This luxurious 22-room boutique is housed in a centuries-old palace located along the Grand Canal, near the main train station in Venice. Decadent rooms have modern amenities including flat-screen TVs and comfortable beds, but the use of rich patterns in gold and blues, the classic artwork on the walls, and the Rococo-style furniture might be a bit too much to some. Rooms facing the canal have better views (though some have small windows), but those overlooking the lovely square are quieter. Though location is convenient for those arriving to Venice by train, the hotel is a 25-minute walk from Piazza San Marco, and it lacks a full restaurant.

The Hotel Antiche Figure is a charming mid-range boutique option in Santa Croce, a calm neighborhood near the train station that's removed from the tourist sights. The 22 rooms are all spacious and stately (if not luxurious) with crystal chandeliers; some have balconies with fantastic views of the Grand Canal, while others have views of a brick wall. Modern touches include flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Upscale bathrooms have marble tile, towel warmers, and bidets; many have shower/tub combos, but some have walk-in showers that can spill water onto the bathroom floor. Hotel amenities are few: just a breakfast room, communal terrace, and bar.