Venice’s size and history means hotels on the island are a bit trickier for families, with intimate (read “small”) rooms in buildings dating back centuries. Hotel Ca’Vendramin is one such historic hotel decorated in a luxurious, Venetian style, but it also feels larger than many spaces, perhaps due to its location in a mostly residential area.

The hotel is accessible via canal, but also beside a bridge that leads directly to Strada Nova, one of the island’s pedestrian streets filled with many restaurants and shops. It also connects travelers to the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s, both a 20-minute walk away. Upon arriving, you may gasp as you step into the lobby, with its towering ceilings, Italian marble and charming Venetian décor and frescos. The building was once home to a Venetian noble in the 16th century, and it is easy to imagine his life here. Staff here greets you right away with huge smiles and an eagerness to assist, accommodating Americans and offering suggestions on local restaurants and off-the-beaten-path sights to see.

What makes Ca’Vendramin a better choice for families are the suites that provide room for four — a rarity in Venice, where most hotel rooms can accommodate only three people at maximum. Private baths, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV and a free breakfast each morning are more amenities that suit families. Don’t let the elegant setting fool you; the Ca’Vendramin is a great hotel for your family.

All rooms feature private bathrooms, some with just showers and some with bathtubs. All rooms are equipped with heat and air conditioning controls, a small TV with satellite service, mini bar, safe and Wi-Fi accessibility. Wi-Fi doesn't always work well within rooms, but common areas offer better service, and two computers with Internet are available for use, as well.

Suites with Canal Views
With just 11 guestrooms, the best option for families is a Suite with Canal View, which can accommodate up to four people with a bed and pullout sofa. The units provide separate living and sleeping areas in an elegant setting.

Junior Suites
Junior Suites accommodate up to three people, some with canal views.

Classic Rooms
Classic Rooms are available for two to three people. Some of the Classic Rooms are located on the main floor, which works well for families with younger children or accessibility needs, as the hotel does not have an elevator and a climb up the massive marble staircases with small kids and gear may prove to be too exhausting.

Note: For families of five or more, the hotel feels very residential and it may be possible to get the hotel to hold two rooms near each other to accommodate your larger family. It's quiet and secure enough that you'll feel like you're sharing a house together.

As many hotels in Venice operate, Ca'Vendramin does not offer family activities or amenities, instead serving as a place to rest while exploring all that Venice has to offer and explore.

The hotel does not feature a restaurant, but does provide a fresh-cooked international breakfast each morning in the breakfast room off the grand lobby. Breakfast can be delivered to rooms, as well.

The breakfast room becomes a full bar, open noon into the late evening for nightcaps.

All About the Extras
While Wi-Fi is free, it doesn't always work well within rooms. Common areas offer better service, and two computers with Internet are available for use, as well.

Small pets are allowed.

The Art of Smart Timing
Venice is a popular year-round destination, but summer months and the Christmas holidays are peak seasons. Hotels on the island are plentiful, but not all of them offer rooms large enough to accommodate four people, so book the hotel as far in advance as possible.

Getting There
When first arriving in Venice, it may be tricky to get your bearings, especially as it is a city with limited streets and a number of canals. Water taxis will deliver you directly to the door of the hotel, which is recommended, although be prepared for taxis to charge a flat rate of at least 60 Euros, regardless of distance.

While in Venice, waterbuses are convenient, easy to get to, and cheaper than taxis. Once you are settled into the hotel, ask the front desk where to locate water bus stops and to provide a map for walking directions of the island.

For Mom and Dad
If the kids are old enough to look after themselves for an hour, take a gondola ride -- this is Venice, after all. Opt for a late-afternoon ride, as fares go up around 7 p.m.