Casa MIA

Hotel Description

You know, the first time I hopped off the vaporetto at Zitelle stop and wandered down Calle Larga Ferrando on Giudecca, I honestly felt like I’d stumbled into a quieter, more real slice of Venice – away from the San Marco crowds that can make you feel like you’re in a tourist stampede. Casa MIA sits right there at number 329, this unassuming four-star spot tucked into the island’s residential vibe, with its faded pink facade and those classic Venetian shutters that creak a bit in the breeze. I mean, Giudecca isn’t the glitzy part of town – it’s more about locals chatting over espresso at the corner bar or kids kicking a ball along the fondamenta – but that’s what makes it charming. Arriving in the late afternoon, with the sun dipping low and casting that golden glow over the lagoon, I could smell the salty air mixed with someone’s dinner frying nearby, and it just hit me: this is Venice without the overwhelm. Check-in was a breeze, actually – the front desk guy, Marco (I think that was his name), sorted me out in minutes, even though I showed up a tad early after a bumpy boat ride from Piazzale Roma. No parking hassles here, obviously, since it’s all water taxis or your own two feet, but if you’re lugging bags, well, prepare for a short schlep from the dock.

Stepping inside, the place has this cozy, lived-in feel – not some sterile chain hotel, but like staying at a friend’s stylish aunt’s house. My room overlooked the canal, with these big windows letting in the soft lap of water against the pilings (though earplugs might help if you’re a light sleeper during high tide). The bed was plush, honestly one of the comfier ones I’ve had in Italy, and the bathroom had that sleek marble touch without being over-the-top – plus, the shower pressure was spot-on after a day of traipsing around. Breakfast in the little courtyard garden was a highlight, you know what I mean? Fresh cornetti, cappuccino that actually tasted like it was made with love, and maybe a slice of prosciutto if you’re feeling indulgent. It’s not huge, so during peak summer months it can get a bit crowded with fellow guests, but nothing chaotic. Oh, and a minor gripe: the Wi-Fi dipped out once or twice in the evenings – sort of par for the course in these old buildings – but it didn’t ruin anything. Staff were gems, too; one evening, they pointed me toward a hidden osteria just off Fondamenta San Giacomo for cicchetti that blew my mind, way better than the tourist traps across the water.

All in all, if you’re after that authentic Venetian escape – think leisurely walks to the Redentore church or a quick boat hop to Dorsoduro for galleries – Casa MIA nails it with its 8.7 rating that feels well-earned. It’s not perfect (stairs can be a workout if you’ve got mobility issues, no elevator that I recall), but in a city that’s all hustle, this spot on Giudecca offers a breather, especially in shoulder seasons like spring when the island’s quiet hours stretch on. I’d go back in a heartbeat – it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve got Venice figured out, even if just for a weekend.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $194. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 single bed for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Angela from Ireland – 27 September 2023 (9/10)

  The location was fanastic only minutes away from Palanca vaporetta, the accomodation was clean, comfortable and everything you need was there, I particularily loved the terrace off the master bedroom that was a plus, lovely to open up the terrace in the morning and hear the bells of the towers from Venice, it added to the experience, a home away from home, the host couldn't have done more, so friendly, so informative and a pleasure to meet and what can I say about Venice only ❤️ a memory I will always cherish ❤️
  
  What could be improved: I would highly recommend 😁

• Jan from Netherlands – 5 November 2024 (9/10)

  The apartment is nice, very clean, spacious and close to the Ferry stop Palanca. Restaurants and cafés are around and there is a Coop supermarket. Good direct connections to Railwaystation, S. Marco, Arsenale and Biennale. Good value for money.

• Vanishree from United Kingdom – 1 August 2024 (9/10)

  Excellent location, very spacious and clean property
  
  What could be improved: None

• Margarita from United Kingdom – 3 July 2024 (9/10)

  The location was wonderful and our host, Daniele, was very welcoming. He met us at our ferry stop and personally showed us around the apartment. His advice and kind assistance gave us confidence to use the local transport and find our way to all the places we wished to visit. Daniele also pointed out nearby amenities and my sister and I enjoyed some lovely food in restaurants he recommended to us.
  We had a wonderful visit and will definitely be returning to Casa Mia!
  
  What could be improved: Everything was good!

• Anna from Hungary – 27 June 2024 (9/10)

  We had always hot water, which was great, A/C in living room and in bedroom, location was great and lovely, the living room large and spacious, only few steps to vaparetto stop. We loved this apartment.
  
  What could be improved: I missed basic spices in kitchen as salt, sugar, may be some oil, tea bags or coffee bags. During our travel we had them every time. We had soap in bathroom, but not shower gel ( it was not realy important).
  The Host was correct and explained many things in detail, how it works. Sometimes we felt, we are little children. He was severe. I believe the balcony is not for use in summer, – too warm outside, and it was no chair in balcony,
  We had to leave some deposit for flat, but received it again. That was for me unexpected. Nobody asked it before.
  One thing I couldnt understand: why we had to transfer garbage from apartment. Is it a new law? We didnt find description, why is it our job…

• Stephen from New Zealand – 4 June 2024 (9/10)

  Great location. Lovely big apartment with everything you could possibly need. Fantastic hosts with great communication. Fantastic island close to lots of restaurants and bars. Super easy access to the vaporetta
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Abbey from New Zealand – 25 April 2024 (9/10)

  Everything was perfect for our stay in Venice. Tidy, spacious and comfortable apartment in close proximity to transport to the main island. Lovely rooms with Italian character. Host was superb and very helpful, greeted us on arrival and gave us tips for travelling around the city. The apartment had everything we needed and we felt very safe. Would definitely stay again!
  
  What could be improved: Stairs leading into the apartment and the bedrooms may not be suitable for people with accessibility needs, however this was no issue for us.

• Rita from United Kingdom – 8 November 2023 (9/10)

  location first class
  
  What could be improved: nothing

• Yuen from United Kingdom – 15 October 2023 (9/10)

  Loved the location, very clean and beds were exceptional comfortable. The host was friendly and helpful. He met us off the water us and escorted us to our accommodation. The apartment was a good size and perfect for our trip to beautiful Venice. Would highly recommend xx

• Richard from United States – 10 October 2023 (9/10)

  Excellent check in, host was there to meet me early and gave thorough instructions for staying at the property. Large space with A/C that works well. The property is in Giudecca but very easy to get to the city.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities