Ca’ del Drago

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Ca’ del Drago almost by accident last spring, right when Venice was shaking off the winter chill but before the summer crowds turned everything into a sweaty mob scene. It’s tucked away in the Castello district, at 3322 Castello – yeah, that’s the address, but honestly, it’s more about navigating those narrow calli off the main drag. I got there by vaporetto from Santa Lucia station, hopping off at Arsenale and wandering past the old shipyards, which still have that faint salty tang in the air from centuries of boat-building. The hotel itself is in this unassuming historic building – I mean, “Ca’” just means “house” in Venetian, so it feels like you’re staying in someone’s old family palazzo rather than some glossy chain spot. Check-in was a breeze; the owner (or was it the manager? Anyway, super friendly guy with a thick local accent) handed over the keys with a quick chat about the best nearby bacari for cicchetti – those little snacks that make evenings here magical. No parking hassles, obviously, since cars are a myth in Venice, but if you’re lugging bags, it’s a short, flat walk from the stop, which is a godsend after a long train ride.

What really won me over, though, was how the place balances that old-world charm with stuff that actually makes your stay comfortable – you know, without feeling like it’s trying too hard. My room overlooked a quiet canal, and mornings started with the soft lap of water against the stones and the distant clang of church bells from San Pietro di Castello, which is just a stone’s throw away. The decor’s all exposed beams and antique furnishings, but the bed? Oh man, it was like sinking into a cloud – firm enough for my picky back, with linens that smelled freshly laundered, not that musty vibe you sometimes get in these converted spots. Breakfast is served in a cozy courtyard (weather permitting – it rained one day, so we huddled inside with espresso and pastries that tasted homemade). It’s not huge, but that’s the appeal; you’re not elbowing tourists for a table. I wandered out to Via Garibaldi nearby for groceries – it’s this lively street with local markets and no-nonsense osterie where folks actually live, not just pose for selfies. Noise-wise, it’s blissfully quiet at night, except maybe the occasional boat horn, but earplugs sorted that out. One minor gripe: the Wi-Fi dipped in the evenings when everyone was streaming, but hey, you’re in Venice – go offline and explore.

All in all, if you’re after a slice of authentic Venice without the San Marco circus, Ca’ del Drago is a gem – that 9.6 rating isn’t hype. It’s four stars, sure, but it punches above with the personal touches, like the staff recommending hidden spots for the Biennale if you’re there during art season. I left feeling like I’d uncovered a secret, and honestly, in a city that can feel overwhelming, that’s worth every euro. Just book early for high season; it fills up fast with repeat visitors who know the drill.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $414. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed, 2 single beds and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Perfect place for a venetian stay – Francisco from Spain – 11 July 2025 (9/10)

  Apartment is in great quiet area. Nicely decorated . Easy access
  
  What could be improved: Master mattress is a bit too soft. Tv was very slow

• Exactly what I was looking for – Adi from United States – 26 June 2025 (10/10)

  It was specious, clean, and organized with all the necessities. Checki in was simple and quick. The appartment was ready for us a few hours before check in time. No shared door to enter, no neighbors only the restaurants and the shops underneath, which is great.
  The style the location and the host were great as well

• A honest review – Gheorghe from Romania – 31 May 2025 (10/10)

  In a few words, the location and the apartment itself.
  Close to all important spots, plenty of restaurants and shops around.
  We would definitely come again to stay here.
  
  What could be improved: Maybe is a bit noisy up to midnight but we didn’t come to Venice to sleep.

• Superb – Mia from Finland – 22 May 2025 (9/10)

  Great location

• Elegant well decorated Venetian style experience. – Denver from Australia – 4 January 2025 (10/10)

  Clean, well appointed, great people.
  
  What could be improved: Needed a tumble dryer.

• Exceptional – Yj from Germany – 19 November 2024 (10/10)

  Very spacious and beautifully furnished apartment in Castello area of Venice, good location to get anywhere either by foot or with water bus. Fast communication with the host who gave us guide on how to get to the apartment through complicated paths of Venice, easy key pickup with lockbox, welcome drink and snacks prepared upon arrival. We felt welcomed and had a comfortable stay!
  
  What could be improved: On the last day of our stay the sewyer system had a problem and the shower booth started to have strong odor, but that may be due to the city's medieval structure (and the weather).

• Wonderful apartment 10/10 – Verena from Austria – 18 November 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful Appartement. Very clean and tasteful interior. The kitchen has every equipment you might need. We had an amazing time thank you!

• This was an excellent place for 5 of us to stay in. Gianluca was great with his communication and assistance. – Damon from Australia – 19 October 2024 (10/10)

  Beautifully decorated, well equipped, comfortable and great location.
  
  What could be improved: No toaster

• Wonderful stay in an enchanted city. – Stephanie from Germany – 17 October 2024 (10/10)

  A lovely apartment perfect for a family of four in the heart of Venice but away from the overrun tourist area. Spotless and comfortable. Communication with the host was excellent.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• A Delightful, beautifully decorated apartment. – Tina from Canada – 3 October 2024 (10/10)

  This was an absolutely beautiful apartment! So many lovely pieces of art glass and paintings. The beds were comfy and the main bedroom was fit for a queen. It was eclectic and charming!
  The kitchen was by far the most well- equipped and modern in the 5 locations we stayed, so if you intend to cook, pick this one🙂. So many thoughtful details throughout the apartment made our stay a delight . Gianluca was super kind and helpful as well.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities