Attico Biennale Venezia Nuovissimo

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at Arsenale – you know, that stop that’s always a bit less crowded than the ones closer to San Marco – and weaving through those narrow calli in Castello to find Attico Biennale Venezia Nuovissimo. It’s tucked away on Castello 1691, right in the heart of what feels like real Venice, not the touristy crush. Honestly, after lugging my bag over a couple of those little bridges, I was relieved to spot the entrance; it’s unassuming, almost like knocking on a friend’s door in this residential neighborhood. Check-in was a breeze – the host was this chatty local guy who handed over the keys with a quick rundown of the best nearby spots, like that hidden gelateria on Via Garibaldi just a five-minute stroll away. No big lobby fuss, which I appreciated; it felt more like settling into a stylish apartment than a hotel.

What really got me was the place itself – it’s called “Attico” for a reason, perched up high with these massive windows that flood the rooms with that golden Venetian light, especially in the late afternoon when the sun dips over the lagoon. My room (well, suite, I guess) had this cool, modern vibe – think sleek wooden floors that creak just a tad underfoot, a kitchenette stocked with basics for whipping up an espresso, and a bathroom with one of those rain showers that actually has decent pressure, which isn’t always a given in older buildings here. You can hear the faint hum of boats on the canal below, and sometimes the bells from San Pietro di Castello church drifting in – it’s atmospheric, not noisy, though if you’re a light sleeper, pack earplugs for the occasional early-morning delivery boat. I mean, it’s Venice; things get lively around dawn in summer, but by Biennale time (that art festival every other year), the energy ramps up with crowds spilling over from the gardens nearby – super convenient if you’re into that scene, as it’s literally a stone’s throw from the pavilions. Oh, and the rooftop terrace? Killer views of the rooftops and a peek at the water – I spent an evening there with a bottle of prosecco from the corner market, watching the sunset paint everything pink. No parking to worry about, obviously – cars are a myth here – but it’s easy to hop on a water bus to anywhere.

Look, if you’re after that glossy, over-the-top luxury, this might not be it; the decor’s more minimalist chic than opulent, and there’s no on-site restaurant (though honestly, why bother when you’re surrounded by trattorias like that one on Campo San Lorenzo with the freshest seafood pasta?). But for a 4-star spot with an 8.9 rating that feels authentic, it’s spot-on. I stayed during a quieter shoulder season in spring, and it was peaceful – perfect for wandering the less-trampled paths of Castello, maybe grabbing a spritz at a bar where locals outnumber tourists. You’d care if you want Venice without the San Marco madness; it’s got that lived-in charm that makes you feel like you’ve unlocked a secret side of the city. I’d go back in a heartbeat, maybe next Biennale – just to soak it all in again.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $420. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed, 2 single beds and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Beatrice from Romania – 6 March 2025 (9/10)

  A very clean apartment and the host was very welcoming. It has 2 bathrooms and 2 bedrooms and the sofa in the living room is extendable and comfortable. The apartment is located on a street full of restaurants, shops, a supermarket, and a pharmacy. The Vaporetto station is a 3-5 minute walk away and St. Mark’s Square is a 15-minute walk away. The apartment also has a small balcony. We were a group of 6 people, and it was spacious, with a large living room.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was wonderful, but as a small inconvenience for people with mobility issues, the apartment is on the 3rd floor and you have to use the stairs.

• Zeeshan from United Kingdom – 13 July 2024 (8/10)

  It was very clean, well maintained . The location was good as well, close to main attractions and boat stations.
  Valentina was very helpful .
  
  What could be improved: Nothing wrong with property.
  The location on booking.com was not picked by google. Valentina had to send the location which was helpful.

• Mandy from United States – 3 May 2024 (8/10)

  It was a great value and we really liked that the host provided everything we needed including coffee and tea, detergent, soap. Quiet street but close to a more Main Street with restaurants and shops.
  
  What could be improved: It was a smaller property for 5 people but totally fine since we knew it would be a short stay.

• Karina from United States – 13 February 2024 (8/10)

  Location, cleanliness, early check in. Beds were comfortable and shower was great (great water pressure and warm water)
  
  What could be improved: Nowhere in the description is mentioned you have to climb 6 flights of very uncomfortable stairs. This should be highlighted when describing the apartment, as it was a surprise for us and we had to carry 5 very heavy suitcases up and down those stairs, which was a very bad experience. The location is good but the actual alley where the apartment is located is dark and shady at night.

• Natalie from United States – 3 October 2023 (9/10)

  the apartment was spotless. rhe host was very accommodating, very concerned that we got into the appt after a long day traveling.
  
  What could be improved: every thing was great. and a word about the location …the street in front of the property is filled with excellent restaurants. it was close to the vaporetto stop and St Marks Square.

• Daigneault from Canada – 29 June 2023 (9/10)

  Modern apartment with all the amenities you need for a short or extended stay in Venice. The apartment was very easy to find and only requires to cross two bridges from one of the water bud stations. Venice has added ramps which makes carrying luggage much easier. The rooms/ bathrooms and living space we comfortable for a group of 4 and only a 10 minute walk to the main square. You are also very close to a walking street with many shops and restaurants which makes you feel like a local. For anyone who doesn’t want to spend a crazy amount on water taxis, this is a great rental.
  
  What could be improved: This isn’t a complaint but simply awareness for anyone who hasn’t travelled to Europe before. The main floor off the street is floor 0 and the apartment is on the 3rd floor so you do need to walk up 4 flights of stairs. Also, since this is Venice, the staircase are smaller, but did allow space for me to Cary luggage’s with ease.

• Gromko from Canada – 31 May 2023 (9/10)

  The location was convenient and beautiful. Valentina was easy to contact and helpful. The space was perfect for us, our children and our grandchildren!
  
  What could be improved: The stairs to go up with luggage took a bit of getting used to. Other than that everything was great!

• Chelsa from United States – 29 May 2023 (9/10)

  Loved our stay here! Very clean and within walking distance to the heart of Venice! Extremely clean property close to restaurants and all the things! Grazie Mille!!!
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Amar from United States – 22 August 2022 (9/10)

  good location, neat and clean.
  AC in each all rooms. kitchen equip.

• Omawumi from Nigeria – 12 August 2022 (8/10)

  very nice and modern apartment
  
  What could be improved: on the third floor and no lift

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities