We stayed at this hotel for 3 nights choosing it mainly for its location which was ideal.Having done tons of research before, making notes to bring so that we could get as much out of our short stay as poss...I then went and left them all at home! It really didn't matter though in the end. Was absolutely sure i knew exactly how to get to the hotel and that it was very straight forward but arriving at night it all looks very different. So we had a bit of trouble finding the hotel. so many bridges and wondering if we were crossing the right one. Eventually got there and as you walk in it really is lovely.Was very pleased with our room despite having 3 windows but no canal views, which i was initially disappointed about,decided not to ask to change it.Unfortunately we had a terrible first night being regularly woken by what we think must have been shutters banging against the opposite building walls.So first thing in the morning we asked if possible could we change rooms which was no problem at all and we were more than happy with the much quieter room we were given.Still no views of the canal but we decided that it didn't really matter because as soon as you step outside the hotel they are all around you. Everywhere you look is a photo opportunity. We knew having such a short time we would want to cram a lot in and so got a 72hr vaporetto pass which was well used but we also did a lot of walking too. We found it very easy to get around Venice and never really got completely lost as we had expected to. Everywhere seemed well signposted.I had been once before only for a couple of hours back in 1968 and had always wanted to return one day so it was a very special return to be with my husband for our 40th anniversary and his first time too. We pre-booked a Secret Itineries tour for inside the Doges palace with a very good English speaking guide which we thoroughly enjoyed. Had time to wander around the palace too on our own, went into the basilica in St.Marks square, art gallery at Accademia, the Rialto, Canareggio, off and on the vaporettos,didn't seem to stop but only really touched the surface and would definitely return to explore a lot more. Despite the freezing cold weather we still think it would be better to come either a bit early or late in the year as we were suprised at how many tourists there were in early Feb so can only imagine how heaving it must get in high summer. Breakfast at the hotel was very good with more than enough choice for us.Rolls,croissants, toast.jams, fruit, juices,egg, bacon.cold meats etc. Really nice coffee and jug of hot milk, choice of teas.Very nice waiting staff and manager. We didn't eat any meals there as ate out.Would definitely return to The Carlton.
- Carlton Grand Canal Hotel
- Hotel Carlton Grand Canal
- Canal Hotel Venice
