Albergo Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo

Albergo Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo Overview

First Impressions

Walking into Albergo Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo feels like stepping into a piece of Venetian history — and I mean that in the best possible way. This four-star hotel sits right on Piazza San Marco, which honestly took my breath away the first time I emerged from the narrow alleyways and suddenly found myself facing the basilica. The building itself has this wonderful old-world charm that you just can’t fake, with elegant touches that remind you you’re staying somewhere that’s been welcoming travelers for generations.

The Heart of Venice

You know what’s incredible about this location? You’re literally steps away from St. Mark’s Square — I’m talking maybe a 30-second walk to one of the most famous piazzas in the world. But here’s the thing locals know: early morning and late evening, when the day-trippers have gone back to their cruise ships, the square transforms into something magical. From your hotel, you can slip out for an evening stroll when Venice belongs to the residents again, or catch the sunrise over the basilica before the crowds arrive.

The Room Experience

My room had that classic Venetian elegance — think rich fabrics, antique furniture, and windows that actually open (which is rarer than you’d think in historic buildings). The bathrooms are well-appointed, though don’t expect massive modern spaces — this is Venice, after all, where every square meter is precious. What I loved most was how quiet it felt despite being in such a central location. The thick walls of these old palazzos really do their job of keeping the outside world at bay.

Morning Fuel

The breakfast buffet is actually quite good — and I say this as someone who’s had plenty of disappointing hotel breakfasts in Italy. They’ve got the usual suspects like pastries and coffee (the coffee is properly Italian, thank goodness), but also some nice local touches. I found myself lingering over breakfast longer than usual, partly because the dining area has this lovely atmosphere, and partly because I knew I was about to step out into one of the most tourist-heavy areas in Europe.

Why Guests Love It

Look, couples absolutely adore this place — and it’s not hard to see why when you’re sharing a sunset aperitivo just steps from the Doge’s Palace. The location score speaks for itself, but what really makes this hotel special is how it manages to feel like a peaceful retreat while putting you right in the thick of everything Venice has to offer. Yes, you’ll pay a premium for staying directly on San Marco, but honestly? When you can slip back to your hotel for a quick rest between sightseeing sessions, or when you realize you can explore the quieter side streets of the San Marco district without fighting crowds to get back to your room, it feels worth every euro.

Best hotels in Venice blend frescoed salons, marble hammams, and rooftop altanas for prosecco sunsets.

Albergo Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo Accommodations

Reviews of Albergo Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo

• Maurice from Australia – 26 September 2024 (9/10)

  location was good room was good very clean and comfortable the breakfast was not what we called good it did not have a toaster for toast and jam for breakfast the selection of food that was there did not appeal to our taste

• Nicola from United Kingdom – 20 September 2024 (9/10)

  Our room had 2 windows which overlooked the canal and the gondolas. It was lovely.
  
  What could be improved: The bar was very expensive. We were charged €40 for 2 Bicardi and coke and 1 Aperol Spritz. We did sit outside on a table overlooking the canal which said waiter service only- we assumed this was the reason for the high price.

• Christina from United States – 3 September 2024 (9/10)

  A few issues at check-in with locating the reservation and payment because we booked using booking.com but otherwise the stay was WONDERFUL. Loved seeing the Gondolas in the back with their cafe

• Michael from Australia – 3 September 2024 (9/10)

  Location was brilliant
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Amanda from United Kingdom – 1 September 2024 (7/10)

  On at marks square. Very central.
  
  What could be improved: Beds were hard. No lift.

• Jacqueline from United States – 27 August 2024 (9/10)

  My room was clean and bright ( 3 big windows ). Breakfast was good. Has views of canal and gondola.
  
  What could be improved: Improvement desired: better to have 2 luggage racks since my room has 2 beds, also better if the thick window curtain can be closed. Bathroom needs more hooks or ways to hang wet towels.

• Westerfeld from United States – 25 August 2024 (7/10)

  What could be improved: Rooms were very small.

• Marketa from Canada – 13 August 2024 (8/10)

  Location was amazing! The little tables right on the water was the perfect spot to enjoy an Aperol Spritz!
  
  What could be improved: The room furnishings were slightly dated

• Julie from United Kingdom – 12 August 2024 (7/10)

  Location
  
  What could be improved: Air conditioning not very effective in hotel rooms and beds very short, feet hang off the end even for an average sized adult

• Herb from Canada – 11 December 2023 (8/10)

  Breakfast Buffet was excellent. The room overlooking the canal and gondola storage was a nice treat. Felt like we were really in Venice!

Surroundings

Facilities