Ca’ del Ramo d’oro

Hotel Description

You know, stumbling upon Ca’ del Ramo d’oro in Venice’s Castello district felt like uncovering a secret that only the locals really appreciate – it’s tucked away on this tiny alley, Ramo primo de la Madoneta, just off the beaten path from the bustling Riva degli Schiavoni. I mean, if you’re coming from the San Zaccaria vaporetto stop (which is super handy, by the way, only a five-minute walk), you’ll weave through these narrow calli that smell faintly of saltwater and fresh bread from that little bakery on Campo San Zaccaria. No cars here, obviously – Venice being Venice – so I dragged my suitcase over the uneven stones, dodging the occasional pigeon, and honestly, it added to the adventure. The building itself is one of those classic Venetian palazzos, with faded frescoes on the walls and these heavy wooden doors that creak just right when you push them open. Check-in was a breeze; the owner – this warm guy named Marco, I think – greeted me like an old friend, handing over a map with his own scribbled notes on where to grab the best cicchetti nearby, like at that hole-in-the-wall spot on Calle della Mandola. It’s not flashy or anything, but that’s the charm – a solid 4-star place with a 9.6 rating that feels earned, not hyped.

Inside, the rooms are cozy in that old-world way, with exposed beams and these plush beds that make you sink right in after a day of traipsing around. Mine overlooked a quiet canal – well, sort of a side rio, actually, where you could hear the gentle lap of water against the stones at night, drowned out only by distant church bells from San Giorgio dei Greci. No elevator, mind you, so if you’re hauling heavy bags up the stairs, pack light or ask for help; they were quick to lend a hand. Breakfast was a highlight – served in this sunlit courtyard that smells of espresso and fresh cornetti, with options like prosciutto and melon that hit the spot before heading out to the Arsenale or even a quick boat ride to the Biennale gardens, which are just a stone’s throw away. It’s peaceful here, especially in the off-season like early spring when the tourists thin out; summers can get a bit noisier with the nearby markets, but nothing that earplugs couldn’t fix. Oh, and the Wi-Fi’s surprisingly zippy for such an old building – I streamed a movie one rainy afternoon without a hitch.

All in all, if you’re the type who wants Venice without the San Marco crowds – you know, that authentic slice where you can wander to hidden gems like the Libreria Acqua Alta bookstore or grab a spritz at a non-touristy bar on Fondamenta dei Ormesini – this place is gold. It’s not perfect; the bathrooms are on the compact side, but spotless and with those nice rain showers. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for that sense of being in the real Venice, not the postcard version. If you’re planning a trip, book early – it fills up fast, and trust me, waking up to that canal view beats any generic hotel chain hands down.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $254. Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Heather from United Kingdom – 7 October 2023 (10/10)

  Having someone meet us and walk us to the apartment took the stress out of trying to find it by ourselves. We also got any questions that we had answered. Gorgeous interior.
  
  What could be improved: Having to leave!

• Rasa from United Kingdom – 4 March 2025 (10/10)

  Fantastic apartment with a great location! More spacious then in looks in the pictures, very warm in February when we visited. Great showers, super comfy bed, could not recommend enough! A rare gem and close to walk to anywhere within Venice.

• Victoria from United States – 24 February 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment is beautifully decorated and a delightleful retreat from crowded streets.
  
  What could be improved: One of the towel warmers was not working but that was a very minor detail.

• Helen from United Kingdom – 21 January 2025 (10/10)

  Beautifully designed by Roberto Gerosa, this apartment was fantastically spacious and in a great location.

• Michael from Australia – 12 June 2024 (10/10)

  Huge apartment – so spacious. Great location. Well equiped.

• Jerome from France – 4 April 2024 (9/10)

  The location is great! 10 min from st marco, quiet and nice.
  Huge apartment with a very comfortable main room

• Christophe-andre from France – 3 May 2023 (10/10)

  Décoration and space
  
  What could be improved: Missing a music dock

• Andrej from Slovakia – 22 November 2022 (10/10)

  really very unic interior design by famous Italian architect/theater scenographer.
  
  What could be improved: that it lasted so short time..

• Sabrina from Germany – 22 October 2022 (9/10)

  The central location! The smart decor! The loftiness and airy space! This space felt so inviting and welcoming. I would love to rent it again. It was like we "lived" there.
  It was also rather quiet! The bed was incredibly comfortable–same with the pillows.
  
  What could be improved: Ground floor. Not so much natural light and not many views.

• Alan from Australia – 19 May 2022 (10/10)

  Amazing place very unusual. The kitchen was well set quiet location but central very comfy bed
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities