Where To Stay in Venice: 7 Best Areas (& Hotels)

Are you planning a city break in Venice and looking for where to stay? Here is a complete guide to the 7 best neighbourhoods in the Floating City, with the top sustainable hotels in each area.

Venice, a city of timeless beauty in Italy, is a destination that perfectly combines history, art and romance amid a network of winding canals. In this guide, you will uncover the hidden gems, cultural highlights and picturesque corners that make each neighbourhood unique. 

From the vibrant energy of San Marco to the authentic charm of Cannaregio, each district offers a unique Venetian experience. Whether you seek the grandeur of iconic landmarks or the tranquillity of lesser-known quarters, the city has something for everyone.

My partner Matt and I had the chance to stay in San Polo for a short city break, centrally located yet away from the noise – the perfect base for exploring its best attractions. But wherever you decide to stay, Venice is a compact city, and everything is easily accessible on foot, so do not worry too much. 

So are you ready? Let’s dive into the 7 best areas and eco-friendly hotels to stay in Venice, whether you are staying for one night, a weekend or a week.

My Venice experience:  
Duration 6 Days  
Dates visited Dec 29 - Jan 03  
Season Winter
Where I stayed San Polo

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Overview: the 7 best neighbourhoods in Venice

1. San Marco: the best area for first-time visitors
2. Dorsoduro: the best area for art lovers
3. San Polo: the best area for couples
4. Santa Croce: the best budget-friendly area
5. Cannaregio: the best area for local vibes
6. Castello: the best area for history buffs
7. Giudecca: the best area for families

Looking for the perfect Venice itinerary? Check out this article:
3 Perfect Days in Venice, Italy: Complete Itinerary

Top areas to stay in Venice – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Where to stay in Venice: 7 best areas

In this article, you will also find the best things to do, what to see and the top green hotels in each location. I selected these accommodations by researching on ETIC Hotels, Ecobnb and bookdifferent, and by carefully reading their website and looking for green certification.

However, I understand these hotels are not the cheapest and the most budget-friendly places to stay in Venice, but they are the most eco-friendly. Unfortunately, mixing the two is not always easy, and I have tried to select accommodations that focus on making a difference whilst being affordable. If you have any other suggestions, please let me know in the comments below 🙂

1- San Marco: the best area for first-time visitors

San Marco is where the tourist heart of Venice beats, the most famous and most visited district of the city. Therefore, this neighbourhood is your go-to if you want to be right in the middle of the action, perfect for all first-time visitors.

There you will find the following iconic landmarks:

• St. Mark’s Basilica which embodies the spiritual and material heritage of Byzantium.
• Doge’s Palace which represents a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
• St. Mark’s Campanile, an imposing 99-meter-high square tower.
• Torre dell’ Orologio, a building representative of genuine Venetian architecture.

Take some time to stroll around St. Mark’s Square, the main public square of Venice and its religious, political and social centre, and sit at a café across the Piazza to indulge in a cup of espresso as you watch people passing by. 

You can also take a leisurely walk along the Grand Canal. Measuring 4 kilometres long, it is the largest and most significant canal in the Venetian canal network and divides the city in half. 

Alternatively, if you want to explore the city and its picturesque bridges by water, you can hop on a water bus, a Vaporetto or the more expensive yet more romantic means of Gondola. One of the most notable bridges you will encounter is the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri).

San Marco is undoubtedly the best place to stay in Venice, but keep in mind that rates can get high with lots of crowds, so I recommend comparing and booking your room in advance.

On the other hand, if the neighbourhood is within your budget, you will have everything worth seeing within walking distance and the widest range of shops, cafés, restaurants and ice-cream parlours in Venice around you.

BEST GREEN HOTELS IN SAN MARCO

2- Dorsoduro: the best area for art lovers 

For a more relaxed and bohemian atmosphere, stay in Dorsoduro. It is one of the largest districts of Venice and is home to the Ca Foscari University of Venice. Filled with students, this neighbourhood has a young and vibrant vibe, full of modest eateries, indie shops and vintage fashion boutiques, especially around Campo Santa Margherita.

If you are an Aperol Spritz lover, you will certainly find your place in this area since it is the ideal choice for enjoying an aperitif on one of the terraces of the Fondamenta delle Zattere at Ponte Longo. The Fondamenta is a 1.7 km long dock, paved in 1516, overlooking the Giudecca island, and is best loved for sunny leisurely strolls.

Other notable attractions of this artistic district include:

• Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, a stunning Roman Catholic Church.
• Ca’Rezzonico Palace, a unique example of Venetian baroque architecture that houses an art museum with paintings of famous Venetian artists like Francesco Guardi and Giambattista Tiepolo.

And if you want to indulge more in art, do not miss the Accademia Gallery, one of the most important art galleries in the world, and the famous Peggy Guggenheim Collection at the Homonym Museum. Book your tickets preferably online to select the time slot for your visit.  

In addition, the Dorsoduro district stands out for its lively nightlife and offers cheaper accommodation without being far from the city centre, as you only need to cross one bridge to be in San Marco. For this reason, it is the ideal choice for travellers who enjoy partying on a budget.

So, grab your favourite flavoured ice cream, wander along the canals and soak up the vibrant cultural scene that Dorsoduro exudes. Think of your time there as if you were stepping into a Venetian painting.

BEST GREEN HOTELS IN DORSODURO

3- San Polo: the best area for couples

San Polo is one of the cosiest neighbourhoods in Venice, perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway! Nestled in the heart of the city, it is surrounded by the picturesque Grand Canal, Dorsoduro and Santa Croce (more on the latest will follow). 

However, despite its central location, it is less touristy and embodies the culinary paradise of the city with its bustling Rialto market, cosy Bacari (wine bars) and some of the best Cicchetti in town. As a result, San Polo is an excellent choice for foodie lovers looking to eat their way through Venice and savour traditional Italian flavours.

You can delight your taste buds with local Venetian dishes at the markets, where trendy open-air eateries provide the perfect setting to enjoy a glass of Prosecco with your partner. You will also have the chance to stroll among the beautiful fish, fruit and vegetable stalls between the old and new Venice. 

In addition, the charming streets and squares of San Polo offer a mix of historical monuments and hidden gems, making it a captivating area to discover the essence of Venice. 

For example, you will be rewarded with visits to the iconic Rialto Bridge, the oldest yet busiest bridge of the Grand Canal, built in 1591, and the San Giacomo di Rialto Church, often considered the oldest operating church in the city. 

A stroll to Campo San Polo, the second-largest square in Venice and one of the most popular carnival locations, also offers a pleasant escape from everyday life. Finally, do not miss the Basilica dei Frari, home to masterpieces by Titian and other Renaissance artists.

Lodging in this district will provide you with easy access to the main landmarks of the city combined with moderate accommodation rates. Plus, whether you are a gastronomy lover, a couple, or wish to avoid the noise of the other budy neighbourhoods, San Polo is hands down your place to stay in Venice.

BEST GREEN HOTELS IN SAN POLO

4- Santa Croce: the best budget-friendly area

Santa Croce is a slightly off-the-beaten-track area with a fantastic local vibe. Thanks to its location and connectivity as a transportation hub, it is the ideal place to stay in Venice if you have less time or are on a budget. It includes Piazzale Roma, where you will find the bus station and car parks, making it a perfect gateway for visitors arriving by bus or car. 

The area is also lively, with many tourist attractions. On the Grand Canal, you will come across the fascinating Museo di Storia Naturale di Venezia (Natural History Museum of Venice), located within the Fondaco dei Turchi. This museum houses a range of exhibitions related to natural history, including geological specimens, fossils and zoological collections.

Here are other lesser-known attractions worth visiting:

• Church of San Giacomo dell’Orio, a charming and historic church dating back to the 9th century.
• Palazzo Ca´ Pesaro, which showcases contemporary art and Asian decorative arts.

Additionally, Santa Croce is home to the Campo San Giacomo dall’Orio, a square with nearby streets full of traditional Venetian establishments and casual eateries serving international cuisine. Most appealing to students and younger tourists, it is best known for its seafood dishes and the local aperitif bar, Cicchetti.

You guessed it, Santa Croce is one of the best historic neighbourhoods in Venice where accommodations are cheaper. So, if your budget is limited, you will love this location for a more authentic and laid-back experience compared to some of the more tourist-heavy areas in the city.

BEST GREEN HOTELS IN SANTA CROCE

5- Cannaregio: the best area for local vibes

Cannaregio, the northernmost district in Venice, is a quieter neighbourhood yet one of the most popular places to stay, known for its diverse atmosphere and local charm. It features picturesque canals, narrow streets and historic buildings, the perfect way to immerse yourself in traditional Venetian culture.

Located a 20-minute walk from San Marco Square, you will be close to the action whilst escaping the tourist hustle and enjoying a more authentic travel experience.

Here are some significant cultural sites you should not miss:

• Jewish Museum, offering a thorough exploration of the history and culture of the Jewish community.
• Jewish Ghetto, a historic district established in 1516 as the first ghetto in the world.
• Church of Madonna dell’Orto, a notable Gothic-style church known for its elegant architecture.
• Ca’ d’Oro palace, a stunning Venetian Gothic palace along the Grand Canal.

And for all the shopping lovers out there, have a look at Strada Nuova, a famous street filled with tourist shops, ideal for a walk combined with a shopping spree. You will also be delighted to pass through Calle Varisco, a street only 53cm wide, the narrowest in Venice. 

On the other hand, do not leave without sampling a fritoìn, a traditional Venetian street food made of fried seafood served in a paper cone. You can buy it from one of the several speciality vendors you will come across as you stroll down the Cannaregio alleys.

Finally, accommodation prices are lower in Cannaregio, offering a more tranquil and authentic experience, with a variety of local shops, traditional restaurants and a less touristy vibe, making it a favourite among residents and visitors seeking a quieter side of Venice.

BEST GREEN HOTELS IN CANNAREGIO

6- Castello: the best area for history buffs

Castello, a large and vibrant neighbourhood bordering St. Mark’s Square, is best suited if you are into historic charm without the crowds. With a blend of local life and rich heritage, it offers a captivating glimpse into both the contemporary and historical aspects of Venice.

The district is also known for its vast public park of Giardini della Biennale, which hosts the Venice Biennale, one of the largest contemporary art exhibitions scheduled every two years in Venice.

Other landmarks to add to your bucket list include:

• Church of San Zaccaria, a historic church known for its Renaissance and Gothic architecture.
• Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni, a historic building adorned with masterpieces by Carpaccio.

If you are interested in naval history, you will love exploring the Museo Storico Navale, where an impressive collection of historic gondolas, ship models and mercantile artefacts are on display.

And, of course, do not miss the Arsenale, a historic shipyard and naval complex representative of the shipbuilding heritage of the city currently used by the Italian army, along with the Biennale Gardens. 

Finally, although less touristy than other districts, except when the Biennale is on, Castello still has many bars, restaurants and shops, including the buzzing Via Garibaldi, one of the most commercial streets in Venice. There, you will find modern boutiques and artisan shops to suit all budgets and discover plenty of open-air markets selling traditional Venetian delicacies.

BEST GREEN HOTELS IN CASTELLO

7- Giudecca: the best area for families

Giudecca is a quiet island located opposite the San Marco district in the Venetian Lagoon, known for its residential character with a mix of traditional architecture and modern developments. It offers a more tranquil atmosphere compared to the bustling city centre, making it a popular choice for families with children seeking a more peaceful retreat. 

Giudecca is a laid-back haven away from the mainland crowds where you can enjoy charming strolls through waterfront markets and shops and savour the local way of life.

In addition, the island provides scenic views of the Venetian skyline, especially at sunset. And here are must-see landmarks:

• Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore, a magnificent Renaissance church designed by Andrea Palladio.
• Chiesa Della Zitelle, a Baroque church characterised by its elegant simplicity.
• Chiesa di Sant’Eufemia, a Roman Catholic church built in the 9th century.

Easily accessible by water with Vaporetto (waterbus) connecting it to the centre of Venice, this picturesque island has nothing to envy of the other Venetian districts. In fact, it will spoil you with exquisite eateries featuring fresh and daily-caught seafood, whilst wine enthusiasts will find unique wine shops scattered around to taste wine straight from the barrel.

BEST GREEN HOTELS on GIUDECCA

Want to make your trip more eco-friendly? Check out this article:
Sustainable Travel Guide to Venice, Italy

Venice travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Venice?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your city break to Venice stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.

💧 Can you drink the water in Venice?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Venice and is considered among the best in Italy. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in Venice?
Yes, renting a car in Venice is easy but only possible outside the city. It is a great way to explore the Veneto region freely or reach the Dolomites. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

🏨 How to book accommodation in Venice?
The best way to book your accommodation in Venice is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Venice?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Where to stay in Venice – FAQ

And you, where is your favourite place to stay in Venice? 
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie