Design Apartment with Balcony on the Grand Canal R&R

Hotel Description

Oh man, stepping off the vaporetto at Rialto and weaving through those narrow calli to find the Design Apartment with Balcony on the Grand Canal R&R – it’s one of those spots that hits you right away, you know? I remember lugging my bag along Riva del Vin, dodging the occasional delivery cart and inhaling that mix of salty canal air and fresh espresso from the little bars nearby. The address is smack in San Polo, just a stone’s throw from the bustling fish market at Rialto, but honestly, once you’re inside this place, it feels like you’ve slipped into a quieter, more stylish side of Venice. It’s not some massive hotel chain; think of it as a sleek apartment setup with that modern design twist – clean lines, plush bedding that actually feels lived-in, and yeah, that balcony overlooking the Grand Canal. I mean, waking up to the gentle lap of water against the pilings and watching gondolas glide by at dawn? Priceless. But fair warning, if you’re here in high season like July, the canal gets noisy with tourist boats by mid-morning – sort of a trade-off for the view.

What really sold me was how it blends that old Venetian charm with stuff that makes traveling easier. The building’s got this historic facade – all weathered stone and arched windows – but inside, it’s kitted out with a full kitchen (handy for grabbing produce from the market and whipping up your own pasta, instead of shelling out for every meal at those overpriced spots along the canal). Check-in was a breeze; the host met me right at the door with a quick rundown – no front desk hassle, just keys and a few tips on avoiding the crowds by heading to Campo San Polo for a spritz in the evenings. It’s rated 9.3 for good reason, I think – the balcony is the star, big enough for two chairs and a table, where I spent hours people-watching (and okay, eavesdropping on Italian conversations drifting up from below). There’s no elevator, though, so if you’ve got heavy luggage, well, pack light or brace for the stairs. And parking? Forget it – this is Venice, after all; everything’s by boat or foot. But that’s part of the magic, isn’t it? You’re steps from hidden gems like the Frari church or that tiny bacaro on Rio San Polo where locals grab cicchetti – small plates that beat any fancy dinner.

Look, if you’re chasing that authentic Venice vibe without the sterile hotel feel, this place is a gem. It’s got four stars, sure, but it punches above with the personal touches – like the fresh linens that smell faintly of lavender and the way the light filters through in the afternoons, turning the whole apartment golden. I’ve stayed in fancier digs, but nothing beats sipping wine on that balcony as the sun sets over the water taxis zipping by. Just time it right – avoid peak summer if you want peace, or embrace the buzz if that’s your thing. Honestly, it’s the kind of spot that makes you linger longer in Venice, even when your feet are screaming from all the walking. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better perch on the Grand Canal without breaking the bank.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $662. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for 1 – 4 guests

Reviews

• Catherine from Australia – 17 January 2025 (10/10)

  Right on the Grand Canal, very close to Rialto Bridge. Able to get vaporetta very close by.
  Apartment was very clean, had all we needed

• Stephen from Australia – 3 February 2025 (10/10)

  Fabulous location, and modern clean minimalist design apartment with gorgeous views from every window/balcony.

• Abubakr from Saudi Arabia – 21 November 2024 (10/10)

  EVERY SINGLE THING IS SUPER!!!
  
  What could be improved: LITTLE BIT THE PRICE IS HIGH !!!!

• John from United States – 28 October 2024 (9/10)

  Convenient location, all amenities, safe and comfortable.

• Kevin from United States – 14 October 2024 (10/10)

  Breakfast was not included in our plan.
  
  What could be improved: The only issue was a "walk into" the elevator glass door as it is so clean, and the person was not aware it needed to be opened. I noticed in reviews others noted this.

• Maryellen from Croatia – 21 September 2024 (10/10)

  The location, view from all the main rooms, modern amenities, and cleanliness. Lots of restaurants nearby, the vaporetto stop was super close, and it was easy to walk anywhere. What a special way to experience the beauty of Venice!!
  
  What could be improved: We had minor glitches at check-in and check-out. All was sorted out fine in the end, but perhaps communication could have been a little better.

• Shane from United States – 25 September 2023 (10/10)

  Amazing location right next to Rialto Bridge and overlooking the Grand Canal. We started our 10 day trip with 2 nights at this place and it was hard to top. The beds were comfortable and the place had everything we needed. Hosts were very helpful and check-in was very easy. Highly recommend!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Olga from United States – 3 September 2023 (10/10)

  Comfortable and clean! Beautiful apartment. Location was ideal right on the canal with beautiful views!
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Mary from United States – 22 June 2023 (10/10)

  beautiful property with outstanding views of Grand Canal
  
  What could be improved: penalty cost for checking in 30 minutes late due to delayed flight.

• Bill from Australia – 7 June 2023 (9/10)

  Excellent location and facilities
  
  What could be improved: Airconditioning was faulty but everything else was great

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities