There is nowhere in the world quite like Venice. A city built on more than a hundred islands, with canals instead of streets and boats instead of cars, it is as magical as you imagine – and just as busy. Choosing the right hotel makes a huge difference to your stay, so this guide starts with the highlights, then picks out five recommended Venice hotels, the best shopping and tips for avoiding the crowds.
Venice highlights not to miss
- St Mark’s Square and Basilica: the historic heart of Venice, with the glittering golden mosaics of St Mark’s Basilica and the tall Campanile, whose top offers the best view in the city.
- The Doge’s Palace: the seat of Venetian power for centuries, with lavish halls, the prisons and the famous Bridge of Sighs.
- The Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge: ride the number 1 vaporetto (water bus) the length of the Grand Canal for a cheap tour past dozens of palazzi, and stop at the famous Rialto Bridge.
- The Jewish Ghetto: in the Cannaregio district, Venice’s Ghetto, established in 1516, was the first in the world to bear the name. Visit its historic synagogues and the Jewish Museum.
- Murano and Burano: take a boat to Murano to watch traditional glassblowing, and to Burano for its brightly painted houses and lace.
For more ideas, our guide to things to do in Venice goes into more depth.
Five recommended Venice hotels
- Hotel Danieli: a legendary luxury hotel in a 14th-century palazzo on the waterfront, a few steps from St Mark’s Square.
- The Gritti Palace: an elegant historic palace hotel with a terrace directly on the Grand Canal.
- JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa: a luxury resort on its own private island in the lagoon, with a free boat shuttle to St Mark’s and panoramic views of the city.
- Ca’ Sagredo Hotel: a beautifully restored Venetian palazzo on the Grand Canal, filled with original frescoes and artworks.
- Hotel Metropole: a characterful hotel on the waterfront near St Mark’s, known for its unusual collection of antiques and art.
Which area should you stay in?
San Marco is the most central but also the busiest and most expensive. Cannaregio and Castello are quieter and more authentic, while Dorsoduro is great for art lovers and has a lively student atmosphere.
Shopping in Venice
- The Mercerie: the winding streets between St Mark’s and the Rialto, with designer stores, boutiques and souvenir shops.
- The Rialto Market: a traditional market for fresh fish and produce, at its best in the morning.
- Artisan workshops: look for genuine Murano glass, Burano lace, handmade paper and Carnival masks – and be wary of cheap imitations.
Tips for visiting Venice
- Stay overnight: the city is transformed in the early morning and evening, when day-trippers have gone.
- Check the access fee: Venice charges day visitors an entry fee on certain peak days. Hotel guests are exempt but may need to register – check the official website before you go.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the city is full of bridges and steps, and you will walk a lot.
- Get lost: leave the main routes and explore the quiet back alleys and squares.
- Take a gondola: it is touristy, but also a truly Venetian experience. Agree on the price before you set off.
- Buy a vaporetto pass: water buses are expensive per ride, so a multi-day pass saves money.
Deciding when to go? See the weather in Italy by month and region. If Venice is one stop on a bigger trip, our northern Italy itinerary may help, and our Rome travel guide covers the capital.
