Be Mate Ponte di Rialto

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Be Mate Ponte di Rialto almost by accident during my last trip to Venice – well, not really by accident, since I’d booked it ahead, but you know what I mean, that feeling when you finally navigate those winding calli and spot the entrance. It’s tucked away on Calle dei Stagneri o de la Fava, right in the heart of San Marco, just a stone’s throw from the Rialto Bridge. Honestly, if you’re coming from the vaporetto stop at Rialto, it’s an easy five-minute walk – no lugging suitcases over too many bridges, which is a godsend in Venice where everything’s on foot. I arrived in the late afternoon during shoulder season (late September, when the crowds thin out but the weather’s still balmy), and the check-in was a breeze; the staff – a mix of locals and expats – greeted me with that warm Italian efficiency, handing over a map with their favorite hidden spots marked, like the tiny bacaro on nearby Calle della Madonna for cicchetti and spritz. The building itself has that classic Venetian charm, with exposed brick and wooden beams that make you feel like you’re in an old palazzo, but updated just enough to not feel stuffy. Oh, and a heads up: no elevator in the traditional sense, so if you’ve got heavy bags, ask for help – they were quick to assist me up the stairs.

What really sets this place apart, though, is how it balances that authentic Venice vibe with modern comforts without trying too hard. My room overlooked a quiet courtyard – sort of a surprise in bustling San Marco – and it was spacious for a 4-star here, with a comfy king bed that actually let me sleep through the night despite the occasional gondolier serenade drifting in from the canal (earplugs helped on busier evenings). The bathroom had those rainfall showers that feel luxurious after a day of wandering, and the free Wi-Fi was strong enough for streaming, which is no small feat in these old buildings. I loved the little kitchenette – nothing fancy, just a fridge, microwave, and coffee maker – perfect for grabbing pastries from the Forno down on Campo San Luca and eating in. Noise-wise, it’s pretty peaceful after 10 PM, even in peak summer when tourists flood the area, but yeah, mornings can start early with delivery boats honking on the Grand Canal nearby. One minor gripe: the air conditioning was a bit finicky during a hot spell, but the staff fixed it within an hour when I mentioned it. Sensory-wise, there’s that faint salty scent from the canals mixing with fresh linen smells in the rooms, and the textures – smooth marble floors cool underfoot – make it feel lived-in yet polished.

All in all, if you’re looking for a spot that puts you right in the action without the overwhelm of a massive hotel chain, Be Mate Ponte di Rialto is a winner – that 9.4 rating isn’t hype. It’s ideal for couples or solo travelers who want to dip into the chaos of Piazza San Marco (a 10-minute stroll away) but retreat to something intimate. I mean, I spent evenings on the small terrace sipping prosecco, watching locals hurry by with shopping bags, and it felt like my own slice of Venice. Sure, it’s not the cheapest, but for the location and the personal touches – like the concierge tipping me off to avoid the tourist traps on Strada Nuova and head to Osteria alle Testiere instead – it’s worth every euro. If you’re planning a trip, book early for those canal-view rooms; they go fast in high season.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $462. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $516. Apartment with Terrace with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $533. Superior Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed, 1 single bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $551. Deluxe Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $605. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed, 1 large double bed and 2 sofa beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

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

  Great location, wonderful decoration and comfy beds
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

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

  The apartment was beautiful, clean and in a great location. The folks at the front desk were extremely helpful and went out of their way to ensure that our stay was excellent. Highly recommend

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

  This building is filled with apartments that serve as Air B&Bs. Employees are onsite at a front desk between 10 and 6:00. It was nice to have people onsite to ask questions, if needed. It was a hotel feel as far as assistance but staying in a high-end apartment. The location was very good. There was a washing machine but we did not need it. I would recommend it to a friend.
  
  What could be improved: I wish the TV had been connected to the internet for streaming (Netflix, etc) instead of local channels. This is very minor but it would have been nice.

• Hussam from Israel – 30 March 2025 (10/10)

  I had an amazing stay at this property! The design is truly impressive and very spacious. The location is perfect, offering a beautiful view of the canal. The atmosphere is wonderful, making it a great place to relax. The property is also very well-equipped with everything you might need. Highly recommended!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing everything was perfect

• Sarah from United Kingdom – 10 March 2025 (10/10)

  Wonderful location, and apartment was perfect for our group. Felt incredibly spacious and luxurious.
  
  What could be improved: Lack of view – would have been good to understand when booking if there was an option to book a canal view, limited kitchen facilities

• Ran from Israel – 9 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great location. Nice apartment. Comfy beds. Nice bathrooms, with soap and towels. Kitchen ready for cooking, with coffee. Elevator. Private pier for water taxi. Everything was great 👍🏻

• Ann from Belgium – 28 February 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was gorgeous and way bigger than expected. Perfect for our group. I would definitely stay here again.

• Carl from United Kingdom – 27 February 2025 (9/10)

  Great location and apartment

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

  There was nothing to fault with this property, Room was super spacious, exactly like photos, staff were helpful, Location was absolutely fantastic
  
  What could be improved: Nothing I didn't Like

• Martin from Slovakia – 21 February 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent location, newly and well refurbished rooms in an old Venetian palace. Perfect.
  
  What could be improved: I hate the trend to have a room / maindoor key in a phone. What was wrong with key cards? Now, either you can't open the door because you have no signal or your phone battery is finished and end up waiting in the street.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities