3 Best Hotels in The Giudecca, Venice

With amazing service, wonderful rooms, fab restaurants, and a large pool and spa—all just a five-minute boat ride from Piazza San Marco (the hotel water shuttle leaves every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day)—the Cipriani is Venetian luxe at its best. Those craving A-lister exclusivity can splash out on a lavish suite facing San Marco in the adjoining Palazzo Vendramin.

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.

An oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Venice embodies the glamour and elegance of the mid-20th century: excellent service, elegant, peaceful rooms that blend historic and contemporary styles, some with spectacular views of the lagoon, and a heated salt-water swimming pool. Red-clay tennis courts and a wellness center round out the resortlike facilities, and the grounds truly are splendid: enjoy a restful afternoon poolside, or have an aperitivo at one of the attractive bars while listening to live jazz music. A free shuttle brings guests to St. Mark's Square every 15 minutes.