With its 150 canals, 400 bridges, and magnificent 16th- and 17th-century palaces and piazzas, it is no surprise that Venice is considered one of the prettiest cities in Europe. It’s only natural then that the hotels within Italy’s floating city offer up baroque bedrooms draped in decadent velvets and contemporary while creative crash pads invite a star-studded cast of culture vultures and creatives.
Venice is no stranger to the hordes, and when the crowds come, they’re mostly here to chase that elusive canal view. If you have deep pockets, you can get a VIP front-row seat to such sought-after sights—grand dames like The Gritti Palace and The St. Regis overlook the Grand Canal. But it’s not all velvet decadence and million-dollar views—Venice is home to some charming boutique stays, too. Wondering where to start? Our editors’ picks for the best hotels in Venice, Italy, are here to help guide you.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
How we choose the best hotels in Venice
Every hotel review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind.
What is the best area in Venice to stay in?
Many of the hotels on this list are located in San Marco, the most popular of Venice’s six sestieri (central districts). San Marco is home to the city’s top attractions as well—St. Mark Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and The Bridge of Sighs—and, in turn, is also the busiest part of Venice. For a stay that’s away from the crowds, opt for a hotel in Dorsoduro, like Ca Maria Adele, where you’ll find a mix of tourists and locals along with the city’s top art galleries. Another option is Il Palazzo Experimental, located in the eastern end of Le Zattere, a residential area which is becoming a bit of a Venice restaurant hub, with nearby Riviera and Balkan-themed Sudest 1401 among the current highlights.
Read our complete Venice travel guide here.
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