Best hotels near the Arsenale
The Arsenale area of Venice - together with the Giardini Pubblici, and both in the eastern Castello - comes into its own during the Venice Biennale, the city’s international contemporary art and architecture show held in odd-numbered years. Other attractions in this area of the Castello include a maritime museum, San Pietro di Castello - the city’s cathedral when it was a Republic - and the beautiful 16th-century Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni. But If you want a ringside seat during the Biennale, choose one of the best hotels near the Arsenale.
In the 15th and 16th centuries, this area was the heart of the city’s maritime and military strength, home to the largest medieval shipyards in Europe and the base for around 300 shipping companies. By the end of the 18th century, however, when Napoleon took over the city, the wharves were largely destroyed, although it was rebuilt and used until WW1 by the Italian navy. The magnificent gateway, with its four Renaissance lions, remains.
Best hotels near the Arsenale
For great value
- Mid-way between San Marco and the Arsenale, the B&B San Marco is a simple, well-priced B&B with traditionally furnished, parquet-floor rooms all with canal views. Ask for the one with the balcony.
- An equally well-priced B&B, La Residenza has beautiful panelled public rooms with plasterwork ceilings while the nine bedrooms are elegant with white walls and baroque-style furnishings. Good for families.
For a quiet spot
- Another B&B midway between the Arsenale area and San Marco, Palazzo Soderini has a historic exterior and minimalist, designer interiors; airy, large and light. Overlooking a quiet square, it makes a peaceful retreat from the crowds.
For foodies
- Closer to San Marco, The Metropole is a good choice if you want a lagoon view and don’t mind a short walk to the action of the Biennale. This privately run hotel is littered with the family’s antiques collection, with rooms ranging from lavish to more traditional. A Michelin-starred restaurant, too.
The Venice Biennale is, naturally, tremendously popular so you need to book early to grab a room in one of the best Venice hotels near the Arsenale. Nothing here? Then widen the net and check out all our Venice recommendations, or contact a friendly guru for advice.
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La Residenza Venice (Castello) 18 rooms from £251
Local exploring - Well positioned for exploring set near San Marco Square and just a short distance from Riva degli SchiavoniTraditional - A restored period property filled with original features, antique furnishings, and 18th century paintingsHistoric - A prestigious 15th century Gritti-Badoer Palazzo that was once the home of a noble Venitian familyLocal markets - Visit the Rialto Fish Market
Check AvailabilityAn elegant historic residence set close to San Marco Square and the Arsenal. Gothic-Byzantine architecture remains the hallmark of its restored interiors - expect period furnishings and 18th-century paintings throughout the rooms. A great value choice for families, friends or couples. See More
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Palazzo Soderini Venice (Castello) 4 rooms from £202
City Style - The period exterior belies the chic modern feel inside with contemporary art, bright rooms, and simple clean linesLocal exploring - A wonderfully quiet location, yet still all of Venice's highlights are easily accessible such as San Marco SquareSights nearby - A stone's throw from St Mark's Square and the the ornate Gothic Doge's PalaceMinimum Stay - Three night minimum stay
Check AvailabilityA 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
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Metropole Venice (Castello) 67 rooms from £404
Local exploring - This couldn't be a more central location set overlooking the Bacino di San Marco lagoon and with St Mark's Square within sight!Foodies - The Met Restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star and serves superb contemporary Italian dishes with a focus on local produceSights nearby - Steps away from the famous Plazza San MarcoViews - Choose a room with a lagoon view
Recommended by - Tablet, Frommers, Michelin Travel, FodorsCheck AvailabilityThe Beggiato family open their doors and antique collection to give guests Lagoon views, a luxurious stay and Michelin star dining. Rooms are unique with an eclectic mix of curios and collectables. Enjoy the rare Venetian garden, the memorable dining experience and the Oriental Bar. Romantic stay. See More
Written by Helen Pickles
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