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From the Rialto Bridge to the bustling Piazza San Marco, the Grand Canal offers tourists an epic journey through Venice’s iconic waterfront. Whether looking to explore historical monuments or take in the city skyline at dusk, the perfect vantage point can be found in one of the many hotels that line this famous waterway. From luxury suites with private balconies to easy access to nearby attractions – here are some of our favourite hotels on the Grand Canal in Venice.
5* Bauer Palazzo
With an amazing location, just minutes from St Mark’s Square and located on the water’s edge, this is a hotel with some incredible views. From the Bar Canale with its outdoor terrace, and Grand Canal views to watch gondolas pass. It is an opulent hotel with Art Deco décor, and well-sized rooms, decorated in various styles. The rooftop bar also offers panoramic views of the city whilst sipping on a drink.
4* H10 Palazzo Canova
Located on the Grand Canal, close to Rialto Bridge, this hotel is in a restored 19th-century building retaining lots of original architecture. The interior is a mix of contemporary elements with more traditional Venetian features including Murano glass. Rooms are elegantly decorated, some featuring a canal view. Guests can enjoy the spectacular view of the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge from the rooftop bar.
4* Hotel Concordia
Venice’s only hotel to overlook St Mark’s Square, this hotel is in a perfect spot for seeing the sights of the city. Its intimate and elegant feel adds to the atmosphere with just 51 rooms, and the hotel remains family-owned. Rooms are typically Venetian with period furniture and mosaic bathrooms. The lounge bar is a great place to enjoy a drink with wonderful views across the Basilica and St Mark’s Square.
4* Al Ponte Antico
A small hotel that resides in a former 15th century Palazzo, it enjoys a waterfront location with a private jetty on the Grand Canal on one side and a quiet narrow street on the other. Family-owned with personalised service, the hotel has a small terrace and bar with canal views, perfect for an aperitivo and watching the world go past on the busy waterway. The 9 rooms are opulent and Venetian in style, some with canal views.
4* Hotel Palazzo Stern
Set in a fabulous location, this boutique hotel oozes charm. There’s a rooftop jacuzzi available to guests with views over the Grand Canal and rooftops. The outdoor terrace is a great place to enjoy the views whilst having breakfast or in the evening with a drink. The sky bar is a great place to relax and view 2 bridges over the Grand Canal. Rooms are traditional in style including some with canal views.
5* Gritti Palace
One of the city’s Grand Dame hotels, it has a great position on the Grand Canal looking out to Santa Maria delle Salute church and oozes Venetian luxury including Murano chandeliers. Rooms are luxurious, yet all individual with antiques, artworks and intricate fabrics. The Club del Doge restaurant reimagines Venetian recipes and whether you’re sitting inside or out on the terrace, the views are special.
5* Sina Centurion Palace
Located at the mouth of the Grand Canal in the arty Dosoduro district and close to the Peggy Guggenheim Museum. Formerly, Palazzo Genovese, it’s an architectural delight with specular canal views. The hotel has a private garden for guests’ use. Rooms are modern, with Italian styling with lots of natural light, with city or garden views. The fine dining restaurant features an outdoor terrace overlooking the canal.
5* Hilton Molina Stucky
Set in a restored former flour mill, the hotel enjoys a wonderful location on Guidecca Island, just a short boat ride from the heart of Venice. The rooftop pool has incredible views across the lagoon to Venice. Many of the rooms have views of the canal and feature stylish décor throughout. There are three restaurants, including fine dining Aromi as well as two bars. There’s also a spa to unwind in following all the sightseeing!
