Budget travelers are usually pleasantly surprised when they arrive at the Venecia and behold the beautiful building right in the heart of town across the plaza from the town hall (ayuntamiento). Because the Venecia shares a staircase with private apartments in the same building, it is considered a hostal rather than a hotel, which by law limits the rates it can charge. Travelers reap the benefit, as the Hostal Venecia operates with all the efficiency of a small hotel, and staff tend to be friendly and knowledgeable. Wood paneling and decorative wallpapers lend a touch of style to the clean, simply furnished (and often small) rooms.