Ai Mori d’Oriente

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Ai Mori d’Oriente almost by accident during a spring trip to Venice – I was wandering through Cannaregio, trying to escape the tourist crush around San Marco, and there it was, tucked along Fondamenta Della Sensa, right by the canal. It’s in that quieter, more lived-in part of the city, where you hear locals chatting in Venetian dialect over morning coffee rather than just selfie sticks clicking. Honestly, getting there was a breeze if you hop off the vaporetto at Madonna dell’Orto – it’s just a short stroll past those old brick buildings and the occasional bakery wafting fresh cornetti smells. I arrived a bit sweaty from lugging my bag over the bridges (no cars in Venice, remember?), but the check-in was smooth; the staff – mostly friendly Italians with a smattering of English – handed me a chilled prosecco and chatted about the best nearby cicchetti spots, like that little bar on Fondamenta della Misericordia where you can grab fried sardines for cheap. The hotel itself has this exotic, almost storybook vibe – think Moorish influences with silk wallpapers and carved wooden screens that make you feel like you’ve stepped into some old trader’s palace from the Silk Road era. It’s not huge, which is a plus in cramped Venice, but well, if you’re not great with stairs, note that the elevator’s on the smaller side and can get backed up during peak check-out times.

What really won me over, though, was how the place blends that historic charm with actual comfort – my room overlooked the canal, and I’d wake up to the soft lapping of water against the fondamenta, mixed with distant church bells from the Ghetto area nearby (oh, definitely wander over to the Jewish Museum if you’re into history; it’s like five minutes away). The beds are plush, with those heavy drapes that block out the early summer sun, and the bathroom had these fancy mosaic tiles that felt luxurious without being over-the-top. Breakfast is served in a courtyard garden that’s surprisingly green for Venice – fresh fruits, yogurt, and cappuccinos that rival any café on Strada Nova, though I wish they’d add more savory options like eggs for us non-sweet tooth folks. Evenings were my favorite; the bar area has this cozy lounge with oriental rugs and low lighting, perfect for sipping a spritz after a day dodging crowds at the Rialto. Noise-wise, it’s pretty peaceful here compared to the busier sestieri – no late-night revelers stumbling by, just the occasional boat horn – but if you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room away from the canal side. And parking? Ha, forget it; this is Venice, so leave the car at Piazzale Roma and embrace the water taxis.

All in all, if you’re looking for a spot that feels authentically Venetian yet a tad exotic – sort of like Venice’s own nod to its trading past – Ai Mori d’Oriente is a gem, especially in shoulder seasons like April or October when Cannaregio isn’t swamped. It’s not the cheapest 4-star around, but for the rating it pulls (a solid 9 in my book, too), you get that intimate feel without the impersonal chain hotel vibe. I mean, I left feeling like I’d uncovered a secret – and isn’t that what travel’s all about? If you’re traveling solo or as a couple craving some romance minus the San Marco chaos, book it; just pack light and prepare for those enchanting canal views that’ll make you linger longer than planned. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $203. Classic Double Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $257. Superior Double Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $340. Deluxe Double Room with Canal View with 1 large double bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $336. Junior Suite with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $397. Junior Suite with Canal View with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $487. Suite with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $603. Suite with Canal View with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Clive from Switzerland – 12 January 2025 (9/10)

  excellent location, friendly staff prepared to help in every way, excellent breakfast
  
  What could be improved: no possibility to make a tea or a coffee in the room

• Adam from United Kingdom – 2 April 2025 (9/10)

  The location is perfect for a quiet, romantic break. The hotel is stunning and the staff are all friendly and nothing is too much trouble. Some amazing restaurants within a short walk and it’s very easy to get around. Perfect!

• April from United States – 13 March 2025 (9/10)

  Front desk folks were so helpful
  
  What could be improved: Night cruise only worth it if you sit outside.

• Paul from United Kingdom – 11 March 2025 (9/10)

  Beautiful rooms in the property, immaculate and clean. Well renovated!
  
  Great little bar to sit for cocktails.

• Marcello from United Kingdom – 8 March 2025 (9/10)

  It’s a lovely hotel, nicely located in the quiter area of Cannareggio and conveniently positioned near the station. It’s also very handy if you are planning to explore Murano, Burano and Torcello. Rooms and beds are very confortable, breakfast is great value for money. The staff was very nice and helpful and gave us a fantastic room! We’ll definitely go back.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, it was perfect!

• Cat from United States – 7 March 2025 (9/10)

  The location was perfect! We loved being where most Venetians live and where it is not as touristy, but a quick walk or boat ride to key points in the city.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect! I would not change a thing!

• Stuart from United Kingdom – 2 March 2025 (9/10)

  Very clean property – really friendly/knowledgeable/informative staff. Ideal location if you like it on the quiet side however there are great restaurants/bars within a couple of mins walk
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Natalie from United Kingdom – 2 March 2025 (9/10)

  Staff was very friendly and helpful. Nearest ferry stop was less than 5min walk away. Room was lovely. Good size, really clean and very comfortable bed. Well worth the money. It was a 25min walk to St Mark's basilica as it was in a more residential area. However it allowed us to have a good wander around all the little side streets and find some cute little shops and restaurants.

• Ruth from United Kingdom – 25 February 2025 (9/10)

  Really liked the location, comfy beds and well equipped bathrooms, friendly staff
  
  What could be improved: The coffee at breakfast isn't very nice, otherwise breakfast choices are fine.

• Jerry from Italy – 12 February 2025 (9/10)

  Everything was great. In a quieter part of town, near the Jewish ghetto. Arabian motif. Old style reception desk. Very helpful and accommodating staff. Charming cafes, bars and eateries nearby. Near water taxi to airport.
  
  What could be improved: No complaints

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities