Where to Stay in Venice, Italy: 4 Areas & Hotels

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Need help finding the perfect place to stay in Venice? You’re in the right spot!

Venice is truly one of a kind, and where you stay can shape your experience. Its car-free streets, canals, and historic charm create a magical atmosphere, with each neighborhood offering a unique vibe. Whether you’re here for art, architecture, or gondolas and pasta, picking the right area makes your trip even more memorable.

We’ve stayed in several of Venice’s top neighborhoods and gathered our favorite picks to help you decide where to base yourself. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each area and recommends the best hotels for every budget, so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the views by the water.

Where to Stay in Venice Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Venice

Venice is divided into six neighborhoods, or sestieri, each offering its own charm. The best part is that you can walk just about everywhere. The city is compact and car-free, so it’s easy to explore on foot, and all the major sights are surprisingly close together. Whether you’re after iconic landmarks, quiet canals, or access to day trips, there’s a neighborhood that fits the bill.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas to stay in Venice:

• San Marco – Venice’s central hub and home to iconic sights like Doge’s Palace, Piazza San Marco, and the Grand Canal, this area is perfect for first-time visitors. Hotel Montecarlo is a charming stay with classic decor, cozy rooms, and a prime location just steps from the square.

• Santa Croce – A quiet, well-connected area ideal for train and bus access—great for day trips or easy arrivals. Residence Poli Venezia offers clean, modern studios with kitchenettes and a peaceful, local vibe just steps from the Grand Canal.

• Dorsoduro – Venice’s artsy heart, home to top galleries like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Accademia, but still just a short stroll from San Marco. Hotel Belle Arti is a stylish, affordable choice here, with clean rooms, Murano glass details, and a peaceful courtyard perfect for unwinding.

• Castello – A peaceful and authentic corner of Venice, Castello offers a more local vibe while still being within walking distance of top sights like Piazza San Marco. Hotel Nuovo Teson is a lovely mid-range choice here—fresh, modern, and just steps from the Arsenale vaporetto stop and the Biennale Gardens.

Where to Stay in Venice

San Marco

If it’s your first time in Venice, staying in San Marco is a no-brainer. This is the Venice you’ve seen in all the postcards—where gondolas drift past centuries-old palaces and every cobbled alley leads to a view that makes your jaw drop. 

We loved basing ourselves here because everything we wanted to see was just steps away. You’ve got St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the bell tower all in one square, and the Grand Canal is never far. 

Most evenings, we’d wander out with no plan and still stumble across something stunning—like a string quartet playing beneath the arches or a hidden bridge glowing in the lamplight.

Sure, it’s busy, but it’s busy for a reason. San Marco is absolutely packed with history, elegance, and easy access to Venice’s most iconic sights. It’s also a great place to soak up the city’s grandeur, whether that’s sipping an overpriced (but magical) spritz at Café Florian or wandering into a tucked-away art gallery. Plus, if you’re catching a Vaporetto, you’re well connected here.

That said, don’t expect peace and quiet, but for your first visit? It’s an unforgettable introduction to the city’s magic.

Pros

• Walking distance to Venice’s most famous attractions
• Beautiful architecture and historic squares
• Plenty of dining, shopping, and photo ops

Cons

• Can be extremely crowded, especially midday
• Hotel prices are typically higher here
• Less of a local, residential vibe than other areas

Luxury – $$$

Staying at Hotel A La Commedia felt like stepping into our own little slice of Venetian elegance. Tucked just off the Rialto Bridge and only a 10-minute stroll from St. Mark’s Square, the location could not be more central—yet the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful. 

Our room was huge by Venice standards, with plush bedding, a sparkling marble bathroom, and those classic tall windows that let in the softest natural light. What really stood out to us, though, was the staff. They were incredibly warm and helpful, offering restaurant recommendations and even booking reservations for us.

A huge bonus is the rooftop terrace! It’s the perfect place to sip a spritz and watch the sun set over the rooftops of Venice. Trust me, it’s magical. Rooms typically range from €300 to €700+ per night, depending on the season, and there are some flexible cancellation options too.

Check availability for Hotel A La Commedia here—you won’t regret it!

Mid-range – $$

We were honestly surprised by how much we loved Hotel Montecarlo! It’s got that charming, old-world Venetian feel but with all the comforts you’d want. The location couldn’t be better, just a minute from St. Mark’s Square, but it’s tucked down a quieter alley so you don’t feel overwhelmed by the crowds. 

The rooms have those classic touches like Murano glass chandeliers and wood-beamed ceilings, and ours was spotlessly clean and super cozy. Breakfast was served in this beautiful, elegant dining room (with really good coffee), and they even offer a daily afternoon tea! 

The staff here are the kind of people who genuinely want you to have a great stay. They even gave us maps and tips and helped us plan out our vaporetto routes. Rooms usually range from €200 to €350 per night, and it’s honestly great value for the location.

Check availability and book your stay at Hotel Montecarlo here!

Budget – $

If you’re after location, location, location, Hotel ai do Mori nails it. I mean, it’s literally a 30-second walk to St. Mark’s Basilica. We could hear the Campanile bells from our room, and even had a peek of the square from the window! The rooms are simple and no-frills, but they’re clean, comfy, and air-conditioned (a lifesaver in summer).

It’s the kind of place where you’re not hanging out all day, but it gives you everything you need for a solid night’s sleep between sightseeing. The staff were kind, super responsive, and warm. They even helped us store our luggage after checkout so we could squeeze in a few more canals before leaving.

It’s a great pick if you’re traveling on a budget but still want to be in the thick of it all. Rooms can start as low as €130 per night, depending on the season.

Check current room rates and book this budget-friendly stay here!

Related Read: To make the most out of your time in Venice, check out our detailed 3-day itinerary that covers all the must-do activities and the best places to eat!

Santa Croce

Santa Croce isn’t the flashiest neighborhood in Venice, but that’s exactly why we loved staying here. It felt like we had space to breathe and could slow down after the buzz of the tourist hotspots. It’s one of the most local-feeling areas in the city, and if you’re someone who values peace, convenience, and a more authentic Venetian vibe, this is the spot for you.

It’s also incredibly practical—it’s the closest district to Piazzale Roma and the Santa Lucia train station, which means you’re perfectly positioned for easy arrivals, departures, and even day trips to places like Verona or Padua.

While Santa Croce isn’t packed with tourist attractions, it does have a few gems, like the natural history museum in the beautiful Fondaco dei Turchi, the quiet Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio (one of our favorite local squares), and charming little bacari (Venetian wine bars) that feel blissfully undiscovered. Plus, you’re only about 15 minutes on foot from Rialto and the Grand Canal, so you’re still close to the action.

It’s ideal for longer stays, families, and anyone who wants to explore at a slower pace while staying well-connected. There’s something really special about waking up here, grabbing a coffee with the locals, and starting your day without the chaos—it’s Venice, just a little more chill!

Pros

• Easy access to the train station, bus terminal, and water taxis
• Quiet, local vibe with fewer tourists
• Great value for accommodation

Cons

• Not many “big-name” attractions nearby
• Fewer restaurant and shopping options
• Longer walk to San Marco and the main sights

Luxury – $$$

Santa Croce Boutique Hotel strikes the perfect balance between luxury and warmth. Set in a peaceful corner of the Santa Croce district, just a short walk from the train station, it offers a quiet retreat without sacrificing location. Our room was beautifully designed, with classic Venetian details, modern comforts, and thoughtful touches throughout. 

We loved waking up to garden views and starting the day with a fantastic breakfast spread of fresh pastries, Italian coffee, and plenty of choices for all diets. What really made our stay, though, was the staff. Everyone we met was incredibly kind, attentive, and eager to help with everything from local tips to booking transfers. 

The vibe is peaceful, personal, and relaxed—ideal for couples or anyone wanting a quieter, refined base in Venice. Rooms typically range from €300 to €550 per night, depending on the suite and season. It’s a hidden gem worth splurging on!

Book this luxury stay at Santa Croce Boutique Hotel here!

Mid-range – $$

Staying at Residence Poli Venezia felt like having our own cozy apartment in the heart of Venice—and we absolutely loved it. The studio was super clean, modern, and way more spacious than we expected, complete with a cute kitchenette, a big comfy bed, and even a little patio to enjoy our morning coffee. 

It’s tucked away in a quiet part of Santa Croce, which made it feel like we were living among locals instead of just visiting. Everything we needed was just around the corner, including markets, cafés, and a vaporetto stop. 

Plus, it was only about 10 minutes to the train station, which was perfect for our day trips. It had all the perks of an apartment stay with the warmth of a boutique hotel. Studios here typically range from €180 to €260 per night, plus a small cleaning fee.

Browse available room options and secure your stay here!

Budget – $

Albergo Casa Peron is a no-frills, budget-friendly stay that’s clean, secure, and incredibly well-located just a 10-minute walk from both the train station and Grand Canal. We stayed here on a quick trip and loved how easy it was to get around, with plenty of local bakeries and casual restaurants right outside the door.

The rooms are modest but comfortable, and you can choose between private or shared bathrooms depending on your budget. The staff was especially memorable—so friendly, helpful, and genuinely welcoming. They even let us stash our luggage after checkout so we could squeeze in one more stroll around the city.

