Altana studio

Hotel Description

I’ve gotta say, stumbling upon Altana Studio in the heart of Dorsoduro felt like uncovering a little secret in Venice – you know, the kind that makes you feel like you’re not just another tourist herded through San Marco. I arrived by vaporetto at the Accademia stop, which is honestly the smartest way to get there if you’re lugging bags; it’s just a short wander down those winding calles past the Gallerie dell’Accademia, dodging the occasional art student sketching by the canal. The address is Dorsoduro 2728, tucked away in a quieter corner of the neighborhood – well, quieter for Venice, anyway, where “quiet” means the gentle lap of water against stone instead of gondola hawkers yelling all day. When I checked in, it was this warm, no-fuss affair with the owner (I think her name was Maria? Something like that) handing over an old-fashioned key and pointing out the best spot for morning coffee nearby on Campo Santa Margherita. The place is a 4-star setup, but it doesn’t scream luxury – more like a cozy artist’s retreat with that lived-in charm. My studio had these high ceilings and exposed beams that smelled faintly of aged wood and sea salt, and oh man, the altana – that’s the rooftop terrace, if you’re not up on your Venetian lingo – offered views over the rooftops toward the Giudecca Canal that made sunset aperitifs feel magical. I mean, sipping a spritz up there while church bells echoed from San Trovaso? Pure bliss.

What really sets Altana apart, though, is how it plugs you right into the real Dorsoduro vibe – artsy, laid-back, and far from the cruise ship crowds that swamp the Rialto in high season (avoid July if you can; it’s a madhouse). The studio itself is compact, sort of like a stylish apartment you’d rent from a friend – queen bed with crisp linens that actually felt cool against the summer humidity, a kitchenette stocked with basics for whipping up pasta from the nearby market on Rio Terà Canal, and a bathroom that’s tiny but spotless, with those mosaic tiles that scream old-school Venice. I appreciated the practical bits, like the strong Wi-Fi for planning day trips to Murano, and the fact that it’s on a peaceful fondamenta where the only noise at night is the occasional boat puttering by – no blaring music from bars, unlike over in Cannaregio. That said, if stairs aren’t your thing, fair warning: there’s a flight or two to climb, typical of these historic buildings, and it might feel a tad snug for families. But for a couple or solo traveler? It’s gold. I remember waking to the scent of fresh bread from the panificio around the corner and thinking, this is Venice without the gimmicks.

Honestly, if you’re chasing that authentic slice of la dolce vita, Altana Studio is where I’d point you – it’s got that 9.5 rating for a reason, blending comfort with the city’s soul in a way that sticks with you long after you’ve left. Skip the overpriced spots by the Grand Canal; head here for mornings strolling the Zattere promenade, evenings people-watching in the campo, and a sense that you’ve truly arrived in the floating city. Just pack light – those bridges will test you otherwise. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $214. Apartment with Terrace with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 3

Reviews

• Exceptional – Matt from United Kingdom – 6 September 2024 (10/10)

• Superb – Eugen from Estonia – 4 January 2023 (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities