Where to Stay in Venice
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Venice
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Cannaregio
A charming and more residential district with a local feel, canals, and historic Jewish Ghetto.
Our top picks in Cannaregio
Former abbey offering unique accommodation with a garden, close to the train station.
Book NowModern hotel with a striking design and comfortable rooms, located near the Jewish Ghetto.
Book NowCharming property offering apartments and rooms with a focus on relaxation and local ambiance.
Book NowDorsoduro
Artistic and lively, known for its galleries, student population, and beautiful canals.
Our top picks in Dorsoduro
San Polo
Historic and bustling, centered around the Rialto Market and bridge, with a mix of commerce and residential life.
Our top picks in San Polo
Prime location overlooking the Rialto Bridge, offering classic Venetian style.
Book NowHistoric inn located above one of Venice's oldest restaurants, offering a unique dining experience.
Book NowComfortable and well-located hotel near the Rialto Market, offering good value.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1San Marco | Luxury | The opulent heart of Venice, buzzing with tourists and grand historical sites. | first-timersculture |
Cannaregio | Mid-range | A charming and more residential district with a local feel, canals, and historic Jewish Ghetto. | foodiesculture |
Dorsoduro | Mid-range | Artistic and lively, known for its galleries, student population, and beautiful canals. | culturefoodies |
San Polo | Mid-range | Historic and bustling, centered around the Rialto Market and bridge, with a mix of commerce and residential life. | foodiesfirst-timers |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Venice
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Venice
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Venice. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Venice
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Venice
San Marco
LuxuryThe opulent heart of Venice, buzzing with tourists and grand historical sites.
- +Iconic landmarks are right here.
- +Excellent Vaporetto connections.
- +High concentration of high-end shops and restaurants.
- -Extremely crowded, especially during peak season.
- -Can feel very tourist-centric and less authentic.
Cannaregio
Mid-rangeA charming and more residential district with a local feel, canals, and historic Jewish Ghetto.
- +More authentic Venetian experience.
- +Excellent local eateries and bacari.
- +Good transport links, especially near the train station.
- -Can be a bit further from the main tourist attractions.
- -Can feel quieter in certain sections at night.
Dorsoduro
Mid-rangeArtistic and lively, known for its galleries, student population, and beautiful canals.
- +Vibrant atmosphere, especially around Campo Santa Margherita.
- +Home to major art museums.
- +Good selection of restaurants and bars catering to locals and students.
- -Can get crowded in popular spots.
- -Some areas can be quiet after midnight.
San Polo
Mid-rangeHistoric and bustling, centered around the Rialto Market and bridge, with a mix of commerce and residential life.
- +Heart of the action near Rialto.
- +Fantastic food scene, especially at the market.
- +Lively atmosphere during market hours.
- -Can be extremely crowded and noisy.
- -Less residential feel, can feel very commercial.
Daily Budget (Budget)
EUR 80/day
Hidden Gems in Venice
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Libreria Acqua Alta
This unique bookstore keeps its books in gondolas, bathtubs, and waterproof bins to protect them from floods, creating a wonderfully chaotic and charming atmosphere.
Osteria al Squero
Enjoy authentic cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and local wine in this small bacaro (wine bar) located right opposite a traditional gondola workshop.
Campo Santa Margherita
FREEThis lively square transforms into a vibrant local market in the mornings, offering fresh produce and a glimpse into daily Venetian life, later becoming a popular spot for aperitivo.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Venice
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Venice Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Venice on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Venice Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Venice with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Venice: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Venice's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Venice: Scenic Excursion
Escape Venice for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Venice Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Venice's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Venice
Backpackers in Venice: FAQ
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