Number of guests: 8
Bed and bath: 4 bedrooms, 3 baths
Why we love it: Canal views, private patio, great location
In the heart of the San Marco district, just steps from the Santa Maria del Giglio vaporetto stop (and from the famed Gritti Palace hotel with its Grand Canal–side bar) is this glorious palazzo, which was built in the 13th century and remodeled in the 1700s. That era was the height of Venetian opulence, which means you get antique terrazzo floors, pastel-painted and stucco-decorated walls, and Murano chandeliers hanging from the ceilings. It’s on the piano nobile—the highly prized second floor, which was the reception area during the times of the great Venetian Republic—and there’s a beautiful inner courtyard, complete with an ancient well, on the way in. Note that while there are four bedrooms, this is better for families with older children—there’s no age limit for staying, but this sprawling apartment with steps and antiques galore isn’t ideal for young kids. Additionally, the elevator is too small to carry a wheelchair.
Neighborhood: San Marco
Things to do nearby: Fenice opera house, Gritti Palace, Santa Maria del Giglio