Ca’ Longo Palace Damasco

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Ca’ Longo Palace Damasco almost by accident last spring, right after hopping off the vaporetto at Ca’ d’Oro – it’s just a short wander down Fondamenta de la Misericordia in Cannaregio, that quieter northern sestiere where Venetians actually live, away from the San Marco crush. Honestly, arriving there felt like stepping into one of those old Venetian novels – the building’s this restored 15th-century palace with these massive wooden doors that creak open to a courtyard smelling faintly of damp stone and blooming jasmine (they’ve got these potted plants everywhere, which is a nice touch in a city that’s all water and brick). I mean, check-in was a breeze; the staff – this friendly couple who seemed like they’d been there forever – handed over my key with a quick chat about the best cicchetti spots nearby, like that little bacaro on Rio Terà San Leonardo just around the corner. No fuss, no long lines, and since it’s tucked along the canal, you hear the gentle lap of water against the fondamenta at night, which is sort of soothing if you’re not bothered by the occasional distant hum of a motorboat early in the morning.

What really got me was how they’ve blended the old palace vibes with stuff that actually makes sense for travelers – the rooms are spacious for Venice standards, with these high beamed ceilings and frescoed walls that make you feel like you’re crashing in some doge’s spare bedroom, but then there’s modern AC that whispers quietly (a godsend in humid July, let me tell you) and bathrooms with heated marble floors that feel luxurious underfoot after a day pounding the pavements. My suite overlooked the canal – well, sort of a side view, but close enough to watch gondolas glide by without the tourist hordes staring back. Breakfast was a highlight too; they serve it in this sunny atrium with fresh cornetti, prosciutto, and espresso strong enough to wake the dead, plus they cater to dietary quirks if you ask – I mentioned my gluten thing, and they whipped up alternatives no problem. It’s not perfect, though; the Wi-Fi can get spotty in the thicker-walled rooms (old buildings, right?), and if you’re hauling heavy luggage, those narrow stairs might be a workout since the elevator’s tiny and a bit finicky. But hey, that’s Venice for you – forces you to slow down. And location-wise, you’re steps from the Jewish Ghetto with its hidden synagogues and that killer falafel joint on Campo del Ghetto Nuovo, or a quick stroll to Strada Nova for shopping without the Piazza San Marco prices.

All in all, if you’re after that authentic Venetian escape – not the glossy resort kind, but something with soul – this place nails it with its 9.7 rating that’s well-earned. I stayed four nights and left wishing for more; it’s perfect for couples or solo wanderers who want to dip into the local scene, especially in shoulder season like April when the streets aren’t jammed and the evenings along Misericordia light up with aperitivo crowds at spots like Al Timon. Four stars feel understated here – it’s got that rare mix of history and comfort that makes you forget you’re in a tourist mecca. Just book ahead; it fills up fast, and trust me, once you’re there sipping wine on their little terrace as the sun sets over the canal, you’ll get why.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $353. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 5

Reviews

• Marie from Denmark – 15 August 2024 (10/10)

  It's a little luxury palace with an amazing courtyard. It's quiet and comfortable with A/C. Has everything you need and everything is thought of for your convenience.

• Stuart from United Kingdom – 26 October 2024 (10/10)

  Very spacious, elegant and in a quiet residential area.
  
  What could be improved: The location was a bit remote to the Biennale which was the main reason for our visit, but then we booked with our eyes open.

• Julie from Australia – 3 June 2024 (10/10)

  Everything. The apartment is even better than the photos. It was clean. The facilities were excellent.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. I can't fault it.

• Haun from United States – 29 March 2024 (10/10)

  A high-ceilinged, recently renovated apartment in a mostly residential neighborhood of Venice. Plenty of room and tasteful furnishings.

• Edwin from Canada – 12 October 2022 (9/10)

  It is an exceptionally spacious apartment, beautifully renovated and fully equipped in a very nice location. The neighborhood is vibrant with many very good restaurants and bars, but just far enough away from the main tourist areas to be away from the crowds. There is also an excellent grocery store (and a great bakery!) very nearby.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing — it is s very pleasant property.

• Simouline from Cyprus – 25 February 2025 (10/10)

  Просторные апартаменты, даже для 5-6 гостей подходит, раскладной диван достаточно твердый для комфортного сна. 2 санузла, с водой проблем нет. Терраса зимой ни к чему. Летом, наверное, очень хорошо. Расположение отличное, не шумно, приятный район
  
  What could be improved: Все понравилось

• Anne-frédérique from France – 26 January 2025 (10/10)

  Très bel appartement, bien équipé, spacieux et très bien rénové. Bel espace pour cuisiner.
  L’équipe de Venice Red House qui gère l’appartement est très efficace et a l’écoute.
  Séjour parfait !

• Thierry from France – 27 October 2024 (10/10)

  L'appartement est encore mieux aménagé que la première fois que nous l'avons loué. Il est très vaste et confortable, la cuisine est bien équipée. Il est idéalement situé dans le Canareggio, avec le vaporetto facilement accessible à San Marcuola.
  
  What could be improved: Rien.

• Nicola from Italy – 22 October 2024 (9/10)

  Appartamento grande e confortevole, posizione sufficientemente centrale ma lontana dalla confusione. Ottima la dotazione di bagni e cucina. Gentili i proprietari che ci hanno consentito la visita gratuita alla fabbrica del vetro

• Olivier from Belgium – 21 July 2024 (10/10)

  L'accueil très professionnel à notre arrivée, la situation du logement dans la ville, le charme de la maison de caractère qui abrite l'appartement, le niveau élevé de confort et de propreté, la quiétude de l'appartement.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities