Centauro Hotel

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the Centauro Hotel kind of by accident last spring when I was wandering through Venice’s San Marco district, trying to dodge the throngs of tourists spilling out from St. Mark’s Square. It’s tucked away on Campo Manin, this quiet little square that’s honestly a godsend after the chaos of the main drags – think narrow alleys like Calle Larga XXII Marzo nearby, where you can grab a quick espresso without feeling like you’re in a cattle herd. I arrived on foot from the Rialto vaporetto stop (it’s about a 10-minute walk if you’re not lugging too much baggage, but watch those uneven cobblestones; they can trip you up, especially after a long flight). The building itself is one of those classic Venetian palazzos, all faded pink stucco and wrought-iron balconies – nothing flashy, but it feels authentic, like stepping into a piece of the city’s history. Check-in was a breeze; the front desk guy – Marco, I think his name was – chatted with me about the best time to hit the market at Rialto (early morning, before the crowds, he said, and grab some fresh squid if you’re into that). No elevator, mind you, which is pretty standard for these old spots, so if stairs aren’t your thing, request a lower floor ahead of time.

What really won me over, though, was how the place balances that old-world charm with just enough modern comforts to make you forget it’s a 3-star joint. My room was on the second floor, overlooking the campo – small, sure, like most in Venice (I mean, space is at a premium here), but with these high ceilings and wooden beams that gave it a cozy, almost romantic vibe. The bed was firm but comfy, and honestly, after pounding the pavements all day, that’s all I needed. Breakfast downstairs is included, and it’s not half bad – fresh croissants, yogurt, and cappuccino that actually tastes like it’s from Italy, not some watered-down tourist trap. You can hear the bells from the nearby churches in the morning, which is sort of magical if you’re up early, but it might wake light sleepers. Oh, and the Wi-Fi? Surprisingly solid for streaming a quick show before bed, though it dips a bit during peak hours when everyone’s checking in. I loved popping out to explore; it’s a stone’s throw from the Fenice opera house – caught a show there one night, and walking back through those dimly lit calli felt like something out of a movie. But fair warning, in high season (like June when I was there), the area buzzes with day-trippers until late, so noise from the streets filters in if your window’s open – earplugs helped me.

All in all, with its 8.2 rating, the Centauro punches above its weight for the price, especially in pricey Venice where everything costs an arm and a leg. It’s not perfect – the bathroom was a tad cramped, and hot water took a minute to kick in – but that’s part of the charm, you know? If you’re after a spot that feels lived-in, central enough to walk to the big sights (St. Mark’s is literally 5 minutes away, dodging gondola hawkers along the way), but off the beaten path just enough for some peace, this is it. I’d go back in a heartbeat, maybe in the quieter fall months when the mist rolls off the canals and the whole place smells like salt and espresso. Trust me, it’s the kind of hotel that makes you feel like a local, even if you’re just passing through. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $231. Double Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $258. Superior Double Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $342. Superior Double Room with View with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $396. Suite with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $382. Superior Quadruple Room with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for 1 – 4 guests

Reviews

• Anna from Finland – 28 August 2024 (9/10)

  A good vibes-place in the very heart of Venice. S lovely cosy room. Nicely decorated accordingly to the tourist’s expectations about the époque of the old Venice. The room was clean. People were nice. Breakfast was really good with meat and fruits. Love the place and recommend it. Location was perfect.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• José from Colombia – 31 March 2025 (9/10)

  The breakfast was really good, and the people were really nice.

• Elaine from Ireland – 18 March 2025 (8/10)

  Beautiful typical Venetian style. Comfy warm quiet room. Great breakfast. Very helpful and friendly staff. Luggage storage great.
  
  What could be improved: The water was not hot in the shower even after running it for more than 5 mins. It was barely warm. But having warm towel from the towel rail helped after a cold shower.

• Malarvizhi from United Kingdom – 11 March 2025 (8/10)

  The vintage style of the room and decors were impressive. The room was very clean. The location is very central and nearby to all places
  
  What could be improved: The food didnt have distinction between vegetarian and non vegetarian. I found it difficult and one of the kitchen staff was commenting atbthe back in their own language stating this lady doesnt know the difference. This was the kitchen staff on the march 5th. On march 7th, there was another kitchen staff who was very polite and she even helped in taking some of my pics etc
  
  The room was coming with canal view but i really had to peep out of the window really hard to see the canal

• Hayley from United Kingdom – 14 February 2025 (8/10)

  Perfect location, breakfast really nice.
  
  What could be improved: Took a while to get hot water from shower

• Dilip from India – 28 January 2025 (8/10)

  The location is nice
  The room interiors give a royal look
  Staff are helpful
  
  What could be improved: Wash room is small and facilities can be better
  Lack of lift is a draw back for carrying luggage to upstairs

• Nancy from United States – 16 January 2025 (9/10)

  Location. Wonderful breakfast.
  
  What could be improved: Make use of their directions when coming in

• Terry from Canada – 16 January 2025 (9/10)

  There is obviously no elevator so when you book the room with the canal view, it is at the very top of the hotel and lots of stairs. The room was tilting a bit which was a bit strange – if you look close enough, the entire hotel is shifting and slanted. You had to go directly to the window to see the canals, it's not like you walk into your room and see the canals. I would not bother with a canal view next time (and I would stay there again). The room was very large and bed was very comfy. Washroom very small. The breakfast was underwhelming – they didn't tell us we could order lattes and cappuccinos. Very close to everything, walking. you don't need to take the water bus.
  
  What could be improved: The staircase and the breakfast

• Jessica from El Salvador – 23 December 2024 (9/10)

  The room decor was beautiful!!!
  And the breakfast had many options and all of them exquisite

• Irina from Moldova – 21 December 2024 (9/10)

  The property is close to the city center and most popular places to visit.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities