Benedetto Marcello

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at San Marco Vallaresso – you know, that stop right by the Grand Canal where the water slaps against the docks and the air smells like salt and old stone – and weaving my way through those narrow calli to find the Benedetto Marcello. It’s tucked away on San Marco 3824, sort of hidden in plain sight amid the bustle of the district, but honestly, that’s part of its charm. I mean, you’re smack in the heart of Venice, just a five-minute stroll from Piazza San Marco with its pigeons and overpriced gelato stands, yet the hotel feels like a quiet retreat once you duck inside. The entrance is unassuming – a simple wooden door with a brass plaque – and check-in was a breeze; the staff, these friendly locals who switch effortlessly between Italian and English, handed over my key with a quick chat about the best time to hit the Rialto Market (early morning, before the crowds turn it into a zoo). No parking worries here, obviously – Venice being car-free and all – but if you’re lugging bags from the train station, grab a water taxi or brace for the walk; it’s doable, but those bridges can be a workout.

What really stuck with me about the Benedetto Marcello is how it balances that classic Venetian vibe with just enough modern comfort to make you forget you’re in a centuries-old building. My room overlooked a skinny canal – well, more like a rio, actually – and the mornings started with the soft hum of gondolas gliding by, mixed with the distant chime of church bells from Santa Maria del Giglio nearby. The decor’s got that elegant, slightly faded opulence: think heavy drapes, marble floors that are cool underfoot even in summer, and beds that are firm but plush enough to sink into after a day of dodging tourists on the Ponte di Rialto. Breakfast is served in this cozy courtyard – nothing extravagant, just fresh croissants, cappuccino that hits the spot, and maybe some prosciutto if you’re lucky – but it’s included, which is a nice touch in pricey Venice. Oh, and the Wi-Fi’s solid, surprisingly; I streamed a movie one rainy afternoon without a hitch. That said, the walls are on the thin side – I could hear faint opera music from the neighbor’s room one night – and during high season (think June to August), the surrounding streets get noisy with evening revelers heading to bars along Calle Larga XXII Marzo. Still, it’s not overwhelming, and the air conditioning works like a charm to drown it out.

Look, if you’re planning a trip to Venice and want a four-star spot that feels authentic without skimping on the essentials, the Benedetto Marcello is a solid pick – it’s got that 8.5 rating for a reason. You’re close enough to wander over to the Doge’s Palace for sunset views or pop into a bacaro for cicchetti, but far enough from the main throngs that you can actually relax. I stayed there last spring, and it made the whole chaotic magic of the city feel a bit more manageable – you know what I mean? Just book ahead, especially if you’re aiming for a canal-view room; they go fast. Worth every euro, in my book.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $242. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Great location, but still quiet. Spacios apartment with two big bedrooms. Perfect for a couple of days in Venice. – Ana from Austria – 14 July 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was huge with two big bedrooms and equipped with everything you need during a short stay. Great location, but still quiet. If you need anything, the hotel staff is very helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was great.

• High reccomended lovely flat in the heart of Venice! Super friendly and helpful staff. – Ewelina from United Kingdom – 28 May 2025 (10/10)

  Great location close to all main attractions. Super friendly and helpful staff. We could leave our luggage after check out in the reception of the hotel.
  
  What could be improved: Not applicable

• Exceptional – Kate from Australia – 4 April 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, large spacious apartment, quiet .
  Easy to check in and deal with.
  We did have a slight problem with the wifi, which couldn't be fixed while we were there however they were very kind and gave us breakfast instead which was amazing. Thankyou

• Fantastic location, highly recommend. – Kirstin from New Zealand – 16 January 2025 (9/10)

  Very central and within easy walking distance to the Venice attractions our family wanted to see. Great restaurants and shopping within a few minutes walk. Everything in the apartment was as mentioned. The hotel staff at check in and check out were very helpful with any questions we had.
  
  What could be improved: We knew the access to the apartment was three levels of stairs. No real issue for us, even with 4 large suitcases, but maybe a problem for some people who are not as able bodied.

• Exceptional – Jiaxi from Switzerland – 24 December 2024 (10/10)

  The place is spatial, quiet and clean. The water bus stations are 4min walk away to St Lucia station and St Marco.
  
  What could be improved: The restroom smells like draining water when we enter and even since our stay. We didn't know the reason and it spoiled a bit the super good experience of this apartment

• Perfect base for exploring Venice – Lucy from United Kingdom – 7 October 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was spacious and the hotel staff were all wonderful!

• Superb – Amanda from New Zealand – 24 September 2024 (9/10)

  Great location, spacious, clean, great staff the bell boy was excellent and helpful
  
  What could be improved: Be aware if you have heavy luggage you will need support. Staff will help you.

• Great stay – Marc from United States – 17 September 2024 (10/10)

  Clean. Friendly staff

• Beautiful apartment close to all the attractions but in quiet area – Christelle from South Africa – 14 September 2024 (9/10)

  Perfectly located property but not in the middle of the noisy area. Beautiful view from the dining rooms window. Good sized rooms. Great communication from the host. Would definitely book here again.
  
  What could be improved: Liked everything, just more pillows would have been nice.

• Superb – Jozef from Slovakia – 25 July 2024 (9/10)

  Very good location and well equipped
  
  What could be improved: Air-conditioning could work better

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities