Hotel Excelsior

On Venice Lido, across the lagoon, right on the beach. There’s a complimentary shuttle service to and from Piazza San Marco (which takes just 15-20 minutes).

There are nearly 200 bright and spacious rooms and suites, all with views over the Adriatic, the city, the lagoon and the beautiful courtyard, with its fountain and pretty gardens. Take in the sunset over Venice and the lagoon from the comfort of your room, where you’ll find king-sized beds and plasma TVs, with distinctive Moorish archways dividing bedroom and living areas. Some rooms are interconnecting, making them ideal for families, while the flagship presidential suites have terraces perfect for relaxing on and enjoying the Venetian vistas.

At Ristorante Tropicana, dine in style on Italian favourites beneath chandeliers in winter or by candlelight on the terrace overlooking the sea in summer. Or tuck into a la carte menus and tempting buffets at La Taverna on the beachfront.

Stroll down to the golden sands of the beach and relax in a private cabana with a refreshing drink from the beach bar. The water is ideal for swimming, and is suitable for children as it’s calm and not too deep. Back at the hotel, there’s a swimming pool (which is heated in winter) and a private park, as well as a gym and tennis courts, with golf nearby. There’s also a kids club to keep the younger members of the family entertained. Meanwhile, the wonders of Venice, from the famous cafes of Piazza San Marco to world-class museums, are just across the lagoon.