The Dorsoduro is, along with the Jewish Ghetto area, probably one of the most ‘Venetian’ of all the districts of the city. Choosing one of Venice’s best hotels in the Dorsoduro gives you a little more breathing space, and a little more reality, than in the scrum around San Marco - lovely and rich though the latter is.

Yet many visitors don’t explore beyond its obvious - and very fine - attractions of the Accademia art gallery, the Punta della Dogana contemporary art space, the fabulous 18th-century decorative arts in the Ca’ Rezzonico and the gorgeous Santa Maria della Salute with its collection of Titian’s work.

But if you wander at will, you’ll chance on quiet squares, rich Venetian architecture and serene churches. And the waterfront pavements between Punta della Dogana and the Stazione Marittima - popularly known as the Zattere - is where those in the know do their evening passeggiata, stopping for a drink or a gelato to admire the sunset.

Best hotels in Dorsoduro

For B&B

• Family-run and with charming, traditionally furnished rooms - some of which have balconies overlooking the canal - the Pensione Accademia is excellent value, plus it’s in a quiet location, and has two gardens.
• By contrast DD724 is modern and minimalist with white-walled rooms, open rafters, and funky charcoal and gold colours. It’s unfussy yet elegant and makes a cool retreat after a day of sight-seeing.

For a designer stay

• It may look like any other 16th-century palazzo from the outside but, inside, Ca’ Pisani mixes bold contemporary design with art-deco flourishes. The overall effect is cool and urban. Definitely one to look at if you want a break from Renaissance overload.

For Romance

• The two rooms at Palazzetto 113 are furnished in a chic yet sultry style with rich fabrics, gilded mirrors and embossed wallpapers. Tucked down a side-street, and with a no-children policy, this is a perfect retreat for two.
• Equally romantic, is sister hotel Ca Maria Adele with its fabulous position next to Santa Maria della Salute. Rooms are decadently furnished with plenty of dark damask, rich fabrics and massive chandeliers. Again, there’s a no-children policy plus there’s a small terrace.

For a waterfront hotel

• It may be a simple pensione but Pensione La Calcina offers charmingly unfussy rooms furnished with well-chosen antiques and parquet flooring, many with lagoon views - ask for a corner room. Its restaurant, on a pontoon, is a delightful place for drinks and dinner.
• Steps away from Santa Maria della Salute, the Centurion Palace has a splendid Gothic façade but ultra-contemporary rooms - think designer furniture and bold colours. Sit on the terrace to enjoy watching the passing Grand Canal traffic. There’s also a private courtyard when the heat of the city gets too much.

Choosing one of the best hotels in Dorsoduro is the ideal option if you want to be close, but not too close, to the heart of the city. If there's nothing in this selection that fits the bill, then check out all our Venice recommendations, or contact a friendly guru for advice.

 

Written by Helen Pickles

posted Wednesday, 24th August 2016