Where to Stay in Venice: Travey Club’s Guide
Choosing where to stay in Venice shapes your entire experience of the City of Water. Venice’s charming districts (called sestieri) each have their own vibe — from the historic heart of San Marco to the quieter, more local feel of Cannaregio. Below, we break down the best areas to stay plus one recommended hotel in each to make planning easy.
San Marco – Iconic & Central (Best for First-Time Visitors)
The beating heart of Venice, San Marco puts you steps from the city’s most famous sights like St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and grand canal views. It’s perfect if you want to walk everywhere and soak up the classic Venice atmosphere.
Hotel Recommendation
The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice
A legendary Venetian palace hotel with stunning Grand Canal views, opulent interiors, and world-class service — perfect for a special trip or romantic getaway. Expect rich history, refined comfort, and an unforgettable base in the city’s most central neighborhood.
Cannaregio – Local & Relaxed (Best for Authentic Venice Vibes)
Cannaregio is one of Venice’s largest and most lived-in neighborhoods. Here you’ll find local cafés, quieter canals, and a more authentic pace of life — without sacrificing access to major attractions.
Hotel Recommendation
The Venice Venice Hotel
A stylish, contemporary hotel with elegant design and fantastic service. Located in Cannaregio, it’s perfect for travelers who want chic comfort and a peaceful base a short walk from the Rialto Bridge and main sights.
Santa Croce – Easy Transport & Hidden Gems
Santa Croce is ideal if you want good transport links (including water buses to the station and airport) and a bit more space and calm compared to San Marco. It’s still centrally located but slightly under-the-radar.
Hotel Recommendation
Papadopoli Hotel Venezia - MGallery Collection
A warm, stylish choice with beautiful garden views next to Giardini Papadopoli. Great for exploring Venice on foot and taking public transport easily when you want to venture further.
Dorsoduro – Artsy & Cultural
Dorsoduro has an artsy, bohemian vibe with fewer crowds, hip cafés, and excellent museums. It’s a great choice for travelers who want cultural depth and slower days exploring galleries and cafés.
Hotel Recommendation
Palazzo Veneziano - Venice Collection
Chic and modern with elegant interiors and beautiful canal views. Palazzo Veneziano blends contemporary comfort with Venetian charm — ideal for those wanting style and culture.
Grand Canal / Central Venice – Classic Views & Easy Walking
Staying near the Grand Canal means waking up to breathtaking water views and being close to major routes and sights. Central but often quieter at night once day-trippers leave.
Hotel Recommendation
Ca' Sagredo Hotel
A beautiful boutique hotel in an old Venetian palace with classical décor and exceptional service. It’s an elegant base for exploring Venice’s most iconic canals and streets — perfect for travelers who want atmosphere and history.
Sant’Elena – Budget & Local Life
On the quieter edge of Venice near green spaces and away from the busiest tourist paths, Sant’Elena lets you experience everyday Venetian life while still being connected to the heart of the city by vaporetto.
Hotel Recommendation
Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena by IHG
A relaxed, modern choice with a local feel, surrounded by gardens and peaceful canals — ideal for travellers looking for comfort and value without the bustle.
Travey Club’s Quick Tips for Choosing Your Base
San Marco is perfect for your first visit and sightseeing ease.
Cannaregio gives you a local feel with excellent access to sights.
Santa Croce is ideal for transport links and quieter streets.
Dorsoduro suits culture lovers and relaxed explorers.
Sant’Elena offers budget-friendly charm near green spaces.
No matter where you stay, Venice is a city best experienced on foot and by vaporetto, so choose a hotel that keeps you close to the rhythm of daily Venetian life.
Travey Club specializes in creating custom travel plans tailored to individual interests, travel styles, and schedules. From curated itineraries to detailed logistics, our team helps travelers navigate destinations with confidence and ease. For a fully bespoke experience, contact us or become a Travey Club member and allow us to design a personalized journey based on your preferences. The itinerary below highlights key activities, while our custom planning ensures every detail is thoughtfully arranged to suit you.
Look at our three days Venice Itinerary: Travey Club
