The five-star Bauer Palladio offers an unbeatable location on the peaceful Giudecca island, just across the water from San Marco. As such, the views of Venice are breathtaking, some rooms looking out over the water and other over the hotel's tranquil gardens. In addition, there's a 450 square metre spa with eight treatment rooms, and the whole thing is housed in a 16th century convent. While several of the rooms look dated, the decor is impressive, with antiquated tapestries and paintings. A free shuttle boat runs between the hotel and San Marco.