11 Best places to stay in Venice

A romantic six-room Arcadian retreat of family-run homeliness. The shady, canal-side garden is a godsend at the end of a long, hot day’s culture fest.

The Grand Canal meets Philippe Starck – think glamour, glitz, seduction and gorgeous views from the waterside terrace and many of the rooms. There’s an excellent restaurant too.

A stylish, modern and good value alternative to some of Venice’s more traditional hotels. Just steps from the Rialto produce market and the Rialto bridge.

An 11-room boutique hotel with a lovely courtyard, personalised service and a centralissima location within easy reach of the Accademia, the Rialto and Piazza San Marco. The contemporary, design-led interior provides a refreshing contrast to the usual flock wallpaper and swathes of brocade.

This family-friendly (and family-run), old-fashioned charmer occupies a tall, 17th-century palazzo just a stroll from St. Mark’s Square and the vaporetto stop.

The grandest Dame of Venice’s classic hotels and wonderfully opulent, the Gritti lords it over the Grand Canal from a superb spot across from the Salute church and just 10 minutes’ walk from Piazza San Marco.

The newly-revamped St. Regis offers a magnificent Grand Canal location, some 180 airy, fresh rooms, butler service and a young, fresh, retro-glam vibe. Cocktails and meals (including breakfast) on the dreamy canalside terrace are a treat.

A three-star, reasonable-priced charmer in the artsy Dorsoduro neighbourhood, close to the Accademia gallery, with glorious views over the Giudecca canal.

Perfect for a honeymoon or other  romantic celebrations, this intimate, stylish and sophisticated bolt-hole lies just across a pretty bridge from the Salute church in artsy Dorsoduro. The rooms are extravagant and sexy, the service personalised and charming.

A prime waterfront location minutes from Piazza San Marco, magnificent views over the water to San Giorgio Maggiore and lovely service make this a popular choice for stays in central Venice.

A legendary 5-star resort hotel that combines the beauties of La Serenissima with A-grade facilities and service. Its dreamy Giudecca location is a boon when the calle of Venice’s historic centre are clogged with tourists in high season.