3C B&B, Venice

This B&B sits in the historic heart of Venice, within a short walk of Saint Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Fenice Theatre (800 metres). The Grand Canal is 1 km away. The San Zaccaria waterbus stop gives direct access to the airport via the Alilaguna water transport, and the train station is a 30- to 40-minute walk or a short vaporetto ride. Numerous restaurants and cafés are clustered within a 300-metre radius. Despite being so central, the location is tucked away on a quiet street, offering a peaceful night's sleep.

Rooms are generously sized with modern, tasteful decor, high ceilings, and comfortable beds. Each has air conditioning, a computer, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a mini-bar, tea and coffee facilities, an electric kettle, and a safety deposit box. The private bathrooms feature a shower, hairdryer, and free toiletries. Some rooms overlook a quiet internal courtyard, and others face the street; windows are soundproofed, though light sleepers may still prefer a courtyard-facing room. Superior rooms are larger than Standard doubles. No rooms have a balcony or are on the ground floor. Daily housekeeping and regular towel changes are provided.

Breakfast is served at a time agreed with the host and includes a hot dish (scrambled eggs, omelette, or toast with ham and cheese), fresh breads and croissants, cereals, yogurt, fruit, juice, and coffee. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available on request. For early departures, the host provides a takeaway breakfast bag. There is no restaurant or bar on site, but the surrounding streets offer a wide selection of restaurants, trattorias, and gelaterias within a few minutes' walk.