Ca’ Pesaro rooftop terrace apartment.

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling off the vaporetto at the San Stae stop – you know, that little landing right by the Grand Canal in Santa Croce – and weaving through those narrow calli to find Ca’ Pesaro rooftop terrace apartment. It’s tucked away at 2087 San Croce, in one of Venice’s quieter sestieri, not the mad crush of San Marco but close enough that you can pop over for a spritz without feeling like you’re in tourist central. Honestly, arriving felt like a mini adventure; no cars in Venice, obviously, so you’re hauling your luggage over bridges and past those old, weathered stone facades that smell faintly of salt and history. The check-in was straightforward – the host met me at the door with keys and a quick rundown in that charming Italian-English mix – but fair warning, there are a few flights of stairs to the rooftop level, which might be a huff if you’ve got heavy bags. Still, once you’re up there, the view hits you like a postcard come to life: the terracotta rooftops stretching out, church spires poking up, and on a clear evening, the sun dipping into the lagoon with that golden haze Venice does so well.

What really sold me on this place – and it’s a solid 4-star apartment, mind you, with an 8.9 rating that feels spot-on – is the rooftop terrace itself. It’s not some tiny balcony; it’s a proper sprawl with potted plants, comfy loungers, and even a little dining setup where I spent mornings sipping coffee while listening to the distant hum of boats on the canal below. The apartment inside is cozy in that Venetian way – exposed beams, creaky wooden floors that add character (though they do echo a bit if you’re a light sleeper), and a kitchenette stocked enough for whipping up pasta from the nearby Rialto market. I mean, Santa Croce is great for that; you’re steps from spots like the Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio, where locals grab gelato or picnic under the trees – way more authentic than the overpriced traps near the bridge. Oh, and practically speaking, it’s quiet at night except for the occasional church bell or seagull squawk, which is a relief after a day dodging crowds. One minor gripe? The Wi-Fi can be spotty up there, especially in peak summer when everyone’s streaming – but hey, you’re in Venice, put the phone down.

All in all, if you’re after a slice of real Venetian life without the full-on hotel fuss, this rooftop gem is worth it – especially in shoulder seasons like early spring or late fall, when the terrace isn’t sweltering and the city’s alleys feel almost empty. I’ve stayed in fancier spots, but this one lingers, you know? That terrace view over breakfast, the short walk to the Ca’ Pesaro gallery (right around the corner, with its modern art collection that’s surprisingly cool), and just the ease of feeling like you live here for a bit. I’d go back in a heartbeat, minor stairs and all – just pack light and embrace the wander.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $198. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Superb – Paul from United Kingdom – 28 June 2025 (9/10)

  Beautiful apartment, stairs taxing but worth the climb. Amazing location, wonderful host.
  
  What could be improved: Bites (due to being surrounded by water!)

• Excellent apartment choice to enjoy a fantastic city. – Gordon from United Kingdom – 3 March 2025 (10/10)

  Good location away from the crowds but close to bars and restaurants frequented by locals. Excellent instructions and support given by Barbara. Would definitely stay here again. Easy to find from the ferry stop.

• Perfect cozy stay in Venice – Elodie from United States – 26 January 2025 (9/10)

  The location was great, just steps away from the Rialto bridge with one of the best pizzeria in the neighborhood (Antico forno).
  Bedrooms are really large, kitchen is well equipped with everything you need for cutlery, plates, glasses, pantry items.
  It was well heated too, so we were very comfortable during winter.
  
  What could be improved: Very small details – water pressure in the shower was quite low

• Superb – Ian from New Zealand – 11 November 2024 (9/10)

  Quiet location close to S. Stae vaporetto and Campo S. Giacomo, restaurants and supermarket. Terrace was nice to have lunch on. Washing machine and kitchen facilities.
  
  What could be improved: Three flights of stairs (ah, Venice 🙂)

• Wonderful base from which to explore Venice. – Larissa from Australia – 30 September 2024 (10/10)

  Excellent location with easy access to San Stae vaporetto. In a quieter area of Venice yet still close to wonderful bars, restaurants, shopping and local supermarket. The apartment is styled in traditional Venetian decor and very well appointed especially for a longer stay. The terrazza with views over the rooftops is a highlight. The host, Barbara, is exceptional in her attention to detail and kindness.
  
  What could be improved: The mosquitoes were a bit annoying but that’s the time of year.

• Superb – Steeve from Canada – 28 August 2024 (9/10)

  Located in a calm section of Venice but near of the action as well. The location is really perfect to visit the city by walk or by using the vaporetto. The stops for boats is at less than 2 minutes of the apartment. Well furnished and comfortable. Air conditioner, washing machine and dishwasher has been are real plus.

• We had a great time in Venice, the location was perfect for getting around, and we had no problems with the apartment. – Nicolai from Germany – 10 August 2024 (9/10)

  The AC worked great, the kitchen had everything we needed and the beds were comfortable.
  The balkony was our personal highlight for dinner and morning coffee. The location was great, close to the ferry and lots of food options close by.

• Fabulous apartment in perfect location – Natalie from United Kingdom – 25 June 2024 (9/10)

  Location was perfect and the apartment was really quiet. Not disturbed by any noise at night. Really spacious bedrooms and lovely terrace.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Authentic apartment in good location with a great host – Teresa from Canada – 6 May 2024 (10/10)

  Everything about the apartment is excellent. It is very spacious, with comfortable beds, an eat-in kitchen with laundry machine and lovely bathroom with a bathtub. The decor is typically Venetian, with chandeliers and early modern furniture. The kitchen is quite well supplied, so we could have prepared dinner had we wanted to.
  
  We were aware there was no lift, which should be expected as it is a residential building. It’s also quiet for good night’s sleep.
  
  Barbara was an excellent host. We were not able to take her up on one of her restaurant tips, but did enjoy the others.
  
  The location is convenient—not too far from the vaporetto for getting your luggage over, and very easy to ride up and down the main line. We would definitely recommend the rental.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Very good – Yasuyo from United Kingdom – 5 May 2024 (8/10)

  The host, Barbara is a very good communicator.. Check in & out instructions are very clear and gave us reassurance. The location was great, most of the area is in walking distance. The very clean and spacious apartment was very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: If the roof balcony was re decorated, it would be a more welcoming feeling..
  No lift in the apartment, recommended a small suitcase.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities