The old city of Venice with its streets made of water has long been a famous destination, inspiring people throughout the ages to travel to the fabled shores of the waterlogged Italian city.
Comprising more than one hundred islands connected by canals, the iconic sites of the sinking city are as awe-inspiring as they were 600 years ago.
Six main districts called the Sestieri to make up Venice and all offer a slightly different Venetian experience. We’ve put together this definitive list of where to stay in Venice with top hotel options to suit everyone’s budget.
So it’s time to start planning your holiday to the wonderful ever-enchanting city and experience the awe-inspiring architecture for yourself.
Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Venice & the Veneto (Travel Guide)
Where to Stay in Venice: Best Districts & Hotels
Table of Contents
San Marco
San Marco is Venice’s most central location and is arguably the most touristy of the six districts of the city. Famous the world over for its monuments. It is in San Marco that St Mark’s Basilica, the Torre dell’Orologio bell tower and the bell tower of St. Mark can be found.
Away from the swarming pigeons in the square and the busy cafes, down smaller side lanes a quieter side to this Sestiere can be found, offering some fantastic options for where to stay in Venice.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in San Marco:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in San Marco:
Top budget hotels we recommend in San Marco:
Top hostel we recommend in San Marco: Venice Academy
Castello
Of the six districts that make up Venice, Castello is the most comprehensive.
Stretching out along the eastern end of the floating city, Castello runs from the waterside walkway of Riva Degli Schiavoni, past the old shipbuilding area of Arsenale all the way to the leafy lanes of modern houses in Sant’Elena.
When thinking of where to stay in Venice, Castello is up there with its mix of tourist sites, fine arts and glamour alongside the working life and the everyday people of the city.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Castello:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Castello:
Top budget hotels we recommend in Castello:
Top hostels we recommend in Castello: Foresteria Valdese Venezia
Cannaregio
The Cannaregio district in the north of Venice runs from the railway station to the Rialto Bridge. This is an area that, at first sight, might not seem as glamorous as other parts of the city, but is actually a hidden gem.
Its secret canals and hidden alleyways give this residential area a quirky charm and along with useful transport links, it has some great accommodation. When night falls the streets of Cannaregio hot up as bars and restaurants open, serving up food and drink late into the night.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Cannaregio:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Cannaregio:
Top budget hotels we recommend in Cannaregio:
Top hostels we recommend in Cannaregio:
San Polo
The local markets selling fresh fish along with a buzzing bar and restaurant scene make staying in San Polo a lot of fun. Covering a small area, San Polo is made up of secluded lanes, great shopping opportunities and interesting sites such as the beautiful Rialto Bridge.
The center of the area is Campo San Polo, the second-largest open space in Venice; this local hangout is a great place to grab a drink while children play and let the atmosphere of Venice wash over you.
San Polo is where to stay in Venice if you are looking for the real everyday local life of the city.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in San Polo:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in San Polo:
Top budget hotels we recommend in San Polo:
Top hostels we recommend in San Polo:
Dorsoduro
Dorsoduro is an artsy district that radiates sophistication. This trendy area is home to some of Venice’s most scenic canals and palazzi. Venice’s Ca’ Foscari University is in this district, meaning a young crowd and hip art shows are open on every corner.
You’ll be pleased to know that the bars here are open much later than the rest of the city, too.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Dorsoduro:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Dorsoduro:
Top budget hotels we recommend in Dorsoduro:
Top hostels we recommend in Dorsoduro:
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