Hotel Bucintoro
"All rooms with a view" touts this pensione (modest lodging)-turned-four-star-hotel—and the views are indeed expansive: from the hotel's waterfront location near lively Via Garibaldi, your windows swing open to a panorama that sweeps from the Lido across the basin to San Giorgio and San Marco; upper-floor vistas are particularly inspiring. Decor could be termed "understated maritime," meaning deep mahogany wood tones, brass accents, and nautical appliqué abound, from railings to reading lamps to hallway lighting. Enjoy breakfast, a sunset aperitivo, or a nightcap on the quayside terrace.