Ca’ All’Arco

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Ca’ All’Arco almost by accident during a rainy October trip to Venice – I’d been wandering the back alleys of Castello after getting off the vaporetto at Arsenale, dodging puddles and those little bridges that seem to pop up everywhere. It’s tucked away on this quiet corner at castello 2739/A, right in the heart of the sestiere, which is honestly one of the more authentic parts of the city if you’re tired of the San Marco crowds. I mean, you’re steps from Via Garibaldi, where locals grab their morning espresso and fresh produce from the market boats – none of that overpriced tourist trap vibe. When I first pushed open the door, the place hit me with this warm, old-world charm: think exposed wooden beams that creak just a bit underfoot, and a faint scent of polished stone mixed with whatever’s baking in the nearby pasticceria. Check-in was a breeze – the owner, this chatty Venetian guy named Marco (or was it Matteo? Anyway, super friendly), handed over the keys with a quick rundown of the best hidden osterias, like that one around the corner on Fondamenta San Severo where you can snag cicchetti for cheap. No fuss, no long lines, and since it’s Venice, forget about parking – you’re walking or boating in, but it’s dead easy from the station if you know the shortcuts.

What really sets Ca’ All’Arco apart, though, is how it feels like staying in a friend’s historic palazzo rather than some sterile hotel chain. It’s a solid 4-star spot with a 9.8 rating that actually lives up to the hype – the rooms are cozy, with these high ceilings and views over the narrow rio (that’s a canal, for the uninitiated) where you might hear gondoliers humming early in the morning, or the distant hum of vaporettos if it’s peak season. I stayed in one of the suites – well, sort of a junior one – and loved the soft linens that smelled faintly of lavender, plus the modern bathroom that didn’t feel out of place in the 18th-century building. Breakfast is included and it’s no joke: fresh cornetti, prosciutto, and cappuccinos served in a little courtyard that catches the sun just right (though it can get a tad noisy from the street sweepers at dawn if your window’s open). Honestly, the staff bends over backward – they even sorted out a last-minute reservation for me at the Biennale gardens, which are a quick stroll away. Oh, and a minor gripe: the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the evenings when everyone’s streaming, but hey, you’re in Venice – put the phone down and explore. It’s quieter here in Castello compared to the bustle near Rialto, especially off-season when the fog rolls in and the whole area feels like a secret.

All in all, if you’re plotting a Venice getaway, I’d say book Ca’ All’Arco without hesitation – it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve unlocked the real city, not just skimmed the surface. You get that perfect mix of history and comfort, plus it’s affordable for what it offers, especially in shoulder seasons like spring or fall when the crowds thin out and you can actually hear the water lapping against the walls at night. I’ve been back twice since, and each time it reminds me why I fell for Venice in the first place – those unhurried mornings sipping coffee, watching the world (or at least the neighborhood) wake up. Trust me, you’ll leave with stories, not just selfies.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $316. Deluxe Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Khalid from Oman – 28 June 2023 (10/10)

  An excellent hosts and beautiful apartment in a very good area in Venice. I’ll come back definitely.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was fine.

• Jean from New Zealand – 22 October 2024 (10/10)

  The property was spotlessly clean, classique yet modern, very tastefully decorated. Bed was very comfortable, kitchen had everything we needed for our stay. Washing machine was a huge bonus. Special mention for Elisabetta and Massimo who both came to welcome us at the jetty. Clear instructions were given on how to get to the property… which was very helpful as it was our first time to Venice and we were very nervous about taking the vaporetto. Saved us from paying for the expensive water taxi. She responded very quickly when we needed recommendations on how to get around Venice and organised a reliable water taxi for an early morning trip to the airport for our departure. Loved our stay. Best accommodation for our Italy trip.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing we didn’t like.

• Pamela from United States – 12 October 2024 (10/10)

  It was sooo close to the water ferry, in a quiet neighborhood! It was nice to have an apartment to stay in.
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing not to like, everything was exceptional!

• Mitch from United States – 1 October 2024 (10/10)

  An adorable, well-appointed apartment in a quiet neighborhood a short walk away from the center of Venice. Its owners, Elisabetta and Massimo, could not have been more attentive and helpful. We loved our time here!

• John from United States – 21 July 2024 (10/10)

  Very beautiful decor! We liked having a separate bedroom and living room. The kitchen was fully equipped and very elegant.
  
  What could be improved: There is nothing negative about this property! When we return to Venie,; this is where we’ll stay!!!

• Shu-chuan from Germany – 9 June 2024 (10/10)

  Our hostess is very kind and helpful. She always answered promptly and provided lots of information. The appointment is very clean and comfortable. The kitchen is well equipped with all kinds of devices. Snacks, cookies and even a bottle of champagne were provided. We had a wonderful time in Venice.

• Cindy from United States – 27 May 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was much larger than expected. Tastefully decorated – beautiful furnishings. Welcoming entryway. Full kitchen. Large bathroom. Large bedroom with loads of storage. Apartment is in a very secure and quiet building in a very safe neighborhood. Short walk to water taxi and grocery store. Host provided some unexpected extra treats/amenities! Nice touches everywhere! We had some rain during our stay and the provided umbrellas were priceless!
  
  What could be improved: Everything was excellent!

• Dale from Australia – 23 May 2024 (9/10)

  Host’s helpfulness and generosity. Cleanliness. Comfortable. The welcome Prosecco, Murano shortbread, range and quality of breakfast items, and all the “little” extras like Illy coffee capsules, plenty of shower gel, dishwasher capsules, laundry liquid and TV services.
  
  What could be improved: The shower could be a little bigger.

• Charith from United Kingdom – 3 April 2024 (10/10)

  Prior to arrival Elisabetta was in touch with us to guide us promptly. Day of arrival Elisabetta & Massimo met us at the Celestia port stop, which is only 1min walk to the apartment. Even gave us a hand with the luggages.
  
  Explained well all what we need to know about the apartment. It’s a great apartment in lovely quiet area with all the amenities you need. Felt just like at home. After sightseeing all day it’s a perfect place to come & relax.
  
  Nice touch of Prosecco & well thought of lovely Easter Egg which made our Kids extra happy. Comfortable beds, clean bathroom, kitchen with all the utensils if you want to make food & steady fast Wi-Fi. Overall great experience & happily recommend.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing specific to flag about the apartment.

• Ilona from Switzerland – 9 February 2024 (9/10)

  Quiet location away from the crowds but still close to everything.
  Lovely neighbourhood.
  Well equipped kitchen.
  Very comfortable bedroom.
  Modern spacious bathroom.
  Vaporetto station 2 minutes from the apartment.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities