Venice Hotels

Venice

Venice Travel Guide

Hotels in Venice are waiting for you to discover the city's beauty! Find the best deals here!

Venice, a jewel nestled along Italy's Adriatic coastline, has an irresistible charm that invites travelers from around the globe. For being one of Europe's most enchanting cities, Venice is the destination for a summer getaway. With its canals, iconic gondola rides, and architecture, the city offers a magical stay for unforgettable experiences. Whether you are staying for a few days or a week, Venice promises something special for you. Dive into the city's rich history and cuisine without a second thought. 

 

Things To Know Before Going To Venice

Here are 10 important things to know before going to Venice:

  • There For The Weekend: Venice is a city that requires time to fully appreciate. Plan for at least 3-4 days to explore its beauty and charm.
  • Don’t Tip The Waiters: Tipping is not customary in Italy, so you can skip the extra money for your server.
  • There Are Lots of Mosquitoes: Venice can be quite humid and mosquito-prone, especially during the summer months. Pack insect repellent to keep them at bay.
  • Book Your Accommodation Early: Venice is a popular destination, and booking your accommodation well in advance is crucial to avoid last-minute changes.
  • Learn Some Basic Italian: Knowing basic Italian phrases like "Buongiorno" (good morning) and "Grazie" (thank you) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
  • Don’t Swim In The Canals: The water in Venice’s canals is dirty and often contains sewage. Avoid swimming or touching the water to avoid any health risks.
  • Avoid Summer: Summer is the peak tourist season in Venice, which means crowded streets and long queues. Consider visiting in the spring or fall for a more relaxed experience.
  • Take A Vaporetto: Vaporettos are water buses that can help you navigate the city efficiently. They are a great way to see the sights without getting lost.
  • Don’t Wear Flip-Flops: Venice is a city of cobblestone streets and bridges, which can be slippery and hard on the feet. Wear comfortable shoes that provide good support.
  • Be Mindful Of Your Belongings: Pickpocketing is a common issue in Venice, especially in crowded areas. Keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

 

Where is Venice?

Venice is located in northeastern Italy, in the region of Veneto. It is situated in the Venetian Lagoon, which is part of the Adriatic Sea. The city is built on 118 small islands that are separated by canals and linked together. Venice is the capital of the Veneto region.

 

Where To Stay In Venice?

As Venice welcomes you, there will be lots of options you can choose from. Whether close to the city center or the countryside, each area will offer a unique taste of Venice. Here are some popular areas for where to stay in Venice:

District

Best For

Best Attractions

San Marco

First-Time Visitors

Couples

St. Mark's Square

Doge's Palace

Grand Canal

Dorsoduro

Art Lovers

Foodies

Accademia

Peggy Guggenheim Museum

Campo Santa Margherita

Cannaregio

Budget Travelers

Local Culture

Campo dei Miracoli

Jewish Ghetto

Fondamenta delle Zattere

Castello

History Buffs

Military Enthusiasts

Castello District

St. Mark's Square

Arsenale

Giudecca

Luxury Travelers

Waterfront Views

Hotel Cipriani

Hotel Danieli

Grand Canal

 

Best Hotels in Venice

Hotel

District

Affordability

Why To Stay There

Hotel Splendid Venice - Starhotels CollezioneMercerieLuxuryComfortable rooms and proximity to the airport
Palazzo Venart Luxury HotelGiudeccaLuxuryOpulent decor and exceptional service.
Sina Centurion PalaceDorsoduroLuxuryRelax in the hotel's beautiful courtyard and enjoy the luxurious amenities.
Liassidi PalaceCannaregioAffordable LuxuryTake advantage of the hotel’s excellent location near the Grand Canal.
Hotel Palazzo SternDorsoduroAffordable LuxuryEnjoy the hotel’s stylish rooms and prime location near the Grand Canal.
Al Duca di VeneziaCampiello de la ChiesaAffordable LuxuryRelax in the hotel's cozy rooms and enjoy the nearby airport.
Hotel Antiche FigureSanta CroceAffordable LuxuryEnjoy the hotel’s comfortable rooms and location near the Grand Canal.
Santa Croce Boutique HotelCampo Nazario SauroAffordable LuxuryRelax in the hotel’s cozy rooms and enjoy the nearby attractions.
Hotel Casa Verardo - Residenza D'EpocaCannaregioAffordable LuxuryTake advantage of the hotel's convenient location near the airport.
Hotel CampielloSt. Mark’s SquareMid-RangeAppreciate the hotel's elegant rooms and prime location.
La LocandieraSt. Mark’s SquareMid-RangeEnjoy the hotel's beautiful courtyard and comfortable rooms.
Hotel PaganelliRiva degli SchiavoniMid-RangeTake in the stunning views of the Grand Canal from your room.
Generator VeniceCannaregioBudgetRelax in the hotel’s cozy rooms and enjoy the nearby attractions.
Corte di GabrielaSanta CroceBudgetEnjoy the charming courtyard and cozy rooms.
Friendly Venice SuiteCampo Santo StefanoBudgetRelax in the spacious rooms with a private balcony.
Hotel AbbaziaCannaregioBudgetTake advantage of the hotel's excellent location near the Grand Canal.

Sail away in the river that flows between in the city! Find thebest hotels in Venice and book now!

 

Places To Visit In Venice

As magical as it sounds, Venice is where you witness the heart of culture with its breathtaking landmarks and scenery. From its bridges to cathedrals, it’s guaranteed that you will be shocked by such magnificent landmarks. Here are some Venice attractions that you should during your visit:

  • St. Mark's Basilica: A magnificent cathedral showcasing Byzantine architecture and adorned with intricate mosaics.
  • Grand Canal: Venice's iconic waterway through the city, lined with stunning historic buildings and bustling with gondolas and boats.
  • Doge's Palace: A symbol of Venetian power and opulence, this Gothic masterpiece served as the residence of the Doge, the city's ruler, and now houses museums and stunning artwork.
  • Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square): Venice's main square, filled with cafes, pigeons, and lively events.
  • Campanile di San Marco (St. Mark's Campanile): The iconic bell tower known for its breathtaking views of Venice's skyline and the surrounding lagoon.
  • Rialto Bridge: Venice's oldest and most famous bridge spanning the Grand Canal, known for its elegant design and bustling market stalls.
  • Bridge of Sighs: A bridge connecting Doge's Palace to the New Prison, named for the sighs of prisoners who crossed it and caught their last glimpse of Venice.
  • Peggy Guggenheim Collection: A renowned modern art museum housed in the former residence of Peggy Guggenheim, featuring works by Picasso, Pollock, and other influential artists.
  • Galleria dell'Accademia (Fine Arts Museum): Home to a collection of Venetian art, including works by Bellini, Titian, and Tintoretto.
  • Santa Maria dei Miracoli: A stunning marble-clad church known for its intricate façade with delicate pink and white marble and intricate reliefs.

 

Is Venice Safe?

Venice is a safe city for tourists. However, like any other city, it's always reasonable to take extra precautions in crowded areas. It's also important to be aware of scams, such as the "gold ring" trick and fake petitions. Additionally, swimming in the canals is strictly forbidden, and visitors should be cautious of unlicensed street vendors selling counterfeit goods.

 

Is Venice Expensive To Visit?

Venice can be considered an expensive city for tourists and is ranked as one of the most expensive cities in Italy. While it can be expensive to stay in luxury hotels, eat in star restaurants, and visit exclusive beach clubs, in general, Venice is known to be cheaper than some other European cities. Overall, while there are options for luxury travel, Venice can be an expensive destination, especially for budget travelers.

 

Venice Currency

The official currency in Venice, Italy, is the Euro (€). You can exchange your currency at banks, currency exchange offices, or ATMs in Venice. Some popular places to exchange currency include the airport, train stations, and the city center. Keep in mind that exchange rates may vary, so check the current rate before making any transactions.

 

Venice Language

The official language spoken in Venice is Italian meanwhile Venetian is also spoken in the Veneto region. Venetian is considered a separate language from Italian and is spoken particularly among the older generation and some island communities. Other than that, English is also in the languages spoken in Venice as it’s typical for popular tourist areas.

 

Venice Time Zone

The timezone of Venice, Italy is Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1. During daylight saving time, which starts on the last Sunday of March and ends on the last Sunday of October, the timezone changes to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2.

 

How Many Days To Visit Venice?

The ideal duration to explore Venice is generally recommended to be 3 to 4 days. This timeframe allows visitors to experience the city's main attractions, explore different neighborhoods, and even visit the surrounding islands in the Venetian Lagoon. While it is possible to see some landmarks in one or two days, spending 3 to 4 days provides a more comprehensive and enjoyable experience, allowing for a deeper immersion in the unique culture and history of Venice.

 

When Is The Best Time To Stay In Venice?

The best time to stay in Venice is summer and fall as these times are the peak seasons. Spring is also a great choice for most of the visitors. However, if you are looking for a quieter visit with lower rates in hotels and don’t mind the cold weather, winter is your go. Here is the breakdown of seasons in Venice:

  • Summer (June-August): The peak tourist season with high hotel rates, high temperatures, and large crowds. However, it's also when Venice hosts some of its best festivals, such as Carnevale and the Festa della Madonna della Salute.
  • Spring (March-May): Spring is a beautiful season in Venice, with average temperatures of 13.4°C. The city will be newly waking up from the winter cold, so some attractions may close early at the beginning of the spring season. However, it's a great time for exploration without too much sun.
  • Fall (September-November): One of the best times to visit Venice, as tourists desert the city, and hotel rates are more reasonable. The weather is mild at around 13.4°C, and the canals are less crowded.
  • Winter (December-February): Winters in Venice are cold with average temperatures of 5.7°C. However, this is also the quietest time of the year, with fewer tourists and lower hotel rates. Key events during this season include the Festa della Madonna della Salute and the Venice Carnival.

 

What To Pack For Your Visit To Venice?

When visiting Venice, you need to pack appropriately for the weather. 

For summer, pack lightweight and breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes for discovering the streets, and a shawl for visiting churches. 

For spring, go for a mixture of warm and light layers. 

For fall, pack warm layers including a coat and warm shoes. 

For winter, pack thermal layers, a coat, a scarf, and gloves. In addition, avoid leather footwear, as it can be ruined in the rain.

 

Venice Food

Venice is known for its unique cuisine, which is influenced by its location and history. Here are some popular Venice foods you must try during your visit:

  • Cicchetti: Small plates of finger foods and snacks that are typically served in bars and accompanied by a glass of wine or spritz.
  • Sarde in saor: Fried sardines marinated in onions, vinegar, and raisins.
  • Baccalà Mantecato: Creamy salted cod that is typically served on warm croutons.
  • Fegato alla Veneziana: Venetian-style liver and onions, cooked with parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Risi e bisi: A creamy risotto made with fresh peas and pancetta.
  • Bigoli in salsa: Thick spaghetti served in a sauce made with onions, anchovies, and olive oil.
  • Polenta: Coarsely ground corn that is often served as a side dish.
  • Moeche fritte: Fried soft-shell crabs.
  • Caparossoi a scota deo: A type of pasta served with a sauce made from scampi (Norway lobster), tomatoes, and garlic.
  • Spritz: A popular Venetian cocktail made with Aperol or Campari, white wine, and soda water.

 

Venice Nightlife

Venice's nightlife is a mix of traditional charm and modern fun, offering something for everyone to enjoy. You can cozy up in wine bars in historic alleys or head to lively pubs on bustling streets for a more energetic vibe. The city comes alive with classical concerts to groovy electronic events in nightclubs. Inviting you to dine and dance until you can see the sun rising. So, here are some nightlife spots in Venice for you to have the best time:

  • Il Paradiso: Located near the Venetian Lagoon, this bar offers a beautiful setting for an Aperol spritz at sunset.
  • Via Garibaldi: Home to bars where locals drink, such as Bacaro Jazz, El Refolo, and Tarnowska's American Bar.
  • Rialto and Erbaria: Known for their bars and cichetterie where you can enjoy a late meal followed by a glass or two of local wine.
  • Campo Santa Margherita and Fontamenta della Misericordia: These neighborhoods are popular for their bars and nightlife.
  • Molocinque: A restaurant/nightclub in Mestre, offering a variety of music genres, including hip-hop and merengue.

Venice City Center