Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
4
Sleeping
Want to wake up in a palazzo to the sound of lagoon waters lapping at the fonda-
mente (canal banks)? It's an unforgettable experience - and probably more af-
fordable than you think. High-end hotels are no longer your only option. Many
Venetians are opening historic homes as locande (guesthouses), B&Bs, affit-
tacamere (rooms for rent) and holiday rental apartments.
More Options Than Ever
Venice still offers plenty of luxe hotels along the Grand Canal and Riva degli Schiavone,
and there's also a growing inventory of boutique sleeps. But the real news is the concerted
effort to make overnight stays affordable. In the last decade, the number of Venetian prop-
erties dedicated to tourist lodgings has nearly quintupled. At the same time, the internet has
made it much easier for locals to rent out their homes (or extra rooms).
For budget travellers, Venice offers a range of hostels (called
foresterie
). Some bunks at
Giudecca's revamped hostel even have canal views, while the frescoed Foresteria Valdese
also offers private rooms at unbeatable prices. During summer, university housing also
opens to tourists.
Location, Location, Location
Of course, it is always preferable to stay as close to key sights as possible - for example,
near San Marco or anywhere within striking distance of the Grand Canal. However, a fre-
quent and efficient
vaporetto
system makes navigating the city easy. Outlying areas - in-
cluding other islands like Giudecca, Lido and Murano - are often cheaper, quieter and more
authentically Venetian.
Season Matters
In low season - November, early December, and January to March (except around New
Year, Carnevale and Easter) - you can expect discounts of 40% or more off peak rates. July
and August also bring bargains, though usually not quite as substantial. Even in high sea-
son, midweek rates tend to be lower than weekend ones. By contrast, expect to pay a hefty
premium during Carnevale, New Year and Easter.
Rates cited here should be considered a guide, since hotels make constant adjustments
according to season, day of the week and holidays of varying importance.