Rates typically fall between €90 and €160, depending on room type and season. It’s a simple spot, but for the price and location, it’s hard to beat in central Venice.

Check availability and book your stay at Albergo Casa Peron here!

Dorsoduro

Dorsoduro is hands-down our favorite neighborhood in Venice. It’s got just the right mix of beauty, culture, and breathing room—plus, you’re still only a short walk from the main tourist areas like San Marco and Rialto. We loved how it gave us space to slow down and really soak in the city’s charm without constantly weaving through tour groups.

If you’re into art, this is your dream base. The Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection are right here, and we really enjoyed wandering the quiet canals and stumbling on tiny galleries and artisan shops that felt worlds away from the crowds.

It’s also home to some of the most stunning views in Venice. Take a sunset stroll along the Zattere promenade or across the Accademia Bridge, and you’ll see what I mean. The vibe here is local, a little bohemian, and more relaxed—perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone who wants a more laid-back Venice experience without sacrificing location.

It’s also a great pick for foodies! There are plenty of small, excellent restaurants and wine bars that cater more to locals than tourists.

Pros

• Close to the top museums and art galleries
• Quieter and less crowded than San Marco
• Easy walk to major sights and canals

Cons

• Limited late-night options
• Fewer big hotel chains
• Some areas can feel too quiet at night

Luxury – $$$

Ca’ Pisani Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel tucked just behind the Accademia—aka right in the heart of Dorsoduro’s art scene. The building is a 16th-century gem, but inside it’s a total Art Deco dream. We loved the mix of old-world charm and sleek design, and our room had a spa tub and those cozy little details that made it feel extra special. 

The rooftop terrace is also a quiet little haven and ideal for a glass of wine after a day of wandering the canals. The location really can’t be beat. We walked to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in two minutes, and the vaporetto stop was right nearby, making it super easy to get around. 

The staff were genuinely kind and helpful, and breakfast was absolutely spot-on—think fresh pastries, strong coffee, and a cozy setup to start your day. Rates usually range from €260 to €500 per night, depending on the time of year and room choice.

Check availability for Ca’ Pisani here—it’s central and packed with charm!

Mid-range – $$

Hotel Belle Arti was such a pleasant surprise—affordable, stylish, and in an unbeatable location just steps from the Accademia and the vaporetto stop. We loved the peaceful courtyard, which made a lovely spot to unwind with a coffee or spritz after a day of exploring. 

The rooms are clean and simple, with Murano glass touches and comfy beds, and everything felt well taken care of. Breakfast was better than expected, with plenty of options like fresh croissants, yogurt, cold cuts, and fruit, and great coffee to start the day right.

And we really appreciated how easy it was to walk everywhere from here. San Marco is about 15 minutes away, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is practically around the corner. Rooms typically range from €110 to €280 per night, breakfast included.

Book your stay here—it’s a great value for a central stay in Dorsoduro!

Budget – $

Margherita House Venice is a fantastic budget-friendly option right on lively Campo Santa Margherita—so you’re steps from local cafés, markets, and some of the best people-watching in Venice. We stayed in one of the rooms with a kitchenette, which made it super easy to prep a quick breakfast or late-night snack (especially handy when restaurants closed early). 

Everything was clean, bright, and thoughtfully designed to make the most of the space. There’s no front desk, but entry is easy with a personalized code, and the host was quick to respond with helpful tips. 

It’s quiet at night despite being in a buzzing area, and the location makes it easy to get to both the train station and the Accademia Bridge in under 10 minutes. Rates start around €140 per night, depending on room type and season.

Book this budget stay at Margherita House here!

Related Read: Looking for some activities to add to your itinerary? Check out our 15 favorite things to do in Venice here!

Castello

Castello is where Venice slows down and breathes a little. It’s the largest of the city’s six sestieri, but it feels the most local, and that’s exactly what makes it so special. If you’re someone who wants to experience the quieter, more authentic side of Venice, Castello is a dream. 

We stayed here after a few nights in the tourist-heavy areas and instantly felt the difference: fewer crowds, more locals walking their dogs or chatting in the squares, and a vibe that’s way more relaxed. I remember sitting on a bench in the sun, gelato in hand, thinking, “Okay—this is the Venice I’d come back for.

It’s also a great area for long strolls. The Biennale Gardens are here, along with the peaceful Via Garibaldi, where you’ll find cafés filled with Venetians rather than day-trippers. The Arsenale, a historic shipyard, gives you a glimpse into Venice’s naval past, and San Pietro di Castello is a beautiful, lesser-known church worth wandering to.

You’re still within walking distance of St. Mark’s Square, but just far enough to feel like you’ve uncovered a whole different side of the city. It’s perfect for repeat visitors, couples, or anyone craving a bit more space and serenity.

Pros

• Authentic, local feel with fewer tourists
• Peaceful vibe with scenic walking areas
• Still within reach of major attractions

Cons

• A longer walk to San Marco and Rialto
• Fewer hotel and dining options nearby
• Limited nightlife and evening activity

Luxury – $$$

Staying at Aqua Palace felt like slipping into a Venetian fairytale, with a modern twist. The rooms are elegant and richly styled, with luxe touches like velvet chairs, deep soaking tubs, and even canal views from some windows. We left ours open just to hear the soft splash of gondolas passing by. 

The hotel is set off in a quiet calle but somehow just a three-minute walk from Piazza San Marco and five minutes from the Rialto Bridge. It doesn’t get more convenient than that. The staff were warm and helpful from the moment we arrived, and the breakfast spread was lovely: tasty pastries, fresh fruit, and real espresso served in a cozy canal-side dining room. 

Rooms usually range from €320 to €600 per night, with breakfast available or included depending on the booking. It’s the kind of place that makes Venice even harder to leave!

Treat yourself to a stay at this hidden gem right in the heart of Venice!

Mid-range – $$

Hotel Nuovo Teson is one of those gems that make traveling in Venice feel easy. It’s set in a quiet little corner of Castello but just steps from the Arsenale vaporetto stop, and only about a 10-minute walk to Piazza San Marco. We really loved the fresh, modern feel of the rooms.

The staff was incredibly kind and went out of their way to help us get settled, and the breakfast really surprised us in the best way. Think flaky croissants, cold cuts, fruit, and strong Italian coffee served in a charming little dining room that opens onto a courtyard.

The location is also ideal for exploring the Biennale or wandering the quieter canals nearby.

Rooms generally range from €150 to €300 per night, with breakfast included in most rates.

Check availability and secure your stay at Hotel Nuovo Teson here!

Budget – $

Sweet Venice is exactly the kind of affordable stay we’d book again in a heartbeat. It’s tucked into a charming 17th-century building right in the heart of Castello, just minutes from both Rialto and Piazza San Marco, but it still manages to feel quiet and local. 

Our room was simple but spotless, and while the bathroom was shared, it was always clean and never felt inconvenient. The staff was incredibly friendly and full of helpful suggestions (our check-in host even marked his favorite local spots on a map for us). 

There’s no breakfast here, but you’re steps from great cafés, and there’s a shared kitchen if you want to prep something yourself. It’s perfect for travelers who value location, cleanliness, and a friendly welcome over frills. Rooms can start as low as €120 per night for a double with shared bath, depending on the season. 

Book this great value stay at Sweet Venice here!

Related Read: For help planning the perfect Italy trip that hits all of the must-see spots and hidden gems, check out our detailed 10-day itinerary!

Top Activities to do in Venice

Picking out your preferred location and hotel is just one step in planning! Now you need to pick out some awesome activities to fill in your itinerary. Here are a few of my favorite things we did in Venice!

• See Venice In A Day – If you’re short on time, there’s no better way to experience Venice than on this full-day tour. It takes you to the city’s highlights, including Doge’s Palace, the famous Rialto fish market and bridge, on a gondola ride, and more, all led by a local guide.

• Enjoy a food tour – If you’re a food-centric traveler like we are, you can’t miss this food tour! We learned how Venetian food is different than Italian food (but still amazing) and tried a ton of local cuisine. Get ready for your tastebuds to explode!

• St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace – Skip the line at these two iconic locations with this expert-led tour. We knew both places were popular, but man, were they busy! So skipping the line made our day a breeze, and we learned so much useful information from our guide.

• Visit The Murano and Burano Islands – Located just across the Venetian Lagoon, taking this day trip to the Murano and Burano Islands was such a unique experience. Filled with colorful buildings and canals, we spent the day exploring and learning about their historic lace-making and glassblowing industries. It was fascinating!

• Learn how to cook Venetian food – We love cooking classes because they let us dive into the local culture. This cooking class in Venice was no exception, as we cooked in a local’s home where we learned traditional cooking methods, and ate a ton!

Renting a Car in Italy

Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!

We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Italy

• Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
• Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
• Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
• Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
• Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars. 

What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Venice is a dream destination for many travelers, so it’s important to find the perfect place to stay while visiting! After a few trips on our own, we think these four areas are the best places to base yourself. If my recommended hotels are still available, I know you’ll find a comfortable stay within your preferred budget.

If you need help planning the rest of your travels, check out our Italy blogs here! We’ve been all around the country and love sharing our travel experience, so yours is just a little bit easier. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:

10 Best Things to do in Venice, Italy

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Venice: 3-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay in Florence, Italy: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

How to Spend THREE Days in Verona, Italy: 3-Day Itinerary