Staying in Venice for one of the events of the year? Here are 5 of the town’s best Airbnbs you can stay at.
Venice. The city of canals, gondolas, and now, your Airbnb stay during the Venice Film Festival. Picture it: you’re sipping espresso on a private balcony overlooking a meandering canal, while just across the way, an A-list celebrity might be boarding a water taxi. What better way to experience the glamour of the Venice Film Festival than by staying in an Airbnb that oozes the city’s rich history and style? But with so many options, finding the perfect place can feel like hunting for the last good seat at a red carpet premiere. Fear not, dear reader, because we’ve scouted the best Airbnbs that combine luxury, convenience, and, of course, plenty of ‘grammable moments. Now, all you need to worry about is whether you’ll bump into George Clooney on your morning cappuccino run.
What is the Venice Film Festival?
Before we dive into the dreamy abodes, let’s take a moment to talk about why you’re heading to Venice in the first place. The Venice Film Festival is the oldest international film festival, founded in 1932, and it’s held annually on the Lido di Venezia. It’s part of the broader Venice Biennale, a celebration of international arts and culture, and the festival serves as the glittering stage where some of the most anticipated films of the year are premiered. Directors, actors, and film buffs from around the world gather here, making it not only a significant event in the film industry but also one of the most glamorous and prestigious on the circuit. Think of it as Cannes but with more canals and fewer yachts.
What makes the Venice Film Festival so unique is its setting. The romantic city provides a breathtaking backdrop to the cinematic magic on-screen, and when the lights dim in the Sala Grande, you know you’re about to witness something extraordinary. But Venice itself is as much a star as the films—it’s easy to see why directors from Fellini to Luca Guadagnino have been drawn to its mysterious allure.
2024 Highlights: A Year of Greatness
2024 promises to be another standout year for the Venice Film Festival. According to a report from Frieze, the festival is as much a cultural pilgrimage as it is a cinematic showcase. This year, the spotlight is shared by established auteurs and fresh voices alike. Filmmakers like Yorgos Lanthimos and Sofia Coppola have brought daring, artistic narratives to the festival, with Lanthimos’s latest, Poor Things, receiving widespread acclaim for its bold storytelling. Coppola’s exploration of family dynamics continues to mesmerise audiences, and her festival entry has only solidified her place among the most revered filmmakers today.
What stands out this year, however, is the balance between Hollywood glamour and intimate indie films. While the A-listers will certainly dominate the red carpet, the festival’s programming gives ample space for new directors to make their mark. Venice 2024 is a celebration of the good and the great, where the art of cinema is at the heart of every screening, every conversation, and, yes, every afterparty.
The Best Airbnbs for the Venice Film Festival
Now that you’re primed on the festival’s importance, let’s talk accommodation. Whether you want to stay close to the Rialto Bridge or prefer a more secluded spot overlooking the city’s winding canals, these Airbnbs are perfect for soaking in the atmosphere of Venice while offering a luxurious place to recharge after a day of film and festival fun.
1. Venetian Palace near Piazza San Marco
Imagine stepping back in time to the splendour of a traditional Venetian palace. That’s exactly what this Airbnb offers, located just a stone’s throw from the iconic Piazza San Marco. The apartment is brimming with classic Venetian style, from the opulent chandeliers crafted by Murano glassmakers to the intricate paintings adorning the walls, created by local artists. The apartment’s real gem, though, is its view—gondolas drifting lazily down a canal just beneath your window. It’s as if you’re living in a Renaissance painting.
The apartment is situated on the fourth floor, so you’ll need to climb a few stairs to get there, but the breathtaking scenery is well worth the trek. With easy access to Venice’s main attractions, including the Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge, you’ll be perfectly positioned to take in the sights and sounds of this magical city. Plus, when you need a break from the festival’s bustle, there’s nothing like retreating to the tranquillity of this charming home-away-from-home.
2. Penthouse with Views of the Rialto Bridge
If you’re seeking something more modern but still quintessentially Venetian, this penthouse apartment is your best bet. Located near the Rialto Bridge, it blends traditional Venetian décor with contemporary comforts. The vaulted wood-beam ceilings and expansive windows give the space an airy, open feel, while the terrace offers unparalleled views of the Grand Canal. Imagine sipping Prosecco while watching gondolas glide by beneath you.
This penthouse is perfect for those who want a quiet retreat amidst the festival frenzy. It’s luxurious but understated, with satellite TV, a large kitchen, and all the modern amenities you could want. Its peaceful ambience will be your sanctuary after long days spent at film screenings and networking events.
3. Salute Palace – 16th Century Charm Meets Modern Comfort
For those who want a blend of boutique hotel luxury with the charm of Venice’s history, Salute Palace is a stunning option. This 16th-century palace boasts a grand reception area with floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony overlooking the Fornace Canal. Whether you’re staying for business or pleasure, the rooms are chic and stylish, with daily housekeeping to ensure that your focus remains solely on the festival’s glamour.
What sets this Airbnb apart is its seamless fusion of old-world elegance with modern conveniences. Part of Sonder’s boutique hotel collection, the property offers the perks of a 24/7 concierge and a mobile-first experience, ensuring your stay is as smooth as possible. You’re free to enjoy a cocktail at the courtyard bar before heading out to the festival or simply sit on the balcony and watch Venice unfold beneath you.
4. Architect’s Apartment with Canal Access
This light-filled apartment, designed by architects, combines Venetian tradition with modern aesthetics. Located on the first floor of a typical Venetian building, it has direct access to the canal, so you can practically step outside and hail a gondola. The interiors are sleek yet warm, with carefully chosen design pieces that reflect Venice’s artistic heritage.
The apartment has a shared courtyard, perfect for quiet afternoons or sipping a coffee while watching the city go by. Dual exposure ensures the space is flooded with natural light, making it feel like a calming retreat amid the city’s vibrancy. It’s the ideal spot for those who appreciate thoughtful design and want to stay somewhere that offers both beauty and functionality.
5. My Rialto – A Design Lover’s Dream
If you’re looking for something truly unique, this apartment located just 100 metres from the Rialto Bridge might be it. With its quirky tree-shaped bed and handmade Art Deco furnishings, this Airbnb feels more like an art installation than a mere place to sleep. But don’t let its playful design fool you—this apartment is incredibly functional, with a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living room, and plenty of modern amenities, including high-speed WiFi and a smart TV.
Sleeping under a “tree” in Venice might sound whimsical, but this apartment turns that dream into reality. With natural wood accents, vintage car-inspired furniture, and an overall commitment to handcrafted design, it’s a must-stay for design enthusiasts. And with Piazza San Marco just a short walk away, you’ll never be far from the festival’s main events.