Eco Hotel a Venice
Soggiorni sostenibili in the floating city — 118 islands, 150 canals, zero cars. Book with IMPT and remove 1 tonne of CO₂ per booking.
Perché Soggiornare a Venice
Venice is unlike any other city on Earth. Built across 118 small islands in a shallow lagoon at the head of the Adriatic Sea, the city rises directly from the water, its palazzos and churches supported by millions of wooden piles driven deep into the marshy seabed. There are no cars, no motorcycles, no bicycles in the historic centre. Movement happens on foot across more than 400 bridges or by boat along the 150-plus canals that serve as Venice's streets. The Grand Canal — a sweeping, 3.8-kilometre S-shaped waterway — is the main thoroughfare, lined with over 170 palaces built between the 13th and 18th centuries, a floating museum of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
The story of Venice begins in the 5th century, when mainland inhabitants fled barbarian invasions and sought refuge on the marshy islands of the lagoon. What started as a desperate settlement grew into one of the most powerful states in European history. The Republic of Venice, known as La Serenissima (the Most Serene Republic), dominated Mediterranean trade for nearly a thousand years, growing fabulously wealthy from its position as the gateway between East and West. Venetian merchants traded spices, silk, and precious goods from Constantinople and beyond, and the city's architecture reflects these Eastern influences. St Mark's Basilica, with its five domes and over 8,000 square metres of golden Byzantine mosaics, was built to house the relics of St Mark the Evangelist, smuggled from Alexandria in 828 AD. The Doge's Palace next door is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture — the seat of power for over 700 years, its pink-and-white marble facade belying the political intrigue that played out within.
The Rialto Bridge, completed in 1591, was the only crossing over the Grand Canal for nearly 300 years and remains one of the most iconic structures in the city. Venice's cultural output is staggering — the Venice Biennale, founded in 1895, is the world's most prestigious international art exhibition, held in the Giardini and Arsenale every two years. The Venice Carnival, with its elaborate masquerade masks and costumes, traces its roots to 1162 and transforms the city each February into a living theatre. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Venice and its lagoon represent an extraordinary architectural masterpiece in which even the smallest buildings contain works by some of the world's greatest artists. The threat of acqua alta — high water flooding that periodically inundates St Mark's Square and low-lying areas — adds urgency to the experience of visiting a city that may not exist in its current form indefinitely. On the nearby island of Murano, glass-makers have practised their craft since 1291, when the furnaces were moved from Venice proper to reduce the risk of fire. Burano, with its brilliantly painted houses, preserves a centuries-old tradition of lace-making. Together, these elements make Venice not merely a destination but an irreplaceable chapter in human civilisation.
Venice at a Glance
| Regione | Veneto |
| Regionee | Venice (Venezia) |
| Airport | Marco Polo (VCE) — 13 km from historic centre |
| Population | ~260,000 (municipality) · ~50,000 (historic centre) |
| UNESCO | World Heritage Site since 1987 |
| Elevation | 1 metre above sea level |
Come Sfruttare al Meglio Your Venice Stay
Venice is served by two airports. Marco Polo Airport (VCE), 13 kilometres north of the historic centre on the mainland, handles most international and domestic flights. The most scenic arrival is by Alilaguna water bus — the Blue Line runs directly from the airport to St Mark's Square in about 75 minutes, passing through the Venetian Lagoon (€15 one-way). The faster option is a water taxi straight to your hotel's nearest canal stop — spectacular but expensive at around €110–130 for up to four passengers. ATVO and ACTV buses run to Piazzale Roma, the road terminus on the edge of the historic centre, in about 20 minutes for €8–10. Treviso Airport (TSF), 40 kilometres northwest, serves budget airlines like Ryanair and is connected by ATVO bus to Piazzale Roma in about 70 minutes.
If arriving by train, Santa Lucia station sits right on the Grand Canal at the western edge of the historic centre — step off the platform and you are immediately in Venice. Direct trains connect from Rome (3.5 hours), Milan (2.5 hours), Florence (2 hours), and Bologna (1.5 hours). Do not confuse Santa Lucia with Venezia Mestre, the mainland station one stop before — though staying in Mestre and commuting in is a viable budget strategy, as the journey takes just 10–15 minutes by train or bus.
Within the historic centre, walking is how you get everywhere. The city is compact — roughly 2 kilometres from north to south and 3 from east to west — but the labyrinthine streets and dead-end alleys (calli) mean getting lost is inevitable and actually part of the charm. Embrace it. The vaporetto water bus system, operated by ACTV, is the main public transport. Line 1 runs the full length of the Grand Canal with frequent stops — ride it at least once, preferably at sunset. A single 75-minute ticket costs €9.50, which makes day passes (€25 for 24 hours, €35 for 48 hours) significantly better value. Gondola rides are an iconic experience priced at €80 for a 30-minute daytime ride or €100 after 7 PM for up to six passengers — negotiate the route before boarding. Water taxis are beautiful but expensive, typically €50–70 per journey.
Venice is divided into six sestieri (districts), each with its own character. The Venezia Unica city pass combines museum entries, vaporetto passes, and Wi-Fi access — buy online in advance for discounts. Peak summer (July–August) brings crushing crowds and intense heat; the most pleasant months are May, September, and October. If visiting between November and February, pack waterproof boots for acqua alta — the tidal flooding that can cover St Mark's Square in up to a metre of water. Elevated walkways (passerelle) are set up on the main routes during flooding. Day trips to the lagoon islands are unmissable: Murano is 20 minutes by vaporetto (Line 12), Burano about 45 minutes, and the nearly deserted island of Torcello — home to a stunning 7th-century cathedral — lies just beyond. The Lido, Venice's beach island, is a 15-minute ride from San Marco on Line 1, offering sandy beaches and the home of the Venice Film Festival.
Dove Alloggiare — Venice's Best Areas
San Marco
The beating heart of Venice, home to St Mark's Square, the Basilica, Doge's Palace, and the luxury hotel strip along Riva degli Schiavoni. The most iconic but also the most expensive and crowded sestiere. Ideal for first-time visitors who want to step outside and be at the centre of it all.
Dorsoduro
The artistic soul of Venice. Home to the Gallerie dell'Accademia, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and Punta della Dogana contemporary art space. Quieter than San Marco, with excellent restaurants along Campo Santa Margherita — the local nightlife hub — and sunset views from Zattere waterfront promenade.
Cannaregio
The most residential sestiere with a distinctly local feel. Contains the world's first Jewish Ghetto (established 1516) and the beautiful Gothic church of Madonna dell'Orto. The wide Strada Nova provides easy walking, and the Fondamenta della Misericordia is lined with excellent bacari (wine bars). Much cheaper than San Marco.
Castello
Venice's largest sestiere stretches from the busy waterfront near San Marco to the quiet residential eastern end. Home to the Arsenale — the medieval shipyard that powered Venice's naval dominance — and the Biennale exhibition grounds in the Giardini. Excellent value accommodation in the eastern reaches.
Santa Croce & San Polo
The twin sestieri flanking the Rialto Bridge. San Polo contains the legendary Rialto fish market (operating since 1097), the magnificent Basilica dei Frari, and the Scuola Grande di San Rocco. Santa Croce, nearest to Piazzale Roma, is convenient for arrivals and has some of the most authentic neighbourhood restaurants.
Giudecca & Lido
Giudecca island, across the canal from Dorsoduro, offers a quieter pace and spectacular views back to the main island. Home to the Cipriani hotel. The Lido is Venice's beach island — long sandy shores, Art Nouveau villas, and the Venice Film Festival venue. Mestre on the mainland is the budget option, with hotels at half the price and a 10–15-minute train ride to Venice proper.
Hotels in Venice
Hotel Danieli ★★★★★
Occupying the 14th-century Palazzo Dandolo on the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront, the Danieli has been welcoming guests since 1822. The Gothic entrance hall is one of the most photographed interiors in Venice, with its pink marble columns and gilded staircases. Views from the rooftop Restaurant Terrazza Danieli span across the lagoon to San Giorgio Maggiore island. Located steps from St Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace.
Verifica DisponibilitàThe Gritti Palace ★★★★★
Set in a 15th-century palazzo directly on the Grand Canal, the Gritti Palace was once home to the Doge Andrea Gritti and later became a favourite haunt of Ernest Hemingway, who wrote parts of Across the River and into the Trees here. The Club del Doge restaurant terrace offers front-row seats to Grand Canal life. Interiors blend Venetian antiques with Rubelli fabrics and Murano glass chandeliers. Walking distance to the Accademia Bridge and the art galleries of Dorsoduro.
Verifica DisponibilitàHotel Cipriani ★★★★★
Reached by the hotel's private launch from St Mark's, the Cipriani occupies a serene estate at the eastern tip of Giudecca island. It is the only hotel in central Venice with an Olympic-sized swimming pool, surrounded by lush private gardens — a rarity in this dense, water-bound city. Founded in 1958 by Giuseppe Cipriani (of Harry's Bar fame), the hotel offers a sense of retreat while keeping Venice's landmarks just a three-minute boat ride away. Oro Restaurant holds a Michelin star.
Verifica DisponibilitàCa' Sagredo Hotel ★★★★★
A 15th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal that functions as both a luxury hotel and a living museum. The Ca' Sagredo is filled with original 17th- and 18th-century frescoes by Giambattista Tiepolo, Sebastiano Ricci, and Pietro Longhi. The grand staircase alone — adorned with Longhi's The Fall of the Giants — is worth the visit. Guest rooms look out over the Grand Canal toward the Rialto fish market. The building is listed as a national monument by the Italian Ministry of Culture.
Verifica DisponibilitàHotel Palazzo Stern ★★★★
A 15th-century Gothic palazzo on the Grand Canal in the quieter Dorsoduro district. The Palazzo Stern's rooftop terrace is one of Venice's best-kept secrets — panoramic views of the Grand Canal, Ca' Foscari university, and the rooftops of San Polo. The hotel's intimate size (24 rooms) means personal service and a feeling of staying in a private palazzo. Murano glass lamps, Venetian terrazzo floors, and antique furniture fill each room. Steps from the Ca' Rezzonico vaporetto stop and the Accademia galleries.
Verifica DisponibilitàGenerator Venice — Budget
Housed in a converted granary on Giudecca island, Generator Venice is one of Europe's most stylish hostels. The waterfront terrace offers stunning views across the Giudecca Canal to the main island, and the communal spaces — including a bar, lounge, and courtyard — make it easy to meet fellow travellers. Private rooms and dorms available. A 5-minute vaporetto ride (Line 2 or 4.1) connects to Zattere in Dorsoduro. Affordable without sacrificing the Venice-on-water experience.
Verifica DisponibilitàCosa Fare a Venice
Venice's cathedral and the crowning glory of the piazza, built from 1063 to house the relics of St Mark. The interior is covered in over 8,000 square metres of golden Byzantine mosaics that took 800 years to complete. The Pala d'Oro — a golden altarpiece studded with 1,927 gems — is one of the finest examples of Byzantine enamel work in the world. Free entry to the basilica; museum and Pala d'Oro require tickets.
The Gothic masterpiece that served as the seat of Venetian power for seven centuries. Inside, Tintoretto's Paradise — one of the largest oil paintings ever made — fills the entire wall of the Great Council Chamber. Cross the enclosed Bridge of Sighs, named by Lord Byron, which connected the palace to the prison cells. The Secret Itineraries tour reveals hidden rooms and Casanova's famous escape route.
The oldest bridge across the Grand Canal, completed in 1591 from a design by Antonio da Ponte. Its single stone arch spans 48 metres, lined with shops on both sides. At the foot of the bridge, the Rialto fish market — Pescheria — has operated since 1097 and still trades every morning except Sunday and Monday. The adjacent Erberia vegetable market bursts with seasonal produce from the Veneto countryside.
Take Line 1 from Piazzale Roma or the train station to San Marco for the world's most beautiful bus ride. The 45-minute journey passes beneath the Scalzi Bridge, past the Ca' d'Oro, under the Rialto Bridge, past the Accademia and Gritti Palace, and ends at Santa Maria della Salute. Best experienced at sunset when the golden light sets the palace facades ablaze. Sit outside at the front or back of the vaporetto.
The definitive collection of Venetian painting, spanning five centuries from the 14th to the 18th century. See Giovanni Bellini's luminous Madonnas, Giorgione's enigmatic The Tempest, Titian's final Pietà, Tintoretto's dramatic Miracle of the Slave, and Veronese's monumental Feast in the House of Levi. The Vitruvian Man by Leonardo da Vinci is held here but rarely displayed. Allow at least two hours.
One of Europe's most important collections of 20th-century modern art, housed in the unfinished Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on the Grand Canal. Peggy Guggenheim lived here from 1949 until her death in 1979. Works by Picasso, Pollock, Dalí, Kandinsky, Mondrian, and Magritte fill the intimate rooms. The sculpture garden and Grand Canal terrace make this one of Venice's most pleasant museum experiences.
Glass-making has been centred on Murano since 1291, when the Venetian Republic ordered all furnaces moved to the island to reduce fire risk. Watch master glass-blowers shape molten glass into intricate sculptures, vases, and jewellery in live demonstrations. The Museo del Vetro traces the craft's history from Roman times. For authentic pieces, buy directly from the factories — look for the "Vetro Artistico Murano" trademark to avoid fakes.
Famous for its brilliantly painted houses — each one a different colour, a tradition that started so fishermen could identify their homes in the fog. Burano is equally renowned for its centuries-old lace-making tradition, showcased in the Museo del Merletto. The island is small enough to walk around in an hour but photogenic enough to hold you for half a day. The seafood restaurants here serve some of the best risotto di pesce in the lagoon.
The great Baroque church at the entrance to the Grand Canal, built between 1631 and 1687 as a votive offering after the devastating plague of 1630 that killed a third of Venice's population. Baldassare Longhena's octagonal design, crowned with a massive dome, has defined the Venice skyline for nearly four centuries. Inside, look for Titian's ceiling paintings and the sacristy's collection. Free entry.
The largest church in Venice and one of the greatest art repositories in the city. Titian's Assumption of the Virgin (1518) dominates the high altar — a blazing, revolutionary composition that changed Venetian painting. Giovanni Bellini's Madonna and Saints triptych in the sacristy is equally extraordinary. The church also houses the tombs of Titian and the sculptor Antonio Canova.
The world's first ghetto, established in 1516 when the Venetian Republic confined Jewish residents to this walled area in Cannaregio. The word "ghetto" itself comes from the Venetian term for foundry (getto), as the site was a former iron foundry. Five historic synagogues — built on the upper floors to be closer to God — can be visited on guided tours through the Jewish Museum. The tall buildings reflect the community's need to build upward within the confined space.
Often called "Tintoretto's Sistine Chapel," this confraternity hall contains over 60 paintings by Jacopo Tintoretto, completed between 1564 and 1588. The cycle covers the Old and New Testaments, with the massive Crucifixion on the upper floor considered one of the greatest paintings in Western art. The artist won the commission by presenting a finished painting rather than a sketch — a typically Venetian stroke of competitive genius.
Walking Routes in Venice
San Marco to Rialto via the Mercerie
Venice's main shopping street connects the two poles of the city — political power at St Mark's and commercial power at the Rialto. Start beneath the Torre dell'Orologio clock tower on St Mark's Square and follow the Mercerie — a chain of narrow, shop-lined streets — north through the parishes of San Zulian and San Salvador. You pass the church of San Salvador (free entry, Titian's Annunciation inside), Campo San Bartolomeo with its statue of playwright Carlo Goldoni, and emerge at the foot of the Rialto Bridge. This was the route Venetian merchants and nobles walked daily for centuries. It remains the most direct and bustling path between the two landmarks.
Dorsoduro Art Walk: Accademia to Punta della Dogana
Begin at the Accademia Bridge with its views of the Grand Canal, then visit the Gallerie dell'Accademia for Venetian Old Masters. Walk southeast along Rio Terà Antonio Foscarini to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for 20th-century masterpieces. Continue past the Chiesa di San Gregorio to the dramatic triangular tip of Dorsoduro at Punta della Dogana, where François Pinault's contemporary art collection occupies the former customs house. The views from the point — spanning St Mark's Basin, San Giorgio Maggiore, and the Giudecca Canal — are among the finest in Venice. Return along the Zattere waterfront promenade, stopping for gelato at Nico (a local institution since 1935).
Cannaregio Hidden Venice: Ghetto to Fondamenta Nuove
Start at the Jewish Ghetto — explore the synagogues, museum, and the quiet campo. Walk north to the Gothic church of Madonna dell'Orto, containing two monumental Tintorettos and far fewer visitors than the San Marco churches. Continue along the canal-side fondamente, passing local workshops and neighbourhood bars, to the wide Fondamenta Nuove — Venice's northern waterfront with views across the lagoon to the cemetery island of San Michele (where Stravinsky and Ezra Pound are buried) and Murano beyond. This route shows the everyday Venice that most visitors never see. Pick up vaporetto Line 12 from Fondamenta Nuove for onward travel to Murano and Burano.
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Venice — Domande Frequenti
Is Venice sinking?
Venice sinks approximately 1–2 mm per year due to a combination of natural subsidence and rising sea levels caused by climate change. The MOSE flood barrier system, completed in 2020 at a cost of over €5.5 billion, now protects the city by raising barriers at the three lagoon inlets when tides exceed 110 cm. Since becoming operational, MOSE has successfully prevented major flooding events like the devastating acqua alta of November 2019 (187 cm). However, the long-term challenge remains, and Venice continues investing in adaptation measures to preserve its extraordinary heritage for future generations.
How do I avoid crowds in Venice?
Visit during shoulder seasons — late September through November or February through April (excluding Carnival week). Arrive early morning or stay into the evening when the estimated 30 million annual visitors (mostly day-trippers) have departed. Explore the quieter sestieri of Cannaregio and eastern Castello rather than concentrating on San Marco. Walk the back streets instead of the main Rialto-to-San-Marco Mercerie route. Consider visiting Torcello island, which sees far fewer tourists than Murano or Burano. Venice introduced a €5 entry fee for day visitors on peak days in 2024, which helps manage numbers slightly — overnight hotel guests are exempt.
What are the best vaporetto lines for sightseeing?
Line 1 is the must-ride: it stops at every station along the Grand Canal between Piazzale Roma and San Marco, taking about 45 minutes — effectively the world's most beautiful bus ride. Take it at sunset for magical light on the palazzo facades. Line 2 is faster with fewer stops. Line 12 runs to Murano, Burano, and Torcello — essential for island-hopping. Lines 5.1 and 5.2 circle the main island via the Giudecca Canal. A 75-minute single ticket costs €9.50, but a 24-hour pass at €25 is far better value if you plan more than two rides.
Should I stay in Venice or Mestre?
Stay in Venice's historic centre if your budget allows. The experience of stepping out of your hotel directly onto a canal-side fondamenta — especially in the early morning and evening when day-trippers have left — is irreplaceable. Mestre offers significantly cheaper accommodation and connects to Venice by train or bus in 10–15 minutes. A good compromise: spend one or two nights in the historic centre for the magical experience, then move to Mestre if extending your trip. When booking through IMPT, your €5 di credito gratuito and 5% cashback in IMPT tokens help offset Venice's higher prices.
What is the Venice entry fee?
Since 2024, Venice charges day visitors a €5 Contributo di Accesso on designated peak days, typically weekends and holidays between April and mid-July. Overnight hotel guests are exempt — you receive an exemption QR code from your hotel at check-in. Children under 14, residents, students, and workers are also exempt. The scheme is managed digitally through the Venezia Unica platform. Staying overnight not only exempts you from the fee but gives you the best Venice experience — quiet mornings and magical evenings that day visitors never see.