The highlight of the historic Hotel Saturnia is its location on a busy shopping street in San Marco, just a short walk from the Piazza San Marco and important sights such as the Rialto Bridge. And the rooms are attractive -- with charming historic details such as wood beamed ceilings and mahogany headboards -- although there are some variations (particularly in the quality of the bathrooms) even between rooms of the same category. Though the hotel lacks a spa, fitness center, and pool, it still offers more amenities than many other Venice hotels, offering a top-notch restaurant, a rooftop terrace (complete with an outdoor shower), and free passes to a nearby gym.

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.

Walking into the Hotel Al Sole feels like something out of a Venice daydream. The 15th century building is infused with everything visitors to the city would expect, from the brick walls, to the charming courtyard, to the canal views. That being said, the rooms are nothing to fawn over (especially at their price): Generic bedspreads, cheap rattan furniture, and tiny flat-screen TVs are some of the low points. The stocked minibars and canal views are helpful in looking past these faults, though, as is the hotel's great location near Venice's popular sights.