Hoping to crowdsource hotel recs for Venice — anything cute, mom-approved, and reasonably priced to allow for carefree exploring (and shopping).

Question

Jeannette · Answer

Aqua B hotel b&b: Stayed here in March 2024 and it was cheap for Venice. Very clean and comfortable and although it didn't have a view, it did have the most amazing included breakfast which we filled up on every morning. Fill out a card at night and they bring you everything in the morning to your room. Luxury.

Jessica Menda · Answer

Cima Rosa: On the grand canal but retains the charm of a private palazzo.

Clara · Answer

Travel the way Italians do: Tons of religious guesthouses in all the major tourist hubs — I highly recommend staying in one if you can plan in advance (they often book up) and are all right with very spartan surroundings. They’re spotless, extremely friendly, and deeply, authentically Italian.

My favorite neighborhoods in Rome to look for housing are Prati, Parione/Regola, Pigneto, and the area around San Giovanni in Laterano.

Ginny Branch · Answer

Skye McAlpine's Venice Guide: Any Venetian rec by Skye McAlpine is legit. She is extremely kind and has exquisite taste but not in a snooty way- she just knows what’s good, in a variety of price ranges! All of the recs I have suggested came from her when we did a workshop together and she has all the insider knowledge and is a mother so I trust her if she says it’s kid-friendly! I’d just google her recs that aren’t paywalled and make a list from there!

Ginny Branch · Answer

Pasticceria Alla Bragora, Venice: Ate here for breakfast most mornings! Casual and good options!

Ginny Branch · Answer

Birraria la Corte Venezia: While Venice is not known for their pizza (seafood/seafood pastas YES) this brewery had some tasty pies and a nice, relaxed atmosphere! Could be nice to eat outside with kids!

Ginny Branch · Answer

Trattoria da Romano: I personally preferred Burano to Murano mainly because I am more interested in lace/making than glass-blowing but both places were so so cool!

We ate here for lunch and it was lovely!

Ginny Branch · Answer

Guggenheim Museum Venice: I’m sure everyone would agree this is a must-visit. I think you can get museum passes that allow you to go to multiple museums (including ones on Murano/Burano which are also worth factoring in on your trip)!

Ginny Branch · Answer

Dal Nono Colussi: Fourth generation, family-run pasticerria! I know Panetonne is more of a traditional Christmas offering but find a fresh chocolate chip loaf and enjoy with coffee! Could be nice to keep at your hotel or air bnb to enjoy throughout the trip!

Ginny Branch · Answer

Libreria Acqua Alta Venezia: This is the most charming second hand/ antiquarian book store!

Ginny Branch · Answer

Fanny Gloves:

My husband and I each went and purchased a pair for ourselves as a souvenir from the trip! It’s a family-run shop and had plenty of options!

Ginny Branch · Answer

Piedàterre Venezia Handcrafted Friulane Since 1952

Ginny Branch · Answer

40 Ladroni: Fantastic meal. Recommended by a local

Ginny Branch · Answer

Trattoria Antiche Carampane: Best meal in Venice. Quiet and charming. The seafood fritto misto is the perfect way to start your meal and the cuttlefish pasta or any of the seafood pastas are heavenly. I personally think the BEST way to see Venice is in the winter when it’s quieter or at the very least, stay far away from the madding crowd during high season😂 Cannaregio was a delightful area to stay/dine ❤️