Locanda SS. Giovanni e Paolo

The largest of the six "sestieri", Castello borders San Marco and becomes more residential (and, we think, interesting) the farther away from the packs of San Marco’s tourists you go. The district is dominated by its naval shipyards, the Arsenale, which were once the largest on the continent (and today has an excellent museum). Other sights include the impressive Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo, the tranquil Campo Santa Maria Formosa, and the Biennale Gardens. We find the district’s biggest draw, however, to be the tranquility of its narrow streets and hidden courtyards, and the clusters of locals chitchatting on the street and corner bars.

Sleeping in Castello: Hotels in the Castello district are often a better value and a bit more relaxed than those in the dead center of Venice, and this is especially true the farther you get into Castello. Note that most of the picks below are located on the border with San Marco, and thus they’ll be convenient to central sights, although more expensive and busier. However, we think that the charms of Castello really become apparent the deeper you get into the district. Even if you don't sleep deep inside Castello, try to visit it during your stay—you'll be surprised how suddenly you escape the crowds.

Our favorite hotels from the list below include the Al Leon (a lovely splurge), and the Locanda Silva (art-filled and simple), all located near the border with San Marco.