Ca’ Maria Callas

Hotel Description

You know, stepping off the vaporetto at San Marco and weaving through those narrow calles to find Ca’ Maria Callas felt like stumbling into a hidden gem – well, hidden in plain sight, I guess, since it’s right there at San Marco 2561, tucked away from the main tourist drag but close enough to feel the pulse of Venice. I arrived in the late afternoon during shoulder season (early October, when the crowds thin out a bit but the weather’s still mild), and honestly, the check-in was a breeze – no long lines or fussy paperwork, just a warm welcome from the staff who seemed genuinely excited to chat about the neighborhood. The building itself is this charming old palazzo, all faded frescoes and creaky wooden beams that smell faintly of aged oak and canal water, which, let’s be real, is part of Venice’s charm unless you’re super sensitive to that musty vibe. My room overlooked a quiet side canal – not the Grand Canal, mind you, but peaceful enough that I could hear the occasional gondolier singing without the constant buzz of water taxis. Oh, and parking? Forget it; this is Venice, so you’re arriving by boat or foot, but they do offer tips on the nearest traghetto stops if you’re lugging bags.

What really sets Ca’ Maria Callas apart – and I mean this as someone who’s stayed in a few spots around San Marco – is how it nods to its namesake, the opera diva Maria Callas, without going overboard. There’s this subtle elegance to the decor: think velvet armchairs in the lounge that you sink into after a day of dodging pigeons in Piazza San Marco (which is literally a five-minute stroll away, past that little bridge over Rio di San Moisè). The rooms are spacious for Venice standards – mine had a king bed with linens that felt like they were ironed by angels, and a bathroom with those deep soaking tubs perfect for thawing out after a rainy walk to the Rialto Market. Breakfast was a highlight, served in a cozy courtyard where you can smell fresh cornetti baking; it’s not a massive buffet, but the quality’s top-notch – local cheeses, prosciutto, and coffee that actually wakes you up. Noise-wise, it’s surprisingly quiet at night, though if you’re a light sleeper, earplugs might help with the early-morning church bells from nearby San Moisè. One minor gripe: the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the upper floors, but hey, you’re in Venice – put the phone down and enjoy the view.

All in all, if you’re looking for a 4-star spot that feels authentic without the stuffiness of those big chain hotels, Ca’ Maria Callas is a solid pick, especially with its 9.2 rating that it totally earns. It’s ideal for couples or solo travelers who want to be steps from La Fenice theater (Callas performed there, you know) or a quick vaporetto ride to the Accademia. I left feeling like I’d lived a little piece of Venetian history – sort of romantic, a tad quirky, and worth every euro. Just book ahead in high season; it fills up fast.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $403. Superior Double Room with Canal View with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $463. Superior Double Room with Balcony and Canal View with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Adam from France – 8 August 2023 (10/10)

  Good location, balcony hanging over canal, clean, stylish.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing comes to mind

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

  Great location – easy to walk to St Marks Square and Rialto Bridge. Comfortable room and great view of canal.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Craig from United Kingdom – 19 March 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful decor , large comfy bed , super clean and smelled lovely.

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

  location and the canal views
  
  What could be improved: There was no elevator and there was construction going on across the property so it was noisy. We didn’t really care since we’re gone during the day but they start as early as 7 am!

• Daniela from Bulgaria – 4 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great place to stay in Venice! The location was perfect! Very clean and spacious room, the staff was very friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend it!

• Sharren from United Kingdom – 28 February 2025 (10/10)

  Perfect location. Room was very comfortable and spotlessly clean. Communication very good. We definitely want to return one day! Thank you.

• Alison from United Kingdom – 20 February 2025 (10/10)

  Location was superb – very authentic atmosphere of Venice
  
  What could be improved: I liked everything ! It was quite hard to find on the first night, the curtains don’t close but it was dark anyway however no complaints !

• Jessica from United Kingdom – 15 November 2024 (10/10)

  Great location, lovely room, beautiful view of the canals.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Peter from United Kingdom – 10 November 2024 (9/10)

  Fabulous location and a very comfortable and romantic room. The view onto the canal is very atmospheric. The staff are lovely.
  
  What could be improved: Would have benefitted from a desk light and some drawers for clothes. Also curtains that covered the windows.

• Geraldine from Canada – 26 October 2024 (9/10)

  Quiet and very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: The decor in the room was a bit over the top ornate and was a bit dark but this may be just the Venetian . The plastic flowers in the lobby make the entrance feel cheap. Not the warmest welcome on arrival.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities