Appartamento Ca’ Marco Polo

Hotel Description

You know, when I first stumbled upon Appartamento Ca’ Marco Polo tucked away on Calle del Forno in Venice’s Castello neighborhood, I was honestly a bit skeptical – Venice can be such a maze, right? I’d just hopped off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria after a bumpy ride from the airport, lugging my bag over those uneven bridges, and suddenly there it was, this unassuming door in a narrow alley that smells faintly of fresh bread from the nearby forno (that’s Italian for bakery, and yeah, it lives up to the name – grab a pastry first thing in the morning if you’re staying here). Castello isn’t the flashy tourist trap like San Marco; it’s more like the real Venice, where locals chatter in dialect outside their doors and you can hear the gentle lap of canal water against stone walls at night. The place is in a historic building – think exposed wooden beams and those classic Venetian terrazzo floors that feel cool underfoot even in summer’s humidity. Check-in was a breeze; the host met me right on time with a key and a quick rundown in broken English mixed with Italian gestures – no fancy lobby, just a personal touch that made me feel like I was crashing at a friend’s place rather than some sterile hotel.

What really won me over, though, was how the apartment itself sort of unfolds into this cozy haven after a day of dodging crowds. It’s got that 4-star polish without trying too hard – a full kitchen with a Nespresso machine (honestly, a lifesaver for early risers who need caffeine before facing the vaporettos), and the bedroom overlooks a quiet courtyard where pigeons coo softly in the evenings. I mean, Venice can get noisy with all the boat traffic and tour groups, but here in Castello, especially off the main drags like Via Garibaldi (which is just a five-minute stroll away for some great cicchetti bars – try the squid ink risotto at that little spot near the market), it’s surprisingly peaceful. The bathroom’s modern with one of those rain showers that washes away the day’s sweat, and there’s even a washing machine – practical gold for longer stays when your clothes start smelling like lagoon water. Well, one minor gripe: the Wi-Fi can be spotty during peak season in July when everyone’s streaming, but hey, that’s Venice for you; it forces you to unplug and wander. I spent one rainy afternoon just lounging on the plush sofa, listening to the distant bells from San Giorgio dei Greci church, and it felt authentically Venetian, you know? Not too polished, but lived-in and charming.

All in all, if you’re looking to escape the overtourism crush and actually experience Venice like a local – maybe during the quieter shoulder seasons like October when the fog rolls in and everything gets that misty glow – this is the spot. The 9.3 rating isn’t hype; it’s earned from folks who’ve appreciated the blend of history and homey comfort. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for that sense of seclusion right in the heart of it all. Just remember to pack light – those stairs up to the apartment are no joke after a long flight.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $178. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Danmt from Romania – 19 February 2025 (10/10)

  We had a very pleasant holiday – the apartment is big enough for a family of 4 persons with 2 bedrooms and living area where we could have a drink in the evening and plan the next day. Also, the 2 bathrooms were very helpful for a group of 4.
  Vanni is a great host, he explained us everything we needed to know – from how we can easily get to the apartment late at night to how to easily access the most important objectives.
  The location is great, close to vaporetto stations (Biennale, Arsenal), walking distance to San Marco square and almost to anything. Via Garibaldi has plenty of restaurants, a supermarket, pharmacies – you can find almost anything you need (until 23:00).
  I was a little concerned about the quite narrow Calle del Forno looks on Google Maps, one we get there any concern disappeared, as the street is very well illuminated at night and it is in a secured area. We had no problem to arrive there almost at 23:00 and also have a dinner after arrival at the sushi restaurant nearby.
  We would gladly come again here.
  
  What could be improved: For us it was a little cold, probably we would plan our next visit end of March or after.

• Amalia-ioana from Romania – 21 March 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was spacious and ideal for a family of four, featuring two bedrooms, a cozy living area, and two convenient bathrooms. Vanni was an excellent host, providing clear guidance on everything from getting from the airport to the apartment to exploring the main attractions.
  The location is perfect—close to vaporetto stops (Biennale, Arsenal) and within walking distance of St. Mark’s Square. Via Garibaldi offers a variety of restaurants, a supermarket, and pharmacies, all open until 11 PM.

• Philomena from Ireland – 25 October 2024 (10/10)

  This is a beautiful apartment in a great location. 2 double bedrooms that suited us perfectly.
  Our check in was handled smoothly & efficiently by our host Vanni. He was also available during our stay to answer our questions. The apartment was clean and was very well stocked with everything we needed for our stay there.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing the apartment had everything we needed.

• Mathieu from France – 18 August 2024 (9/10)

  Very nice apartment close to Garibaldi street and the Arsenale, in a tiny street. Two bedrooms with large beds, one bathroom and one additional WC with a washing machine. Well equipped and clean. Air conditioning in the living room.

• Pamela from United Kingdom – 9 July 2024 (9/10)

  Property is very well equipped, clean and comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Front bedroom a bit noisy at night with people passing by and disturbing our sleep!

• Vitalii from Netherlands – 5 February 2024 (10/10)

  Friendly and courteous owner. Very convenient location of the apartments. The apartment is cozy, clean and comfortable. Great booking experience.
  
  What could be improved: No complaints, everything was great.

• Gary from United Kingdom – 29 December 2023 (9/10)

  Good location and friendly host who was very helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Additional costs for cleaning property.

• Idlir from North Macedonia – 7 December 2023 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect. You feel just like at home, the apartment has everything you may need for your stay in Venice. 2 rooms 2 bathrooms (but only one with shower). Really good location too, super close to a boat taxi stop and also you can walk to the center really easy. Also a lot of good restaurants near by.
  And the last but not least, the host is super friendly. I Totally recommend this one to you.

• Gaurav from Germany – 29 October 2023 (10/10)

  The property was really cool ! We stayed for three nights and it was really very amazing..it had everything we need..it was really an exciting place to stay during the vacation! Thank to it’s owner..he was very kund and cool and yet very helpful..

• Kinga from Poland – 14 August 2023 (10/10)

  Perfect location, you can find anything close that you need, restaurants, bars, shop. Very good split of the two rooms, quite if you prefer to spend siesta time at home.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to add.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities