Appartamento Al Malibran

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Appartamento Al Malibran almost by accident last spring, right when Venice was shaking off the winter chill but before the summer crowds turned everything into a sweaty mosh pit. It’s tucked away in Cannaregio, on this quiet little stretch of Sestriere Cannaregio – think narrow alleys off the Strada Nova, where you can actually hear locals chatting in Venetian dialect over their morning espresso instead of just tour groups snapping selfies. I mean, it’s not smack in the middle of San Marco’s chaos, which is a blessing if you’ve ever tried navigating those packed squares during high season. We got there by vaporetto from the train station – hopped off at Ca’ d’Oro, wandered about five minutes through those winding calles, dodging the occasional delivery cart (Venice’s version of traffic, honestly). The building itself is one of those classic Venetian spots, all weathered stone and wooden shutters that creak just a bit in the breeze off the lagoon. Check-in was a breeze; the host met us right at the door with keys and a quick rundown – no fancy lobby, just a warm “benvenuti” and tips on the best nearby bacaro for cicchetti. Oh, and fair warning: like most places here, it’s up a flight of stairs, so pack light if you’re not up for hauling suitcases.

What really won me over, though, was how it felt like borrowing a friend’s apartment rather than some sterile hotel room – you know, with that lived-in charm that makes you want to linger. The place is spotless, mind you, with these high ceilings and exposed beams that whisper stories from who-knows-how-many centuries ago (it’s Venice, after all – everything’s got history). We had a little kitchenette stocked with basics, so mornings meant brewing coffee while listening to the soft lap of canal water outside the window, maybe catching a whiff of fresh focaccia from that bakery on Campo Santi Apostoli, just a stone’s throw away. It’s rated super high for a reason – 9.6 doesn’t lie – beds are comfy as heck, with linens that actually feel fresh, not like they’ve been through a tourist mill. And get this: it’s quiet at night, especially in the off-season, when the only sounds are distant church bells or a gondolier humming faintly. Well, sort of quiet – there was this one evening when a nearby festival spilled over with laughter and accordion tunes, but honestly, it added to the vibe rather than annoying us. If I had a minor gripe, it’s the humidity that sneaks in during rainy spells; the AC works fine, but you might want to crack a window for that salty sea air. Still, for a 4-star spot, it’s got that perfect balance of modern perks – like speedy Wi-Fi for mapping out your next wander – and authentic touches, like the mosaic tiles in the bathroom that remind you you’re in Italy, not some chain hotel.

All in all, if you’re after a slice of real Venice without the overwhelm, this is your spot. It’s ideal for couples or small families who want to feel settled in, maybe cook up some pasta with market finds from the Rialto (it’s a quick 10-minute stroll over the bridge, dodging the fishmongers and their earthy smells). We spent our days exploring hidden gems like the Jewish Ghetto nearby – seriously, don’t miss the synagogues if history’s your thing – and evenings unwinding here, away from the bustle. Prices aren’t outrageous for what you get, especially in shoulder season, and that high rating? Totally earned. I’d go back in a heartbeat – heck, I already have it bookmarked for next fall.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $200. One-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 1 – 1 guests

Reviews

• Veronica from Romania – 11 August 2024 (10/10)

  The property is central, in a quite area, few steps aways from Rialto bridge. The kitchen is very well equipped with all you need including oil or salt for a breakfast, napkins, small things that usually you cannot find in a rented apartment. The host, Juliette is amazing, the best ever! She always was available and very kind to us. We really felt the warm welcome. The apartment is big enough for a family of 4.

• Daphne from Australia – 22 January 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent location (Line 2 from central train/bus stations to Rialto and then a 5min walk) on the midst of everything and yet peaceful at night, super comfortable, tastefully decorated and excellent communication with host.

• Jenny from Sweden – 2 November 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was so beautiful with original details and renovated to a high standard, comfortable beds and pillows, nice and well equipped kitchen and WiFi. Situated on a tranquil street around the corner from Rialto bridge.

• Ellie from Australia – 30 October 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was modernised and incredibly clean while still feeling authentic to Venice with having character.
  Our host Juliette and her son Emilio were fantastic
  
  What could be improved: The washing machine didn’t work when we were there but Juliette was helpful with alternatives.
  The place was perfect!

• Mary from United States – 2 July 2024 (10/10)

  Location was ideal.

• Rajeev from France – 19 June 2024 (10/10)

  Location, facilities and space within apartment
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Corinne from South Africa – 6 May 2024 (9/10)

  Venice is exceptionally busy and having a little apartment with a separate lounge, bathroom, bedroom and kitchen made us so happy. The hosts were friendly and left us a bottle of Prosecco, which was a nice touch. We cooked dinner one night and enjoyed making our own breakfasts. The apartment is central but not noisy – it's tucked away in a little square. The back rooms (bedroom and kitchen) overlook a small canal where you sometimes see gondolas passing by. Very atmospheric! There can be quite a strong smell from the water, which is true of all of Venice. We were glad to have a washing machine and central heating for colder days. It's the most authentic way of staying in Venice and we would stay there again!
  
  What could be improved: Clean up the downstairs communal entrance to the apartment block – it was dark and dirty.

• Lynn from New Zealand – 23 April 2024 (8/10)

  Host was great to deal with. Apartment was clean and tidy. Great location, fabulous little restaurant within a few minutes walk where we ate our first dinner. Pity they were then closed for the next two!
  
  What could be improved: Address on Booking.com took us a 20 minute walk away from the property. Thankfully I had been communicating with the host and they came to meet us before we'd walked too far in the wrong direction.

• Лилия from Bulgaria – 7 April 2024 (10/10)

  We liked everything! It was spacious, stilish and clean. The location is perfect for sightseeing. The hosts are very nice! We hope to come back one day…
  
  What could be improved: There were just some minor issues that couldn't upset us at all. It would be nice to have a second wine glass. The second key was bend so couldn't be used to open the door. Yet we didn't need a second pair of keys because we were together all the time. There was no bottle opener but we bought one in a souvenir shop and left it for the other guests to use 🙂

• Leonard from Romania – 28 February 2024 (9/10)

  One of best location, apartment fully equipped, size of apartment
  
  What could be improved: Additional tax for late check in

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities