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Set on a surprisingly quiet fondamenta, just steps from the lively Rialto produce market and the tourist-thronged Rialto bridge, the Orologio is a stylish, modern alternative to some of Venice’s more traditional hotels. It offers good value too.
The Orologio (‘watch’ or ‘clock’) theme is evident throughout the hotel (the owner is a passionate collector), but it’s not too heavy-handed, and it works well with the minimalist, retro, quite masculine décor.
There’s a bar with pretty canalside terrace for summer cocktails or guests can nip up to the fourth floor for evening drinks; the views are lovely.
San Polo is a buzzy neighbourhood full of small shops, bars and restaurants.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.8 miles]
It’s huge, and often crowded, but St. Mark’s square is one of the most emblematic spots in the city and is lined with over-priced cafés that offer live music. But out of season, on a foggy winter’s evening or at dawn, it’s undeniably atmospheric.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.8 miles]
Surely the most exquisite, beguiling and opulent place of worship in Italy, St Mark’s cathedral was built to satisfy the wildest dreams of the Doges and is rich in glittering Byzantine mosaics, Gothic carvings and sumptuous treasures.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.9 miles]
A glittering monument to the Golden Age of Venice – ducal, divine and downright decadent. From Casanova’s rooftop escapade to the twisty tale behind Tintoretto’s enormous Paradise paintings, these walls have seen Venetian history at its most decadent and devious.
Best for ages: 18+ | £25
Venice, Veneto, Italy[1 miles]
American millionairess collector Peggy Guggenheim’s glittering display of avant-garde art is housed in her own 18th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal.
Best for ages: 18+ | £12
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.3 miles]
Venetians have shopped and haggled at this food market on the banks of the Grand Canal since 1097 AD. It’s a mosaic of stalls piled with aubergines, tomatoes, vats of artichoke hearts and (under the arched Pescaria) a zillion varieties of wriggling, glistening fish.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.3 miles]
Although there has been a bridge over the Grand Canal at this point since 1173, todays’ iconic stone Rialto Bridge dates from 1588. Crossed by millions annually and with three parallel staircases and concealed shops, it was designed by Antonio da Ponte; views from the top are splendid.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.6 miles]
One of Venice’s more curious sights lies near Campo San Manin. Signs lead to a small courtyard and Giovanni Candi’s exuberant spiral staircase (ca. 1500) stuck onto its relatively plain palazzo. Climb to the top of this eccentric confection for delightful views over the city.
Best for ages: 6+ | £5
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.6 miles]
Of all Venice’s many churches, the huge, Franciscan barn-like Frari (1338-1469) is one of the most art-packed. It boasts the second-highest bell tower in the city and a severe exterior, but once inside, the quality of the art is extraordinary.
Best for ages: 18+ | £2
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Veneto, Italy
Crammed with picturesque canals, Renaissance palazzos and artistic masterpieces, this unique and alluring city is heaven-on-earth for art lovers and romantics.
