Charming House iQs

Tucked just behind Piazza San Marco, this boutique guest house sits in the heart of central Venice. Steps from St. Mark's Square and St. Mark's Basilica, you're also within easy walking distance of the Rialto Bridge, Bridge of Sighs and Palazzo Querini Stampalia. Select rooms offer canal-view outlooks over the Rio di Santa Maria Formosa.

Housed around a Gothic courtyard with a well, Charming House iQs pairs historic bones with contemporary design and art. Only three individually decorated suites keep things private and stylish — each with a kitchenette (fridge and oven), Frette Italian sheets, down comforters and double sofa beds. Flat-screen TVs, safes, a small library and thoughtful touches let you wake up to canal-side scenes without sacrificing comfort.

Pamper yourself with onsite massages and a spa center, then let concierge and tour assistance desk handle excursions. Complimentary wireless internet keeps you connected. Other on-site perks include a restaurant, library, laundry and safe-deposit boxes. Cruise terminal and airport shuttles are available for a surcharge; babysitting/childcare can be arranged (surcharge).

Express check-in and check-out, a 24-hour front desk and complimentary wireless internet make short stays and last-minute plans easy. Shuttle service to the cruise terminal and roundtrip airport transfers are available for a surcharge.

There’s an on-site restaurant and spots to sip morning coffee with a view. Concierge can recommend local cafés and eateries nearby for authentic Venetian bites.