Villa Contarini

Good location by the water bus stop on the Grand Canal and thankfully a bit away from the crowds of St. Marco district, which is easy 10-minute walk away. Big room, marble-everywhere bathroom, comfortable bed, strong AC, BUT the carpet in room 101 should have been replaced 10 years ago. Guessing it used be white, but now it is gray-ish and covered in dark stains all over. Oddly, a porter entered the room "to check the minibar inventory" while we were in the room resting in the afternoon. Why the inventory count was not done during the cleaning earlier in the day??... Not a 5-star hotel category.

We had the good fortune of staying in room 101. Large and comfortable with multiple windows, doors and balconies on two sides of the building, including facing the grand canal, which after walking the city for three days, is a must to look out over if you can. Stay away from the smaller canals where there is no breeze, no sunshine and possibly some bad smells. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The breakfast and evening cocktails were excellent and there was even a green space, which is very rare in Venice. The only drawback is that the hotel is next to one of the water taxi stops so there is some noise, but if peace and quiet is your expectation for this city, you are at the wrong destination. We would stay here again without question.