Antico Rio Acqua Dolce apartment

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at the Ca’ d’Oro stop – you know, that gorgeous Gothic palace right on the Grand Canal – and weaving my way through the quieter alleys of Cannaregio to find the Antico Rio Acqua Dolce apartment. It’s tucked away on this little rio, which is basically a narrow canal that feels more like a secret vein of Venice than the bustling waterways you see in postcards. Honestly, arriving there after a long train ride from Milan felt like exhaling – no massive tour groups clogging the path, just the soft lap of water against old stone walls and that faint, briny scent that screams “you’re really in Venice now.” The place is in a historic building, sort of weathered in that charming way, with exposed beams and terracotta floors that creak a bit underfoot (watch your step if you’re lugging heavy bags; there’s no elevator, which is par for the course in these old palazzos). Check-in was a breeze – the host met me right at the door with a set of keys and a quick rundown in broken English mixed with Italian gestures, pointing out the best spot for morning coffee at the tiny bar around the corner on Fondamenta della Sensa. It’s rated a solid 9.3 for good reason; I mean, it’s got that 4-star polish without feeling stuffy, like a well-loved aunt’s place that’s been spruced up.

What really won me over, though, was how it lets you live like a local – well, as much as a visitor can in a city built on water. The apartment’s spacious, with a full kitchen where I whipped up pasta using fresh tomatoes from the Rialto market (just a 15-minute stroll away, if you avoid the peak midday rush). Mornings were my favorite: sipping espresso on the balcony overlooking the rio, watching gondoliers glide by early before the day heats up – Venice in summer can get steamy, but Cannaregio stays cooler, shaded by those tall, leaning buildings. It’s quiet at night, too, except for the occasional distant hum of a motorboat or church bells from nearby Madonna dell’Orto (that’s Tintoretto’s church, if you’re into art history – totally worth the detour). Not everything’s perfect, mind you; the Wi-Fi dipped a couple times during a rainstorm, and if you’re sensitive to humidity, pack a dehumidifier packet or two because that canal air seeps in. But those are minor quibbles compared to the authenticity – you’re steps from the Jewish Ghetto, with its hidden synagogues and kosher spots, far from the San Marco circus. Parking? Forget it; Venice is car-free, so leave your wheels in Mestre and embrace the walking (or water taxi if you’re splurging).

All in all, if you’re after a slice of real Venetian life without the overwhelm, this is your spot. It’s not some glossy resort; it’s intimate, immersive, and yeah, a bit romantic in that faded-glory way. I left feeling like I’d actually connected with the city – you know what I mean? – rather than just ticking off sights. Book it for spring or fall to dodge the crowds, and you’ll thank me later. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $240. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 1 single bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• An all-around excellent choice. – Leith from Canada – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Very spacious apartment in an excellent location, with a cool view of a canal. It was nice to be such a short walk from restaurants, cafes, and shops, but away from any crowds. The check-in process was smooth and pleasant – we were met a the apartment right on time and given all the info that we needed. I would absolutely return.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing – we were very happy with everything.

• Exceptional – Marsha from United States – 2 July 2025 (10/10)

  Spacious, great location. Good blow dryer, lol, clean, beautiful view.
  
  What could be improved: Beds could be a little firmer. Middle bedroom ac not cooling enough

• A wonderful & pleasant stay for all 5 of us – Victoria from Australia – 25 March 2025 (10/10)

  Apartment very clean with all the amenities that was promised. Host was such a wonderful person who went beyond to make our stay pleasant. She even cautioned us about the transport strike so we could plan our tours accordingly. I strongly recommend this place as it is indeed beautiful

• Memorable – William from United Kingdom – 17 March 2025 (10/10)

  Veronica was brilliant and apartment met all expectations.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing really …it’s a great location for exploring all of Venice but not too busy

• Fantastic location in a quiet neighborhood but central to all the attractions – Maryanne from United States – 12 March 2025 (10/10)

  Absolutely LOVED the windows/balcony that opens onto the canal!
  
  What could be improved: I can’t think of anything

• Great stay in amazing location – Bina from United States – 29 November 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful, looks just like photos, huge apartment with lots of space to spread out, wonderful and accommodating host. Beds were comfortable, kitchen was fully equipped, and the location was super close to attractions in Venice while also being peaceful and quiet.

• It was a slice of heaven in Venice. – Kelly from United Kingdom – 25 November 2024 (10/10)

  The hosts made everything easy and comfortable. It was beautiful and spacious and perfect for our family of five. Close to everything. Spacious!

• Everything was wonderful for our first visit to Venice. Great location. – Vicky from Australia – 24 October 2024 (10/10)

  We loved this quiet location, but close enough to the action of San Marco.
  The apt is huge for a big family ( we were only 3) and very clean.
  Veronica was a wonderful host and came to meet us when our boat was unable to dock at the location.
  Grocery shop close by so very handy. Veronica left us some information and suggestions so this was helpful and she was very responsive with any questions we had. My son left his jumper behind and she kindly shipped it to us at our next location in Rome. My son was so happy to get it back.
  
  What could be improved: There are quite a few mosquitos around, but this is just cause of the canals and nothing to do with the apt.

• Overall, excellent for b&b. – Kimberly from Canada – 9 October 2024 (9/10)

  Veronica was excellent. On time, communicated well and assisted with tourist booking.
  
  What could be improved: Shower curtain is past it’s best before date; mouldy and smelly.

• Lovely apartment in a great area of Venice. – Cindy from United States – 29 September 2024 (10/10)

  The location was great. We didn't want to be in a heavy tourist area so this was perfect. Easy walkable to all the attractions but gave you the feel of the non-touristy side of Venice. The apartment was a great size for two couples complete with two bedrooms, a full kitchen, living room, dining room and washer. It was nice having a view of the canal right off of one of the bedrooms. It was very walkable to all the major attractions, shops, restaurants and water taxis. Note that there isn't an elevator and the apartment is on the second floor.
  
  What could be improved: The only small downside was that the second bathroom was off of the kitchen and far away from the bedrooms.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities