Canaletto Apartments

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Canaletto Apartments almost by accident last spring, right when Venice was shaking off the winter chill but before the summer crowds turned everything into a sweaty mosh pit. Tucked away on Fondamenta dei Mori in Cannaregio – that’s the northern sestiere, away from the San Marco frenzy – it’s got this unassuming vibe that feels like you’ve slipped into the real Venice, where locals actually live and laundry flaps from lines over narrow calli. I arrived via vaporetto from the train station, hopping off at Madonna dell’Orto (just a five-minute stroll away), and honestly, dragging my suitcase over those uneven pavestones was a bit of a workout – no cars here, remember? But the moment I keyed into the place (they send you a code ahead of time, super straightforward), it was like exhaling after holding your breath. The building’s got that classic Venetian patina – think weathered brick and wooden shutters that creak just a tad in the breeze off the lagoon – and my apartment overlooked a quiet rio where you could hear the gentle lap of water against gondola hulls at dawn. No blaring horns or tourist chatter; it’s peaceful, especially in the evenings when the neighborhood winds down early.

What really won me over, though, was how these apartments feel like a home base rather than some sterile hotel room. Mine was a one-bedroom setup on the second floor – stairs only, mind you, so pack light if you’re not up for a climb – with high ceilings that echo the old palazzo style, and a kitchenette stocked with basics like a Nespresso machine and even a little washing machine (a godsend after a day of canal-hopping). I mean, whipping up pasta from ingredients grabbed at the nearby Coop on Strada Nova saved me a fortune compared to eating out every night. The decor’s simple but thoughtful – exposed beams, a comfy sofa that begs for afternoon naps, and these massive windows letting in that golden Venetian light that painters like Canaletto (hey, the name fits) obsessed over. Well, sort of – the Wi-Fi could be spotty during peak hours, probably from all the thick walls, but it was fine for streaming or mapping out walks to the Jewish Ghetto, which is literally around the corner with its hidden synagogues and that killer falafel spot on Campo del Ghetto Nuovo. And the bathroom? Spotless, with rain showers that rinse off the day’s humidity like magic. It’s not flashy, but it’s got that lived-in charm – fresh linens, a few board games tucked in a drawer, even a balcony where I sipped cheap prosecco watching neighbors chat across the water.

Look, if you’re the type who wants to dive into Venice without the overwhelming bustle – say, wandering to Rialto Market for morning fish hauls or catching a quiet sunset at Fondamente Nove – this place is a gem. Rated a solid 9.1 for a reason, it’s got that 4-star polish without pretension, and at under 200 euros a night off-season, it’s a steal. Sure, the location means a 20-minute walk to Piazza San Marco, but that’s the beauty of it – you get the authentic pulse of Cannaregio, with its artisan shops and bacari serving cicchetti that taste like they’ve been perfected over centuries. I left feeling like I’d actually experienced Venice, not just ticked it off a list. If crowds aren’t your thing and you crave space to breathe (literally – no musty canal smells here, just fresh air), book it. Just watch those stairs if you’ve got knees like mine.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $222. Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 3 guests
• Estimated price from: $395. Superior Apartment with 1 double bed and 2 × 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Laurie from United States – 20 July 2023 (10/10)

  Lovely property owners! So helpful. Spectacular view of a canal. Great air conditioning and very clean. Highly recommend for a group or family of 5 or 6.

• Bruce from United States – 25 March 2025 (10/10)

  The host is very kind and helpful. The flat is very large. The main bedroom has excellent views of the canal. Close to restaurants, shopping, and tourist attractions. Absolutely perfect place for a family stay in Venice!
  
  What could be improved: No complaints.

• Elisabeth from Canada – 15 February 2025 (9/10)

  The property was stunning. Located right on the water, we could get a taste of local life from the balcony and from the amazing bars and restaurants within g easy walking distance.
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing I didn’t like. The hosts made everything so easy. If I had one suggestion, if it seems like your hot water isn’t hot enough just wait a couple of minutes and you will have a great shower

• Sandra from Croatia – 11 February 2025 (10/10)

  The location was excellent, the apartment was large, clean and most importantly nice and warm in the middle of winter.

• Anthea from Australia – 24 January 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was spacious and in a great location.

• Amber from Australia – 9 January 2025 (10/10)

  We loved the location of Canaletto Apartments. The Cannaregio area was quiet but not too far to walk. The apartment was right on a canal so we could watch all boats going past. The apartment was huge! A great size for a family of 5! So much room and space to relax and well equipped with everything you would need.
  
  What could be improved: We couldn’t stay longer!

• Ling from Australia – 31 December 2024 (10/10)

  Quiet location not too far from main attractions. Nice view from apartment.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Palmer from United States – 27 October 2024 (10/10)

  Everything! The shower was the best out of all the locations we stayed at in Italy.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Letícia from Ireland – 30 September 2024 (9/10)

  Beautiful view of the canal. Very good location in a quiet area but still near of very good restaurants and night life. We have a very good communication with Chiara, who is super kind and allowed us to leave our luggage after the check out, which was very helpful. We definitely recommend this apartment.
  
  What could be improved: There was anything that annoyed us tbh

• Tony from New Zealand – 16 September 2024 (10/10)

  Location next to the water easier for taxi access.
  
  Close to the local supermarkets.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities