Are you looking for the best area where to stay in Venice ? Whether for a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a backpacking stay, you’ll find accommodations for every taste and budget. The only requirement is to book early, as the best addresses go quickly. But one thing is certain: your stay will be unforgettable. Few cities offer an experience as unique as the Serenissima.
Which neighborhood should you choose to be close to everything and explore easily ? Where can you find the cheapest accommodations with the best value for money ? I explain everything in this guide.
Where to stay in Venice : neighborhoods map
On the map below, I’ve highlighted the Venice neighborhoods where I recommend staying. These include San Marco, San Polo, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, Castello, and Santa Croce. The Giudecca district is located on a separate island, which means you’ll need to take the vaporetto every time to reach the tourist sites. I don’t really recommend it for staying in Venice.
San Marco : the most central area to stay in Venice
San Marco is the center of Venice, and most of the tourist attractions and museums are located here. It’s a prime location to be close to everything, and the district is home to magnificent palaces. But like all historic centers, there are many tourists and prices are high. It remains an excellent choice, especially if you’re staying in Venice for a short time and enjoy going out.
Advantages
- Close to major attractions : San Marco is the historic heart of Venice. By staying here, you’ll be just steps from St Mark’s Square, St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs.
- Prestigious atmosphere: this district is synonymous with luxury and elegance. You’ll find upscale hotels, designer boutiques, and fine dining restaurants.
- Lively nightlife : San Marco is also the center of Venetian nightlife, with many bars and clubs.
Disadvantages
- High prices : due to its popularity, San Marco is one of the most expensive areas to stay in Venice. Hotels, restaurants, and shops are generally more expensive.
- Crowds : it’s also the most touristy district, which means it can be very busy, especially during peak season.
Recommended accommodations
- 178 € : Ca’ Terlotta, this 50 m² apartment is one of the cheapest in the San Marco district while still receiving fantastic reviews. It is well equipped and well located between the Rialto and St Mark’s Square.
- 238 € : Ca Marta Venice, beautifully decorated in a clean white style, this 50 m² apartment can accommodate 2 to 4 people with its two bedrooms. The kitchenette allows you to cook when you don’t feel like going out.
- 244 € : Duodo Palace Hotel, a very central 4-star hotel offering beautiful double rooms and suites with views of the Grand Canal. Breakfast included is available.
San Polo : stay in Venice in an authentic district
The San Polo district is located on the opposite bank from San Marco. The two are connected by Venice’s most famous bridge, the Rialto Bridge. Unlike its neighbor, San Polo is more authentic and peaceful. It’s pleasant to stroll along the small canals away from the crowds. Tourist attractions are still within reasonable walking distance, and there are many places to go out. It’s a very good area to stay in Venice if you want to see its true face.
Advantages
- Venetian authenticity : San Polo is one of Venice’s most authentic districts. You’ll find picturesque alleys, historic churches, and local markets.
- Close to the Rialto : the famous Rialto Bridge and its market are located in this district, offering a unique shopping experience.
- Restaurants and bars : San Polo is home to many restaurants and bars where you can taste Venetian specialties.
Disadvantages
- Fewer accommodation options : although charming, San Polo offers fewer accommodation choices compared to other areas to stay in Venice.
- Less central : if you want to be at the heart of the action, San Polo is slightly more out of the way.
Suggested accommodations
- 123 € : Best Holidays Venice, for small budgets this is the most affordable address in the San Polo district. The hotel offers several types of rooms and is 200 meters from the Rialto Bridge.
- 188 € : San Polo Home, this 35 m² studio with a large bed is perfect for a couple of travelers who want to stay in Venice on the San Polo side. It is equipped with a full kitchen and is within good walking distance of the sights.
- 225 € : Glass House – Loft 2 minutes to Rialto Bridge & View, a great address, this loft can accommodate 2 to 4 people. Equipped with modern amenities, it even offers a view of the city.
Cannaregio : the district to live like a local
Located in the far north of the city, the Cannaregio district is quite far from the main attractions. You’ll need to use the vaporetti, which is a great opportunity for a charming ride along the Grand Canal. It’s a recommended area for those with a smaller budget who can’t stay in the historic center. Here you’ll encounter more locals than tourists, offering a true immersion in Venetian life.
Advantages
- Local atmosphere : Cannaregio is the most populated district in Venice, offering a real immersion in local life.
- Affordable prices : accommodations and restaurants are generally cheaper than in more touristy areas.
- Cultural attractions : you’ll find Europe’s first Jewish ghetto here, as well as many churches and museums.
Disadvantages
- Distance from main attractions : although charming, Cannaregio is a bit far from the main tourist attractions.
- Quieter at night : nightlife is less lively than in other districts.
Where to stay in Cannaregio ?
- 122 € : Al Portico Guest House, with its modern rooms, this is the cheapest address in the district while still having excellent reviews. You can choose between double rooms and apartments for 4 people.
- 147 € : Hotel Cannaregio 2357, this 3-star property offers different types of rooms well suited for a short stay in Venice. Well located on a shopping street.
- 230 € : Hotel Orsaria, the rooms in this 3-star hotel with typical décor will appeal to those who like traditional Venetian style. Triple and quadruple rooms are also available. Breakfast included in the price.
Dorsoduro : the bohemian district where to stay in Venice
Dorsoduro is known as an artists’ district with a bohemian atmosphere and many galleries. It is also home to the Gallerie dell’Accademia (a Venetian art museum), the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (dedicated to modern art), and Punta della Dogana (a contemporary art center). If your hotel is well located, you’ll enjoy superb views of the lagoon and the Grand Canal. To stay close to the main sights, it’s best to remain in the eastern part.
Advantages
- Bohemian atmosphere : Dorsoduro is known for its bohemian and artistic vibe, with many art galleries and artists’ studios.
- Stunning views : the district offers spectacular views of the Grand Canal and the lagoon.
- Cultural attractions : you’ll find the Gallerie dell’Accademia, the Peggy Guggenheim Museum, and the church of Santa Maria della Salute.
Disadvantages
- Fewer accommodation options : like San Polo, Dorsoduro offers fewer accommodation choices.
- Less central : it is slightly removed from the main tourist attractions.
Recommended accommodations
- 167 € : Appartamento Corte Bragadin, a fully equipped 45 m² apartment located on a quiet street along a canal. The small patio at the entrance adds character to the place.
- 202 € : Ca’ dei Carmini, this accommodation offers several types of apartments, some with a balcony or terrace. You’ll enjoy a lovely canal view while staying in a quiet neighborhood.
- 259 € : Ca’ Santo Spirito B&B, the charm of this bed and breakfast will win over any traveler. It is well located 200 m from a vaporetto stop to St Mark’s Square and 5 minutes from the Guggenheim Museum. The excellent breakfast is included in the price.
Castello : authentic and away from the crowds
The Castello district is quite large and is located in the east of the city. It’s an area to consider for staying in Venice if you’re looking for a quiet neighborhood with affordable prices. This is where you’ll find Venice’s former shipyard (used for exhibitions and cultural events) and Venice’s public gardens, where the contemporary art Biennale takes place.
Advantages
- Authenticity and tranquility : Castello is one of the most authentic and peaceful districts in Venice, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
- Close to the Biennale : if you visit Venice during the Biennale, Castello is the ideal district, as the Giardini and the Arsenale are located here.
- Affordable prices : accommodations and restaurants are generally cheaper than in more touristy areas.
Disadvantages
- Distance from main attractions : Castello is a bit far from the main tourist attractions.
- Quieter at night : nightlife is less lively than in other districts.
Where to stay in Castello ?
- 139 € : Alloggi Barbaria, a double room with breakfast included that will appeal to those on a tight budget for staying in Venice. Well located 10 minutes’ walk from St Mark’s Square.
- 163 € : Calle dei Preti, this 55 m² apartment with two separate bedrooms can accommodate 2 to 4 people, ideal for large families. Terrace surrounded by quiet gardens.
- 185 € : Venezia Arsenale Biennale, the terrace of this apartment overlooking a garden offers a pleasant and peaceful setting for breakfast or dinner (fully equipped kitchen). 900 meters from the Doge’s Palace.
Santa Croce : convenient for transport
Santa Croce is located north of San Polo and directly opposite the train station (after crossing the Grand Canal), where trains from all over Italy arrive. It is also next to Venice’s parking area where you’ll leave your car if you arrive in the Serenissima by car. Santa Croce is slightly removed from the historic center, but the atmosphere is more authentic and accommodations are cheaper.
Advantages
- Close to the train station : Santa Croce is convenient if you arrive or depart by train, as it is close to Venice Santa Lucia railway station.
- Local atmosphere : this district offers a true immersion in local life, with markets, churches, and picturesque alleys.
- Affordable prices : accommodations and restaurants are generally cheaper than in more touristy areas.
Disadvantages
- Fewer accommodation options : Santa Croce offers fewer accommodation choices than other districts.
- Less central : it is slightly removed from the main tourist attractions.
Recommended accommodations
- 150 € : Ca’ del Forner, one of the cheapest addresses in Santa Croce. The 70 m² apartment for 2 to 4 people is a great option for staying in Venice with family. It is well located and allows you to reach many sites on foot.
- 225 € : Hotel Arlecchino, the rooms of this 3-star hotel are decorated in Venetian style, and some have canal views. Close to the station and breakfast available.
- 248 € : Residence Poli Venezia, this large 40 m² modern-style studio has real character with its wooden beams. Well located on a very quiet street near restaurants and 4 minutes from a vaporetto stop.
Where to stay in Venice on a budget ?
To find cheap accommodation in Venice, you should look toward the city of Mestre, located on the mainland opposite Venice. From Mestre, you can reach Venice in 11 minutes by train, which will drop you off next to the Grand Canal (trains every 5 minutes).
Staying in Mestre is also a good option if you’re taking a road trip in Northern Italy and don’t want to pay for parking in Venice. In this case, I recommend choosing accommodation with private parking included. Even though Mestre is a good solution for staying in Venice cheaply, you won’t enjoy the same experience or the charm of the Serenissima. If your budget allows, it is strongly recommended to stay directly in Venice.
- 61 € : Venice -Mestre Rooms, this is about as cheap as it gets for staying in Venice while still having good reviews (rated fabulous). At this price, however, you’ll need to accept sharing the bathroom with other guests.
- 81 € : Marconi House, this accommodation in Mestre offers several types of double rooms with private bathrooms. Parking and a bus to Venice nearby.
- 87 € : Hotel Montepiana, this 2-star property located 400 meters from the station connecting to Venice will appeal to small budgets wanting hotel services. Free private parking.
How to reach your hotel from the airport ?
- Public boats : the company Alilaguna provides direct connections to Venice from the airport. There are 3 lines: the blue line passing through Murano and the Lido, the orange line passing along the Grand Canal and the Rialto, and the red line, which runs from April to October and passes through Murano, the Lido, then the city center. You can see the stops on the company’s website. Choose the line based on the location of your accommodation in Venice. The boat fare is the same on all lines. You can book your public boat transfer by clicking here (€17 one way and €29 round trip).
- Shared water taxi : this service drops you off at the dock closest to your hotel. It can be convenient if you have a lot of luggage and don’t want to walk too much. The boat is shared with a few other passengers and operates from 04:00 to midnight. Booking on this site (€37 one way).
- Airport bus to Venice : the bus from Venice Marco Polo Airport is the cheapest way to reach Venice. It will drop you off either at Piazzale Roma or at the Venice-Mestre station. You’ll then need to take the vaporetto to reach your hotel in Venice (I recommend taking the unlimited vaporetto pass directly). Book the airport bus to Venice on this site (€10 one way).
Conclusion on accommodations in Venice
Choosing where to stay in Venice depends on your personal preferences and your budget. If you want to be at the heart of the action and close to the main attractions, San Marco is the ideal choice. For a more authentic and affordable experience, opt for Cannaregio or Castello. If you prefer a bohemian and artistic atmosphere, Dorsoduro will certainly appeal to you. And for small budgets, choose accommodation in the city of Mestre, 11 minutes away by train.
But whatever your choice, Venice promises you an unforgettable stay, rich in history and culture. It’s a perfect destination for a romantic weekend, but also for a family trip. So pack your bags and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of the Serenissima !
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