After carefully assessing options, for this first stay in Venice, which was also my birthday present to my partner, I chose to stay in Bauer Palladio. This was the best decision ever! We enjoyed an ever changing view over the laguna and the Dukes' Palace, far from the madding crowds and yet only a 5-minutes trip away, by the hotel complimentary shuttle, from San Marco. Service was caring and friendly (thanks to Silvia and Mateo for great advice and welcome, thanks Emilie for smiles and attention). It was early April so the garden was still in winter sleepless but it must be an enchantment in spring. Breakfast buffet is plentiful and delicious, and the hotel's restaurant features fish and vegetables dishes, all excellent. Perfect for a vegetarian like me (not so for my very carnal partner, I would say one dish of meat for meat lovers might be a good idea). We will definitely be coming back!