Venice's 16 Best Guesthouses

Magical, ethereal Venice is a supremely special place to stay. One of the things our Hotel Gurus recommend time and time again is that this is a place one should get lost amongst. Though we suggest you might leave a trail of something inedible in your wake, so you can find your way back to your lodgings… In Venice our Gurus also recommend considering a guesthouse stay. Venice is full of small guesthouses and B&Bs, and these conversions of townhouses and palazzos offer an opportunity for guests to experience a stay that’s a bit more authentically Venetian. Their list of Venice’s best guesthouses includes some extremely well priced rooms — to thwart the notion that Venice must be super expensive! — some extremely romantic ones, some rooms of family-sized proportions, gorgeously converted palazzos, and some real winners with wonderful water views.

For your First Time in Venice

• Opulent, romantic and traditional, Gio & Gio feels suitably Venetian, with its tapestries, oil paintings, antiques, heavy fabrics and gigantic beds. There are just three rooms and suites, our favourite has canal views and a Juliet balcony — it just cries out Venice! And you’re only a few streets from the Rialto and St. Mark’s Square.
• In the heart of the San Marco district, Locanda Fiorita is a Venetian townhouse with decor that blends 18th century style with 21st century comforts. There are ten rooms and suites, some more romantic than others, and some with private balconies, plus there’s a communal terrace which is gloriously sunny.
• Casin dei Nobili is a newly renovated, three room B&B in a beautiful old palazzo in historic Dorsoduro, a few blocks from the Grand Canal. The rooms are large and simply styled, with big new bathrooms and whirlpool bathtubs. There’s a communal terrace with river views, and a simple, light breakfast room. Two of the suites can be combined to make a large, family suite.

For Explorers

• Palazzo Soderini is a charming old palazzo with surprisingly slick and contemporary interiors. If you prefer white on white decor, clever lighting and sleek, design furniture, then this is the palazzo for you. The location is great, in a quieter, more residential part of Venice — you can tell by the prices in the local shops and restaurants — but it’s still only around 500 metres from the Bridge of Sighs, the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.
• Cima Rosa is a traditional Venetian palazzo dating from the 15th century, with wooden beams, marble statues in the courtyard garden, and views of the Grand Canal. There are just three rooms, all elegantly decorated in chic simple style. The Santa Croce neighbourhood is convenient for all the main sights, and the owners are very approachable and fonts of local knowledge.
• Ca del Nobile is a simple, comfortable B&B just two minutes' walk from the Piazza San Marco, and five from the Rialto. The six bedrooms feature wooden beams, antique and vintage furniture, exposed brick walls, and are decorated with creamy colours and heavy fabrics.

For Romantics

• Bloom & Settimo Cielo captures some of the opulence of old Venice, but without feeling staid or stuffy, yet also offers all the mod cons and beautifully big bathrooms — something you can’t always guarantee in Venice. The roof terrace has wonderful views: it’s the perfect spot to watch the mist unfurl in the mornings, or sit up here with your complimentary bottle of Prosecco at sunset.
• The Novecento is a chic, seductive B&B, with a hint of the orient in the decor and the smell of Marrakech in the air. Its nine rooms feel traditional and romantic, and the location is excellent, close to many of the main sights. A generous breakfast is served daily in a pretty courtyard.

For Palazzo Style

• The Palazzo Vitturi is one of the oldest palazzos in Venice, just a stones throw from the Piazza San Marco. Now a very spacious, very comfortable guesthouse, the decor has cleverly combined original frescoes, terazzo floors, vast windows and painted ceilings with contemporary soft furnishings and a pastel palette, to make it feel luxurious as well as historic. 16 rooms and suites complete with picture.
• Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo is an intimate hideaway with just 15 rooms, spanning two properties on either side of a canal. Traditional, and characterful, it’s also close to the San Stae vaporetto stop, and a great spot for exploring Venice on foot. There’s a courtyard garden, which some rooms look out upon, and is delicious in the summer. The decor is typically Venetian, with plenty of gilt and upholstered surfaces.

For Water Views

• The Residenza de L'Osmarin is a small and homely B&B with friendly hosts and just three rooms and a suite. All rooms have parquet floors, wooden beams, canal views, and lots of natural light, and the suite has a private roof terrace.

For Families

• Ca Della Corte is a typically Venetian townhouse turned B&B, with a collection of 11 rooms, suites and apartments. Amongst them the rooms have frescoes, private balconies, oil paintings and chandeliers; the apartments can sleep up to seven and have self catering facilities. There’s a beautiful communal courtyard, and a roof terrace too.
• La Villeggiatura is an elegant, but family-friendly B&B close to the Rialto. The friendly owners let just six rooms of this third floor apartment; all of them are different and include thoughtful touches and details, and lots of light. Breakfast is served in a big table in the sunny dining area.

For Luxury

• The GKK Exclusive Private Suites are a collection of six suites housed in an historic building overlooking the Grand Canal. The rooms are dressed with contemporary Venetian style, with damask style wallpaper and classically shaped furnishings. Our favourite rooms have fancy, free-standing bathtubs and pretty private terraces.
• Suite 735 is a stylishly decorated, four room B&B in the arty Dorsoduro neighbourhood. There’s something of a 50s feel to the shape of the furnishings, and you can still see the original features shining through. Breakfast is served on the pretty terrace.

For Great Value

• 3749 Ponte Chiodo is a small, friendly guesthouse in Cannaregio, which is a more residential, less touristy, part of Venice, about ten minutes stroll from the Rialto, and well placed for the railway station. There are just six rooms, all very Venetian, with slightly ornate details, and small bathrooms. The communal areas are very welcoming, and you can help yourself to a hot drink, fruit or cake any time of day. They serve breakfast at a large communal table, or in the garden.

Still not sure where to book?

• You could browse our recommendations for all the best places to stay in Venice
• or peruse our Venetian collections, including the Best Palazzo Hotels in Venice, the Best Hotels near San Marco, the best boutique hotels in Venice or the Most Luxurious Hotels in Venice
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

  • Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo Venice (Santa Croce) 10 rooms from CA$190

    
    See more photos
    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

    Check Availability

  • Novecento, Venice Venice (San Marco) 9 rooms from CA$278

    
    See more photos
    Romantic Break  -  This unique and charming hotel marries romance, style and unbeatable location to produce a perfect getaway for two.

    Local exploring  -  No better place in the world to wander, get lost and discover, just a short walk from St. Mark's Square.

    Artworks  -  Regular exhibitions featuring local and national artists.

    Local markets  -  Check out Rialto Market where you can get everything from artisan masks to the perfect cup of coffee.

    

    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Michelin Travel

    Seductive and chic b+b with oriental touches, very well located for shopping. Suits couples, dark and intimate, a short walk to the main sights. A breakfast fit for kings is served in the leafy courtyard. Quaint and utterly charming. See More

    Check Availability

  • La Villeggiatura Venice (San Polo) 6 rooms from CA$325

    
    See more photos
    Groups  -  A small guesthouse with warm hosts and homely communal spaces making it a good option as a base for a group travelling together

    Full of character  -  Rooms are packed full of character with frescos on the walls, polished wood floors, exposed wood beams, and beautiful fabrics

    City Style  -  Venetian style with a twist — think Persian rugs, bold fabrics, charming frescoes, pretty glass lamps and parquet floors

    Less £  -  During the mid- and low-season deals can make this a remarkably good-value option

    

    Recommended by  -  Fodors, Sawdays

    Stylish and elegant family-friendly B&B near the Rialto. Spacious and light rooms with original features and thoughtful touches. Helpful and friendly owners will make your stay as comfortable as possible. Breakfast is served in the dining room. Charming. See More

    Check Availability

  • 3749 Ponte Chiodo Venice (Cannaregio) 6 rooms from CA$176

    
    See more photos
    Local exploring  -  The untouristy Cannaregio area gives easy access to central Venice but also plenty of restaurants and sights to explore locally

    Value chic  -  Excellent value for money in the centre of Venice with rooms from as little as €120 including breakfast

    Sights nearby  -  Rialto Bridge is just 10 minutes' walk away, and all of Venice's highlights are within easy reach

    Views  -  Lovely views either over the garden or canals

    

    Recommended by  -  Fodors

    A small, simple and very friendly guesthouse in the attractive, and largely residential Cannaregio area of the city. Ten minutes walk from the Rialto and handily placed for the railway station and boats to Burano, Torcello and the airport. A cosy stay that's superb value for money. See More

