Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort

Located on the small island of Lido between the Venice Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, Hotel Excelsior, built in 1908, is the only hotel in the Venice area with its own beach. It has an old-fashioned charm, with Moorish décor, and loads of amenities, including a pool, gym, and tennis courts (though, oddly, no spa)—so if you’re ok with sailing back and forth to see the Venice sights, Hotel Excelsior makes a unique place to stay.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The Lido is home to the annual Venice Film Festival, so you may want to avoid staying here during that time to avoid the crowds (unless you’re attending the festival, of course).

room

The 197 rooms and suites are decorated in bright colors, with patterned wallpaper and curtains, and offer either courtyard or sea views. They’re a bit dated, though most are on the large side.

Opt for a room with a balcony and sea views.

bathroom

Light and bright tiled bathrooms have either showers or combo bathtub/showers.

lobby

The large lobby has a Moorish look, with polished wood floors and columns, and a slightly faded feel. There are brightly colored chairs where guests can hang out—but if you want to see the views, it’s better to find a space outside.

pool

The large pool overlooking the sea is fab, with plenty of lounge chairs in which to relax and a bar where you can grab a drink.

gym

The fitness center is large, but with only a smattering of equipment. Still, it’s here if you need it.

dining

Ristorante Tropicana, decorated with interesting striped and beamed ceilings and chandeliers, serves up standard Italian fare either indoors or in a lovely outdoor terrace overlooking the sea, while La Taverna offers a lunch buffet in a more casual atmosphere.

drinking

Blue Bar is the place to get a cocktail on an expansive terrace overlooking the sea, or check out the Pool Bar and Beach Bar.