Hotel Bel Sito

Open since 1920, this hotel has plenty of historic charm from top to bottom -- in fact, depending on your style, there might just be too much charm. The lobby sets the tone for a stay here, with its exposed-beam ceiling, rich wallpaper, and traditional rugs atop tile flooring. Furniture consists mostly of antiques, and red-carpeted stairs lead up to the second floor. Upholstered sofas and chairs provide places for guests to hang out inside, and they also can sit at the cafe tables and chairs out front, or in the lovely internal courtyard. The atmosphere here is quiet and peaceful, which is a blessing given its central location near Piazza San Marco. It's most popular with couples, but it also draws some families and small groups. 

This hotel is conveniently located across from Santa Maria del Giglio church, and a five-minute walk from St. Mark's Square. The area is among the most elegant and beautiful in the city, with many luxury hotels, upscale restaurants, and designer boutiques in every direction. Water taxi stops are nearby, and guests can walk to the Rialto Bridge in about 12 minutes on foot. By using the water taxis, the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is a five-minute trip, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is just eight minutes away (including some walking). Budget at least an hour to reach Marco Polo Airport by a combination of boat and taxi.

Rooms are decorated in a traditional 18th- or 19th-century Venetian style, with antique furniture, rich wallpaper and drapery, crystal chandeliers, and old-style patterned bedspreads. Some guests may consider them elegant, while others will no doubt find them old-fashioned. Even so, they do look well-kept, which is a nice change of pace from some of the quote-unquote historical properties in the area, where antique is a code word for old and worn. The rooms are mostly on the small side, though that's typical in Venice. Modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, laptop-sized safes, and free Wi-Fi. Unfortunately, there's no kettles or coffeemakers, and mini-fridges are only available with upgrades. Bathrooms are up-to-date and come with bidets, towel warmers, hairdryers, and toiletries; most have stall showers but some include shower/tub combos. We recommend opting for rooms that have views of Santa Maria del Giglio church for something a bit more atmospheric.

Like most of its mid-range competition, features here are limited. A free breakfast buffet is served daily in an elegant breakfast room, or guests can opt to dine in the internal courtyard when the weather is nice. It's a lovely space with Venetian statues and many lush plants. Food options are fairly numerous and include hot and cold dishes, though lunch and dinner aren't available. There's also a cozy bar area with red chairs, rugs, and wallpaper. Groups can reserve space for meetings and social events. A private landing point is just a short walk from the hotel, making airport transfers easy (if expensive). Pets are welcome for free and get their own bed and bowl. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.