The Best Places to Stay in Venice – From The Best Neighborhoods to The Best Hotels for Your Ultimate Venice Stay
Venice. The name itself conjures images of glistening canals, historic palaces, and charming alleyways filled with stories. Whether it’s your first time in this magical city or you’re a seasoned visitor, one thing is for sure – Venice is a place that invites you to explore, discover, and lose yourself in its beauty. But where to stay in Venice, Italy? Venice is made up of various distinct neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe, attractions, and accommodations. Let me guide you through the best neighborhoods to stay in, with tips on what to do, how to get to the main Venice attractions, where to eat, and where to lay your head at night.
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A Quick Guide to The Best Places to Stay in Venice, Italy
A guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Venice with the best hotels to stay, the best restaurants to eat in, the top things to do, and getting around.
1. San Marco: The Heart of Venice (Best for First-Timers)
If you’re visiting Venice for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than San Marco. This neighborhood is home to all of Venice’s major attractions, including the magnificent Basilica di San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, and Caffè Florian, one of the oldest coffee houses in the world. Expect crowds in San Marco, but also the quintessential Venice experience.
Why stay here?
It’s impossible to beat the convenience. You’re within walking distance of the city’s most iconic sights. If you’re looking to take in the grandeur of Venice and you don’t mind the hustle and bustle, San Marco is for you.
What to do in San Marco:
- Take in the grandeur of Piazza San Marco and marvel at the Basilica di San Marco and its intricate mosaics.
- Wander through Doge’s Palace and feel the weight of history.
- Visit Caffè Florian and enjoy an espresso like royalty while soaking in the ambiance.
- Climb the Torre dell’Orologio (Clock Tower) for a stunning panoramic view of the city. The steps are narrow but the views from the top make the effort worth of!
Where to eat:
- Ristorante Quadri for fine dining with a view of the square.
- Osteria alle Testiere, a small but incredibly charming spot for seafood lovers.
Where to stay:
- Hotel Danieli: A luxurious, iconic hotel with a stunning view of the Grand Canal, perfect for indulging in elegance and history.
- Hotel Rialto: Located just steps from the bridge, it’s perfect for a stay in the heart of Venice.
Pro Tip: Book your accommodations with a view of the canal or Piazza San Marco. Staying in San Marco means being close to the heart of the action, but to make the most of it, secure a room with a view to experience the beauty of the Grand Canal or the piazza before the crowds arrive. It’ll make your mornings feel magical.
2. Santa Croce: The Best of Both Worlds (Good Transport Hub)
Distance from San Marco: About 15-20 minutes on foot, or 10 minutes by Vaporetto.
Santa Croce offers a lovely balance of proximity to the main attractions while also providing a more local feel. It’s also Venice’s transport hub, with easy access to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station and the Piazzale Roma bus terminal.
Why stay in Santa Croce?
If you want to be close to the action but prefer a less tourist-heavy experience, Santa Croce is your spot. You get a feel for authentic Venetian life while still being close to all the must-see places.
How to get from Santa Croce to San Marco?
You can walk to San Marco from Santa Croce by crossing the Ponte degli Scalzi and strolling through the narrow Venetian streets. If you prefer public transportation, hop on the Vaporetto at Ferrovia (Santa Lucia station) and get off at the San Marco stop. The Vaporetto ride is about 10 minutes.
What to do in Santa Croce:
- Visit the Church of San Giacomo dell’Orio, a beautiful hidden gem.
- Discover the fascinating Palazzo Mocenigo, which details the history of Venice’s aristocracy.
- Explore the Natural History Museum and Ca’ Pesaro for art lovers.
Where to eat in Santa Croce:
- Al Bacco Felice: A welcoming, local restaurant offering excellent Venetian food at reasonable prices. The owners are known for their hospitality. The seafood risotto, grilled fish, and their home-made pasta are all delicious choices
Where to stay in Santa Croce:
- Hotel Antiche Figure (mid-range): An affordable yet charming hotel with classic Venetian flair, just steps away from the train station and the Grand Canal.
Pro Tip: Stay near the train station for easy access to the rest of Venice. Since Santa Croce is the transport hub of Venice, staying close to Piazzale Roma or the Santa Lucia Train Station will give you easy access to the Vaporetto water buses and even day trips to nearby destinations like Murano or Burano, without the need to carry heavy bags through the city’s winding streets.
3. Castello: Quiet with Local Charm
Distance from San Marco: Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot, or 10 minutes by Vaporetto.
Castello, the largest neighborhood in Venice, offers a quieter experience with a more local vibe. It’s also one of the best neighborhoods for nightlife and artisan shops, with plenty of boutique stores and outdoor markets. Plus, it’s home to the Museo Storico Navale (Naval History Museum) and Arsenale di Venezia.
Why to stay in Castello?
For those who prefer a slower pace and a more authentic Venetian experience, Castello is the place. It’s where you’ll find local Venetians living their everyday lives, without the overwhelming crowds that typically gather in tourist-heavy areas.
How to get from Castello to San Marco?
Walk from Castello to San Marco by crossing Ponte della Paglia and heading directly toward the Piazza San Marco. Alternatively, you can take a Vaporetto from Giardini or Arsenale to the San Marco stop (about 10 minutes).
What to do in Castello:
- Visit the Arsenale di Venezia to learn about Venice’s maritime history.
- Explore the vibrant Campo Santa Maria Formosa.
- Wander around Via Garibaldi, where you’ll find beautiful shops and local eateries.
Where to eat in Castello:
- Osteria alle Testiere for an intimate, seafood-filled dining experience.
- Trattoria da Jonny for a more casual but delicious Venetian meal.
Where to stay in Castello:
- San Ruzzini Palace Hotel (luxury): A lovely 4-star hotel that combines history with luxury, offering a tranquil space after a day of exploring. It has classic Venetian décor, from Murano glass to elegant frescoes.
- La Residenza (mid-range): A comfortable, affordable option for a relaxed stay in a quieter part of Venice.
Pro Tip: Book a room in a more residential part of Castello for a quieter experience. Castello is a large neighborhood, so staying closer to Campo Santa Maria Formosa or further inland allows you to experience a more peaceful side of Venice, away from the busier tourist areas but still within walking distance of attractions like the Arsenale.
4. San Polo: Small, Central, and Charming
Distance from San Marco: Around 10-15 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by Vaporetto.
If you’re a fan of being close to everything, San Polo is the neighborhood for you. It’s the smallest of Venice’s districts but is packed with charm. Home to the famous Rialto Bridge and Rialto Market, this area is brimming with life, dining, shopping, and history.
Why to stay in San Polo?
San Polo offers a mix of everything—culture, history, shopping, and dining—all within walking distance. It’s great for those who want to experience the city’s best while staying close to the action.
How to get there from San Polo to San Marco?
From San Polo, it’s a short walk to San Marco. Cross Ponte di Rialto and follow the signs toward Piazza San Marco. If you want a scenic route, you can take the Vaporetto from Rialto to the San Marco stop (about 5 minutes).
What to do in San Polo:
- Visit the Rialto Market for fresh produce and local specialties.
- Check out the historic Church of San Giacomo di Rialto, the oldest church in Venice.
- Explore the nearby Museo di San Polo.
Where to eat in San Polo:
- Osteria Bancogiro, a casual spot with great seafood and cocktails.
- Antiche Carampane for an authentic Venetian meal in a charming and historic setting.
- All’Arco for traditional cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and wine in a typical Venetian bacaro.
Where to stay in San Polo:
- H10 Palazzo Canova: A four-star superior hotel g with a Venetian-inspired interior design and elegant rooms housed in a 19th-century building on the Grand Canal.
- Ca’ Corte San Rocco: A beautiful and spacious apartment with a lovely garden, only 200 m from Basilica dei Frari and 800 m from Venice Santa Lucia Train Station.
Pro Tip: Consider staying in a boutique hotel near Rialto for easy access to shopping and markets. San Polo is perfect for food lovers and shoppers. Book a stay close to Rialto Bridge to be near the market and enjoy exploring the local shops. Many boutique hotels here offer an intimate, charming vibe.
5. Cannaregio: For Budget Travelers & Foodies
Distance from San Marco: About 20-25 minutes on foot or 10-15 minutes by Vaporetto.
Cannaregio is Venice’s up-and-coming neighborhood for budget travelers and food lovers. Home to Venice’s Jewish Ghetto and Santa Lucia train station, this district is a little quieter but offers fantastic affordable options, especially for foodies looking for authentic Venetian cuisine.
Why to stay in Cabbaregio?
Cannaregio offers a unique blend of history, culture, and affordability. The area is less touristy but still close to the major attractions.
How to get from Cannaregio to San Marco: For a scenic walk, head south from Cannaregio via Ponte delle Guglie, and follow the path along the canals toward Piazza San Marco. Alternatively, you can take the Vaporetto from Fondamenta Nuove to San Marco, which takes about 10-15 minutes.
What to do in Cannaregio:
- Wander through the Jewish Ghetto and explore its history.
- Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Fondamenta della Misericordia, a picturesque canal-side street lined with bars and restaurants.
- Visit the Church of Madonna dell’Orto.
Where to eat in Cannaregio:
- Gam Gam Kosher Restaurant for delicious Jewish-inspired Venetian food and vegan options. The Gam gam starter plate with hummus, falafel, and various vegetables is a must-order!
- Osteria Alla Vedova for classic Venetian dishes in a cozy atmosphere. The food is excellent and reasonably priced. Try their meatballs!
Where to stay in Cannaregio:
- Hotel Ca’ d’Oro: A mid-range hotel offering comfortable rooms and a prime location near the Ca’ d’Oro gallery.
- Hotel Al Ponte Antico: A charming 4-star hotel with a fantastic view of the Rialto Bridge.
- Ai Mori d’Oriente: A more affordable option with a unique Venetian touch.
Pro Tip: Stay near the Jewish Ghetto for a unique and peaceful atmosphere. Cannaregio offers a quieter, less tourist-heavy side of Venice. By staying near the Jewish Ghetto, you can enjoy an authentic Venetian experience with fewer crowds, and you’ll be close to excellent, less touristy restaurants and cafes.
6. Dorsoduro: For Art Lovers & Night Owls
Distance from San Marco: About 10-15 minutes on foot or 10 minutes by Vaporetto.
Dorsoduro is a dream for art lovers, home to famous galleries like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. The area is lively, with plenty of bars and cafes, and it’s just a short walk to all of Venice’s main attractions.
Why to stay in Dorsoduro?
This district is perfect for art enthusiasts and those who enjoy vibrant nightlife. It’s also near the University of Venice, giving the area a youthful and energetic vibe.
How to get from Dorsoduro to San Marco?
From Dorsoduro, you can walk across Ponte dell’Accademia to San Marco. Another option is to take the Vaporetto from the Zattere to the San Marco stop, which takes about 10 minutes.
What to do in Dorsoduro:
- Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and explore contemporary art.
- Take a stroll along the Zattere promenade, which has views of the Giudecca Canal.
- Enjoy the lively café culture at Campo Santa Margherita.
Where to eat in Dorosduro:
- La Bitta Venezia for the meat dishes. The menu is simple but delicious, focusing on traditional Venetian preparations, including some hearty meat stews and braised meats. Try their roast lamb or the ossobuco (braised veal shank)!
Where to stay in Dorosduro:
- Hotel American Dinesen (mid-range): A beautiful hotel offering cozy, stylish rooms near the Zattere promenade.
- Hotel Palazzo Stern (luxury): A boutique luxury hotel with a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities.
- Hotel Moresco (luxury): A charming boutique hotel with a local, welcoming atmosphere and modern amenities.
Pro Tip: Opt for accommodations near the Zattere for beautiful canal-side views and peaceful strolls. Dorsoduro is home to many art galleries and the University of Venice, but if you want a more peaceful and scenic stay, look for hotels near Zattere. This area offers calm, stunning views of the Giudecca Canal and easy access to quiet canalside walks.
7. Lido: For Beach Lover
Distance from San Marco: About 10-15 minutes by Vaporetto.
If you’re after something a bit different from Venice’s usual city charm, head to Lido. Home to Venice’s beaches, this peaceful neighborhood offers a relaxing alternative to the busy tourist areas. It’s also the place to go for the Sposalizio del Mare (Wedding of the Sea) festival.
Why to stay in Lido?
Lido is perfect for those who want to combine the beauty of Venice with some beach time, making it ideal for families or couples looking for a relaxing stay.
How to get from Lido to San Marco: To get from Lido to San Marco, take the Vaporetto from one of the Lido stops (such as Lido or Lido S.M. Elisabetta) to San Marco. The Vaporetto ride takes about 10-15 minutes and offers a beautiful view of the city from the water.
What to do in Lido:
- Visit the San Lazzaro Monastery, a quiet escape with beautiful gardens.
- Relax on the beaches and enjoy the fresh air.
Where to eat in Lido:
- Ristorante La Tavernetta for a cozy, traditional experience, delicious Venetian seafood dishes, home-style cooking, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Where to stay in Lido:
- Hotel Excelsior Venice(luxury): A luxurious, five-star hotel offering private beach access and a touch of elegance.
- Hotel Riviera (mid-range): A comfortable, mid-range option with easy access to the beach.
Pro Tip: Stay close to the beach for a relaxing, resort-style experience. Lido offers a completely different vibe from the rest of Venice, with its beach and relaxed atmosphere. If you’re visiting in the summer or just want a quieter retreat, book a hotel near the beach so you can easily access the shore and take advantage of the island’s relaxed pace.
8. Giudecca: Peaceful & Relaxed
Distance from San Marco: About 5-10 minutes by Vaporetto.
Giudecca offers a peaceful retreat with a local, laid-back vibe. Its Chiesa Della Zitelle and Chiesa di Sant’Eufemia are among its key sights, and it’s ideal for those who prefer a slower pace.
How to get from Giudecca to San Marco: From Giudecca, you can take the Vaporetto from one of the stops on the island (such as Giudecca or Zitelle) to San Marco. The ride is quick, about 5-10 minutes, and gives you a wonderful view of Venice from the water.
What to do in Giudecca:
- Visit the Feast of the Redeemer in July, a stunning event with fireworks and celebrations.
- Explore the quieter canals and enjoy the local vibe.
Where to eat in Giudecca:
- Cip’s Club for exquisite Venetian cuisine with a view.
Where to stay in Giudecca:
- Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice (luxury): one of Venice’s most famous and opulent hotels, offering exceptional service and world-class amenities. With its lush gardens, elegant rooms, its renowned Club del Doge Restaurant, and private boat service, it provides an indulgent Venetian experience.
- Generator Venice (budget): The hotel is set in a former convent, and it combines a modern, chic design with stunning views of the lagoon. The hostel-style rooms are available at a range of prices, from shared dorms to private rooms, making it very accessible.
Pro Tip: Choose a hotel with Vaporetto access for quick trips into central Venice. Giudecca is quieter and has a more local vibe, but it’s still just a short Vaporetto ride away from the major attractions in Venice. Look for hotels that are close to Vaporetto stops to have a convenient and scenic ride into the heart of Venice without the crowds.
Final Thoughts on The Best Places to Stay in Venice
Venice offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit all types of travelers, from the central touristy areas to the quieter, more residential neighborhoods. No matter where you choose to stay, Venice’s magic will surround you at every turn, making each moment feel like a dream. So, pick your neighborhood, unpack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with Venice, one magical corner at a time.
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