Al Mascaron Ridente

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Al Mascaron Ridente after a long day weaving through Venice’s back alleys – you know, the kind where you get lost on purpose just to shake off the San Marco crowds. It’s tucked away in this little corte off Strada Nova in Cannaregio, which is honestly one of the best neighborhoods if you’re after that real Venetian vibe without all the selfie sticks. I mean, Cannaregio feels like where locals actually live – think narrow canals with laundry flapping overhead and old nonnas chatting from windows. The hotel itself is in this unassuming building, sort of hidden behind a wooden door that creaks open to a tiny courtyard smelling faintly of damp stone and espresso from the bar next door. Check-in was a breeze; the owner – this chatty guy named Marco, I think – handed over the keys with a grin and a quick tip on the vaporetto stop at Ca’ d’Oro, just a five-minute stroll away. No parking hassles, obviously, since cars are a myth here, but if you’re lugging bags from the train station, it’s a doable 15-minute walk over a couple of bridges – pack light, though, those steps can be a killer.

What really won me over was how the place balances that old-school charm with just enough comfort to make you forget you’re in a 3-star spot. My room was on the second floor, overlooking the corte – nothing fancy, but the bed was surprisingly comfy, with those crisp white linens that feel cool against your skin after a humid summer day. There’s no elevator, well, it’s Venice after all, so stairs it is, but they helped with the luggage without a fuss. Breakfast is served in this cozy communal area downstairs – fresh cornetti, yogurt, and cappuccino strong enough to wake the dead, though I wish they’d stock more fruit options in the off-season. Honestly, the best part is the quiet; Cannaregio winds down early, so no late-night revelers like you’d get near Rialto. I spent evenings wandering to the nearby Jewish Ghetto – it’s got these hidden synagogues and kosher spots that feel worlds away from the tourist traps – or grabbing cicchetti at a bacaro on Fondamenta della Misericordia, maybe 10 minutes on foot. And yeah, the Wi-Fi’s solid for mapping out your next adventure, but don’t expect spa-level luxuries; it’s more about that authentic, lived-in feel, with walls that whisper stories from centuries ago.

All in all, if you’re the type who wants Venice without the overwhelm – say, visiting in shoulder season like April or October when the fog rolls in and everything’s a bit magical – this place is a gem. It’s not perfect; the bathroom was a tad cramped, and noise from the canal boats can sneak in at dawn if your window’s open. But with that 8.6 rating, it’s clear others agree it’s worth it for the price and the heart. I’d go back in a heartbeat – actually, I already have plans to.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $154. Single Room with 1 single bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $216. Loft – Annex with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $233. Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $233. Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 3 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $253. Double or Twin Room with Canal View with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $253. Superior Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Marifer120305 from Philippines – 27 December 2023 (9/10)

  Everything is extra clean: The room, linens, bathroom. Minimal yet good selections of buffet breakfast. Not to mention that the breakfast hall has a view of canal. Staffs are all polite, helpful and responsive to our inquiries. Good value for the money. Highly recommended.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Still from United Kingdom – 27 March 2025 (8/10)

  Great location, clean, friendly staff.

• Charles from Australia – 26 March 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent value in a really good part of Venice. Nice character room. Easy walk to anywhere. We didn't have the breakfast as there was a bakery around the corner

• Ieva from Latvia – 22 March 2025 (8/10)

  Nice location, quiet rooms!

• Rokas from Lithuania – 21 March 2025 (9/10)

  Very nice place for the good price

• Richard from United Kingdom – 18 March 2025 (9/10)

  The annexe room was lovely, with a balcony over looking a canal.
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Jessica from United Kingdom – 18 March 2025 (9/10)

  Really lovely old building. Very quiet and peaceful. Spotlessly clean. In a great area not so crowded. All staff lovely
  
  What could be improved: A few more breakfast options would have been nice e.g scrambled eggs or omelettes as only boiled egg option.

• Elena from Portugal – 4 March 2025 (9/10)

  Breakfast was nice, and I like that it was possible to buy bottled water directly from the reception. The size of my room was also good, not cramped in any way, enough space.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was good, no problems!

• Katja from Ireland – 21 February 2025 (8/10)

  I really loved the location, perfect not to be right in the middle of the hustle, but it was a 20 minutes walk to everything important. Hotel was nice, breakfast great and staff lovely.

• Aysegul from Malta – 19 February 2025 (9/10)

  Our stay at Al Mascaron Ridente in Venice was absolutely wonderful! The location was perfect, allowing us to fully experience the charm of the city. The hotel was spotless, comfortable, and thoughtfully equipped with everything we needed. The staff was incredibly welcoming and attentive, making our stay even more enjoyable. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a fantastic stay in Venice!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities