Where to Stay in Venice (Best Places in 2026)

FIRST TIME IN VENICE

FIRST TIME IN VENICE

San Marco

San Marco is the easiest place to stay if it’s your first time in Venice. You’re right in the middle of everything, with landmarks like St Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge just a short walk away. It’s busy and a bit more expensive, but you can’t beat the location.

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ON A BUDGET

ON A BUDGET

Cannaregio

Cannaregio sits up in the north of Venice and feels a lot more laid-back and local. It’s a great shout if you’re trying to keep costs down, with better value places to stay and eat. Not cheap, but definitely more manageable than the centre.

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NIGHTLIFE

NIGHTLIFE

Dorsoduro

Dorsoduro is a great pick if you want somewhere with a bit more life in the evenings. It’s got an artsy, laid-back feel, with plenty of bars and student spots that make it one of the livelier areas at night. Not full-on partying, but definitely the best balance Venice has.

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COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

Castello

Castello is the biggest district in Venice and feels a lot more local and laid-back. It’s one of the coolest areas if you want something quieter and less polished, but still close enough to everything.

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FOR FAMILIES

FOR FAMILIES

San Polo

San Polo is one of the oldest and most central parts of Venice, right in the middle of everything. It’s a great option for families as you’ve got the main sights, restaurants and shops all within easy walking distance. Busy, but really convenient.

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Venice is one of those places that feels like it hasn’t really changed in hundreds of years, but in the best way! It’s all canals, little squares, and buildings that look like they’ve just always been there. You can literally wander for hours and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface, and you’re never far from some of the spots you’ll probably want to see, like St Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal.

It’s also way more spread out than people expect. The city is made up of over 100 small islands linked by hundreds of bridges, and each neighbourhood definitely has its own feel. You can be in the middle of the crowds one minute, then somewhere much quieter a few turns later.

When I went, I didn’t stick to just one area. I ended up dipping in and out of places like San Marco, Dorsoduro and Cannaregio, and that mix is what made the trip. Some days I wanted the busy, iconic bits, other times I just wanted somewhere a bit calmer to wander and stop for a drink.

Whether you’re in Venice for a quick weekend or a bit longer, getting your base right makes everything easier and way more enjoyable.

Right, let’s get into it and find your perfect base in Venice… andiamo!

1. San Marco – Where to stay for your first time

If it’s your first time in Venice, I’d say San Marco is the easiest place to base yourself. It’s the main hub of the city, and pretty much everything you’ll want to see is right on your doorstep. You’ve got St Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and a load of other classic spots you’ll want to tick off, all within walking distance, which just makes life simple.

It’s definitely the busiest area, and probably the most expensive, but that’s kind of the trade-off. If you’re wondering whether Venice is pricey, this is where it stops being a question. But, you’re right in the middle of it all, which is ideal if you don’t want to spend your time figuring out boats and directions. I found some of the best Airbnb options around here, and let’s be honest, it’s one of those places where it feels a bit of a shame to book a standard hotel when you could stay somewhere with real Venetian character.

Even just wandering around San Marco is totally worth it. The architecture is seriously impressive, and you don’t really need a plan; you just explore and see where you end up. Being close to the Grand Canal also makes it really easy to get around to other parts of the city.

• Best For: First-time visitors, short trips, seeing the main sights.
• The Vibe: Busy, iconic, a bit chaotic but in a good way
• Proximity to Airport: Easy enough, around 30–60 mins depending on water taxi or bus + vaporetto.
• Transport Level: Very well connected, you can walk most places and hop on boats easily.
• Budget: Higher, you’re paying for the location.
• Crowds: Busy pretty much all the time, especially around the main sights.

Top Things to Do in San Marco

1. Experience the magic of the Carnival of Venice if you’re visiting at the right time
2. Skip the lines at Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica with a hosted visit and audioguide, with the option to add terrace or Bell Tower access.
3. Cross the Rialto Bridge at least once (it’s busy, but worth it).
4. Head up St Mark’s Campanile for some of the best views over the city.
5. Get a gelato from Suso Gelatoteca, it’s popular for a reason!
6. Do the classic gondola ride (yes, it’s touristy, still worth it).
7. Take a sunset walking tour and get a feel for the food, history and culture of Venice as you go.
8. Spend some time just taking it all in around St Mark’s Square.
9. Have a Bellini at Harry’s Bar if you fancy it (just be prepared for the price!!).

Best Hotel: Hotel Al Codega

Hotel Al Codega is a great option in San Marco if you want to be right in the middle of everything. You’re within easy walking distance of the main sights, with loads of places to eat and wander nearby. The rooms are spacious, clean and comfortable, and there’s a decent breakfast included too.

Best Hotel: Novecento Boutique Hotel

This boutique hotel is a really solid option in San Marco if you want something a bit more stylish without going over the top. You’re a short walk from the main sights, including the Grand Canal, and it’s small enough to feel a bit more personal. The rooms are simple but done really nicely, and comfortable enough for a relaxed stay.

Best B&B: Ca’ dei Fuseri

This charming B&B is in a really central spot, just a short walk from St Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal, with loads of places to eat and drink right nearby. It’s one of those places that feels like good value for the location, and being set in a refurbished palace gives it a bit more character than your standard stay. It’s simple, comfortable, and a nice little escape from the busy streets outside.

Best Airbnb: CANAL VIEW – San Marco

This cosy apartment is a great option for one or two couples if you want somewhere a bit more private and relaxed. You’re about a 10-minute walk from St Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge and Doge’s Palace, but just far enough out to escape the crowds.

It’s comfortable, has a bit of character, and feels like a nice place to come back to after a full day out exploring.

2. Cannaregio – Where to stay in Venice on a budget

Cannaregio sits up in the north of Venice and feels noticeably more laid-back than the main tourist areas. It’s one of the biggest districts in the city, and a lot more local, so you get a bit of breathing room from the crowds and a better sense of everyday Venetian life.

If you’re trying to keep costs down, this is probably your best bet. It’s not “cheap” (it’s still Venice), but you’ll generally get much better value here than in places like San Marco. There’s a good mix of hostels, apartments and smaller hotels, which makes it a solid choice for backpackers or anyone travelling on more of a budget.

It’s also a really practical base, you’re close to the main train station, so arrivals and day trips are much easier, and you can still walk into the busier parts of the city without much effort.

• Best For: Budget travellers, backpackers, longer stays.
• The Vibe: Local, laid-back, less polished but more authentic.
• Proximity to Airport: Easy, around 20–40 mins depending on route (train/bus + vaporetto or water bus).
• Transport Level: Very good, close to the main train station and well connected by boats.
• Budget: Better value for Venice, but not “cheap”.
• Crowds: Quieter than central areas, but still lively in parts.

Top Things to Do in Cannaregio

1. Enjoy an afternoon spritz at Al Parlamento.
2. Take a pasta and tiramisu cooking class at a local restaurant, learn the recipes, and enjoy a glass of wine while you’re at it
3. Grab something quick (and really good) from Art Della Pizza.
4. Explore the Venetian Ghetto, the oldest of its kind in the world.
5. Pick up a gelato from Gelateria Ca’ d’Oro.
6. Take a look inside Santa Maria dei Miracoli
7. Visit Ca’ d’Oro for art and views over the canal.
8. Step inside Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta detta I Gesuiti.
9. Walk across Ponte dei Tre Archi.
10. Take a guided walking tour and learn more about the city as you go, including spots like the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square.

Best Hotel: Foscari Palace

This four-star hotel is a great base for exploring Venice, with plenty of sights, restaurants and shops right nearby. The rooms are comfortable and well set up, with extras like air con and spa baths, and there’s a restaurant, lounge bar and rooftop terrace if you want to stay in for the evening.

Best Alternative Hotel: Al Mascaron Ridente

This three-star hotel is a good option if you’re travelling on more of a budget but still want to be in a central spot. The rooms are modern, spacious and have everything you need, and you’ve got plenty of places to eat, drink and explore right on your doorstep.

Best Hostel: We_Crociferi

This incredible hostel is our pick for where to stay in Cannaregio. It is a short walk from the centre of the city as well as Venice’s top tourist attractions. Housed in a renovated 12th-century convent, this hostel oozes history and charm. It has comfortable beds, a spacious common room, laundry facilities and is air conditioning for the warm summer days.

Best Airbnb: Amazing Low-Budget Apartment

If you’re trying to keep costs down in Venice, places like this are a great find. It’s a simple apartment in a really good location, with everything you actually need, a comfy bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and even a washing machine.

It’s not fancy, but that’s kind of the point. You’re paying less than you would for a hotel, and getting a bit more space and flexibility, which makes a big difference, especially if you’re staying a few nights.

3. Dorsoduro – Best area to stay in Venice for nightlife

Dorsoduro has a really different feel to the rest of Venice, and I actually ended up liking it way more than I expected. It’s a bit quieter, a bit more artsy, and just feels more relaxed compared to the main tourist areas.

If you’re looking for somewhere with a bit of life in the evenings, this is probably your best bet. It’s not big clubs or anything like that, but there are loads of good bars and places to drink, especially around the student areas, so it just feels a bit more lively at night.

I found it’s a really nice balance. You can spend the day wandering, popping into galleries or just walking along the canals, and then head out for drinks without having to go far.

• Best For: Nightlife, couples, a slightly more relaxed stay.
• The Vibe: Artsy, laid-back, a bit more local with a student feel.
• Proximity to Airport: Easy enough, around 30–50 mins depending on route (bus + vaporetto or water bus).
• Transport Level: Good, walkable and well-connected by boats.
• Budget: Mid-range, generally better value than San Marco.
• Crowds: Busy in parts, especially near bars and main sights, but quieter overall.

Top Things to Do in Dorsoduro

1. Take a look at Santa Maria della Salute, one of the most recognisable churches in Venice.
2. Browse the galleries at Gallerie dell’Accademia.
3. Walk out to Punta della Dogana for great views.
4. Catch live music at Venice Jazz Club.
5. Look up inside San Pantalon (the ceiling is unreal).
6. Book a sunset lagoon cruise with live jazz and a contemporary art exhibition on board, a really different way to spend an evening in Venice
7. Treat yourself to dinner at Ristorante Riviera.
8. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
9. Grab cocktails at Chet Bar.
10. Swap the bars for an after-hours visit to St Mark’s Basilica; it’s a completely different experience once the crowds are gone
11. End the night at Café Noir, a popular local spot.

Best Budget Hotel: Hotel Nani Mocenigo Palace

This four-star hotel is a great base in Dorsoduro, with plenty of restaurants, bars and sights right nearby. It’s got all the essentials covered, including a concierge, luggage storage and a coffee bar, so it’s an easy, comfortable option for your stay.

Best Hotel: Pensione Accademia – Villa Maravege

This pensione is in a lively part of Dorsoduro, within easy walking distance of great bars, restaurants and some of the main sights. It’s got a really nice garden, which feels like a bit of a bonus in Venice, and staff are around 24/7 if you need anything. The rooms are simple but well set up, and some have really good views over the city.

Best Hostel: Dimora Il Veliero Romantico

This hostel might look pretty simple at first, but it’s actually a really solid option. It’s in a great location, close to a lot of the main sights, as well as plenty of bars, cafés and places to eat.

It’s best if you’re planning to be out exploring most of the time, but it does the job well. With loads of strong reviews, it’s a reliable choice if you’re after something affordable and well-located.

Best Airbnb: Amazing Canal View Venice Apartment

This modern apartment is in a great spot near one of Venice’s main squares, with a really good canal view. It’s set in a more local-feeling area, so you’re slightly away from the busiest parts but still close enough to everything.

There are two bedrooms, so it works well for up to four people, and the kitchen is well-equipped if you want the option to cook. It’s also surprisingly quiet, with lots of natural light coming through the big windows, which makes it a really comfortable place to stay.

4. Castello – Coolest place to stay in Venice

Castello is the largest district in Venice and stretches from near the Rialto Bridge all the way out towards the Venetian Arsenal and the Giardini della Biennale. It feels noticeably more relaxed than the central areas, especially the further east you go.

What I liked about Castello is that it still feels properly local. You’re not surrounded by crowds the whole time, and it’s one of the few places in Venice where things open up a bit, especially around the Giardini, which gives it a completely different feel.

It’s also where you’ll find parts of Venice’s art scene, with the Biennale based here, so there’s a slightly more creative, under-the-radar vibe to it.

If you’re looking for somewhere that feels a bit less polished but still has great food, bars and plenty to do, this is a really solid option.

• Best for: A more local stay, couples, returning visitors.
• The vibe: Laid-back, slightly under-the-radar, less polished but more authentic.
• Proximity to airport: Moderate, around 40–60 mins depending on route (water bus or bus + vaporetto).
• Transport level: Decent, but a bit more spread out so expect to walk more.
• Budget: Mid-range, often better value than central areas.
• Crowds: Quieter overall, especially the further east you go.

Top Things to Do in Castello

1. Wander along Via Garibaldi, one of the liveliest streets in Venice.
2. Book a private photoshoot and get some great shots around the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge to take home with you
3. Visit the Basilica of Santi Giovanni e Paolo.
4. Step inside Scuola Grande di San Marco.
5. Spend some time in the Giardini della Biennale.
6. Visit Palazzo Grimani for art and architecture.
7. Take a walking tour of the eastern side of Venice and explore spots like the Church of the Pietà, Riva degli Schiavoni and the Venetian Arsenal.
8. Walk along the waterfront at Riva degli Schiavoni.
9. Grab fresh pasta from Baci & Pasta.

Best Budget Hotel: Foresteria Valdese Venezia

This is a really good budget option for Venice, especially considering how hard it is to find private rooms at this price. It’s well reviewed, and breakfast is included, which is always a bonus.

The single rooms come with shared bathrooms, while the doubles have private ones if you want a bit more comfort. It’s also in a quieter part of the city, but still within walking distance of the main sights.

Best Hotel: Hotel Le Isole

Hotel Le Isole is a great three-star option in a really central spot, close to St Mark’s Basilica as well as plenty of restaurants, bars and shops. It’s a more contemporary stay, with a coffee bar, free WiFi and an on-site restaurant. The rooms are simple, elegant and have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Best Hostel: Residenza Campo Ruga

Residenza Campo Ruga is a great apartment option in Castello, within easy reach of Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Basilica and St Mark’s Square. It’s close enough to the main sights, but still in a quieter part of the city.

The apartment has one bedroom, a separate living space and a fully equipped kitchen, so it works well if you want a bit more room and flexibility. There’s also air con, which makes a big difference in the warmer months.

It’s a simple, comfortable base with everything you need for a few nights in Venice.

Best Airbnb: Apartment in Centre of Venice!

This apartment has a bit more personality than your standard stay, with a mix of modern and vintage touches throughout. It sleeps up to four thanks to the pull-out beds, so it works well if you’re travelling as a group.

You’re also just a short walk from St Mark’s Square and the main sights, which makes it really convenient for exploring. It’s a fun, comfortable option if you want somewhere a little different.

5. San Polo – Best area to stay in Venice for families

San Polo is one of the oldest and most central parts of Venice, right near the Rialto Bridge and within easy walking distance of the main sights. It’s a busy area, but that’s part of the appeal, you’ve got loads of restaurants, cafés and shops all around you.

Italy in general feels very safe to travel around, and Venice is no different, which makes it an easy choice if you’re visiting as a family. Being based somewhere central like San Polo just makes things even simpler, especially if you don’t want to be dealing with too much walking or transport.

It can get crowded, especially during the day, but if you don’t mind a bit of buzz, it’s a really convenient base for exploring Venice.

• Best For: Families, central location, short stays.
• The Vibe: Busy, lively, slightly hectic but full of character.
• Proximity to Airport: Easy enough, around 30–50 mins depending on route (bus + vaporetto or water bus).
• Transport Level: Very good, central and easy to get around on foot.
• Budget: Mid to high, you’re paying for the location.
• Crowds: Busy, especially around the Rialto Bridge.

Top Things to Do in San Polo

1. Stop by San Giacomo di Rialto, often said to be one of the oldest churches in the city.
2. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, known for its scale and impressive interiors.
3. Browse the stalls at the Rialto Market for fresh produce and local snacks.
4. Paint your own Venetian carnival mask in a hands-on workshop led by a local artisan, a really fun one to do with kids, and you get to take it home with you.
5. Pick up a Venetian mask from Peterpan Masks.
6. Check out the Museo Leonardo da Vinci for interactive exhibits.
7. Eat at Bacarretto Bistrot. Il Siciliano for something a bit different.
8. Book tickets for the Natural History Museum of Venice for an easy, family-friendly activity, with animals, fossils and a huge prehistoric crocodile skull to see
9. Stop for a quick slice at Pizza 2000.

Best Budget Hotel: B&B Exclusive

If you want to stay central without spending a fortune or booking a hostel dorm, B&B Exclusive is a really solid option. The rooms have a traditional Venetian feel, and it’s consistently well rated by guests.

There are a few different room types, from singles to family options, but most come with shared bathrooms, so it’s a bit of a middle ground between a hostel and a private stay.

Best Hotel: Locanda Sant’Agostin

This three-star hotel is a really convenient base for exploring Venice, with plenty of sights, restaurants and shops right nearby. The rooms are spacious, which works well if you’re travelling as a family, and everything is modern and comfortable. You’ve also got the basics covered like free WiFi, luggage storage and a ticket service, so it’s an easy, no-fuss option.

Best B&B: Alloggi B&b Allegri

Alloggi B&B Allegri is a really central option, within easy reach of St Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace and the Rialto Bridge. It’s a straightforward, comfortable base with everything you need for a short stay.

The rooms are simple, but well set up, all with private bathrooms, and there are options for larger groups, including quadruple rooms, which makes it a good pick for families. Breakfast is included, and there’s also a small coffee shop on site.

It’s not overly fancy, but it’s reliable, well-located, and easy.

Best Airbnb: Ca’ Neola-Centro Storico

This top-rated apartment is in a great central location, just a short walk from the Rialto Bridge. It’s been nicely refurbished, with a small balcony and a really comfortable setup throughout.

With two bedrooms and three beds, it works well for up to four guests, and there’s a bright, spacious kitchen if you want the option to cook. It’s a solid choice if you want somewhere central but still feel like you’ve got your own space.

Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Venice and where to stay.

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Venice really is one of those places that lives up to the hype. The history, the food, the setting… it all just works, and it’s one of those cities that sticks with you long after you’ve left. Whether you’re going for a quick trip or something a bit longer, it’s 100% worth it.

In this guide, I’ve broken down the five best areas to stay in Venice based on what you’re actually looking for. If you’re still not sure where to base yourself, here’s a quick recap of a couple of standout options.

We_Crociferi is my pick for the best hostel. It’s in Cannaregio, so you get a slightly more local feel, but still with plenty of places to eat, drink and explore nearby.

If you’re after something a bit more upscale, Hotel Le Isole in Castello is a great shout. It’s in a really good spot for getting around, with loads of bars, restaurants and sights within easy reach.