Ca’ Ermina & Garden

Hotel Description

You know, when I first stumbled upon Ca’ Ermina & Garden tucked away on Calle Del Campaniel in Venice’s Castello neighborhood, I was honestly relieved to escape the mad crush around San Marco. It’s in that quieter eastern part of the sestiere, just a short wander from the Arsenale – you can practically smell the salty lagoon air mixed with that faint, earthy scent of old stone walls as you approach. I arrived by vaporetto from the train station, hopping off at Celestia (which is super close, by the way – saves you lugging bags over too many bridges), and the walk took maybe five minutes through these narrow calli that feel more like a local’s backyard than a tourist trap. The building itself is this charming old palazzo – think faded frescoes and wrought-iron gates – with a garden out back that’s a godsend in summer when the humidity hits hard. I mean, Venice in July? Brutal, but sipping an Aperol spritz under those shady vines while church bells chime from nearby San Pietro di Castello? That’s the kind of peaceful reset you didn’t know you needed after dodging selfie sticks all day.

What really won me over, though, was how the place blends that classic Venetian vibe with stuff that actually makes your stay easier – no pretentious fluff, just thoughtful touches. The rooms are cozy, sort of compact like most spots in the city (hey, space is at a premium here, right?), but mine had these high ceilings and a view over the garden that made it feel airy. The bed was plush, with those crisp linens that smell faintly of lavender – probably from whatever eco-friendly detergent they use – and the bathroom had a rain shower that was a lifesaver after traipsing around the Biennale gardens, which are literally a 10-minute stroll away if you’re into art. Breakfast is served in the garden when weather permits, and it’s not your generic buffet; think fresh cornetti, local cheeses, and coffee that’s strong enough to power you through a day of exploring. Check-in was a breeze – the owner, this warm Italian guy who chatted about the best hidden osterie on Via Garibaldi (try the cicchetti at that little place near the end), made it feel personal, like crashing at a friend’s place. Oh, and noise-wise, it’s blissfully quiet at night compared to the racket near Rialto; you might hear a distant boat horn or seagulls, but nothing that disrupts sleep. That said, if you’re traveling light, it’s perfect – but pack accordingly because there’s no elevator, and those stairs can be a workout with heavy luggage.

All in all, if you’re after an authentic slice of Venice without the overwhelming crowds, Ca’ Ermina & Garden is a gem – rated 9.1 for good reason, I’d say. It’s not flashy, but that’s the appeal; it lets the city shine while giving you a comfy base to recharge. Well, maybe skip peak August if you hate the heat, but spring or fall? Ideal for wandering those lesser-known paths in Castello. Honestly, I left feeling like I’d uncovered a secret – and isn’t that what travel’s all about?

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $326. Apartment with 1 double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Junjie from Canada – 7 July 2023 (10/10)

  A nice apartment with full kitchen. There is a big supermarket near by it. It’s available for a family.

• Catherine from United Kingdom – 13 August 2024 (10/10)

  The courtyard garden was just out of this world 😍
  Neighbourhood was quiet yet walking distance to lots of lovely places to eat and drink. A super spot and hosts Linda and Fabio were so lovely.
  
  What could be improved: Air con downstairs would have been good but worked brilliantly in the bedrooms.

• Anne from United Kingdom – 14 April 2024 (9/10)

  We loved the house, it was very spacious with an amazing courtyard garden. It was a really oasis in the centre of Venice, only 15 mins walk from St Marks Square. A very quiet neighbourhood, off the tourist trail with some great little restaurants The hosts were very helpful and kind.

• Selin from Germany – 3 April 2024 (10/10)

  The location
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Margo from Belgium – 24 October 2023 (9/10)

  Local hosts came to meet us to show us the house and to give us the key. We arrived in the middle of the night, so this was very kind of them. Well equipped house with dishwasher and spacious rooms. Nice little garden.
  
  What could be improved: The address on booking.com is not the right one, since there is a street name almost similar to the one where the house is located in a different part of Venice. This can cause some confusion.

• Daniel from Australia – 28 August 2023 (10/10)

  Beautiful apartment in peaceful Castello, with a gorgeous private courtyard garden and interesting architectural details. Linda and her dad are wonderful hosts, even helping us out on our first evening when we arrived late and weren’t sure where to find an open trattoria. The air conditioning was a Godsend given the heatwave we were in! If you’re arriving by water taxi, the driver can drop you off a Santa Ternita, which is a 30 second walk to the apartment.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Myra from United Kingdom – 20 August 2023 (10/10)

  Serene and well removed from the bustle of Venice. Absolutely stunning garden which is perfect for aperitivo. Very well catered for with all amenities. Even though our flight was delayed, our hosts met us at the vaparetto stop and escorted us to the property and took the time to ensure we knew where local amenities were.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Lowers from Australia – 16 July 2023 (10/10)

  Outstanding stay at Ca'Ermina & Garden. Excellent, friendly, helpful, and informative hosts. Property was spacious, spotless, perfect location, and peaceful. Easy walk to restaurants, supermarkets, cafes, and St Mark's square. Would highly recommend a stay here and hope to return one day. Thank you, Linda (and Dad) for such a wonderful stay! The garden and air con were amazing as well. ❤️
  
  What could be improved: Perfect place to stay. We really loved everything Ca'Ermina offered.

• Meagan from Canada – 16 April 2023 (9/10)

  Nice location and very clean.
  The owner met us at the boat stop.
  
  What could be improved: nothing

• Stella from United Kingdom – 10 October 2022 (10/10)

  lovely outdoor space
  very comfortable beds
  quiet – no noise at all at night
  nice quiet area
  spacious apartment for 4 people
  
  What could be improved: nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities