Choosing accommodation in Venice can be tricky given the six central sestieri neighbourhoods, but expert advice highlights the hidden gems that maintain local character amid the tourism.
The Gritti Palace, a formidable grand dame dating back to 1475, epitomises Venetian luxury, boasting 82 rooms crammed with antiques, Rubelli fabrics, and 18th-century art, crowned by its terrace cantilevered over the Grand Canal, offering twinkling water views and the sound of sloshing gondolas.
For those seeking contemporary elegance, the Sina Centurion Palace, located in Dorsoduro between the Salute church and the Guggenheim collection, provides a snazzy, modern contrast to the city’s traditional aesthetic.
This Italian-owned hotel, with just 50 rooms, has carved out a reputation for its friendly, two-way service and bold, plain-painted walls instead of traditional damask, featuring a bar and restaurant that also seat guests over the Grand Canal.
In the bustling San Marco area, the three-star rated Hotel Flora, owned by the local Romanelli family, sits down a narrow alley, providing a brilliantly run, peaceful hideaway just seconds from the main sights.
Its comfortable rooms boast antique furniture and cloud-comfy beds, with breakfast served in a tranquil courtyard, making it a comfortable base while promoting activities that benefit the local economy.
For convenience, the Hotel Santa Chiara is a game-changer, sitting just 20m from the airport bus stop near Piazzale Roma, allowing guests to reach their room in 25 minutes from the airport and offering an accessible, mobility-friendly base.
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