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Set on its own glorious island, the famed Cipriani is a matter of minutes across the water by exclusive launch to Piazza San Marco. It has a private garden with a salt-water pool, and a top class restaurant (see Hotel Cipriani).

Exquisite service in a sophisticated atmosphere of chandeliers and marble. This is Venice’s oldest hotel and hosted Templar knights in the 1100s waiting to embark for the Crusades. Breakfast is served in the drawing room frescoed by pupils of Tiepolo (see Giambattista Tiepolo).

Hemingway stayed in this 15th-century palace-hotel located on the Grand Canal. Romantic waterside dining is among the features.

While the service leaves much to be desired, the hotel’s history (see Hotel Danieli) attracts many guests. The best rooms are in the old wing, overlooking the Riva degli Schiavoni.

This luxurious and discreet Lido hotel has its own swimming pool, tennis courts and private beach area. It also served as the backdrop for Visconti’s film Death in Venice (see Death in Venice (1971)).

With a marvellous garden stretching back to the lagoon, this former convent on a quiet Cannaregio canal is superbly furnished with Murano chandeliers and fabrics crafted by leading artisans. Best value luxury hotel in town with its own guest launch.

Crawling with stars and paparazzi during the summer Film Festival (see Vogalonga), this graceful mega-hotel has magnificent rooms right on the beach. A swimming pool and exclusive restaurants are also a feature.

Majestic good value establishment, immaculately run. On the water-front only minutes from San Marco, it boasts a wonderful garden, a perfect antidote from the city streets.

Sumptuous decor in this elegant historic palace right on the Grand Canal, close to the Piazza San Marco.

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.