Venice is a city that loves its art. The architecture and art Biennales, the annual film festival, and the city itself—with its winding canals and Gothic buildings—all seem aimed at like-minded travelers who prioritize artistry and craft when planning a trip. This extends to its hospitality. Glittering grand hotels and jewel-box boutique properties give the aesthetically minded jet-setter plenty to consider; but for your own personal palazzo, why not book an Airbnb in Venice?
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Airbnbs in Venice:
For an Opulent Palazzo: Amazing Home, from $395 per night
For a Cozy Stay: Serenissimo Prencipe, from $364 per night
For Sweeping City Views: Accademia Sunshine, from $506 per night
For a Moody Color Palette: Luxury Historic Apartment, from $572 per night
For a Charming Attic: San Marco Penthouse, from $886 per night
For a Slice of Fashion History: La Casa di Hubert De Givenchy, from $1,914 per night
The features don’t disappoint. Venetian terrazzo made from multicolored chips of marble and granite lines the floors; soaring wood-beamed ceilings and walls coated in lush shades of pistachio, plum, and chartreuse provide opulent backdrops for your morning espresso; lustrous damask and gilded gold accents make even an entry hall feel like something out of a museum. These vacation rentals range from cozy stays for a couple to more spacious apartments fit for a family—all right in the center of the city, all with their own take on its rich history of art and architecture.
Ahead, ten of Venice’s most elegant Airbnbs to rent before your trip to the Floating City.
Secret Garden
Photo: Courtesy of the Airbnb Photographer Community
This refined home in the Dorsoduro neighborhood has it all—a rooftop terrace, private garden, and spacious interiors featuring original art, antiques, and fine wood floors. If you’re traveling for business, note the multiple workspace options; for those looking to unwind, the walk-in rainfall shower and freestanding tub will feel heaven-sent after a day touring nearby attractions like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Grand Canal.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms
Amenities: Dedicated workspace, washer/dryer, AC, property manager, bathtub, room-darkening shades, exercise equipment, heated floors, fireplace, dishwasher, balcony, outdoor dining area.
Book For: The panoramic roof terrace.
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Serenissimo Prencipe
Courtesy of Airbnb
You’ll feel instantly at home in this light-filled apartment. Designed with comfort in mind, the rustic style is welcoming but not shabby: linen slipcovered sofas, Persian rugs, and mismatched antiques set the scene for a cozy stay. It’s surprisingly spacious, with a full kitchen and lots of little nooks to carve out your own space—making it especially ideal for long-term stays. (There’s even a desk in one of the bedrooms.)
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, washer, books, children’s toys, crib, changing table, babysitter recommendations, elevator, air conditioning, balcony
Book For: A home-away-from-home feel.
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Amazing Home
Courtesy of Airbnb
You came to Venice for ornate sophistication and the lavish charm of the palazzi: why not stay in your very own luxury rental? Conveniently located in San Polo (a five-minute walk from Rialto, with a vaporetto stop nearby), this two-bedroom can sleep up to six and is brimming with character. Each room brings some new, gilded delight, from the ceiling-to-floor peach silk drapes to the terrazzo flooring to the many (many) antique gold mirrors.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, washer, TV, crib, air conditioning, espresso maker
Book For: A true palazzo feel.
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Luxury Historic Apartment
Courtesy of Airbnb
Coated in a rich, lime-washed shade of plum, this elegant Venetian home pays tribute to its original Gothic style. It’s right in the historic center of the city, with plenty of shops and markets a quick walk away, which you can observe from the oversized windows that let light stream in. It’s also great for families: amenities like a crib, pack ’n play, aKids’ books are also available at the property to make your stay more comfortable.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, washer/dryer, sound system, crib, children’s books
Book For: Color palette inspiration.
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Canal Side Apartment
With a canal view so close it feels like you could reach out and touch the water, this apartment is a quintessential Venetian stay. The bedrooms are at the back of the property for privacy, while the kitchen and living areas overlook the water. Cozy up with a glass of local wine (the stone-and-wood interiors give the space an almost cave-like feel that’s perfect for winter) and watch gondolas glide by, or step outside and enjoy everything the Cannaregio district has to offer.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, washer/dryer, AC, central heating, dishwasher.
