CasaMisa Formosa 5193

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon CasaMisa Formosa 5193 almost by accident last spring – I’d just hopped off the vaporetto at Arsenale after a long train ride from Milan, and honestly, my feet were killing me from dragging that suitcase over those uneven cobblestones. It’s tucked away in the Castello sestiere, right on Campiello degli Orbi, which is this quiet little square off the beaten path from the San Marco chaos. You know, Castello’s one of those neighborhoods where you actually hear locals chatting in Venetian dialect outside their doors, not just tour groups snapping selfies. The address is Sestiere Castello 5193, and it’s super close to the Celestia vaporetto stop – makes getting around a breeze if you’re not up for walking everywhere. I arrived in the late afternoon, and the air had that briny canal smell mixed with fresh bread from a nearby forno; it felt like stepping into real Venice, not the postcard version. Check-in was a breeze – the owner, this warm guy named Marco (I think?), handed over the keys with a quick rundown of the best local spots, like that tiny bacaro on Via Garibaldi for cicchetti and spritz. No fuss, no long lines like at those big hotels near the Rialto.

What really won me over, though, was how the place blends that old-world charm with just enough modern comfort to make you forget you’re in a centuries-old building. My room overlooked a narrow rio – yeah, one of those skinny canals where gondolas squeeze by – and the mornings started with the soft lap of water against stone and church bells from San Pietro di Castello echoing in the distance. It’s a 4-star spot, but it doesn’t scream luxury; more like cozy elegance, with exposed wooden beams, crisp white linens that smelled faintly of lavender, and a bathroom that actually had decent water pressure (a rarity in these historic digs, let me tell you). Breakfast was served in this sunny courtyard – fresh cornetti, cappuccino strong enough to wake the dead, and seasonal fruits from the Rialto market. I mean, it’s not massive, so if you’re traveling with a big group, it might feel intimate bordering on cramped, especially those narrow stairs (no elevator, folks – pack light). But for couples or solo travelers, it’s perfect. Evenings were my favorite; the area quiets down after dark, unlike the noisy throngs in Dorsoduro, and I could wander to the Arsenale for that free evening art exhibit without feeling overwhelmed. Oh, and a heads up: spring’s ideal here – fewer crowds, but watch for acqua alta if you’re visiting in fall; they provide boots, though.

All in all, if you’re after that authentic Venetian vibe without the tourist trap vibes, CasaMisa Formosa 5193 is a gem – it’s got a stellar 9.3 rating for a reason, you know? I’ve stayed in fancier places, but this one sticks with me because it feels lived-in, like you’re borrowing a friend’s apartment in the heart of it all. Sure, it’s a bit of a hike to Piazza San Marco (about 15 minutes on foot), but that’s part of the charm – you discover hidden calli and maybe even spot a rat or two scampering by (hey, it’s Venice). I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for that sense of peace amid the magic. If you’re planning a trip, book early for high season; it fills up fast with repeat visitors like me.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $386. Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 1 single bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Kristy from Canada – 12 July 2024 (10/10)

  It was amazing! Lots of space, beautifully decorated and in a great location. The little balcony was also wonderful to overlook the canals. The manager was very responsive and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Pyramo from Australia – 7 February 2025 (10/10)

  Fabulous elegant appartment located in a charming building, tastefully decorated, beautiful views, exceptional location, very helpful and organised host. Would definitely recommend.
  
  What could be improved: Nil

• Nigel from Ireland – 5 January 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment is amazing with a view straight down the canal. We also loved it was an old school house not a modern fitout. It had loads of space for 4 of us. We would definetely come back
  
  What could be improved: Its old so it can get a little chilly. But Marisa just turned up the heat when I asked.

• April from United States – 5 November 2024 (10/10)

  Cute and it to far from places.
  
  What could be improved: The squeaky beds and they are uncomfortable

• Maria from United States – 25 October 2024 (9/10)

  Location location. Location 😀 great apt managers & ready to help if you have issues. Highly recommended in Venice🇮🇹 just bring mosquito repellent.
  
  What could be improved: Mosquitoes because it is near the canal, cement flooring on living room & dining (it makes it more colder)

• Matthew from United States – 21 October 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment is situated in a very nice, quiet neighborhood, away from the crowds. It does not, however, feel sleepy or dull. There are restaurants about 50 meters away, but you are tucked into a quiet spot behind the square. The view from the living room and one of the bedrooms is amazing. There is a nice little balcony that sits over a smaller canal with gondolas and smaller boats going by pretty frequently. The apartment was large, clean, and well-stocked.
  
  What could be improved: There’s nothing not to like about it. One tip is to close the windows in the evening to avoid letting mosquitoes in once it gets dark. We made that mistake the first night and paid for it. By closing the windows the other nights we did not get any more mosquitos.

• Ben from United Kingdom – 2 October 2024 (9/10)

  Property location. Great for a small family stay with space to escape the hustle and bustle when needed.
  
  What could be improved: Mosquitos in room. Not too many of them but they didn't leave hungry.

• Tina from Sweden – 24 July 2024 (9/10)

  It was in a great location, plenty of space and we loved the small balcony overlooking the canals.
  
  What could be improved: The big bed was a bit hard.

• Corinne from New Zealand – 4 July 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was incredibly spacious. The view from the balcony was the best! We could have sat there watching the gondolas go by all day!
  
  What could be improved: The air conditioner in the bedrooms were really noisy. Apart from that it was magic

• Jana from United States – 24 June 2024 (10/10)

  I loved sitting on the balcony overlooking the canal and watching Venice wake up and quiet down each down – magical! The apartment has lots of space with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It is in a quiet building in a great location.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities