6 Best Hotels in Islands of the Lagoon, Venice

This modern version of an albergo diffuso (scattered hotel) features rooms in five different traditional and colorful Burano houses, updated with design features created by local artisans and other Italian craftspeople. Since there's no central reception, guests check in at sister hotel Venissa, about a 10-minute walk; room rates also include breakfast at Venissa. Clean and contemporary guest rooms include oak floors and four-poster beds; tiled bathrooms have showers, while some also include tubs. Guests can also book personalized experiences with locals, such as lacemaking, gardening, and boating.

Befitting its location on Murano, this well-situated hotel is in a former glassmaking factory and has vitreous works of art throughout; it also has spacious, contemporary guest rooms with dark-wood floors and brown-and-cream color schemes. The Osteriva restaurant, open for lunch and dinner daily, serves regional cuisine, and the Rivalonga Bar + Lounge is a delightful place for both guests and nonguests looking for an evening drink after sleepy Murano shuts down.

Once you get a taste of the resort's lush gardens, fabulous spa, and fantastic pools—all set on an exclusive island called Isole Delle Rose, a 20-minute boat ride from Venice—you may find yourself quickly settling in to la dolce vita.

This laid-back contemporary guesthouse above Venissa’s osteria is the perfect place to enjoy a food- and wine-centric getaway far from the hectic Venetian mainland. Modern, light-colored rooms have beamed ceilings, wood floors, and comfortable beds; bright large-sized bathrooms include standalone showers. To complete the gourmet experience, be sure to reserve a table in Venissa’s popular restaurant or osteria well in advance to avoid disappointment.

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.

Founded by Giuseppe Cipriani in the late 1920s, this intimate locanda (inn) on the island of Torcello remains in the Cipriani family and retains the simple, classy character of the period. The lovingly furnished rooms have large beds, plush armchairs, vaulted ceilings, and modern amenities—but absolutely no televisions; instead, each room comes with a well-stocked library. The in-house pastry chef provides a fresh breakfast each morning in either the dining room or in the garden under a pergola of roses; guests can also choose to dine at the locanda's excellent restaurant. Ernest Hemingway stayed in one of the comfortable rooms while writing "Across the River and Through the Trees."