, no spa). Though most rooms are rather dated, 15 seaview suites were renovated in 2023 and offer a more refreshed look, though at a higher price.