Appartamento Masha

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Appartamento Masha after a bumpy vaporetto ride from the train station – you know, the kind where you’re wedged between tourists with oversized suitcases, and the salty lagoon air hits you right in the face. It’s tucked away on Calle del Basegò in Dorsoduro, which is honestly one of Venice’s best-kept secrets if you’re looking to dodge the San Marco crowds. I mean, this neighborhood feels more like a local’s hangout, with those narrow alleys leading to hidden squares where you can grab a spritz at a tiny bacaro without paying tourist prices. The building itself is this charming old Venetian structure, all weathered brick and wrought-iron balconies – nothing flashy, but it blends right in, which is kind of the point in a city like this. Check-in was a breeze; the host met me at the door with a key and a quick rundown in broken English (and my even more broken Italian), pointing out the nearest grocery spot on Campo Santa Margherita, just a five-minute stroll away. Oh, and fair warning: no elevator, so if you’ve got heavy bags, pack light or brace for those steep stairs – it’s authentic Venice, after all.

What really won me over, though, was how the place feels like your own little slice of the city. My apartment – well, it’s more like a cozy flat than a hotel room – had these high ceilings with exposed beams that creak a bit when the wind picks up off the canal, and a kitchenette stocked with just enough basics to whip up a pasta dinner from that market I mentioned. The bed was firm but comfy, with linens that smelled faintly of lavender detergent, and the bathroom? Spotless, though the shower’s water pressure is more of a gentle trickle than a power blast – hey, it’s an old building, what do you expect? Mornings were my favorite: I’d open the shutters to the sound of church bells from nearby San Trovaso and watch gondolas gliding by on the Rio di San Vio, right outside. It’s quiet here, especially in the off-season like late fall when I visited – no late-night party noise from the streets, just the occasional lap of water against the walls. But come summer, things pick up with more foot traffic, so if you’re a light sleeper, earplugs might be your friend. And location-wise, you’re steps from the Accademia Bridge, making it easy to hop over to the other side for a quick visit to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection – I spent a whole afternoon there, mesmerized by those modern art pieces in that quirky palazzo.

Honestly, if you’re the type who wants to live like a Venetian rather than just visit, Appartamento Masha is a solid choice – that 8.2 rating doesn’t lie, it’s earned from folks who’ve appreciated the real-deal vibe. It’s not perfect; Wi-Fi can be spotty in the thicker walls, and there’s no on-site parking (duh, it’s Venice – leave the car in Mestre), but for a 4-star spot, it punches above its weight in charm and convenience. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for those lazy evenings sipping wine on the balcony, feeling like I’ve got the city all to myself. If you’re planning a trip, book early – spots like this fill up fast during Carnevale.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $543. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 1 sofa bed, 2 × 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Angel from United States – 3 January 2025 (9/10)

  We had a wonderful stay at this apartment in Venice! The location was incredibly convenient, easily accessible with large rolling luggage and just a short walk from the train station and Piazzale Roma. It’s surrounded by a variety of restaurants and grocery stores, which made exploring the area and stocking up on essentials very easy.
  
  The apartment itself felt very secure and was a comfortable retreat for our family. The host was incredibly welcoming, meeting us upon arrival to show us around and answer any questions we had during our stay. Their attentiveness truly enhanced our experience.
  
  Overall, we’d highly recommend this apartment for its fantastic location, comfort, and friendly service!
  
  What could be improved: The only minor drawback was some mildew buildup in the standing “jacuzzi shower.” It didn’t impact our overall stay, but a bit of attention to this detail could make the apartment even better. All photos on the listing are accurate.

• Floris from Netherlands – 27 October 2024 (8/10)

  Huge rooms with comfortable beds and linnen. Nice big windows that can be opened and blinded. Very responsive and nice host (online). Great location in quieter place heart of venice
  
  What could be improved: With 3 bedrooms would have been even more comfortable to also have 2 separate bathrooms.

• Tallia from United States – 6 October 2024 (7/10)

  The space was super
  
  What could be improved: Directions terrible and entry was scary and horrible at night with no property contact. Btw no light and entry in dark.
  Problem with number for entry and locked out!

• Opkar from United Kingdom – 12 August 2024 (8/10)

  Spacious and clean. Had good facilities including kettle, toaster, dishwasher. Host was very welcoming. Gave clear instructions on how to get to the apartment. She gave us information and maps explaining where attractions were and how to get there. Supermarkets and restaurants were nearby. Apartment had good air conditioning in all rooms and plenty of toiletries and towels supplied for our stay. Apartment also had an iron and hairdryer. Overall I would recommend staying here.
  
  What could be improved: Only thing I would say is there was a washing machine but unfortunately didn't turn on. There were no locks on the bathrooms. Also we were only given one set of keys, which was difficult if the whole family didn't go out at the same time as the door could only be locked from the outside and not the inside. This was a problem as the door could then not be opened from the inside without a key if someone was inside the apartment.

• Kathie from Canada – 23 June 2024 (9/10)

  Great location, lots of room for four people. Clean and bright, with great canal views.. Loads of storage and closets. Kitchen well supplied with with everything needed. Staff was very accommodating to all our requests. and good information on how to book a water taxi.
  
  What could be improved: Sometimes couldn’t figure out how to raise and lower the blinds in the rooms. A bit quirky.

• Maria from United States – 18 April 2024 (8/10)

  Large, clean, extra towels available. Very helpful check-in
  
  What could be improved: Missing a few items that were needed: a toaster, laundry detergent, a few more glasses and cooking utensils, pots pans etc

• Julie from United States – 30 March 2024 (8/10)

  Room size, cleanliness and comfortable beds!
  
  What could be improved: Very little amenities like toilet paper. Not all features in the apartment work fully and no on site staff.

• Sophie from United Kingdom – 16 October 2023 (9/10)

  Excellent accommodation for our family of five. Air conditioning kept us cool in a hot October break. Excellent location.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Sadia from Canada – 6 September 2023 (8/10)

  Centrally located, easy to access with elevator. Clean large and bright space.
  
  What could be improved: Wi-Fi was weak in all rooms. Water pressure in the shower could’ve been better.

• Saana from United Kingdom – 14 August 2023 (9/10)

  Spacious apartment. Comfy beds. Air conditioning in every room. Clean and tidy. Easy instructions for accessing the building.
  
  What could be improved: Internet wasn’t great and would drop out at times.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities