Cà Dell’Arte Palace

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Cà Dell’Arte Palace almost by accident last spring, right when Venice was shaking off the winter chill but before the summer crowds turned everything into a sweaty mosh pit. I’d hopped off the vaporetto at Rialto – you know, that iconic bridge that’s always buzzing with selfie sticks – and wandered through the winding alleys of Castello, dodging the occasional delivery cart loaded with fresh produce. The address is on Calle Seconda de la Fava, this narrow little lane that’s tucked away from the main drags but still close enough to feel the pulse of the city. Honestly, finding it was a bit of a treasure hunt; no neon signs or anything flashy, just a discreet doorway that opens into what feels like a hidden palazzo. I mean, Venice is all about those surprises – one minute you’re squeezing past locals hauling groceries, the next you’re stepping into this elegant 4-star spot with frescoed ceilings and that faint, musty scent of old stone mixed with polished wood. Check-in was a breeze, even though I arrived a tad early after a delayed train from Milan; the staff – a mix of chatty Venetians and one guy who spoke perfect English with a slight accent – sorted me out with a coffee while they prepped the room. No parking hassles, obviously, since cars are a myth here, but they pointed me to a nearby water taxi stand for my luggage.

What really won me over was how the place blends that classic Venetian vibe with just enough modern comfort to make you forget you’re in a city built on water. My room overlooked a quiet courtyard – well, quiet except for the occasional coo of pigeons or the distant hum of a boat engine on the canal – and it had these ornate mirrors and velvet drapes that screamed old-world charm without feeling stuffy. The bed was plush, like sinking into a cloud after a day of pounding pavements, and the bathroom? Spotless, with those heated towel racks that are a godsend in the damp mornings. Breakfast was served in this cozy salon downstairs, nothing extravagant but solid – fresh croissants, cappuccinos strong enough to wake the dead, and some local cheeses that paired perfectly with the view of passersby on the calle. You know what, though? It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the evenings when everyone’s streaming, and during high season, you might hear the faint echo of tour groups from nearby Campo Santa Maria Formosa filtering in. But that’s Venice for you – authentic, a little chaotic. I spent afternoons exploring the neighborhood, popping into that tiny bacaro on the corner for cicchetti and spritz, or walking five minutes to the Libreria Acqua Alta, that quirky bookstore with books stacked in gondolas to survive floods.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels lived-in rather than tourist-trap glossy, Cà Dell’Arte Palace is a gem. It’s got that 8.9 rating for a reason – solid value in a pricey city, especially if you book off-peak. I left feeling like I’d glimpsed the real Venice, not just the postcard version, and honestly, I’d go back in a heartbeat for another lazy morning sipping espresso while the city wakes up around you. Just pack good walking shoes; those cobblestones don’t mess around.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $251. Double Room with Private External Bathroom with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $318. Deluxe room with Canal View with 1 large double bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $318. Junior Suite with Terrace with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $444. Prestige Suite with Terrace and View with 2 × 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $711. Junior Suite with Canal View with 2 × 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Claudia from Romania – 3 July 2024 (9/10)

  Very nice and tasteful location in the heart of Venice next to Rialto Bridge, with good access to any point of interest, with a small canal view, very clean and good services – they cleaned, changed towels, refilled coffee cups and bottles of water every day. People were very kind and nice, having prompt response to any request. They also organized a sunset boat trip for small groups, for the guests, which was very nice, although unfortunately it was raining. Everything was perfect! I will recommend this place further!
  
  What could be improved: –

• Andreea702 from Romania – 3 April 2025 (9/10)

  The accommodation is super, it really exceeded our expectations. Everything was wonderful. Thank you Mark and Marco for your help and for taking care that we didn't have to travel with our luggage in the back, thanks to you we had a wonderful experience in Venice. The accommodation was easy to find and easily accessible.
  
  What could be improved: –

• Megan from United States – 31 March 2025 (8/10)

  Great location, comfortable bed, views of the canal
  
  What could be improved: Low quality toiletries, no common area/front desk

• Bob from United Kingdom – 29 March 2025 (9/10)

  Location is excellent, right in amongst it all but it doesn’t feel hectic- like outside is! Warm, comfortable and all the amenities you require. Brilliant communication from the Team

• Libby from United Kingdom – 14 March 2025 (9/10)

  The property was clean, in a perfect location and an overall comfortable, happy stay.
  
  What could be improved: It was a bit tricky to locate when we first arrived as it is a small door to the left of a bridge off the main strip however we eventually found it with some help from a nearby shop.

• Alexandrine from Switzerland – 9 March 2025 (9/10)

  Very well located, near Pizza San Marco. Very cosy and clean. The staff were very responsive and helpful. The sunset boat ride organised by the hotel was a highlight. Restaurant tips were helpful. We recommend.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Isiada from Albania – 4 March 2025 (9/10)

  The staff, the location, the view everything. The rooms were super clean.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect.

• Zoe from United Kingdom – 4 March 2025 (9/10)

  Fantastic suite, perfect location. Spotless and very welcoming staff who kept us informed before with very good & clear instructions and always answering my questions very quickly.
  Amazing terrace to sit and relax whilst listening to the hustle & bustle below.
  
  What could be improved: We knew the bathroom that came with suite was downstairs which when you see the suite you understand why, it was a little annoying but the rest suite made up for the inconvenience.

• Son from United States – 2 March 2025 (9/10)

  Perfect location
  Bed comfortable
  Room clean, daily
  Staff pleasant and friendly
  Accommodating
  Immediate response to questions
  
  What could be improved: Shower.. can’t figure out how not to wet the bathroom floor while taking a shower.

• Joni from United States – 25 February 2025 (9/10)

  The property was in a great central location in the city with a lovely terrace on the top floor. Wonderful for morning coffee and an afternoon Prosecco. Near all the main sights and restaurants. Beautifully decorated and newly renovated. The staff and Marco provided excellent concierge service, helping to arrange a boat tour and private water transport taxi!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities