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Book well ahead to stay in this beautiful 17th-century villa near the Accademia (see Accademia Galleries), which was formerly the Russian embassy. Breakfast can be enjoyed in the private garden.

Spanish-Venetian couple Gloria and Marco are discreet hosts and offer spotless rooms close to the San Tomà boat stop. Each room has breakfast-making facilities.

A guaranteed old favourite on a bridge halfway between Rialto and the Piazza San Marco, wonderful for many sights and shopping sprees. Downstairs is Le Bistrot, a popular nightspot (see Le Bistrot de Venise).

Centrally located between Rialto and San Marco, this is a basic, decent value hotel. The downstairs walls are papered with sheets from the city’s Il Gazzettino newspaper, a long-standing neighbour until its relocation to the more practical mainland.

This simple hotel is very conveniently located, only a 10-minute stroll from Padua’s main sights (see Basilica del Santo).

A beautiful place to stay, convenient for Piazzale Roma, this 16th-century palace is often used as a film set, with a huge lobby and a courtyard draped in wisteria. Rooms have all mod cons.

Charming old place at Rialto, saturated with history and dating back to 1288. No great views but heaps of charm and space.

Handy for the station, with airy rooms, some with bath. Clientele are welcomed by enthusiastic English-speaking staff. Bargain down the rates in low season.

The cheapest backpacker’s option in town, close to the San Leonardo market with heaps of cafés and trattorias, and only 10 minutes from the station. Just turn up for a bed and you’ll be greeted by an eccentric Chinese-Italian family. Rates get lower depending on the number of occupants for a room and length of stay. Internet.