Ca’ dell’Arciere Apartments

Hotel Description

You know, stumbling upon Ca’ dell’Arciere Apartments in the heart of San Marco felt like one of those lucky breaks you get in Venice – the kind where you turn down a skinny calle like Calle Carro and suddenly you’re away from the tourist crush, but still close enough to hear the distant hum of vaporettos on the Grand Canal. I mean, it’s tucked right there at 1613, in this old building that smells faintly of aged wood and canal water, which honestly isn’t as off-putting as it sounds once you’re settled in. I arrived mid-afternoon during shoulder season – late September, when the crowds thin out a bit but the light’s still golden – and check-in was a breeze; the host met me at the door with keys and a quick rundown in broken English, no fuss about luggage since, well, Venice means hauling your own bags over bridges anyway. No elevator, mind you – it’s a classic Venetian setup with those steep, creaky stairs that make you feel like you’re climbing into history – but the apartments are on the lower floors, so it’s manageable if you’re not overloaded.

What really won me over, though, was how these places feel like actual homes rather than cookie-cutter hotel rooms. I stayed in one of the smaller units, with its exposed beams and that soft, worn terracotta flooring that stays cool even on warmer days. The kitchenette’s got everything you need – a little stove, fridge stocked with basics if you ask ahead, and even a coffee maker that brews a decent espresso to kick off your mornings. Honestly, waking up to the sound of church bells from nearby San Moisè or the occasional gondolier’s call drifting in through the window made the whole experience magical. It’s rated a solid 9.3 for a reason; everything’s clean, the Wi-Fi’s surprisingly reliable for streaming a quick show after a day of wandering, and there’s air conditioning that hums quietly without drowning out the city’s vibe. Oh, and if you’re into self-catering, you’re steps from that tiny market on Campo San Luca – pick up some prosciutto and cheese, and you’re set for a picnic by the Rialto Bridge, which is just a five-minute stroll away. Sure, the bathrooms are compact, sort of like fitting into a puzzle piece, and you might hear faint footsteps from upstairs neighbors late at night, but that’s Venice for you – intimate and alive.

All in all, if you’re after that authentic slice of Venetian life without breaking the bank on a fancy palazzo hotel, Ca’ dell’Arciere is a gem. It’s not perfect – finding it the first time involved a wrong turn down Calle del Dose (pro tip: use the offline map on your phone, as GPS can glitch in these narrow spots) – but once you’re in, it’s the kind of place that makes you linger. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in quieter months like November when the fog rolls in and the streets empty out, turning the whole neighborhood into your private playground. For a 3-star spot, it punches way above its weight, blending old-world charm with just enough modern comforts to keep things easy. Trust me, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve actually lived in Venice, not just passed through.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $359. Studio Apartment with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $398. Superior Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Eliyahu from Israel – 1 October 2022 (10/10)

  The apartment is in a great location and was very clean. The staff was very helpful.
  
  What could be improved: The water in the shower was poor and not warm enough. Also, due to the energy restrictions, they couldn’t turn on the heater.

• Matthew from Canada – 27 March 2025 (8/10)

  Excellent suite in a fabulous location. Tastefully decorated, airy and spacious. Very clean and well maintained. Only drawback was a bit of late night noise from other guests in the building – this was swiftly handled by our helpful host.

• Katrin from United Kingdom – 27 March 2025 (8/10)

  The location was very close to the Doge's Palace and other sightseeing highlights.

• Ying from China – 4 March 2025 (10/10)

  Location is perfect. Hidden in the alley, it’s quite even in carnaval. However a few steps can lead you to the heart of the party—San Marco Plaza.
  Alberto is a wonderful host. Since the moment of reservation, he has been giving all the information and help to guarantee your stay in Venice a fantastic experience.
  
  What could be improved: We have no problem with the stairs as we have no luggage. But it will be difficult for those who travel with big luggage.

• Rudolf from United States – 15 February 2025 (9/10)

  Top floor with great views. The Location is perfect for exploring Venice – right in the middle of everything. Host is very responsive and provided valuable information. Small kitchen is equipped nicely so you don’t need to eat outside all the time. Comfortable sleep on both the main bed and the sofa bed.
  
  What could be improved: Located on the top floor of the building with no elevator proved to be a challenge since we had many bags. However, the host and the description were clear about it, so we knew. Next time we’ll pack lighter😉.

• Marie from Australia – 25 January 2025 (9/10)

  Convenient to everything, easy access, great we could leave our luggage till we needed to get to our transport
  
  What could be improved: A bit cramped for 4 adults

• Penny from Ireland – 24 December 2024 (10/10)

  Everything you need was in the apartment. Alberto took the time to ask if there was anything we needed. When we requested he recommended a fantastic restaurant. We will stay here again.

• Fiona from Australia – 17 December 2024 (10/10)

  Nice aspect well positioned, very comfortable.

• Mary from Philippines – 5 December 2024 (10/10)

  Clean and cozy, best location and value for money, host is friendly as well

• Mariela from United States – 8 November 2024 (10/10)

  The property was what I expected according to the photos.
  
  What could be improved: Although I knew it, it was annoying we have to climb 4 floors.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities