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Behind the palace’s beautiful Gothic tracery is a memorable column-filled courtyard paved with myriad coloured tesserae. Inside is the Galleria Franchetti, an enticing collection of paintings, sculptures, coins and ceramics donated to the State by Baron Giorgio Franchetti in 1916, together with the building. One highlight is Andrea Mantegna’s agonizing St Sebastian (1560) pierced by arrows “like a hedgehog”, in the portico leading through to a stunning loggia overlooking the Grand Canal. An ornate 15th-century staircase climbs to the second floor where there are huge 16th-century Flemish tapestries (see Ca’ Dario).

Mask-makers extraordinaire, with life-size unicorns, pointy jester heads with bells and the full Carnival range.

A Baroque triumph of a palace whose interior, in contrast, accommodates works by leading European 19th- and 20th-century masters such as Marc Chagall and Gustave Klimt.

This impressive Oriental Art Collection is an eclectic mix of 19th-century curiosities from all over the Far East. Exhibits include armour, porcelain and costumes, dainty lacquerwork boxes and musical instruments. The neigh-bouring modern art gallery in monumental Ca’ Pesaro (see Fondaco dei Turchi and Ca’ Pesaro Galleria d’Arte Moderna) has also recently reopened after restructuring.

A warm ambience, stunning modern design, steam bath and all the facilities you could hope for. You’ll never want to leave this 15th-century palace near Accademia, converted in 2000.

This glittering palace adorned with Tiepolo ceiling frescoes, majestic Murano glass chandeliers and elaborate carved period furniture, has undergone extensive renovation. It is now home to the Museum of 18th-century Venetian Life.

In a handy location close to the vaporetto stop, this unpretentious but quiet and friendly guesthouse has all mod cons.

Book in advance to eat at this rambling farmhouse turned trattoria. Dishes include dumplings with crab and artichokes or asparagus lasagne.