Book For: A side of the canal with your breakfast.
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Portego del Drapier
Courtesy of Arbnb
Hidden inside a 15th-century palazzo right on the canal in the Cannaregio district, this recently renovated apartment beautifully blends old and new. Traditional terrazzo flooring remains intact, while concrete walls and a stainless steel chef-grade kitchen add a modern touch. Small balconies look out onto the terracotta-and-lemon-colored canal homes—a picturesque way to start each day with a little caffè.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, balcony, elevator, air conditioning
Book For: Brutalist charm.
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La Casa di Hubert De Givenchy
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Once the home of Hubert de Givenchy, this spot promises a one-of-a-kind stay. Bold, intricate patterns and vivid colors, from citrine to cornflower, grace the walls—one wallpaper print was actually hand-selected by Givenchy’s muse and friend Audrey Hepburn. The palazzo’s smaller details, like a hand-blown Murano glass ceiling lamp and a free-standing tub in the middle of a light-filled bathroom, elevate the experience further.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer/dryer, bathtub, air conditioning, terrace, outdoor furniture
Book For: The fashion credentials.
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Ca’ del Ramo D’oro
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It starts with pistachio green wood-beam ceilings in the open-plan living area, but this loft’s unique charm extends to every single room. Hammered gold cabinets in the kitchen and an eclectic mix of antique furniture will give you plenty of design inspiration to save for when you get home.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Washer, crib, high chair, air conditioning
Book For: Eclectic design.
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San Marco Penthouse
Courtesy of Airbnb
On a cul-de-sac right off the city’s main piazza sits this historic palazzo—you’ll have full access to the top floors when you book the property. The large arched windows in the living area have a stunning view of the rooftops, but for a more unobstructed look, head to the terrace. Each bedroom has its own en-suite, making this a good option if you’re traveling with a group of friends and want your own space.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Amenities: Bathtub, washer/dryer, TV, travel crib, air conditioning, indoor fireplace, terrace, outdoor furniture
Book For: Proximity to St. Mark’s Square.
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Accademia Sunshine
Courtesy of Airbnb
This cozy attic apartment is all rustic wood beams and low lighting—until you go outside, that is, and find yourself on a sprawling terrace with all of Venice at your feet. There’s a dining table and a sofa, for eating and reading in the fresh air with clear views of the lagoon.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer, air conditioning, terrace, outdoor furniture, pet-friendly
Book For: The terrace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs about The 10 Best Airbnbs in Venice for Canalside Charm
General Beginner Questions
1 What does canalside charm actually mean
It means your Airbnb is located directly on or very close to a canal You get the experience of watching gondolas and boats go by from your window or a small balcony and youre immersed in the authentic atmosphere of Venice
2 Is staying on a canal noisy
It can be Youll hear boats water taxis and people talking in the alleys especially during the day Nights are usually quieter but light sleepers should pack earplugs as sound travels easily over water
3 Whats the difference between a canal view and canal access
A canal view means you can see the water from your windows Canal access means your building has a water door or a small dock area Most Airbnbs only offer a view
4 Are these Airbnbs expensive
Yes generally A canalside location is a premium feature in Venice Prices are higher than places located down a quiet alley especially during peak tourist season
5 Do I need to worry about flooding
Its a possibility mainly in autumn and winter When choosing an Airbnb check the listing for mentions of ground floor or piano terra Its safer to book a place on the first floor or higher to avoid any inconvenience from high water
6 How do I get to my canalside Airbnb from the airport
The two main ways are a water bus or a private water taxi A water taxi can often drop you off right at the buildings canal entrance
Practical Tips Common Problems
7 Whats the biggest mistake people make when booking a canalside place
Not checking the exact location on a map A place near a canal might be in a very touristy crowded area Use Google Street View or the listings map to see whats around it Look for a balance between charm and quiet
8 Can I swim in the canal
Absolutely not The canals are for transportation and are not clean or safe for swimming