Ca’ Bianca

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Ca’ Bianca after a long vaporetto ride from the train station – you know, the kind where you’re crammed in with tourists and their roller bags, dodging the spray from the canal. It’s tucked away on Calle de la Testa in Cannaregio, which is honestly one of the more authentic neighborhoods in Venice, away from the San Marco crowds but still close enough to wander over if you fancy. I mean, it’s not like you’re isolated; you’re just a short stroll from the Strada Nova, where locals grab their morning espresso and gossip about the latest acqua alta warnings. Arriving in the late afternoon during shoulder season – think early October, when the summer hordes have thinned out – the place felt like a quiet haven. The check-in was straightforward, no fuss; the owner, this friendly guy with a thick Venetian accent, handed over the keys and pointed out a little map of hidden spots, like the nearby Jewish Ghetto with its kosher bakeries that smell of fresh challah bread wafting through the alleys.

What really won me over was how the hotel captures that old-school Venetian charm without trying too hard. The building’s got these weathered stone walls and creaky wooden floors that sort of transport you back – well, not literally, but you get the idea. My room was on the second floor, overlooking a narrow canal where gondolas occasionally glide by, their oars dipping with that rhythmic splash. It’s a 3-star spot, so don’t expect luxury bells and whistles, but honestly, the beds are comfy enough after a day of pounding the pavements, and the breakfast spread in the mornings – fresh croissants, yogurt, and that strong Italian coffee – sets you up nicely. There’s no elevator, which could be a drag if you’re hauling heavy luggage up those steep stairs (I learned that the hard way), but it adds to the character, you know? Noise-wise, it’s pretty peaceful at night, especially compared to the rowdier areas near the Rialto; just the occasional church bell or distant boat horn. And parking? Forget it – this is Venice, so leave the car in Mestre and embrace the walk or water taxi life. I appreciated the little touches, like the complimentary umbrellas for those sudden rain showers that turn the calles into slippery mazes.

All in all, with its solid 8.8 rating, Ca’ Bianca is the kind of place I’d recommend if you’re after a real taste of Venice without the overpriced hype. It’s perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to explore on foot – hop on a vaporetto from Fondamente Nove, just a five-minute walk away, to hit Murano or Burano for the day. Sure, the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the thicker-walled rooms (blame the ancient architecture), but that’s a minor gripe in a city where you’re meant to disconnect anyway. If you’re visiting in winter, it’s even cozier, with fewer people and that misty fog rolling in off the lagoon. Trust me, staying here made my trip feel less like tourism and more like living the local rhythm – and isn’t that what Venice is all about?

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $233. Apartment with 1 large double bed, 2 single beds and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Kathleen from United Kingdom – 8 August 2024 (9/10)

  The apartment was beautiful, just like a home form home. It had everything you could think of and more. The host was great with communication, and we found it with no problems. It is close to the main area but also on side street, so very quiet. We enjoyed our stay, it was just perfect, I would highly recommend and would return.

• Sharon from Australia – 26 February 2025 (9/10)

  Cute and cosy in a very convenient location
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, it was nice

• Beth from United Kingdom – 3 November 2024 (9/10)

  Lovely property in the heart of Venice. Very central to all main points of interest. Although only 10 mins from St Marks square the apartment was quite at night. Close to lots of lovely restaurants and cafes.

• Luna from Canada – 15 August 2024 (9/10)

  This apartment was great! It offered sufficient space for 5 of us, was delightfully air-conditioned, located just steps from several restaurants, and within a few minutes' walk of several attractions, but far enough away from the touristy spots to be quiet, serene and give us an opportunity to explore the little alleys and all they had to offer. The ceilings were low, so it felt cozy for us. Someone who's over 6'2" might find it a bit tight.
  
  The host was helpful and we were able to check in early, which was great because we had just arrived in the morning after an overnight flight.
  
  What could be improved: The bathroom didn't have air-conditioning, so it was a little stuffy, but we opened the windows and it was fine.

• Lindsay from United States – 11 July 2024 (9/10)

  It was clean and the beds were comfortable. The kitchen had everything we needed and I liked that there were two bedrooms and the one bedroom had two twin beds. That was perfect for traveling as a family.
  
  What could be improved: It was hard to find.

• Maximillian from Germany – 28 May 2024 (8/10)

  The property was very well located and gave us easy access to all the tourist attractions in Venice. The communication with the staff was very good.
  
  What could be improved: I believe that, like everything in Venice, the house got inundated at some point and smelled like accumulated humidity when we arrived, but after turning the AC on and leaving the windows open, it got better.

• William from United States – 16 May 2024 (9/10)

  Everything was exactly as promised and we found the location exceptional for being convenient to sites but just outside of the heavy tourist traffic. Communication with our host was perfect.

• Nadia from United Kingdom – 19 March 2024 (9/10)

  Loved the location excellent for all the sites. Lots of amenities nearby.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Alfred from Japan – 26 August 2023 (9/10)

  Excellent location, lots of dining and shopping opportunities nearby. Easily accessible by ferry from the train station. Main attractions were a short walk from the apartment. Very comfortable apartment with separate bedrooms. Very good for a family.
  
  What could be improved: Although the apartment was very easy to reach from the water bus station. The directions given on the website were not exact as to which street to turn onto. We had to ask for directions.

• Andy from United Kingdom – 22 August 2023 (9/10)

  Quite location but still close to the main attractions. Clean, well stocked, spacious. Even has a little courtyard and a bowl full of power adapters!. The host even arranged an earlier check in for us, which saved us from hanging around with luggage. Attention to detail and great service. Highly recommended.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing- it was perfect

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities