Summer 2026 | 13 history at KU Leuven in Belgium, entering the country’s political scene and staying there for a couple of years. Unfulfilled, he made his way from Brussels to Spain, where he again spent a few more restless years. Arriving in Venice thereafter, something finally clicked. Every inch of this canal city reflected his love of art and history, and Sven knew he had finally found the place where he belonged. He realised he wanted to share the magic he had discovered here with the world, and this is the mission shared by both of his businesses. Sven achieves this in a number of ways: personal stories, local insights, and genuine hospitality. Sven’s fingerprints are clearly all over Villa Contarini, and this is a big part of the charm of his B&B. However, there is so much to see outside of the property, which is in walking distance of everything from beaches and the promenade to the famous Venice Film Festival, which the Lido plays host to every year. All of this, plus a much quieter location than any hotel or B&B in the centre of Venice, makes Villa Contarini the perfect spot. “Let my house be your home during your stay in the most unique city in the world.” Thanks to the combination of great accommodation, outstanding hospitality, and the option of an immersive and informative tour, Sven has stamped Villa Contarini as the go-to B&B Venice for those in search of the charm that only this host and the city he is proud to call home can offer. This is something Villa Contarini’s guests wholeheartedly agree with, as seen through the great reviews they leave on Trip Advisor. For example, one couple from Norway reflected: “Beautiful house on the Lido and pleasant rooms. Nice breakfast in the dining room. Great tour guide from the host Sven. He has a deep knowledge of art history and showed us corners and narrow streets of Venice as if it were his pocket! We loved every minute!” Another guest wrote: “A beautiful property, lovingly restored down to the smallest detail, in perfect harmony with the nature in which it is magically nestled. Impeccable cleanliness and tranquillity; I declare Villa Contarini my place of the heart. The host, Sven, is Belgian. He welcomes you with a big smile and makes his home feel like yours throughout the stay. An unexpectedly delightful welcome, full of pleasant moments.” These kind words echo Sven’s success in sharing the joy and beauty of Venice with the world, and have played a huge part in our decision to recognise Villa Contarini as the Most Charming B&B 2026 – Venice, marking its second consecutive win in our annual Resorts and Retreats Awards programme. More on this charming location and its charismatic owner can be found at the link below. Company: Villa Contarini Web Address: https://www.villacontarinibnb.com/
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