Built in the 16th century, the unique Palazzo Barbarigo sul Canal Grande has been updated to the needs of travellers seeking luxury and calm, as well as a bit of the high drama that Venice specializes in. Pulling up in a motorboat or gondola, for instance, is no problem: the hotel has its own private dock.

Although Venice has the most pleasant weather from March-May, wintertime can be magical and the hotel’s Midweek promotion gives you free entrance to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and afternoon tea served in the hotel’s glam lounge overlooking the Canal Grande (now through Dec 27 or Jan 6-24). Look for Midweek Promotion when you book.