Cà Biennale, respirare la Venezia autentica!

Hotel Description

You know, the first time I stumbled upon Cà Biennale – or as it’s fully named, Cà Biennale, respirare la Venezia autentica! – I was dragging my suitcase off the vaporetto at Arsenale, already a bit sweaty from the summer humidity that clings to Venice like an old lover. It’s tucked away in the Castello district, right at Castello 1972, which honestly feels like a world away from the pigeon-packed chaos of San Marco. I mean, you’re not fighting tour groups here; instead, you’re weaving through those narrow, shadowy calli where locals actually live, popping into a bacaro on Via Garibaldi for a quick spritz and cicchetti – that’s the real Venetian snack life, not the overpriced stuff near the Rialto. The building itself is one of those classic Venetian palazzos, with weathered stone walls that smell faintly of salt and history, and when I checked in, the owner – this chatty guy named Marco, I think – handed over the keys with a grin and a tip about the best time to hit the nearby Giardini della Biennale (early morning, before the art crowds descend during exhibition season). No fancy lobby, just a cozy entrance that leads straight up creaky wooden stairs – fair warning, if you’ve got heavy bags, it’s a workout, since elevators aren’t really a thing in these old spots.

What really won me over, though, was how the place captures that authentic Venice vibe without trying too hard. The rooms are simple but charming – think exposed beams, terracotta floors that are cool underfoot even in July, and windows that open onto a quiet courtyard where you can hear the distant lap of canal water and the occasional seagull squawk. Mine had this quirky little balcony overlooking a side canal, perfect for sipping coffee while watching nonni gossip below. It’s a 3-star spot with an 8.6 rating that feels earned; nothing flashy, but the beds are comfy (that firm Italian mattress style), and the bathroom’s got decent pressure in the shower – a godsend after a day of tromping around. Honestly, it’s not without its quirks – the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the back rooms, especially during peak tourist months like May or September when everyone’s streaming from their phones – but that’s Venice for you, sort of adds to the charm. I loved wandering out to the nearby Arsenale, that massive old shipyard that’s now part art space, part ghost town; it’s just a five-minute stroll, and in the evenings, the area quiets down beautifully, no blaring music from bars like you’d get in Dorsoduro. Oh, and parking? Forget it – this is car-free territory, so plan on water taxis or your own two feet, but that’s what makes it feel so immersive.

All in all, if you’re the type who wants to breathe in the real Venice – hence the name, I suppose – without the souvenir-shop overload, Cà Biennale is a gem. It’s not for everyone; if you need spa treatments or 24/7 room service, head elsewhere. But for me, staying here meant waking up to the smell of fresh bread from the forno around the corner on Calle del Forno, chatting with neighbors who aren’t jaded by tourists, and feeling like I’d slipped into the city’s rhythm. Well, almost – those church bells at dawn can be a rude awakening if you’re a light sleeper. Still, I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially off-season in winter when the fog rolls in and the whole place feels like a secret. Trust me, it’s the kind of spot that reminds you why Venice endures, quirks and all. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $169. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 sofa beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Angela from United Kingdom – 2 April 2024 (9/10)

  Great location just off the Via Garibaldi, the apartment is in a quiet square. The apartment was a warm & comfortable space to explore Venice.
  The little video on how to find the apartment was great.
  
  What could be improved: The bin situation is a bit stressful. The info provided did not match the info folder.

• Karancsiné from Hungary – 21 February 2025 (8/10)

  The apartment is very close to the hearth of the city, a supermarket is only a 50-100m walk away, the kitchen is nice, it has a smart TVn and the host is really helpful.
  
  What could be improved: We had to wash all the dishes before using them, they were all a bit sticky and dirty.

• Marco from Italy – 3 November 2024 (9/10)

  Everything was good in good location for our work at Biennale
  
  What could be improved: Only very minor details, everything was good

• Ian from United Kingdom – 31 May 2024 (9/10)

  The property is clean and modern and in a good location in a small, quiet square which is a 100ft from Via Garibaldi where there are many bars, restaurants and a supermarket. The Castello area is charming and it is also not far to St Marks Square.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing negative to say.

• Roger from Canada – 16 May 2024 (9/10)

  It was on a strategic place to go anywhere I wanted and also that I knew the area from previous trips

• Jane from United Kingdom – 13 November 2023 (9/10)

  Lovely quiet location, all facilities available. Close to restaurants, bars, cafes, Co-op, and our orienteering event. So nice to get away from the busyness of the city centre
  
  What could be improved: Lounge not so comfortable but we weren’t indoors very often

• Simon from Canada – 27 September 2023 (9/10)

  Clean and spacious apartment. great location close to a strip of restaurants outside of the main tourist area.
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Lizzy from New Zealand – 23 September 2023 (9/10)

  Amazing huge apartment in Venice. Near multiple water bus stops so easy to get to from the train station. Walkable to all the attractions. Decent kitchen.
  
  What could be improved: Kitchen had no chopping board for cooking.

• Anna from Australia – 15 July 2023 (9/10)

  Very quiet location, apparently area where remaining Venetian residents live. Traditional shops and restaurants – you feel at home here. You are only 20minutes walking to StMark’s square etc – not far from all the tourist sights. Apartment is comfortable and roomy. The host is easy to communicate with. Would definitely stay there again.
  
  What could be improved: All good

• Annie from Mexico – 4 July 2023 (8/10)

  We enjoyed our stay here. It was a very comfy apartment and clean. It also has a kitchen to cook and a laundry. It's close from many restaurants, coffee shops and bars.
  
  What could be improved: hot water didn't work

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities