One of the most loved – and beautiful – city destinations on the planet, Venice is an extraordinary city of marble, winding atmospheric streets, and cobbled squares filled with grand architecture all built on a lagoon!
Take an iconic ride on a gondola which glide through its famous winding waterways, get lost wandering around its beautiful streets, squares and bridges, take a fine al fresco lunch, catch an opera show, go designer boutique shopping or hire a boat and explore one of the many small surrounding islands.
To stay something as equally picturesque as the city itself, from chic gorgeous boutiques to grand and opulent, here are the best cool and unusual hotels in Venice, Italy (in no particular order)…
1. JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa – a stylish, trendy and unique accommodation perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway
This is a wonderful luxury hotel resorton its very own island with captivating views over the Venice Lagoon, bright airy rooms overlook the expansive grounds and guests can choose from a plethora of treatments in the JW Spa, probably the most comprehensive spa in the city.
For me what really sets this hotel apart is its take on sustainability which informs the whole dining experience. The hotel makes the most of the island’s rich soil, cultivating its own vegetable garden and a grove of 100 olive trees which enable the production of its very own Isola delle Rosa olive oil; guests can savour this at weekly tastings.
You can dine Al fresco at the Sagra Rooftop Restaurant, enjoy Michelin Starred Cuisine by chef Fabio Trabocchi in Fiola at Dopolavoro, or even relax with a “chic-nic” on the lawn! Wherever you choose dine you know exactly where many of your ingredients come from as you can see them growing all around you in this tranquil retreat just a short complimentary shuttle boat from the centre of Venice.
2. Hotel Indigo Venice – Sant’Elena, an IHG Hotel – a vibrant, Insta-worthy and fancy hotel filled with character and creativity
Experience the tranquillity of the Sant’Elena district with its friendly village vibe, tucked quietly away whilst keeping all the main attractions accessible.
It’s a beautiful hotel in a historic building which maintains its classic 1930’s charm, with deco features and finishes and delightful, comfortable and classy rooms set around their own courtyard.
After a long day you can relax and unwind on a lounger in the inner garden, sip an impeccable cocktail and process all the beauty of this timeless and iconic city.
3. Palazzina Grassi – a hip, Instagrammable quirky 5-star boutique perfect for partying Millennials and Gen Zs or loved-up couples
Palazzina Grassi is an extraordinary hotel in the centre of Venice. Its historic exterior encompasses a super cool, contemporary interior designed by Phillipe Starck.
Quirky modern pieces blend seamlessly with classic Venetian luxury, creating a unique and very special experience for guests. Interactive fine dining can be sampled in The Restaurant, which becomes ‘The Club’ after 12, showcasing some of Italy’s top DJ’s and drawing a good sprinkling of VIP guests.
If you prefer a quieter evening you can sit back in the Maison Krug Champagne lounge or take in the views from the rooftop terrace.
Breakfast is served ‘til 12 and there’s a 24-hour snack service available, so you’ll never be hungry whatever your sleeping pattern. If you are feeling really decadent there’s also an in-room massage service with a choice of Swedish, Relaxing or deep tissue treatments!
4. Hilton Molino Stucky Venice – a contemporary, stylish and Instagrammable hotel featuring a rooftop pool and spa
This gorgeous luxury hotel occupies an old flour mill on the peaceful Guidecca Island and is perfect for families and pets. It offers a bespoke experience for guests under 12, including kids breakfasts, lunches and dinners and a seasonal kids club which provides fun activities for the youngsters.
Meanwhile the adults can relax and enjoy the amazing rooftop pool with spectacular views over the city centre, or check in to the wellness centre for some flour and honey-inspired treatments, have a delicious Italian meal in the hotel restaurant or a craft cocktail from the bar.
All this is just a 20 minute shuttle boat ride from Piazza San Marco and all the city’s main attractions.
5. H10 Palazzo Canova – a cool, modern and beautiful hotel steps away from famous Insta-worthy attractions
This luxury 4* Hotel is situated just two minutes way from The Rialto Bridge and offers superior comfort and panoramic views of the Grand Canal from its roof terrace.
Housed in a 19th Century Palazzo H10 is a picture of class and lavishness with wonderful Venetian furnishings and vibrant Italian hues being a feature in all rooms along with top-notch amenities, excellent Wi-Fi and stunning views of the city.
The cool ambience and friendly staff along with the amazing location makes this the perfect accommodation for a city break.
6. Madama Garden Retreat – a unique, upscale and vibrant accommodation in close proximity to popular attractions
This cool and central boutique hotel is inspired by the 1972 novel ‘Invisible Cities’ by Italo Calvino. Each room has a very different vibe much as each imaginary city is described in the book.
The rooms are set around a lovely garden on the banks of the Rio Marin and the hotel can be reached both on foot or by boat. The idyllic setting is in the very heart of old Venice, just a stone’s throw from all the main attractions and as such there are many cool activities available, such as a night tour of Basilica San Marco, a Casanova Promenade and a shopping trip to the famous Mercato Rialto.
As a guest you can take full advantage of these tours or you can follow your own itinerary, friendly staff will be on hand with plenty of helpful hints and advice either way.
7. Liassidi Wellness Suites – cozy, rustic-chic and modern accommodation offering guests picturesque views of the garden
This trailblazing hotel is located in a small palazzo with picturesque views of the canal. There are the five generously sized rooms, each individually furnished with its very own private Turkish bath.
As if that isn’t enough each room also features a sensory shower with chromo-therapy, a healing technique that uses the visible colours of electromagnetic radiation to treat and cure ailments.
If you really want to splash out then book the extremely spacious King Suite, complete with a hydromassage spa bath overlooking the canal and a sauna.
You will also be waited on hand and foot by two English-style butlers who will take care of absolutely all your needs, from unpacking your suitcase to serving you breakfast in the garden, for Venice it isn’t even that expensive! Still above the budget of your average traveller though!
8. Excess Venice Boutique Hotel & Private Spa – Adults Only – a newly renovated, quirky and unique hotel housed in a 15th-century building
This is the perfect place for a romantic getaway, with gorgeous, bright boutique rooms, amazing spa facilities and a beautiful private garden where you can sit and wile away the time with a cocktail and a good book.
The rooms are all different but all feature custom-made headboards, splashes of vibrant colour and luxurious furnishings. Expect amazing coffee and a delicious fresh continental breakfast along with other little surprises to make your stay extra special!
9. Ca’di Dio-Small Luxury Hotel – a new, lavish and contemporary hotel where guests can enjoy an Italian-style breakfast
This gorgeous hotel in the heart of the city’s artistic district offers a multi-sensory luxury experience that weaves together the grift and glamour of Venice and the thread and transparency of water.
It is exquisitely impossible to label, not falling into either a classic or a modern style but rather creating its own unique viewpoint. Expect beautiful suites with warm muted furnishings and soft finishes, Murano glass and marble bathrooms, views out over the city and the waterways. All of this is contained within a stunning historic building from the 1200’s.
The internal courtyard offers wonderful breakfasts whilst inside the Alchemia bar offers wines and cocktails, Vero Restaurant serves perfectly presented Italian food with a view over the lagoon.
All three use freshly selected seasonal ingredients grown onsite in the home’s courtyard. A very special place to stay.
10. Hotel American-Dinesen – an elegant, design boutique hotel located in the heart of the art district
This gorgeous little independent gem has more than 100 years of hospitality under its belt and it shows! Guests are treated to wonderfully attentive service in beautiful surroundings, with the individual rooms balancing comfort and design in a perfect display of Italian style.
There are three tiers of room to suit different budgets, superior suits have canal views whilst the classic rooms look out over a quiet courtyard and the dependence rooms are simpler and in a separate building, ideal for remote working.
The hotel is tucked a little way away from the heavy tourist areas in the artsy Dorsoduro neighbourhood, so it’s the perfect place to retreat from the crowds after a day of sightseeing.
11. Venice Times Hotel – a unique and elegant hotel with vintage chic decor ideal for a couple’s romantic vacation
Conveniently located near the train station, this hotel is a comfortable and affordable option for those who want a true Venetian experience without going bankrupt in the process!
The staff are flawlessly attentive and the breakfast is absolutely delicious. A really good mid-range choice for the intrepid traveller who wants to make the most of The City of Bridges.
12. Radisson Collection Hotel, Palazzo Nani Venice – a beautiful, historic and charming hotel overlooking the Cannaregio Canal
This exceptional hotel is in the perfect location for exploring all the amazing sights that Venice has to offer. From here you can shop til you drop in the boutiques of Venetian Ghetto, stroll around Piazza San Marco or hop on a water taxi to the islands of Murano and Guidecca.
After a long day exploring, come back to the clean, peaceful atmosphere of the Radisson. In its own historic palazzo the hotel blends luxury elegance with original frescoes, canal views and friendly service.
The ZOJA Wine Bar offers the opportunity to taste local wines and cuisine in a laid back atmosphere before getting the perfect night’s sleep in the ultra-comfy beds, ready to do it all again in the morning, fuelled by a splendid breakfast of course!
13. Hotel L’Orologio – WTB Hotels – a trendy, hip and modern hotel where guests can experience a memorable stay
If you are a time enthusiast this quirky central hotelwill be right up your street. The whole space has been designed around a splendid collection of vintage clocks and watches.
The modern vintage spaces are bright and colourful, in warm tones and natural materials. There is a wonderful lounge bar on-site and a gorgeous fourth-floor terrace where you can enjoy a quiet drink looking out over the romantic vista of the old canals.
14. Bianca Cappello House – a chic, contemporary and cute accommodation where guests can enjoy a quiet stay
A light and airy modern hotel in a restored 15th Century building run by an attentive husband and wife team who are always at your disposal for advice and recommendations.
There is a mixture of rooms and suites, some with kitchenettes, others with outdoor terraces, all beautifully restored with exposed beams, oak floors and luxury furnishings.
The location is great for all the main attractions, being close to The Rialto Bridge and a variety of authentic restaurants, cafés, jazz bars and local hangouts, steeped in all the romance of this remarkable city.
15. Hotel Metropole Venezia – a quirky, lavish 5-star hotel with an Asian-inspired interior decor
If you are a collector then this is the hotel for you! The Hotel Metropole is home to over 2000 antiques collected by the Beggiato’s, a historic hotelier family who restored the hotel in the 1960’s and whose daughter still owns and runs it.
Exploring the halls of this unique independent hotel is like a treasure hunt! You’ll find clutch bags from the belle epoch, oriental robes and fans, quirky utensils and a wonderful collection of Italian crucifixes, all set within an eclectic yet chic Oriental ambience.
The Venetian soul of the place has been preserved too and the history of the building shines through… music lovers might like to know that Vivaldi taught lessons here in the late 1600’s and numerous musicians including Lou Reed and Patti Smith have chosen to stay here on visits to the city!
The amazing Oriental Bar has an authentic speakeasy feel and serves delicious refined food and drinks that can be taken out into the lush and peaceful garden.
For those wanting to really unwind there is a soothing Spa to enjoy and honestly, for Venice it’s a steal… there are offers that are less than in some 4* hotels and the experience is really to die for!
16. Egò Boutique Hotel The Silk Road – an upscale, art and unique boutique hotel in a perfect location to explore the city
Egò is ideally situated in the heart of Venice with views over The Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge. It is splendid and opulent, full of gold and marble and pillars and parqué, a perfect reflection of the city in which it is situated.
Each room has its own unique character but draws from the original frescoes and gilded details to form a respectful yet romantic space for guests.
There’s circular beds, marble, brocade and velvet, beautiful art and lots of gold…. a real Venetian experience!
17. San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice – a 5-star, lavish and elegant boutique hotel located on its own private island
This 5* luxury resort is situated on its very own Island and reached by complimentary boat ride. Expect a no holds barred luxury experience, with spacious and impeccable rooms kitted out in a contemporary Venetian style with touches of history such as Murano Glass Chandeliers.
Rooms are spacious and feature all kinds of amenities including complimentary chocolates, tea and coffee and a full size tub in which to enjoy the luxury toiletries.
Indulge yourself in the luxury spa or take a dip in the outdoor heated pool. Fill up on delicious food and beverages at one of the resorts many restaurants and bars; Start the day with breakfast at Insieme and end it with contemporary Venetian cuisine and idyllic surroundings at Acquerello.
If you fancy something different head for the poolside Buddha Bar, which serves Pan Asian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Top off with a cocktail at the Clemente or Sunset bars.
18. All’Angelo Art Hotel – a classic, bright and quaint hotel located in the historical district
This historic hotel in a picturesque corner of the lagoon has been home to many artists over the years, Matisse and Picasso have both exhibited here, to name a couple!
After a big renovation the hotel remains loyal to it’s 1920’s artistic roots whilst offering a luxury stay to guests. Rooms are a cosy blend of woods and soft fabrics whilst communal areas explode in Venetian stripes.
The All’Angelo Art Cafe offers wine and Cicchetti from 11.30 am until late. From 6-7 is happy hour with a tasty buffet of Chicchetti and accompanying wines, the perfect place to socialise. Chicchetti are little dishes a bit like tapas, often small sandwiches and brioche and appetisers such as olives.
19. Hotel Palazzo Barbarigo Sul Canal Grande – an upscale, art-deco boutique hotel within walking distance of the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge
This award-winning hotel on the Grande Canal is everything you could wish for from a stay in Venice. A beautifully restored historic Palazzo with impeccably designed rooms, full of all the luxurious colours and textures you’d expect in this iconic city.
Think heavy drapes, red velvet cushions, polished wood and warm muted lamplight with the swish of a gondola in the distance and you’re about there. This is a very special hotel and as a guest you will feel very special too.
20. La Porta D’Oriente B&B – a quirky, charming and historic accommodation that blends antique furnishings with modern day elements
This petite B&B nestles on the main floor of Palazzo Malipiero Trevisan, a 14th Century Palace located just 5 minutes from Piazza San Marco. It has just boutique rooms designed around the concept of ‘The Door To The Orient’.
Here you can wake up and breathe in the history of the ancient city, where echoes of the past blend with the present in a perfect timeless space. A small friendly oasis, perfect for exploring all Venice has to offer.
Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au-pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. In between adventures she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele.
