Venetian Finds for Less

Ever dream of a romantic interlude in Venice but don't want to it to eat up all of your vacation money for the next year? Conveniently located half way between the railway station and St. Mark's Square, this little inn is just a few steps from the Ca' D'Oro vapretto stop. We have stayed at the Gritti, the Danieli, and many other places at both ends of the hotel spectrum, but the Locanda Le Vele is truly exceptional for a 3 star hotel. There are only 6 suites and all are luxuriously furnished with ornate Venetian Provincial furniture, tastefully done and exceptionally roomy - bigger than most of the top end hotels.

Our room had a king size bed, a pull out sofa, a 3 chair/table sitting area, a private bath with shower, satellite TV, minibar, dial telephone, safe, air conditioning and breakfast room service. The only negatives were no lift and a small shower. However for the price, you can't beat it! We also found the prices at the restaurants near the hotel to be more reasonable than the ones close to St. Mark's Square. Book the Locanda Le Vele through our hotel finder .

While you are in Venice, you may want to do a few out of the way things, like visit La Fenice, the recently rebuilt opera house for a tour, or visit the Goldini Palazzo, home of an 18th century playwright. Palazzo Grassi is also a lesser known museum that does special art exhibitions worth checking on when you are in Venice. The Palazzo is a wonder on its own. And while you're saving money, don't forget the Venice Card if you are planning to go into a number of Churches and museums. Purchasing it can be a considerable savings.

Recently the Telegraph in the UK ran an article highlighting some of the best value restaurants in Venice. BA's airline magazine also highlighted a few. You may want to check them out as they came highly recommended by a local restauranter. These restaurants include:

I Nuovo Galeon on Via Garibaldi (041 520 4656) - Modestly priced
La Colombina just off Strata Nuova on Cannaregio - (041 522 2616)
Al Gatto Nero on Burano (041 730 120) - seafood
La Zucca at Campo S. Giacomo dell'Orio (041 524 1570) - low cost
Alla Madona on Calle della Madonna (041 522 3824)
Trattoria da Arturo on Calle degli Assassini (041 528 6074)

For a special meal, try the Michelin starred Osteria da Fiore on Calle del Scaleter (041 721 308). And for that great pizza, Il Refolo off Campo S. Giacomo dell Orio (041 524 0016).

Learn more about Venice at The Savvy Traveler.

TIP: If it's you first time in Venice, save time and money by taking one of our tours . You'll zip past the lines and cover a great deal of must see attractions in less time.