At Arco Antico you get "alla Veniziana" - an old arch entrance and medieval courtyard - with modern services, daily breakfast and modern services. The property first opened as a hotel in 1700 but thanks to the current owners, Gianfranco and Marco, the hotel got a redo in 2004.

Single, double, triple and quadrulple rooms are available, each named after a famous Venetian historical personality. All rooms have lead-latticed windows created by the Murano glass masters, antique furnishings, Internet access, satellite TV, safe, minibar.

We were ecstatic to have private baths and A/C comfort. Word is the best rooms are on the higher floors, especially the ones looking over the Venetian courtyard.

We're told the hotel staff pays terrific attention to the breakfast service, which you can get in-room or at the dining hall, and every evening they gather guests for a "hotel briefing," when local suggestions and recommendations are provide to make sure guests enjoy some cool new (and some older) places not on the beaten path.

Rates throughout the summer season range from a single for 45 Euros for 240 Euros for to quadruple room.

The hotel also offers special packages. We liked the "Honeymoon" package available through June 2008 that everyone, married or not, can enjoy.  The package includes a 5% rate discount, complimentary wine and free visit to a Murano island glass factory.  A three night stay will cost you less than 500 Euros total, inclusive of breakfast, VAT and service charges.

[Photo: Hotel Ca Arco Antico]

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