Alberto Apartment in Venice

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon the Alberto Apartment in Venice during one of those whirlwind trips where you think you’ve got the city figured out, but honestly, it always surprises you. I’d hopped off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria – you know, that stop right by the Doge’s Palace where the crowds start thinning out if you veer left quick enough – and wandered down Calle del Carro, this narrow little alley that’s more like a secret passageway than a street. It’s tucked away in San Marco, on the third floor (p. 3, as they say here), and let me tell you, those stairs are no joke after lugging a suitcase over bridges all day – no elevator, which is pretty standard in these old Venetian buildings, but hey, it builds character, right? Or at least some calf muscles. The address is calle del carro 1642, and it’s smack in the middle of that labyrinthine charm Venice is famous for; you’re just a five-minute stroll from Piazza San Marco, but far enough that the evening bells from St. Mark’s Basilica feel like a gentle nudge rather than an overwhelming clang. When I arrived, the host – this friendly local guy named Marco, I think – met me at the door with keys and a quick rundown in broken English, which was actually kind of endearing. No fancy lobby or anything; it’s more like crashing at a stylish friend’s place.

What really won me over, though, was how the apartment felt like a genuine slice of Venetian life, not some sterile hotel room. It’s rated 8.7 for a reason – four stars, but it punches above that with these high ceilings and wooden beams that creak just a bit when the wind picks up off the lagoon. The place is spacious for Venice standards, with a full kitchen where I whipped up pasta from that tiny market on Campo San Barnaba (pro tip: it’s a 15-minute walk over the Accademia Bridge, and their fresh ricotta is worth the detour). The bedroom overlooks a quiet courtyard – well, quiet except for the occasional gondolier singing off-key in the distance, which honestly adds to the romance. Sensory-wise, there’s that faint, briny smell from the canals that seeps in if you crack a window, mixed with the espresso from the cafe downstairs. I mean, it’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can be spotty during peak tourist hours in summer, and if you’re sensitive to noise, the early morning delivery boats chugging by might wake you – but that’s Venice for you. Check-in was smooth, around 2 p.m., and they even left a bottle of prosecco chilling, which was a nice touch after navigating the July heat.

All in all, if you’re the type who wants to feel like you’re living in Venice rather than just visiting, this spot’s a gem. It’s not for everyone – families with little kids might balk at those stairs, and parking? Forget it, since cars are a myth here; just embrace the walking or water taxis. But for couples or solo travelers looking to dodge the overpriced hotels near the Rialto (which, by the way, is only a 10-minute jaunt away, past that hidden gelateria on Calle Larga XXII Marzo with the best pistachio), it’s ideal. I stayed in late spring, when the crowds are manageable and the light on the Grand Canal is pure magic at sunset – avoid August if you hate the humidity. You’d care about booking here because it gives you that authentic immersion, you know? Like waking up to the sound of church bells and seagulls, then stepping out to explore without feeling like a total tourist. Worth every euro, I’d say.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $258. Apartment with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 1 guests

Reviews

• Mark from United Kingdom – 29 November 2024 (9/10)

  Location was amazing, host was really helpful and the apartment was clean and comfy.

• David from United Kingdom – 4 November 2024 (9/10)

  Great location

• Patrick from Ireland – 27 October 2024 (9/10)

  Amazing location
  Even though one a busy street very quiet
  Very comfortable bed
  
  What could be improved: nothing

• Toni from United States – 18 October 2024 (9/10)

  The space, quiet, comfortable bed, nicely stocked kitchen, 2 bathrooms , hot water and good pressure, response time with host, caffe /bar and Tobacconist right across the apartment.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing all was wonderful

• Barna from United States – 3 August 2024 (9/10)

  Location and communication from Alberto was great!

• David from Australia – 7 July 2024 (9/10)

  Great location, lots of space, well equipped & having two bathrooms was a huge bonus.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Rebecca from United Kingdom – 1 June 2024 (9/10)

  Lovely apartment and with everything we needed. Absolutely perfect location- so close to St Mark’s square.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. All great!

• Lisa from Australia – 25 May 2024 (9/10)

  Great location, comfy beds and great communication
  
  What could be improved: Unfortunately 3 stories up with no lift but only difficult with bags up at start and bags down at end of our stay

• Michelle from Australia – 6 May 2024 (9/10)

  Spacious, excellent location. Easy check in. Really useful instructions about getting to the accomodation from all different routes including airport and train

• Khafiluzzaman from Denmark – 5 May 2024 (8/10)

  Location, comfortable, clean and the facilities provided . Alberto went out of his way to make sure your stay is seamlessly comfortable
  
  What could be improved: Walking up the staircase , especially for the elderly. Pricing could have been a little less

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities