Where to Stay in Venice: Three Unique Retreats for a Weekend to Remember

Venice isn’t just a city—it’s the romantic city par excellence, a world apart. A labyrinth of canals where every alley tells a story, every bridge marks a meeting, and every view evokes a lasting emotion. Staying in this extraordinary city means immersing yourself in a timeless atmosphere—and choosing the right place to stay can make the difference between a simple getaway and an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for authenticity and charm with a touch of magic, here are three special retreats that offer far more than just a comfortable bed.

🏰 Ruzzini Palace Hotel – A Noble Stay in the Heart of Venice

Overlooking the charming Campo Santa Maria Formosa, the Ruzzini Palace is a boutique hotel set in a 16th-century palace that once belonged to one of Venice’s most prestigious noble families. The interiors preserve their historic elegance with frescoes, exposed wooden beams, and period furnishings—yet all modern comforts are in place. Staying here feels like stepping back into the days of the Serenissima, but with the luxury of the present. Perfect for those seeking the most authentic side of Venice, just a short stroll from St. Mark’s Square but tucked away from the crowds.

🍇 Venissa – The Secret Island Where Time Stands Still

Let’s venture into the lagoon, to the island of Mazzorbo, to discover a truly unique place: Venissa, a wine resort nestled among vineyards and silence, where the ancient Dorona grape of Venice is still cultivated—and home to a Michelin-starred restaurant. Staying here means disconnecting from the city and reconnecting with nature and slowness. With minimalist design rooms, vineyard views, and refined cuisine, Venissa is a dream destination for those seeking discreet luxury and lagoon authenticity. Venice is only a short vaporetto ride away, yet it feels like a world apart.

🪞 Villa Gasparini – Neoclassical Romance on the Brenta Riviera

Just 15 minutes from the historic center, Villa Gasparini offers an intimate and original retreat in an 18th-century Venetian villa. Each room is inspired by a different theme: Venice, the Orient, love. The atmosphere is delightfully theatrical—think mirrors, silks, and soft lighting. It's the ideal choice for travelers who want to explore the city while also discovering the charm of the Brenta Riviera, perhaps by bike, with its Palladian villas and Grand Tour vibes.

✨ What to Do on a Weekend in Venice

A weekend in Venice can feel like a dream come true. Start with an early morning walk through quiet alleys and hidden squares, when the city is still asleep and the air hums with promise. Visit must-see museums like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection or the Doge’s Palace, be surprised by a temporary exhibit, or lose yourself in artisan workshops in the Dorsoduro district. Then end the day with a candlelit dinner overlooking the Grand Canal—perhaps after enjoying an aperitivo with cicchetti in a tucked-away bacaro. For those staying in one of the handpicked retreats we’ve suggested, Venice won’t be just a destination—it will be a true experience to live and remember.