Castello – Laguna Luxury Residence by Wonderful Italy

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Castello – Laguna Luxury Residence by Wonderful Italy kind of by accident last spring, when I was dodging the peak tourist crush in Venice. It’s tucked away on Riello 178 in the Castello sestiere – that’s the eastern bit of the city, away from the San Marco madness, but close enough to hop on a vaporetto to the main drags. Honestly, arriving by water taxi felt like stepping into one of those old Venetian postcards; the building’s this elegant, slightly weathered palazzo right on the lagoon, with that salty sea air hitting you as soon as you dock. No cars here, obviously – Venice being Venice – so if you’re lugging bags, plan for a short walk from the Arsenale stop, maybe 5-10 minutes along those narrow calli that twist like a maze. Check-in was a breeze, though; the staff from Wonderful Italy were waiting with keys and a quick rundown – none of that stiff hotel lobby vibe, more like borrowing a friend’s apartment. I mean, it’s billed as a luxury residence, so think spacious suites with kitchens rather than cramped rooms. Mine had these high ceilings and big windows overlooking the water, but fair warning, the decor’s a mix of modern and vintage – comfy enough, but the bathroom tiles felt a tad dated, like they hadn’t been refreshed since the ’90s.

What really won me over, though, was how it feels embedded in real Venetian life. Castello’s got that authentic neighborhood hum – you’re steps from Via Garibaldi, where locals grab their morning espresso at hole-in-the-wall spots like El Refolo (try the spritz if you’re there around aperitivo hour; it’s buzzing but not overwhelming). The residence itself? Well, it’s got that 4-star polish without trying too hard – think plush beds that actually let you sleep through the night, even with the occasional boat horn echoing off the lagoon at dawn. I appreciated the little kitchenette; saved me a fortune cooking up pasta from the nearby market instead of eating out every meal. Noise-wise, it’s quieter than you’d expect for Venice – no rowdy tour groups stomping by at all hours – but if you’re a light sleeper, earplugs might help during high season (June to August gets lively with the Biennale crowds spilling over from the nearby Giardini). Oh, and parking? Forget it; leave the car on the mainland and embrace the boat life. Sensory-wise, there’s this constant, gentle lap of water against the walls that lulls you to sleep, mixed with faint smells of fresh bread from the bakery around the corner – small details that make you feel like you’re living here, not just visiting.

All in all, with its 7.8 rating, it’s not flawless – the Wi-Fi dipped out a couple times, and housekeeping was solid but not daily unless you ask – but for travelers who want a taste of Venice without the chaos, this place delivers. It’s perfect for couples or small families craving space and that lagoon view, especially off-season when rates drop and the area’s serene. I’d go back in a heartbeat; you get the luxury without the pretense, and honestly, waking up to that watery sunrise beats any generic hotel chain. If you’re plotting a trip, book early – spots fill up fast during festivals.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $102. Apartment with Canal View with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $124. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• It served its purpose and was more than comfortable for two people. – Martin from United Kingdom – 7 July 2025 (8/10)

  That it was modern and had everything needed for a few nights stay, and the best thing was the air conditioning that was well needed during the week.
  
  What could be improved: The lounge/dining room area was very basic and didn’t feel too comfortable. Table and chairs were adequate, but on the cheap side.

• Beautiful city and the most delicious food in the world – Viktoria from Ukraine – 13 June 2025 (9/10)

  Beautiful city, great apartments, the most delicious food in the world. It was great vacation. The apartment had towels, liquid soap and clean bed linen. The kitchen had everything you need to cook your own food. There was also a washing machine, iron and ironing board. Near the apartment there is a shop with freshly caught fish and a boat that sells very fresh vegetables and fruits, there are also two shops with delicious products.
  
  What could be improved: When we checked in, we found a lot of dirty dishes in the dishwasher with a terrible unpleasant smell. We turned it on and washed it. There were not enough garbage bags in the apartment, the flush button in the bathroom did not work

• Really comfortable apartment for a couple of days stay. Staff who manage the property are incredibly helpful and respons – Susan from Australia – 23 July 2024 (9/10)

  Located in an area where local Venicians live, close to excellent restaurants and a short walk main attractions.
  
  What could be improved: Could have washing powder provided.

• Superb – Oliver from Germany – 5 June 2024 (9/10)

  Kind and good communication with our host. We haven't had direct personal contact, but all worked out very, very well.
  Located near Bienale, very quiet.

• a perfect place for a weekend getaway – Tink from United Kingdom – 30 May 2023 (9/10)

  the property was just what we needed. equipped with everything you’d need for a long or short stay, very clean and comfortable. there was just a couple of issues with getting the keys/ locks to work but the host was very quick to respond and helped us figure anything out. It’s in a lovely part of Venice with views of a canal outside.

• Very good – Gherardo from Italy – 15 October 2024 (8/10)

  the area real Venice

• The contact was so helpful. I would love to stay here again. – Taga from Uganda – 19 April 2024 (9/10)

  It was clean and very comfortable. Everything required to make your stay comfortable is provided.
  
  What could be improved: It was well located near the bienalle, the price is fair compared to the other options.

• Good – Oleksandr from Germany – 15 June 2023 (7/10)

  The area was exceptionally quiet, with minimal to no noise. The windows have a pleasant view overlooking the canal. The kitchen is nicely-designed and well-equipped.
  
  What could be improved: Although the initial impression was good, the details left much to be desired (most of which can be fixed). For example, the wardrobe was cluttered, leaving no space for our clothes. The bed tables were dusty, with only one non-functioning lamp. The bathroom and entryway had spider webs. The was no toilet brush. The air conditioning remote had most of the buttons removed and the air conditioning itself was not functioning. Moreover, the broken handle on the entrance door was particularly frustrating, making it difficult to open from inside the building.

• Venice and the Biennale are always worth experiencing and seeing again. Additionally, you can also a – Päivi from Finland – 4 September 2024 (7/10)

  We had stayed in the Venice before and this area or its vicinity is good, because we came to saw there Biennal, what is near.
  
  What could be improved: We had stayed in the area or its vicinity before, and our previous experiences had been exclusively good. This was our fifth time in Venice, and the accommodation was the worst of the five. The apartment was okay, but the staircase door was broken, and the entrance on the ground floor was in really poor condition. We were advised to leave our luggage (before check-in at 3:00 PM) in a storage room that smelled so strongly of mold that we couldn't leave them there. The apartment didn't have hand towels or soap. The apartment was basically okay, but it was dusty, and two of the kitchen lights were not working. Next time, we have already decided to choose a different area to stay in.

• Good location, badly run. – Claudiu from Romania – 20 May 2025 (7/10)

  Good location if you’re planning to go to the Bienalle, modern design.
  
  What could be improved: We didn’t like the fact that it was full of mosquitos and it was dirty (dust) and spider webs. Also, it need a bit of new paint over the smashed mosquitos on the walls. Also.. everything felt cheap and the entrace is from a horror movie.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities