Biennale Gallery Loft

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at Arsenale – you know, that stop where the old shipyards loom like something out of a history book – and weaving through those narrow calli in Castello to find the Biennale Gallery Loft. It’s tucked away on Corte del Soldà, this tiny courtyard that’s honestly more like a secret hideout than a street address; no grand canal views or tourist bustle, just the faint echo of footsteps on stone and the occasional whiff of fresh bread from that little bakery around the corner on Via Garibaldi. I mean, Venice can feel overwhelming with all the crowds in San Marco, but here in Castello, it’s like you’ve slipped into the real neighborhood life – locals chatting in Venetian dialect, kids kicking soccer balls against ancient walls. Check-in was a breeze; the host met me right at the door with a key and a quick rundown, no fuss, though fair warning, if you’re hauling big luggage, those uneven pavements might test your patience. And parking? Well, forget it – this is Venice, after all; leave the car in Mestre and embrace the water taxi life.

What really won me over was the loft itself – it’s got this arty, gallery vibe that fits right in with the Biennale gardens just a five-minute stroll away (pro tip: time your visit for the art biennale season in summer, but brace for the crowds; off-season, it’s blissfully quiet). The place is in a restored historic building, with high ceilings and exposed beams that make you feel like you’re crashing in some artist’s studio – think sleek modern furniture mixed with vintage touches, like those textured plaster walls that catch the afternoon light just so. My room was spacious, with a kitchenette that actually came in handy for whipping up espresso from the market goodies I’d picked up; the bed was comfy enough to sink into after a day of wandering, though the air con hummed a bit loudly at night – nothing earplugs couldn’t fix. Honestly, the best part was the little balcony overlooking the corte; I’d sit there in the evenings, listening to the distant bells from San Pietro di Castello church, sipping cheap prosecco, and feeling like I’d escaped the souvenir-shop chaos. It’s not perfect – the Wi-Fi dipped occasionally, especially during rainy spells when everyone streams indoors – but for a 4-star spot with a 9.3 rating, it punches above its weight in charm and authenticity.

You should care about this place if you’re the type who wants Venice without the veneer – art lovers, especially, will dig the proximity to the Giardini exhibitions, and it’s a solid base for exploring underrated spots like the Arsenale or that hidden gelateria on Campo San Isepo. Families or couples looking for a quieter pace will appreciate the residential feel, and at that price point, it’s a steal compared to the overpriced palaces near the Rialto. I left feeling like I’d actually lived a slice of Venetian life, not just passed through – sort of recharged, you know? If you’re heading to Venice, skip the tourist traps and give this loft a shot; it’ll make your trip memorable in all the right, unpolished ways.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $235. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Cozy place in Venice – Serena from Netherlands – 25 September 2024 (9/10)

  Very close to the Biennale garden, with a lot of light and quite district. All facilities included, host very friendly and flexible. Recommended!

• Exceptional – Lisa from Australia – 22 September 2024 (10/10)

  Excellent location for visitors to the biennale d’arte. Clean, beautifully presented and elegant, sympathetic renovation to the old architecture. Quiet and peaceful neighborhood.
  
  What could be improved: Bring mosquito repellent in summer, even late summer.

• Superb – Paul from United States – 18 September 2024 (9/10)

  Clean, well lit, spacious for two, responsive host.
  
  What could be improved: Recognizing that it is a loft, stairwell up a few flights was narrow and steep, especially carrying luggage. A minor issue though.

• We loved the loft and hope to return – David from Australia – 12 August 2024 (10/10)

  Great location interesting design

• Exceptional – Britta from Germany – 13 June 2024 (10/10)

  Perfect quiet and stylish location in the Castello district, as close to the Biennale venues as you can possibly get. Very convenient check-in and check-out process. Luggage storage option on day of departure.
  
  What could be improved: Bed is only 1,40m wide.

• Great host, lovely apartment, we loved our stay in Venice – Karen from United Kingdom – 6 June 2024 (10/10)

  We had a wonderful stay in Venice the host was very informative and communicated before, during and after our stay. The location was very good, off from the main areas so quiet but easy walking distance. The apartment was so clean and well equipped. Welcome bottle of fizz and water was greatly appreciated and Krups coffee machine with plenty of pods was an added bonus. Toiletries in the bathroom were very helpful and free WiFi.
  
  What could be improved: There wasn’t much hanging/storage space for clothes.

• A perfect place for a couple of art and design lovers! – Monika from Poland – 13 May 2024 (10/10)

  An ideal location for visitors to Biennale, between Giardini and Arsenale, very close to busy and friendly Garibaldi Street area with shops and restaurants and to Giardini vaporetto station. The apartment is very stylish, decorated with great taste and attention to detail. Comfortable clean bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, coffee machine with plenty of capsules and welcome prosecco and water in the fridge. Beautiful views of the rooftops of Venice from different sides of the flat. A perfect place for a few days' stay in the magic Venezia!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing I can think of – everything was great!

• Exceptional – Diana from Lithuania – 16 September 2023 (10/10)

  Great! Would stay again.
  
  What could be improved: Water pressure in the shower is not the best. Other than that, perfect!

• Perfect – Sam from United Kingdom – 20 August 2023 (10/10)

  Absolutely perfect in every single way! First time I. Venice and it was perfect. Lovely restaurants nearby, the canals and waterways are majestic, the hosts are wonderful, the apartment is magical, and it’s close to San Marco Square and several excellent museums!!

•  – Yuchan from Germany – 19 June 2023 (10/10)

  everything is perfect besides the stairs.
  
  What could be improved: stairs. it’s not possible to lift a 23kg language to the room.

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Facilities