B&B Al Pozzo di Luce

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon B&B Al Pozzo di Luce almost by accident during one of those classic Venice wanderings – you turn down a narrow calle like Calle Larga dei Boteri in Cannaregio, dodging the occasional delivery cart and the faint whiff of canal water mixed with fresh bread from that little bakery around the corner, and suddenly there it is, tucked away like a secret. It’s not smack in the middle of the San Marco chaos, which is honestly a relief after a day of elbowing through tour groups at the Rialto Bridge. This spot’s more like the real Venice, you know? Close enough to hop on a vaporetto from Fondamenta Nuove for a quick ride to the islands (Burano’s lace shops are worth the trip, especially in the off-season when it’s not swarming), but quiet enough that you can actually hear the church bells from Santa Maria dei Miracoli without the constant hum of suitcase wheels on cobblestones. I mean, parking’s a non-issue here – no cars in Venice, obviously – but if you’re lugging bags from the train station, it’s a manageable 15-minute walk, or you could splurge on a water taxi if you’re feeling fancy.

What really got me about this place – it’s a four-star B&B, rated a solid 9.4, and yeah, it lives up to that – is how it feels like staying with a friend who knows all the insider spots. The rooms are cozy, with those high wooden-beam ceilings that make you feel like you’re in an old Venetian palazzo (mine had a view over a tiny courtyard with this ancient well – “pozzo di luce” means “well of light,” after all, and the morning sun filtering in was magical). Breakfast is simple but spot-on: fresh croissants, cappuccino that doesn’t taste like tourist slop, and maybe some prosciutto if you’re lucky, served in a little communal area where the owner chats about hidden gems like the Jewish Ghetto just a stone’s throw away. Check-in was a breeze – no fuss, just a warm welcome and tips on avoiding the high-water acquaalta seasons (November’s tricky, pack those rubber boots). That said, it’s an old building, so expect some creaky stairs – no elevator, which might be a hassle if you’ve got heavy luggage or mobility issues, but hey, that’s authentic Venice for you. The beds are comfy, though, with crisp linens that smell faintly of lavender, and the Wi-Fi’s reliable enough for planning your next day’s gelato run to that place on Strada Nova.

Honestly, if you’re after that elusive “lived-in” Venice vibe without the overpriced hype, this is it. It’s not flashy – no spa or infinity pool nonsense – but it’s got heart, and in a city that can feel overwhelming, that’s what sticks with you. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in spring when the crowds thin out and you can linger over an Aperol spritz at a nearby bacaro without fighting for a table. Trust me, it’s the kind of spot that makes you rethink those big chain hotels.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $180. Double Room – Single Use with 1 double bed for 1 – 1 guests

Reviews

• Iana from Russia – 8 July 2024 (10/10)

  The location of the hotel is the best from my opinion. It’s 5 minutes walk from the water station, it’s in a quiet area, but in 10 minutes you are in the middle of everything.

• Michelle from United Kingdom – 20 March 2025 (10/10)

  Alessandra is fantastic! The place, facilities and location are great. I would definitely recommend to stay here!!

• Janina from United States – 18 January 2025 (10/10)

  The owner has a partnership with a local Bakery and the pastry's are delicious! The owner is a very nice person and really cares about her guest. The owner is very knowledgeable on where to go in Venice and what to do.

• Gregqld from Australia – 22 October 2024 (8/10)

  Nice modern room, and a lovely host. Good location, in a quiet area of Venice (Cannaregio) but close to Fondamenta Nove ferry terminal.
  
  What could be improved: The room was very small, and access to it was via very steep stairs. The host did help us with our luggage.

• Juhee from South Korea – 21 October 2024 (9/10)

  The rooms are very clean, cozy, and pretty. I also enjoyed the breakfast. I was able to leave my luggage after checking out. I was comfortable!

• Chanlada from Thailand – 13 October 2024 (10/10)

  Clean quiet & nice Alexandra

• Steffanie from Canada – 9 October 2024 (8/10)

  Very clean and comfortable
  
  What could be improved: There was a smell from the septic

• Erika from Lithuania – 30 September 2024 (10/10)

  It was a great location, to the port where we went to Burano it was 3min walk. Supermarket nearby, all other attractions are reachable by foot. Room was super clean and we slept so good, matress was fantastic.

• Jennifer from United Kingdom – 28 September 2024 (9/10)

  A little difficult to find but seems the way in all of Venice . Lovely room very comfortable and clean . Good communication from the host.

• Nigel from Australia – 20 September 2024 (8/10)

  It was great and the host was super sweet and really helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities