Hotel Danieli, Venice

The hotel is on the edge of the Grand Canal, so you'll see the boats and the gondoliers scouting for custom. You're in the centre of the action, so the sights are just moments away.

St Mark's Square, the Basilica and the Doge's Palace are all a five-minute walk away.

By plane: London to Venice takes 2 hours, after which an airport boat (or water taxi) takes 1 hour 30 minutes to the hotel. Book flights to Venice.

Made up of three palazzi, this is everything you'd want from a Venetian hotel. Expect marble Corinthian pillars, terrazzo floors, Murano glass chandeliers and frescos - and that's just in the lobby (the palazzo Dandalo dates back to the 14th Century).

Service is of the highest standard. You'll be made to feel like a VIP by all of the staff, including the doorman, concierge and the waiters.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Gym
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Even entry-level rooms are large and luxurious. The décor varies depending on which palazzo your room is in - from red and green in Palazzo Excelsior, to grey and pastel pink in Palazzos Dandolo and Casa Nuova.

Room types: Luxury, Dandolo, Deluxe, Executive Suite, Dandolo Suite, Lagoon Suite, Signature Suite, Royal Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

Enjoy fine dining at the restaurant, with a choice of à la carte and tasting menus. The spaghetti with sprouting broccoli, pecorino, anchovies and breadcrumbs was divine.

Restaurant Terrazza Danieli: fine European cuisine, open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Bar Terrazza Danieli: open seasonally for snacks and drinks.

Bar Dandolo: afternoon tea, cocktails and classic drinks. Open 10-1am.