    Check Availability

  • Ca della Corte Venice (Dorsoduro) 13 rooms from CA$249

    
    See more photos
    Groups  -  With self-catering apartments sleeping up to 7, this is a good option for small groups wanting to stay together

    Local exploring  -  You're right in the heart of it all here! Guests are given excellent local maps and plenty of local titbits

    Historic  -  A grand 16th century Venetian palace with period decor and a pretty internal courtyard

    Value chic  -  Expect classic Venitian style at a fraction of the price for a central city stay

    

    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    Classically Venetian B&B with rooms and apartments. Rooms are softly coloured and feature frescoes, private balconies, oil paintings, chandeliers and statues. Very characterful and great value for family or a group of friends. See More

    Check Availability

  • Bloom & Settimo Cielo Venice (San Marco) 6 rooms from CA$246

    
    See more photos
    Local exploring  -  Located within walking distance from the Grand Canal and the Accademia museum among many other major sights

    Traditional  -  Much of the original style remains including traditional tapestries, gilded mirrors, and rich brocades

    City Style  -  This is an undeniably cool property mixing elegant Venitian style with chic contemporary design

    Views  -  Fantastic views over the city from Bloom's roof terrace where free prosecco is also offered!

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Gorgeous boutique B&Bs - one B&B on each floor, but they share the same reception. Similarly opulent bedrooms in striking colours with rich fabrics. The roof terrace is a very special outpost with views over Venice which can be accompanied by a bottle of complimentary prosecco! Stylish and romantic. See More

    Check Availability

  • Palazzo Soderini Venice (Castello) 4 rooms from CA$341

    
    See more photos
    City Style  -  The period exterior belies the chic modern feel inside with contemporary art, bright rooms, and simple clean lines

    Local exploring  -  A wonderfully quiet location, yet still all of Venice's highlights are easily accessible such as San Marco Square

    Sights nearby  -  A stone's throw from St Mark's Square and the the ornate Gothic Doge's Palace

    Minimum Stay  -  Three night minimum stay

    

    A stylish contemporary B&B with a beautiful garden and breakfast terrace. Design conscious rooms have whitewashed walls, clever lighting and sleek furniture. Great value and very well positioned for exploring the city's main attractions. See More

    Check Availability

  • Gio & Gio Venice (San Marco) 3 rooms from CA$322

    
    See more photos
    Local exploring  -  An authentic Venitian home set just five minutes from St Mark's Square. A great base to explore the city on foot

    Groups  -  With just three rooms this is a perfect option for groups wanting to rent the whole thing out

    Romantic Break  -  For couples, pick the Junior Suite for its canal views and Juliet balcony

    Sights nearby  -  Close to St Mark's Square, the Fenice Theatre and the Grand Canal

    

    An opulent, romantic, and traditional B&B very close to St. Mark's Square. Rooms and suites have tapestries, oil paintings and gigantic sink-into beds. A romantic choice that's ideal as a convenient base to explore the city from. See More

    Check Availability

  • Residenza de l'Osmarin Venice (Castello) 3 rooms from CA$322

    
    See more photos
    Value chic  -  For the standard of the hotel and the location - this is a very reasonably priced stay

    Families  -  Suites can be rearranged to accommodate up to four people very comfortably

    Groups  -  With just three rooms this is a good option to rent out in its entirety

    Owner managed  -  Owner managed and very homely - this is an authentic Venetian stay

    

    A homely and elegant B&B with friendly hosts. Bedrooms (and the one suite) have parquet floors, lots of natural light and wooden beams. The suite has a private roof terrace. A great spot for families or groups, and excellent value too. See More

    Check Availability

  • Locanda Fiorita Venice (San Marco) 10 rooms from CA$219

    
    See more photos
    Local exploring  -  Set on a quiet ally a few steps off bustling campo Santo Stefano and within walking distance of Accademia Gallery and San Marco

    Families  -  Extra beds can be placed in several rooms or there are some side-by-side options that are a good choice for families

    Romantic Break  -  A romantic and charming getaway for two, with elegant suites, private balconies and a sunny terrace

    Value chic  -  Expect pared back Venetian style and very reasonable rates

    

    A charming B&B located in the heart of the Saint Marco district. The rooms are elegant and their 18th-century Venetian style gives a real sense of place without being overbearing. With a great location close to Piazza Saint Marco and the Accademia Gallery, it's a convenient and well-priced option. See More

    Check Availability

  • Cima Rosa Venice (Santa Croce) 6 rooms from CA$263

    
    See more photos
    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

    Check Availability

  • Hotel Palazzo Vitturi Venice (Castello) 16 rooms from CA$294

    
    See more photos
    Local exploring  -  Situated close to Piazza San Marco, this hotel is in a great location for sightseeing in Venice

    City Style  -  This historic hotel boasts many of the palazzo's original features, a beacon of Venetian style

    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the hotel's heritage feel and the attentive on-site staff

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, a vast, Gothic church filled with artworks

    

    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    This hotel occupies one of the oldest palazzos in Venice. Situated a stone's throw from Piazza San Marco, the building's original frescoes are complemented by modern soft furnishings in a regal palette. Start the day with breakfast overlooking Campo Santa Maria Formosa. An elegant boutique hotel. See More

    Check Availability

  • Ca del Nobile Venice (San Marco) 6 rooms from CA$290

    
    See more photos
    Local exploring  -  A Venetian residence, set just behind St. Mark's Square, meaning that many of the main attractions are within walking distance

    Short break  -  A simple but charming hotel that's centrally located making it a great option for a quick cultural getaway

    City Style  -  An 18th century palace with a stylish mix of traditional and modern decor

    Intimate  -  With just six guest rooms available this is an intimate city base

    

    A small and comfortable B&B in the heart of Venice. Central yet quiet, two minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square and five from the Rialto. Chic rooms mix traditional and modern designs with wooden beams, vintage furniture, & exposed brick walls. Understated charm, perfect for a quick city break. See More

    Check Availability

  • GKK Exclusive Private Suites Venice (San Polo) 6 rooms from CA$237

    
    See more photos
    Hideaway  -  Set within a cosy interior passage and with only 6 rooms, this B&B is a great hideaway hotel option

    City Style  -  With contemporary interiors inspired by Venetian style, this hotel makes a fashionable stay

    Romantic Break  -  Book the Grand Canal suite for romantic views over the canal from your own private terrace

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Santo Stefano church, an expansive, Gothic, 13th-century church known for its Renaissance paintings

    

    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    This cosy boutique hotel sits within a heritage building overlooking the Grand Canal. Rooms are dressed in a modern Venetian style, with patterned wallpaper and contemporary Italian furnishings. The most exclusive suites have a free-standing, designer bathtub and pretty private terrace. A chic stay. See More

    Check Availability

  • Casin Dei Nobili Venice (Dorsoduro) 3 rooms from CA$351

    
    See more photos
    Local exploring  -  The B&B is within walking distance of all of Venice's main attractions, as well as plenty of restaurants

    Romantic Break  -  The B&B prides itself on impeccable service and luxury rooms, making this ideal for a romantic break

    Families  -  Two of the suites can be combined into one for families

    Sights nearby  -  The B&B is located within Venice's historic centre, and is within short walking distance of all of the city's must-see sights

    

    This newly renovated B&B is situated in the heart of Venice's historic centre. Located in an ancient Venetian palace, it offers a luxurious and relaxing stay, within walking distance of Venice's main attractions. Each of the large, modern suites boast their own whirlpool, and breakfast is included. See More

    Check Availability

  • Suite 735 Venice (Dorsoduro) 4 rooms from CA$351

    
    See more photos
    City Style  -  The art deco style of this hotel sets it apart from most, and marries with the trendy district where it is located

    Families  -  The biggest suite can host up to four guests, perfect for a small family

    Local exploring  -  Perfecty placed for exploring the winding alleys of Venice on foot

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, a spectacular, domed, baroque church

    

    This boutique hotel is housed in a historic palazzo in the arty neighbourhood of Dorsoduro. The hotel has been renovated in an Art Deco style, with inspiration from aspects of traditional Venetian interior design and a 50s finish. Enjoy breakfast on the pretty hotel terrace. A stylish concept hotel. See More

    Check Availability

 

Written by Fiona Duncan

posted Monday, 15th August 2022