Luxury on a Budget in Venice

Not necessarily known as a budget-friendly Italian destination, Venice can actually be more attainable with some planning. Take advantage of seasonal promotions and family discounts for a 5-star stay without the price.

One locale never before mentioned in the same sentence as budget-friendly, San Clemente Palace Kempinski is located on a private island, a boat ride away from St. Mark’s Square. Offering the Family Paradise package for end-of-summer and fall travel, this includes offerings for families looking for all the luxury and opulence of the city without the hustle of the city’s more touristy regions.

If you’re already seeking the 5-star experience in an unforgettable locale, why not enjoy a night or two in the lap of luxury for less?

The San Clemente Palace Kempinski Hotel. Photo: Arne Beruldsen | Dreamstime.com

The package includes the resort’s Giardini Villa, situated in the privacy of the hotel’s garden, just a few steps away from the pool and kids club. Soak in the villa’s hot tub to unwind, or hop in the golf cart, designated for your villa and family’s personal use, to get your kids around the island.

Let the kids run around, play and enjoy daily activities at the kids club, including Venetian Mask painting classes, badminton games and even treasure hunting around the island. For the little ones, the hotel offers additional babysitting services.

Enjoy breakfast with the whole crew without the big production of getting the kids ready before the hotel’s service ends — this vacation is designed with Italian-style leisure in mind. Your lavish breakfast buffet will be hosted at Insieme Restaurant, with a host of options for all ages and tastes. Later, one included family dinner will be served at La Dolce Restaurant, offering seasonal, fresh Italian dishes, including everything from wood-fired pizza and seafood to classic Mediterranean cuisine.

San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice

Remembering the package focuses on both Family and Paradise, pricing begins at €1,000 ($1,120) per night, based on a family of four (meaning two adults and two children, ages 12 and up) — not exactly a penny-pincher, but considering all the package includes and a typical night stay for four can begin at €1,800, not including breakfast, this package is a way to live the high life and save some coin. Think of it as a sample sale on that high-end price tag: Still luxury and over budget, but all things considered, a pretty great deal.

What’s an Italian vacation without some gelato? San Clemente Palace offers an ice cream bike, branded by Grom, which travels around the island slinging vanilla, stracciatella (chocolate chip), pistachio, chocolate and strawberry gelato.