Ai Turchesi

Hotel Description

You know, when I first stumbled upon Ai Turchesi while wandering through the labyrinth of San Marco, I was honestly relieved to find a spot that felt like a genuine escape from the tourist crush. It’s tucked away at 2867 San Marco, right in the heart of things but not smack in the middle of the chaos – think a quiet side street off Calle Larga XXII Marzo, where you can hear the faint echo of church bells from San Moisè rather than the constant hum of vaporettos on the Grand Canal. I arrived by water taxi from the train station (pro tip: skip the gondola unless you’re feeling romantic and flush with euros; it’s faster and cheaper this way), and check-in was a breeze – the staff, all locals who actually know the back alleys, handed over my key with a quick chat about the best time to hit Piazza San Marco before the crowds descend around 10 a.m. The building itself has that classic Venetian vibe, with exposed brick and those tall, narrow windows that let in the soft, golden light filtering through the canals – but honestly, it’s the little touches, like the fresh pastries at breakfast that smell like they just came from a nearby pasticceria, that made me feel like I’d found a hidden gem.

What really sets Ai Turchesi apart, though – and I say this as someone who’s stayed in a few spots around Venice – is how it balances that old-world charm with stuff that actually makes your trip easier. The rooms are cozy, sort of compact like most places here (Venice isn’t known for sprawling suites, after all), with plush beds that sink just right after a day of traipsing over bridges, and bathrooms that have those rain showers that wash away the salty canal air. I loved the rooftop terrace – well, it’s more of a small balcony area, but on a quiet evening, you can sip an Aperol spritz while watching the sunset paint the rooftops orange, and it’s blissfully free from the noise of the Rialto vendors hawking masks and glass trinkets. Oh, and if you’re into theater, it’s a stone’s throw from La Fenice; I caught a show there one night and walked back in under 10 minutes, dodging the occasional pigeon but nothing too hectic. That said, during high season in summer, the area can get a bit lively with street performers until late – earplugs helped me, but if you’re a light sleeper, maybe request a room facing inward. Breakfast is included and solid, with cappuccinos that rival the ones at Caffè Florian (though cheaper here, thank goodness), and the Wi-Fi is surprisingly reliable for streaming your favorite shows after a long day.

All in all, if you’re heading to Venice and want a 4-star stay that feels authentic without breaking the bank – it’s got an 8.9 rating for a reason – Ai Turchesi is the kind of place I’d book again in a heartbeat. It’s not perfect; the elevators are on the slower side, like many historic buildings, but that just adds to the charm, you know? For couples or solo travelers who appreciate being steps from the action yet able to retreat, this spot nails it – pair it with a wander down to the Accademia Bridge at dusk, and you’ve got yourself a trip worth remembering.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $456. Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 × 2 single beds for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Jonathan from Israel – 15 August 2023 (10/10)

  Central location, super clean and quite. The space in the apartment was perfect for a large family visiting Venice. The Wi-Fi was dreadful though.
  
  What could be improved: Wi fi

• Georgia from Greece – 4 March 2025 (10/10)

  Near San Marco. A beautiful and very clean apartment. We loved the small balcony on the channel near Academia bridge!

• Majella from Australia – 29 January 2025 (9/10)

  Location
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Diane from United States – 12 November 2024 (8/10)

  For 6 women the 6 beds and 2 baths was great. We enjoyed having a space where we could gather and gab. Everything was clean and neat.
  
  What could be improved: One toilet was under repair but we understand that things happen.

• Maryann from Canada – 24 October 2024 (10/10)

  Spacious and well equipped.

• Natalie from Trinidad and Tobago – 10 October 2024 (8/10)

  The location is great. The communication with the manager was very good. They arranged a water taxi and met us at the dock. Gave a good introduction to the property. The apartment was spacious and very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: The internet is erratic and very frustrating. The towel heaters didn’t work. The lights over the basin in the main bathroom were not working. The apartment was a bit cold but we were told not to adjust the heating.

• David from United States – 12 August 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was clean, comfortable and the AC was excellent. The location was great and the staff were very nice
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Susan from United Kingdom – 12 August 2024 (8/10)

  Nice location, easy walking to all major tourist attractions. Number of restaurants and bakeries nearby. Beds are clean and comfortable and apartment is spacious with two full bathrooms. Quiet location.
  
  What could be improved: Decor is typical of the style and age of the building, lots of stairs to be aware of if you have mobility issues or small children. Didn't need the air conditioning when we visited so can't comment.

• Eleonora from United States – 23 July 2024 (10/10)

  Location location location
  
  What could be improved: NA

• Alex from United States – 6 July 2024 (10/10)

  The hosts were fantastic, arranged a water taxi and met us to walk us to the short walk to the property. They have a local book with tips and were very available via text when we had a question. They also helped arrange water taxi for our departure. Location was fantastic for all the sites and great local restaurants.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities