An annex of the larger Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal, this hotel is housed in a late 13th-century palace owned by the Benetton Group. It doesn't really have a lobby or even a reception desk -- guests check in and out at the sister hotel. There are no public areas here, just a desk in a narrow space at the entrance. But the location is outstanding, so guests often overlook the shortcomings here to take advantage of being in the heart of the city for rates a little lower than at the sister hotel (though they still feel high for there being zero on-site features). Most guests here are couples, but families, groups, individuals, and even businesspeople also pass through.

This hotel has an extraordinary location right behind St. Mark's Square, in an area that is among the most exclusive in this fascinating city. Many major attractions are within a short walk, including the Correr Museum, which is right next door. There also are numerous restaurants, bars, and shops all around. The Grand Canal takes just two minutes to reach on foot, and the S. Marco (Giardinetti) DX ferry station is a short walk from the hotel. The popular Harry's Bar is just a two-minute walk away as well. Budget at least an hour to reach Venice Marco Polo Airport by water taxi or a combination of boat and taxi.

Rooms here are rather basic and offer a measured take on the classic look found throughout Venice. They do have details like nice wood floors and exposed beam ceilings, which give them a bit of needed character. Clean-lined, modern wood furniture is unusual in this opulent city, but beds are covered in typical old-style patterned spreads. Otherwise, decor is minimal, but attractive, and some rooms have romantic four-poster beds. Amenities include air-conditioning, small flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, and kettles for tea and coffee. Wi-Fi carries a fee. Suites add more space and a sitting area with a sofa and chairs. Bathrooms are sharp and simple as well, with marble countertops plus tiled floors and walls. They come with showers, hairdryers, toiletries, towel warmers, and bidets. 

As an annex to Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal, this hotel doesn't have anything in the way of features -- no restaurant, bar, or lobby. Guests who want breakfast need to walk to the sister hotel, where a breakfast buffet is served in the Restaurant Grand Canal overlooking the water. For a real treat -- if the weather is nice -- guests can dine alfresco on the terrace with magnificent canal views. Check-in takes place at Hotel Monaco, and porters will help ferry luggage to the palazzo. Wi-Fi comes at a fee, though is free in common areas at Hotel Monaco.