Aqua Palace

Aqua Palace Overview

First Impressions

Walking down the narrow Calle Della Malvasia in Castello, you might almost miss Aqua Palace — and honestly, that’s part of its charm. This four-star boutique hotel sits tucked away from the tourist crowds, yet you’re still right in the heart of Venice. The entrance feels intimate rather than grand, which I actually prefer when you’re staying somewhere for more than just a night or two.

Location & Neighborhood

The Castello district is where Venetians actually live, you know? You’ll find yourself wandering past local bakeries and small campos where kids play football — it’s authentic Venice without the Rialto Bridge chaos. What’s brilliant about this spot is that you can walk to San Marco in about ten minutes, but when you come home in the evening, the streets are peaceful. Couples absolutely love it here (they rate the location 9.7, which honestly makes sense), and I can see why — there’s something romantic about having your own quiet corner of the city.

The Room Experience

Here’s what surprised me most: the beds are genuinely exceptional. I mean, after walking 15,000 steps around Venice all day, you want to sink into something comfortable, and these beds deliver. The room itself has that classic Venetian feel — think exposed beams and subtle nods to the city’s history — but everything feels fresh and well-maintained. The bathrooms are modern without being sterile, which is exactly what you want in a four-star property.

Morning Fuel

Breakfast here covers all the bases — they do Continental, American, and buffet style, so whether you want a quick espresso and cornetto or you’re the type who needs a proper spread before tackling the Doge’s Palace, you’re sorted. I appreciate that they don’t try to be everything to everyone, but what they do offer is done well. The dining area has this lovely morning light that streams in, and you can actually plan your day without feeling rushed.

Why Guests Love It

Look, Venice can be overwhelming — the crowds, the maze of bridges, the constant decision fatigue about where to eat. What Aqua Palace gets right is giving you a genuine base that feels like a retreat. You’re not paying for flashy amenities you won’t use; instead, you’re getting solid comfort in a location that locals would actually choose. The 9.2 rating reflects what I experienced — it’s not trying to be the fanciest hotel in Venice, but it absolutely nails what most travelers actually want: a great night’s sleep, a peaceful neighborhood feel, and easy access to everything that matters. When you’re planning a romantic getaway or just want to experience Venice like someone who belongs there rather than just passing through, this place makes perfect sense.

To book hotel in Venice for Carnival, travelers reserve palazzo suites overlooking mask-lined canals.

Aqua Palace Accommodations

Reviews of Aqua Palace

• Claire from United Kingdom – 3 April 2025 (8/10)

  We liked the property very much. However, we were in a top floor room next to the lift that we could hear.
  Breakfast was excellent as were the staff.

• Deran from South Africa – 1 April 2025 (10/10)

  PERFECT LOCATION. Loved the room with a canal view. Staff went out of their way to provide us with exceptional service. Added to a wonderful first experience of Venice. Would definitely book again and a bonus that the location is near the viral Suso gelato store. We had it twice a day. An intimate breakfast setting but doesn't lack variety. Very pleased with this hotel would definitely re book. Enjoyed the spacious and beautiful bathroom & room.

• Rhys from United Kingdom – 30 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, lovely junior suite, friendly staff and good buffet breakfast
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Phyllis from United States – 30 March 2025 (8/10)

  Beautiful boutique hotel however big issue was the mosquitoes. Hotel staff helped with a plug in, but all four of us covered in bug bites after staying here 3 nights. Sleep was difficult as I kept waking up to swat mosquitoes.

• Phil from United States – 26 March 2025 (9/10)

  Location was fantastic, hotel decor suited its place in Venice’s history, staff were very helpful and friendly.

• Seth from United States – 26 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great location. All we needed for two nights. Great staff. Very helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. Truly a nice stay for two nights on while we visited Venice after skiing for a week.

• Daniel from United Kingdom – 25 March 2025 (10/10)

  We returned to the property after 13 years. Brilliant location, staff and rooms. No complaints whatsoever. Thank you.

• Jennifer from United Kingdom – 4 March 2025 (10/10)

  Staff were friendly and helpful and the room was cleaned daily. Breakfast was great with a good mixture of sweet and savory food. Our room was a quiet haven after a busy time in Venice and really liked the central location which suited our needs.
  
  What could be improved: The boats collecting rubbish were a bit noisy early in the morning but then that is to be expected in Venice!

• Hollie from United Kingdom – 22 February 2025 (9/10)

  Beautiful hotel in a perfect location. We had the best time exploring Venice and soaking up all of its charm.

• Lesley from Jersey – 23 October 2023 (10/10)

  The Aqua Palace is in a perfect position between the Rialto and St Mark’s Square yet situated on a canal just off the busy streets. Arrival directly to the hotel by water taxi is possible and a real treat. The decor was sumptuous and stylish and wowed the friends we had brought with us on our third visit to the hotel, this time to help me to celebrate a special birthday.
  The staff were helpful and charming and were happy to arrange drinks and nibbles before we went out to dinner, as well as nightcaps on our return!
  We’ll certainly be back for another visit soon. Thank you Aqua Palace.

Surroundings

Facilities