By the Boats

With a private boat dock right outside your dining area, meandering through Venice's world-famous canals couldn't be easier when you stay here. There's no denying that this quirky home presents a distinctive personality everywhere you turn. Still, we love that the four-poster bed and arched windows echo the days of old.

Whether you're ascending to the mezzanine and chilling out atop bean bags or tucking into a traditional breakfast by the modern mosaic, you'll be making memories with your loved ones at every hour. How about clinking your glasses together on this waterside terrace at sunset?

This eclectic home stands proud in the Cannaregio district, where you can take a gondola up to Casa del Tintoretto – the candy-coloured residence of a Renaissance painter. Also in this part of the city, the Jewish quarter is steeped in history. Or, perhaps you'll be serenaded under the gargoyles of Ponte delle Guglie, before enjoying an elegant evening in the Casinò di Venezia.

Home truths:
*This home has a mezzanine level *For those with reduced mobility, there's a ground floor bedroom and bathroom here *This home has a private dock right outside the dining room *We think the kitchen is better suited to lighter bites than large meals – it's lacking some basic essentials and crockery *There's a dedicated desk here if you need to catch up on some work during your stay *One of the bedrooms only has underfloor heating, and can get a little chilly during the colder months *This home is in a central spot, so noise is to be expected *Parking in Venice can be tricky, so we recommend sticking to the easily accessible public transport where possible – though we think the best way to see the city is on foot