DI.GIANFRANCO PIANO NOBILE

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at the Guglie stop – you know, that one right after the train station – and weaving my way along the Fondamenta de le Capuzzine, dodging the occasional delivery cart and inhaling that unmistakable Venice mix of salty canal water and fresh bread from the nearby bakery. Honestly, Cannaregio isn’t the postcard Venice everyone imagines with the gondolas and crowds around San Marco; it’s more like the real neighborhood where locals actually live, with kids playing soccer in the campos and old-timers chatting on benches. The DI.GIANFRANCO PIANO NOBILE sits right there on the fondamenta, in this grand old palazzo that’s been turned into a boutique spot – well, it’s called a piano nobile, which basically means the fancy main floor of these historic buildings, so you’re stepping into something that feels like a slice of Venetian aristocracy, minus the dust and decay you sometimes get in older places. My check-in was a breeze; the owner – I think his name was Marco, super friendly guy with a thick accent – handed over the keys with a quick rundown of the Wi-Fi and a tip on the best time to hit the nearby Jewish Ghetto for a quiet walk (early morning, before the tour groups descend). No elevator, mind you, so if you’ve got heavy bags, pack light or ask for help – it’s only one flight up, but those marble stairs can be slippery after a rain.

What really won me over, though, was how the place balances that old-world charm with stuff that actually makes your stay comfortable. My room overlooked the canal – sort of a narrow one, not the Grand Canal bustle – and I could hear the soft lap of water against the walls at night, which was oddly soothing, like a built-in white noise machine (though if you’re a light sleeper, bring earplugs for the occasional boat horn). The decor’s all elegant frescoes and heavy drapes, but they’ve snuck in modern touches like a Nespresso machine and rain shower that doesn’t feel out of place. Breakfast was served in this sunny salon downstairs – fresh cornetti, yogurt, and cappuccino strong enough to wake the dead – and it’s included, which is a nice touch in pricey Venice. I mean, it’s not a massive spread, but way better than grabbing something rushed at a tourist trap on Strada Nova, which is just a five-minute stroll away for more shopping or a quick bite at one of those unassuming osterias serving cicchetti. Oh, and parking? Forget it – this is Venice, so you’re walking or boating everywhere, but the hotel’s proximity to Santa Lucia station (maybe 10 minutes on foot) makes it a godsend if you’re arriving by train with luggage in tow. During high season, like summer, the area gets lively but never overwhelming; come winter, it’s blissfully quiet, though the humidity can make the rooms feel a tad stuffy – nothing a cracked window can’t fix.

Look, if you’re after that authentic Venice vibe without the San Polo crowds or the over-the-top luxury of five-star spots, this place is a gem. With its 9.2 rating, it’s earned every bit of praise for the personal service and that sense of being in a lived-in palazzo rather than a sterile hotel chain. I stayed three nights last fall and left wishing for more – it’s the kind of spot where you linger over coffee, watching life on the canal, and feel like you’ve uncovered a secret. Sure, it’s a four-star, so don’t expect a spa or pool (who needs that in Venice anyway?), but for couples or solo travelers wanting history with heart, book it. Just time your visit for shoulder season to snag a deal – and trust me, wander over to Campo di Ghetto Nuovo for sunset; it’s magical, and right around the corner.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $205. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Lovely, comfortable home with beautiful canal views – Robynne from New Zealand – 9 June 2025 (10/10)

  Location was great. Away from the busy tourist area, right on a canal. Lovely, comfortable home we loved staying here.
  
  What could be improved: Only suggestion would be extra pillows for the beds.

• Overall extremely comfortable – we didn’t want to leave! – Olga from Ireland – 28 May 2025 (10/10)

  Beautifully decorated, very spacious apartment. There were 6 of us, and we felt very comfortable and not cramped.
  
  All beds and sofa bed were comfortable, we stayed in May so it wasn’t hot or cold. There were plenty of mirrors (important for a big group of girls!) and lighting was excellent.
  
  The host was extremely easy to deal with, very communicative, helpful and friendly. Met us at the apartment and explained everything, even included some recommendations about restaurants.

• An excellent choice for a full immersion in Venice. – Issam from Russia – 19 May 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent location: close to a large supermarket, a bus stop, and a beautiful clean street, just a 10-minute walk from the train station.
  
  A cozy apartment with authentic Venetian charm. It has everything needed for a comfortable stay with a large group. The owner was very kind and explained all the details about the apartment.
  
  We will definitely come back to this wonderful city!
  
  What could be improved: No

• Exceptional – Joris from Belgium – 15 April 2025 (10/10)

  Spacious with a genuine Venetian touch!

• Exceptional – Chris from United Kingdom – 21 February 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, not too close to the main area but close enough to walk, even with a 4 year old. The apartment was fantastic, clean, and big enough for the 5 of us. Bars, restaurants, and cafés nearby. Federico, the owner, was extremely friendly and helpful and knowledgeable of the area. Would definitely recommend this place to anyone travelling to Venice.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to not like!

• Excellent stay in Carnareggio, a lovely area of Venice. – Sally from Australia – 4 January 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was excellent. Spacious for a family of four. Comfortable beds. Good kitchen and bathroom, including a washing machine. The Carnareggio area the apartment is located in is my favourite as it is a very calm and residential area of Venice. Lots of restaurants a few minutes walk from the apartment. Supermarket close by too. Loved our stay!

• Cannaregio apartment – Vijay from United Kingdom – 17 November 2024 (10/10)

  Perfect location in Cannaregio.
  Traditional Venetian apartment
  Good central heating (we were there in November).
  Good bathroom with constant hot water
  Comfortable bed.
  Helpful host
  Functional kitchenette

• Comfortable, picturesque stay in Cannaregio – Lara from Canada – 13 October 2024 (10/10)

  Larger apartment than expected, comfortable and clean space. Good communication with Gianfranco and a quiet neighbourhood to enjoy.
  
  What could be improved: Some olive oil and salt/pepper for cooking would be useful. Everything else was perfect.

• awesome – Alexander from Germany – 28 September 2024 (9/10)

  Questions and problems were noted and easily processed. Excellent service.
  
  What could be improved: Needs a few more good Knives, or instead maybe a knivesharpener. 😀

• Venice – Carnareggio – Vicki from New Zealand – 16 September 2024 (9/10)

  We received a lit of personalized service from our host. Recommendations for sites to visit and places to eat.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities