Air b&B or hotel in Venice?

If you have not been to Venice before, you might appreciate the amenities and services offered by a hotel, and the options for dining out. But if you are experienced independent travelers and like saving money by cooking meals "in", then an apartment is a good choice. That is what we do now.

In Venice I have stayed at the Hotel Ala for each of the past 12 years. It is convenient, beautiful, friendly and has a very filling breakfast buffet. In other cities in Italy I look closely at vrbo.com and my requirements are pretty much the same. If you want an apartment rental, look closely at the map - is it convenient enough especially when returning at night? Do the reviews confirm the pictures, amenities and quality of communications with the owners? Is the apartment close enough to food vendors (grocery stores, daily street markets)? What does the apartment offer that a hotel doesn't (usually a washing machine)? The washing machine wins in most places for me (I'm in Italy for about 2 months at a time) but I still use a hotel in Venice. I found a laundromat along the Giudecca that was convenient and I met the most interesting people for great conversations. Price in Venice can also be an issue - Venice is expensive. In apartment reviews I'd look for 'great value for the money.' Have a wonderful trip!!!!!

I think both Lola and Robert have given excellent advice. Last year we spent a week in Venice. At the time we were not familiar with a B&B but we had a recommendation for a Hotel from friends. We stayed at Hotel Flora. It's a comfortable, family run Hotel, quiet location but close to San Marco and walkable to major attractions and restaurants. It has a lovely courtyard for their wonderful buffet breakfast. It was the best we had in Italy. We chose a room overlooking the courtyard. www.hotelflora.it