Cà Farnese

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Cà Farnese after a chaotic vaporetto ride from the airport – you know, the kind where you’re wedged between suitcases and tourists snapping selfies, and the lagoon air hits you with that briny, slightly fishy tang that screams “Venice.” It’s tucked away in Cannaregio, right on Calle Farnese, which is this narrow little alley off the main drag of Strada Nova. Honestly, if you’re coming from Santa Lucia station, it’s an easy 10-minute walk – no need to drag your bags over too many bridges, which is a godsend in a city where everything’s on foot or by boat. I arrived in the late afternoon during shoulder season (early October, when the crowds thin out but it’s not yet bone-chillingly damp), and the check-in was a breeze – the staff, this friendly older guy named Marco, chatted about the best nearby cicchetti spots while handing over the key. No fuss, no upselling tours; it felt like crashing at a local’s place rather than some impersonal chain.

What really won me over was how the hotel captures that old Venetian vibe without trying too hard – it’s in a restored palazzo, with these creaky wooden floors that echo a bit when you walk (mind you, if you’re a light sleeper, pack earplugs for the occasional late-night footsteps from above). My room overlooked a quiet side canal – not the Grand one, but a sleepy rio where you’d hear the gentle lap of water against stone and maybe a gondolier humming in the distance. The decor’s sort of elegant but lived-in: exposed beams, a four-poster bed that’s comfy enough after a day of pounding pavements, and a bathroom with those classic marble sinks – though, well, the shower pressure was a tad weak, like it couldn’t decide if it wanted to be forceful or just politely Venetian. Breakfast was solid – fresh cornetti, strong espresso, and those little jars of apricot jam that taste homemade – served in a cozy courtyard that catches the morning sun. And location-wise, it’s gold: you’re steps from the Jewish Ghetto, where you can wander the synagogues or grab a kosher pastry at Gam Gam (pro tip: go early to avoid the tour groups). It’s far enough from San Marco’s madness that evenings are peaceful – no throngs of day-trippers – but a quick stroll over the Cannaregio Canal gets you to Rialto in 15 minutes. Oh, and if you’re into practicalities, there’s no parking drama since, duh, Venice, but they can arrange water taxi pickups if you splurge.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels authentic without the overwhelming bustle – I mean, Cannaregio’s got that real-neighborhood charm, with locals chatting in dialect outside their doors – Cà Farnese is a smart pick. It’s not flawless (rooms can feel snug if you’re used to sprawling American suites), but for a 4-star that’s rated an 8, it punches above its weight. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in spring when the air’s perfumed with wisteria from nearby gardens. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that makes you linger over that last cappuccino before heading out to explore.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $192. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed, 1 large double bed and 3 single beds for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Very good – Luis from United States – 1 October 2023 (8/10)

  Location, cleanliness,
  
  What could be improved: Not enough blankets

• Superb – Anthony from United States – 10 June 2023 (9/10)

  Location and cleanliness

• Pleasant – Henry from South Africa – 23 April 2023 (9/10)

  Clean and neat upmarket apartment with everything you may need.
  Good location in quiet part of town.
  
  What could be improved: One bedroom is on ground floor with the rest of the apartment on the 2nd floor. A steep and narrow staircase connect the two.
  The base of one bed broke on the 1st night. We did report it to the host, but no one came to repair it. We were blamed for jumping on the beds! We manage ourselves to temporary repair it.

• Good – Daniel from Croatia – 1 March 2023 (7/10)

  Spacious, nicely furnished appartment on a great location: quiet and peaceful neghbourhood but very close to everything you need. Three big badrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen and a living room – more than enough space for seven of us.
  
  What could be improved: There was some really bad smell in one of the rooms, not just the tipical "Venice odour"; my guess from the air conditioner, and that really spoiled otherwise good impression. Bed covers might have been cleaner. Warning for the people who are not fit: there is a big, steep staircase from bottom to upper floor.

• Fantastic stay on a perfect location! – Rebecca from Australia – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Location, cleanliness, amenities, comfortable beds and couch.
  
  What could be improved: The stairs hahahaha

• bed bugs need sorting out – Brendan from United Kingdom – 5 August 2023 (4/10)

  location, decor, furniture were all great.
  
  What could be improved: bedroom stank of sewage and 3 of the 4 beds had bed bugs

• A great time in a wonderful location. – Andrea from United States – 22 February 2023 (10/10)

  The apartment had three bedrooms and three bathrooms and grocery stores close. Good restaurants close.
  
  What could be improved: The 37 stairs to the apartment, but I understand there is no solution for that. My thighs got a good workout.

• I had the best communication from my host. he kept me updated and informed. thank you for making our first visit specia – Lisa from United States – 26 September 2022 (10/10)

  the apartment was clean and very comfortable
  
  What could be improved: steps upstairs but it’s to be expected

• The perfect Venice experience for our family. – Lucia from Canada – 23 July 2022 (10/10)

  Ca Farnese is perfectly located in Canaregio. Easy walk from the train station and beautifully located close to amenities and grocery stores. if you wish to live the true Venice experience, this is the perfect place. Many local restaurants close by. Well renovated, comfortable and offering space for larger families. We all loved it.

• Very good – Carlotta from Italy – 16 March 2025 (8/10)

  Spaziosa
  
  What could be improved: Staccava spesso la corrente nonostante non attaccassimo nulla di particolare. In una stanza, l’acqua in doccia scendeva fredda. La notte il riscaldamento era sempre staccato

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