Castello 5888 B, Santa Marina, Calle Marcello, Canale

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Castello 5888 B almost by accident last spring, when I was weaving through the back alleys of Venice’s Castello district – that quieter, more lived-in part of the city where locals actually outnumber the tourists, at least until the cruise ships dock. It’s tucked away on Calle Marcello, right off Campo Santa Marina, and honestly, finding it felt like uncovering a hidden gem after dodging the crowds around Rialto. I mean, Venice can be a maze, especially if you’re lugging a suitcase over those little bridges, but this spot’s just a short walk from the Ospedale vaporetto stop – maybe 10 minutes if you’re not stopping for gelato. The building itself has that classic Venetian vibe: faded pink stucco walls, a narrow wooden door that creaks when you push it open, and inside, the air smells faintly of old stone and canal water, which, well, isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but sort of grounds you in the place. Check-in was a breeze – the owner, this chatty guy named Marco, handed over the keys with a quick rundown of the neighborhood, warning me about the church bells from Santa Maria Formosa that ring early mornings (they do, but it’s charming, not annoying).

What really won me over, though, was how this 3-star spot punches above its weight without trying too hard. The rooms are cozy – mine had these exposed wooden beams overhead and a tiny balcony overlooking the canal, where I could hear the gentle lap of water against the boats at night, and yeah, the occasional gondolier’s shout echoing down the calle. It’s not luxurious, mind you; the bathroom’s on the small side, with that quirky European plumbing that takes a second to figure out, and there’s no elevator, so pack light if you’re on an upper floor. But the beds are comfy, the Wi-Fi’s surprisingly zippy for streaming your shows after a day of wandering, and breakfast – oh, man, it’s served in this little courtyard out back with fresh cornetti and cappuccino that beats anything from the tourist traps. I loved how it’s right in the heart of Castello, so you’re steps from spots like the Libreria Acqua Alta (that funky bookstore with books in bathtubs – go early to avoid lines) or the Arsenale, where it’s blissfully quiet in the evenings. Noise-wise, it’s peaceful compared to San Marco; no throngs of people until you venture out, though summer afternoons can get humid and buzzy with mosquitoes – pack repellent.

All in all, if you’re after an authentic slice of Venice without the overpriced hype, Castello 5888 B is a solid pick, especially with its 8.9 rating that feels earned from real stays like mine. It’s not perfect – the AC can be finicky in peak heat – but that’s Venice for you, right? You’d save a bundle compared to those flashy spots near St. Mark’s, and wake up feeling like you’re part of the city, not just visiting. I left wishing I’d booked an extra night; next time, I’m definitely coming back in the off-season when the canals are misty and the whole place feels even more magical. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $314. Standard Apartment with 1 single bed, 1 extra-large double bed, 2 single beds and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Delightful. Great location for visiting all the sites, but quiet and away from the chaos. – Carol from United States – 11 July 2025 (10/10)

  N/A
  
  What could be improved: More towels

• Excellent – Rhonda from Australia – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was very spacious and clean and had everything we needed. It was also in a great location.

• Exceptional – Katarina from Austria – 19 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very nice apartment near Rialto bridge. We were group of 7 students, it was comfortable and 2 bathrooms were very convenient for us.
  
  What could be improved: We loved everything

• Venice is beautiful, the Condo was situated in a great area, it was comfortable and clean – Angie from Australia – 28 May 2025 (9/10)

  It was right next to the grocery store

• too short! lovely appartment in the perfect location! – Gloria from United Kingdom – 18 April 2025 (10/10)

  the host was amazing, friendly, helpful and very approachable.

• Very good location near all sights – Sigrid from Austria – 4 January 2025 (8/10)

  Very good, 2 bathrooms with toilets in each of them.
  Supermarket just next to the apartment!
  
  What could be improved: You could hear the neighbors in the bathroom…
  We missed some wine glasses and a tea pot, coffee capsule machine would have been a nice add on.

• Great value for money in central location. – Patrick from Ireland – 2 January 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely old-fashioned apartment with plenty of space. Great central location 30 mins walk from the bus station and above a supermarket.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Superb – John from Australia – 4 November 2024 (9/10)

  Very central location. Used a water taxi on arrival and departure. Lovely host.
  
  What could be improved: Unfortunately, Venice is being fouled by dog waste and cigarette butts.
  Both should be banned from this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Superb – Paul from Australia – 12 October 2024 (9/10)

  The property was in a great location in Castello with a supermarket next door. It was very clean with great facilities. Elisa was a lovely host and was very helpful.

• Perfect, would not hesitate to return. – Tanya from United Kingdom – 6 October 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was so spacious and comfortable. The rooms are beautiful and well equipped. Having 2 bathrooms was a real treat. Lovely wood panelling and it felt very Venetian. Even the marble staircase leading up to the apartment was very impressive. We loved it!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities