HOTEL AQUARIUS VENICE - ASCEND COLLECTION, Venice

Hotel Aquarius Venice - Ascend Collection - A 17th-century Venetian palace with canal access and Murano glass chandeliers

Located between Santa Lucia railway station and Rialto Bridge in Santa Croce's laid-back district, this Venice hotel occupies the historic Palazzo Pemma-Zambelli. Hotel Aquarius Venice - Ascend Collection features 27 rooms and 5 apartments with contemporary furnishings, soundproof walls, and flat-screen TVs with streaming services. The property's double courtyard leads to a secret garden with a private water entrance from the canal. Two large aquariums at the entrance recreate the Lagoon's habitat, while frescoed salons on the noble floor showcase spectacular Murano glass chandeliers by masters Gianni Seguso, Fabio Fornasier, and Andrea Donà. The Aquarius overlooks San Giacomo dell'Orio square, where guests can experience authentic Venetian life with local shops and traditional restaurants. Key landmarks within 1640.4 ft include Canal Grande, St Mary of the Friars, and San Rocco.

Pros

Private water entrance directly from the canal

Original 15th-century architectural elements including exposed bricks and a courtyard well

Custom-made decorative pieces by local Venetian artists and craftsmen

Location in an authentic neighborhood where locals still speak Venetian dialect

Cons

1 mile from major attractions like Gallerie dell'Accademia and Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Additional charges apply for apartment cleaning services and breakfast