Best Hotels in Santa Croce

Santa Croce isn't exactly on the tourist map — but that's part of the charm. This small residential area in the northwestern corner of Venice, with its closely-knit weave of narrow, winding streets is where real Venice buzzes. And while it doesn't have masses of splendid historical sights, it is host to the churches of San Stae and San Giacomo dell’Orio, as well as the Ca' Pesaro modern art gallery, and it's the perfect base from which to explore Venice. Our pick of the best hotels in Santa Croce feature properties set on the Grand Canal — some of them even have private access to water taxis, so travelling here and there will be seamless. Our Gurus' selection of Santa Croce's best hotels make for a delightful mix from grand luxury stays set in palazzos to authentic, family-run hotels.

For seamless sightseeing

• If you want traditional Venetian elegance overlooking the Grand Canal, Hotel Antiche Figure should be your first port-of-call. This former Renaissance townhouse, with its chandeliers and large windows, is just steps away from the bus and train stations — perfectly located for sightseeing, near the entrance to the historic city.

For a romantic break

• Hotel Canal Grande is great for couples whose Venetian dream involves sitting on a pretty terrace overlooking the Grand Canal with a glass of wine. This opulent four-star boutique hotel oozes old world grandeur, with its Murano glass, gold leaf and marble fireplaces. Intimate and romantic, perfect for couples!
• Cima Rosa is a small, elegant canalside property set in a medieval building with just six rooms. The rooms are full of antique furniture, and look out to the canal through old Venetian glass windows. You'll certainly make the most of your time in Venice — the owners know all the city's secrets. Luxurious and intimate.

For Venetian luxury

• Palazzo Venart is one of the best luxury hotels on the Grand Canal, perfect for those who can afford to really splash out. This refined five-star is set in a 16th century palazzo, behind gardens that tumble down to the Grand Canal. Inside? A world of restored frescoes, marble fireplaces, hand-selected art, and Michelin-star food. Prestigious luxury in the heart of Santa Croce!

For the 'real' Venice

• Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo is a good option for an authentic Venetian city-break. It's a family-owned establishment, with an ethos of old-school hospitality, and old-world decor typical of Venice with its 18th century furniture and upholstered surfaces. Though it's a bit off the tourist map, the hotel opens out onto the canal, where you can get a water taxi to shuttle you here and there.

Still not sure?

• Check out our other Venice collections: hotels near the Grand Canal, or La Giudecca, or Dorsoduro, or San Marco
• See the best luxury hotels in Venice or the best palazzos in Venice
• You can also expand your search to include ALL the best hotels in Venice
• Or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

  • Hotel Antiche Figure Venice (Santa Croce) 22 rooms from AU$344

    
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    Families  -  Mini-apartments in the annexe around the corner can sleep up to four and have some self-catering facilities - ideal for families

    Short break  -  The proximity of the railway station, bus terminus and cruise ship port make this a great option for those on a multi-stop trip

    City Style  -  A traditionally styled Venetian property directly on the canal, offering plush decor and effortless elegance.

    Traditional  -  The décor is traditional Venetian with brocade-lined walls and rich colour schemes

    

    A charming traditional property in a great canal-side location. Elegant rooms, the best of which boast canal views, feature large sash windows, chintz fabrics and chandeliers. An elegant breakfast room with an indulgent spread. Ideal for a real Venetian treat, within easy reach of the main sights. See More

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  • Hotel Canal Grande Venice (Santa Croce) 15 rooms from AU$445

    
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    Romantic Break  -  A romantic 4 star boutique, with pampering suites filled with opulent fabrics plus views over the Grand Canal

    Local exploring  -  Well placed to access the Rialto, St.Mark’s Square, and many of the city’s most renowned sites

    Hotel boats for hire  -  The hotel boasts its own private dock, so you can arrive directly by water taxi or gondola

    Traditional  -  An elegant palace decorated in the Rococo style, typical of 18th century Venice

    

    An intimate four star boutique hotel nestled in the ancient sestiere of Santa Croce. The refined and opulent suites areadorned with gold leaf, Murano glass and polished wood floors - exuding a classic sense of luxury. Take breakfast on the beautiful terrace overlooking the Grand Canal. See More

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  • Cima Rosa Venice (Santa Croce) 6 rooms from AU$293

    
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    Local exploring  -  Great location in the Santa Croce neighbourhood. Easy access to all of Venice's top attractions with a Vaporetta stop close by

    Owner managed  -  Owner managed & it shows. Attention to detail like pre-trip planning & a kitchen with a constant supply of cookies!

    Outstanding location  -  Located right on the Grand Canal with views from three of the six bedrooms

    Historic  -  A stunning 15th century palazzo conversion

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, I Escape

    Traditional 15th century Palazzo with views of the Grand Canal. Three elegant rooms with a charming blend of antique furniture & contemporary features and a charming outdoor courtyard, perfect for evening drinks. A great base for a city break - owners have lots of local knowledge. See More

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  • Palazzo Venart Venice (Santa Croce) 18 rooms from AU$841

    
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    City Style  -  Having undergone an extensive restoration, this hotel boasts many original features of the 16th-century palazzo

    Romantic Break  -  The Grand Canal setting, cosy hotel bar and gourmet restaurant make this hotel the perfect romantic getaway

    Foodies  -  Foodies will swoon at the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, headed by chef Enrico Bartolini

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby Basilica dei Frari, an imposing, Gothic-style church built in the 1330s

    

    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    This five-star hotel occupies a 16th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal. Restored frescoes and marble fireplaces adorn the building. Suites boast wooden floors, period furniture and hand-selected artworks; the best have Grand Canal views. Don't miss the Michelin-starred restaurant; luxury defined. See More

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  • Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo Venice (Santa Croce) 10 rooms from AU$212

    
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    Value chic  -  Reasonably priced classic Venetian rooms, filled with antique furnishings and fine fabrics, with a charming central courtyard

    Romantic Break  -  The hotels suite comes with canopied bed, Murano chandeliers, balcony overlooking the canal and whirlpool bath!

    Great walks  -  Venice is a great city for wandering, explore the narrow cobbled lanes and alleys

    Sights nearby  -  A ten minute walks brings you to Venice's oldest and most famous bridge, Rialto

    

    Recommended by  -  Fodors

    Small but oozing character, this privately owned hotel offers two floors of traditional bedrooms in well-located setting for city explores. The charming rooms have 18th Century furniture overlooking a pretty and private courtyard. An intimate, romantic find in the heart of the city. See More

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Written by Edmund Wise

posted Wednesday, 14th August 2024