Where to Stay in Venice? 5 Best Areas & Places to Stay (+ Avoid!) 🇮🇹

Choosing the right area is crucial to your experience when planning a trip to Venice, Italy. Do you want to stay in the middle of everything or retreat to more local areas?

In this guide, I’ll describe five of the best areas to stay in Venice and explain why they’re worth considering as your base for a holiday in the famous Italian city.

I’ll describe the areas and provide key details about attractions, atmosphere, and which types of travellers will love staying in each area.

Let’s jump straight into the guide: where to stay in Venice?

Best Areas in Venice

If you’re in a hurry or just want a quick overview of where to stay in Venice, here’s the list:

• San Marco – best area for first-time visitors ⭐️
• Dorsoduro – for art lovers and a laid-back vibe 🎨
• Cannaregio – best area with local life 🏘️
• Castello – experience authentic Venice 🏛️
• Giudecca – an underrated island in Venice 🙌

Click on the area’s name to see the best hotels there.

Below, I’ll go into detail about the different areas in Venice and recommend hotels for various budgets.

1. San Marco – Best Area for First-Time Visitors ⭐️

If you want to be in the heart of it all, San Marco is the place to stay.

Here, you’re right next to Venice’s most iconic attractions like St. Mark’s Square and St. Mark’s Basilica – this is where everything happens.

You can step out of your hotel and practically stumble across a gondola or a café with views of the canals.

It’s definitely the most touristy area, but that also means you have everything right at your fingertips, from restaurants to shops and small streets filled with hidden gems.

San Marco is perfect for first-time visitors to Venice who want to be close to the city’s biggest attractions.

Check out the best hotels in San Marco here.

However, it can be a bit overwhelming if you’re after peace and quiet, as the area buzzes with life from morning to night.

For travellers who love easy access to everything without having to worry about transportation or long walks, San Marco is the best place to stay in Venice.

It’s also a great choice if you’re in Venice for a short time and want to experience as much as possible in a short period.

But if you’re keen to discover the more authentic side of Venice, it might be a good idea to venture out from San Marco into the lesser-visited neighborhoods.

Why Stay in San Marco?

• Close to Venice’s most famous landmarks like St. Mark’s Square and St. Mark’s Basilica.
• Perfect for those who want to experience classic Venice without walking too far.
• Lively area with plenty of restaurants, cafés, and shops right on your doorstep.
• Ideal for shorter stays where you want to see as much as possible in a short amount of time.
• A great choice for travelers who don’t mind being around lots of tourists and want to be in the middle of everything.

Places to stay in San Marco

As the absolute center of Venice and a well-trodden tourist area, there are naturally plenty of hotels in San Marco.

Let me present a few of my favorites – starting with the most luxurious and working down the price range.

Nolinski Venezia is the perfect choice if you want to spoil yourself with luxury. The hotel is known for its elegant décor and top-class service.

The location makes it easy to explore the city’s most iconic sights, and past guests especially praise the spacious rooms and the stunning views.

Reviews highlight the hotel’s attentive staff and a general feeling of exclusivity, creating an unforgettable experience.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel A La Commedia offers quality at a reasonable price, with a central location near the Rialto Bridge.

The hotel is popular for its clean rooms and classic décor.

Many guests have highlighted the friendly and helpful service and the cosy rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy views over Venice’s rooftops.

A great choice if you want comfort and a central location without breaking the bank.

See more photos and book here.

Residenza Ca’ San Marco is a hidden gem in the heart of Venice. The hotel offers simple accommodation at a reasonable price, perfect if you want to be close to everything.

Past guests have praised the hotel’s location, just minutes from San Marco, and the friendly service.

Even though it’s a smaller hotel, it’s often highlighted for its charm and convenient location.

See more photos and book here.

2. Dorsoduro – For Art Lovers and Laid-Back Vibes 🎨

Dorsoduro is the place for you if you want to experience Venice’s more local and artistic side.

Here, you’ll find quieter streets, cosy cafés, and small art galleries that give the neighbourhood a relaxed and creative atmosphere.

One of the biggest draws is the Peggy Guggenheim Museum, which showcases modern art from world-class artists.

The streets are also lined with small craft shops and alternative galleries, offering you a glimpse into Venice’s art scene, away from the typical tourist traps.

Dorsoduro is ideal for you if you love culture but also want to avoid the most crowded areas.

Check out the best hotels in Dorsoduro here.

It’s one of the best areas in Venice to unwind in after a day of sightseeing, especially around Campo Santa Margherita, where you’ll find plenty of local bars and restaurants.

The area is also home to Ca’ Rezzonico, a museum dedicated to 18th-century Venice, and the Gallerie dell’Accademia with its impressive collection of Venetian art.

This area is perfect for travellers planning a longer stay in Venice or those who want a quieter and more authentic experience of the city without missing out on cultural highlights.

Why Stay in Dorsoduro?

• Packed with art galleries and museums like Peggy Guggenheim and Gallerie dell’Accademia.
• Relaxed atmosphere with cozy cafés and local bars, especially around Campo Santa Margherita.
• Quieter and more local compared to the bustling tourist areas like San Marco.
• Perfect for longer stays, offering a balance between culture and relaxation.
• Ideal for travelers who want to experience Venice’s art scene while staying in a less hectic neighborhood.

Places to stay in Dorsoduro

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best places to stay in Dorsoduro, where there’s a good selection of hotels.

Palazzo Veneziano is a lovely 4-star hotel in Dorsoduro, close to plenty of great restaurants and bars.

The hotel offers modern rooms and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing holiday in Venice.

Past guests praise the hotel’s friendly staff and highlight its location, which makes it easy to explore the city’s art scene and attractions.

See more photos and book here.

Pensione Accademia Villa Maravege is located by a canal in beautiful surroundings and consistently receives excellent reviews from past guests.

With its peaceful garden and charming décor, it’s a tranquil oasis in the heart of Dorsoduro.

Many guests particularly praise the hotel’s breakfast and friendly service, making them feel right at home.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Pausania is a very affordable hotel in a classic Italian style. It offers charm and a great location in Dorsoduro.

The hotel is popular for its authentic Venetian décor and proximity to both art museums and cafés.

Reviews especially highlight the great value for money and the helpful service.

See more photos and book here.

3. Cannaregio – Best Area with Local Life 🏘️

Cannaregio is one of the most authentic and local areas in Venice.

Many of the city’s residents live here, and you’ll notice a much more relaxed, everyday vibe compared to the more touristy parts of the city.

The neighbourhood is also home to Venice’s Jewish Ghetto, an important part of the city’s history and a must-visit for those interested in culture and history.

Check out the best hotels in Cannaregio here.

One of the best things about Cannaregio is that you can still find great restaurants and cozy bars that haven’t been overrun by tourists.

The area along the canal, Fondamenta della Misericordia, is filled with local eateries and bars where you can enjoy a glass of wine or a spritz alongside the locals.

There are also plenty of narrow streets and hidden squares to explore if you want to escape the larger tourist crowds.

Cannaregio is the perfect area for you if you want to stay in Venice like a local and still have access to the main attractions – perhaps a bit like Trastevere in Rome or Navigli in Milan.

It’s also a great base if you’re planning day trips to the islands of Murano and Burano.

Why Stay in Cannaregio?

• A local neighborhood with a relaxed atmosphere where many Venetians live.
• Home to Venice’s Jewish Ghetto, offering a fascinating historical experience.
• Great dining options along Fondamenta della Misericordia, where you can enjoy local specialties.
• Perfect for those looking to avoid the tourist crowds and stay in a more authentic area.

Places to stay in Cannaregio

Here are my favorite hotels in the charming Cannaregio area of Venice.

NH Collection Grand Hotel Palazzo Dei Dogi is a luxury 5-star hotel located in a quiet part of Cannaregio.

The hotel offers elegant rooms and a beautiful garden, creating a relaxing atmosphere away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Guests praise the high standard of service and the unique location, which offers easy access to both the city’s attractions and quieter areas.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Antico Doge is a stunning hotel in a historic building, oozing with charm.

The location, close to the Grand Canal, makes it easy to explore the city on foot.

Past guests highlight the hotel’s beautiful, classic décor and the friendly, personal service that makes them feel welcome from the moment they arrive.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Cannaregio 2357 is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in Venice without compromising on location.

The hotel is close to both local attractions and great eateries.

Guests particularly praise the great value for money and the clean, simple rooms that have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

See more photos and book here.

4. Castello – Experience Authentic Venice 🏛️

Castello is one of Venice’s largest neighborhoods and one of the oldest parts of the city, making it ideal for history-loving travelers.

Here, you’ll find quieter, more local areas mixed with historic monuments.

One of the most significant landmarks in Castello is the Arsenale, Venice’s old shipyard where the city built its powerful ships in the Middle Ages.

The Arsenale also hosts the Biennale, one of the world’s most important art exhibitions, attracting modern artists from all over the globe.

Castello is perfect for those who want to avoid the tourist crowds and instead get a glimpse of authentic, local life in Venice.

Check out the best hotels in Castello here.

The streets are narrow and winding, filled with small workshops and markets where you can experience Venetian daily life up close.

You’ll also find peaceful squares, ideal for sitting and relaxing with an espresso, away from the busy city center.

Why Stay in Castello?

• Home to historical landmarks like the Arsenale and Venice’s Biennale exhibitions.
• A less touristy area where you can truly experience local life.
• Narrow, winding streets full of small shops and markets, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
• A great choice for culture and history enthusiasts wanting to explore the city’s old shipyard and monuments.
• Ideal if you want to avoid overcrowded areas but still be close to cultural highlights.

Places to stay in Castello

Castello is located just east of the absolute centre (San Marco), so there are plenty of good hotels. Here are a few of my favourite hotels scattered throughout the Castello area.

Ca’di Dio-Small Luxury Hotel is a truly luxurious 5-star hotel located right by the water in Castello. The hotel is known for its elegant design and exquisite service.

Past guests especially praise the spacious rooms with views over the lagoon and the beautiful interior.

The location is perfect for those who want to stay in peaceful surroundings but still be close to Venice’s major attractions.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Bucintoro is a stylish 4-star hotel located in a quiet corner of Castello with a fantastic view of the water.

Guests appreciate the hotel’s charming, nautical décor and peaceful atmosphere, creating an ideal base for exploring Venice without the large crowds.

The waterfront location and proximity to the city center make it a popular choice.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Sant’Antonin offers true Venetian charm, despite being only a 3-star hotel.

The hotel is loved for its authentic atmosphere and delightful garden, where you can relax after a day of sightseeing.

Guests praise the helpful staff and the central yet quiet location, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a cozy and affordable base in Venice.

See more photos and book here.

5. Giudecca – An Underrated Island in Venice 🙌

Giudecca is a bit of a hidden gem, located just across from Venice’s historic center but isolated enough to provide a sense of peace and tranquility.

This island is the perfect place to stay in Venice if you want to enjoy views of the Venice skyline without being in the midst of the hustle and bustle.

Here, you can relax with a coffee at one of the small waterfront cafés and take it all in at a more laid-back pace.

Although Giudecca is away from the busiest areas, it’s still easy to get to San Marco and the rest of Venice with a short vaporetto (water bus) ride.

Check out the best hotels in Giudecca here.

Giudecca also has its share of sights, like the impressive Palladio-designed Il Redentore Church and the lush gardens on the eastern side of the island.

Giudecca is the perfect place to stay for travellers looking for a more relaxed Venice experience or couples wanting a romantic, peaceful base with stunning views of the city.

Reasons to Stay in Giudecca:

• Offers stunning views of Venice’s skyline without being in the thick of the tourist crowds.
• A quieter, more laid-back area, perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation.
• Easy access to Venice’s center via vaporetto, but with the feeling of being away from the busy areas.
• Home to attractions like Il Redentore and lush green spaces.
• An ideal choice for couples or travelers wanting a more romantic, tranquil Venice experience.

Places to stay in Giudecca

Giudecca is not as touristy as the other areas mentioned in this guide, but there are still some great hotels here.

It’s also one of the few places in Venice where you’ll find a hotel with a rooftop pool – and it even offers iconic views over Venice’s center.

Hilton Molino Stucky Venice is one of the few hotels in Venice with a rooftop pool, where you can enjoy a fantastic view of the San Marco area.

This luxury hotel on Giudecca is known for its spacious rooms and top-class facilities.

Guests especially highlight the exclusive atmosphere, service, and breathtaking view from the rooftop pool.

See more photos and book here.

Maison Boutique Al Redentore offers a peaceful, rustic escape in the heart of Venice with its beautiful garden.

The hotel boasts stylish, modern décor and is perfect for those seeking a relaxing atmosphere.

Past guests praise the hotel’s tranquil location and the charming combination of luxury and intimacy on Giudecca.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Giudecca Venezia is a classic Italian 3-star hotel that offers everything you need without extravagant luxuries.

This hotel is popular for its great location on Giudecca and its authentic Venetian style.

Guests praise the friendly service and the clean, comfortable environment, providing a pleasant base for exploring Venice.

See more photos and book here.

And now, let me briefly tell you about three areas in Venice where I wouldn’t recommend booking a hotel.

You can also check out this video that explains Venice really well:

Where Not to Stay in Venice? 3 Areas You Should Avoid

It’s not that the areas below are dangerous, but they are places I think you might regret booking your hotel.

1. Mestre is on the mainland, not part of Venice’s islands. Even though staying here is cheaper, you miss out on the unique charm of the narrow streets and canals. Transport to and from Venice can also be time-consuming.

2. Marghera is an industrial district outside Venice, lacking charm and attractions. Although accommodation here is cheap, it’s not worth staying so far from the historic sites you’ve come to Venice to experience.

3. Tronchetto is mainly an area dedicated to parking and ferry transport. There’s not much else to do here, and it’s far from Venice’s lively heart. You’ll have a much better experience staying closer to the city’s attractions as a tourist.

I hope you found this guide to the best areas in Venice helpful and that you’re now ready for your trip to this Italian gem. Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions.

Read more Italy travel guides.

FAQs:

Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇

• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
• GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
• NordVPN is the only VPN I've ever needed for travel (it just works, everywhere)
• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers

Psst 👀 Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?