Lonely Planet Review

Don't even think about this hotel if you don't like the colour red or damask fabric. Every room is covered in the stuff, from the bedspreads and upholstery to the walls and curtains. We loved it - the rooms, which hark back to 18th-century Venice, are warm and alluring.

This house was built by the Doge of Venice in the 13th century for foreign merchants visiting the Rialto Market. By the 15th century it was receiving such eminent guests as ambassadors from Friuli. It became a private house in the 18th century and opened as a hotel in the 1950s. You might want to do some warm-up exercises before entering the front door of the Sturion as there is a mountain of steep stairs to climb. Choose the biggest rooms (Nos 1 or 2) if you want to flop down with a view of the Grand Canal. If not, a webcam in every bedroom will ensure you still see the famous water. The breakfast room also overlooks it. Room 10 in the attic is romantic verging on claustrophobic, and room 11 is great for a family as there's a single room adjoining the double.