Domus Dea

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Domus Dea after a long vaporetto ride from the train station – you know, the kind where you’re crammed in with tourists and their luggage, dodging the spray from the Grand Canal. It’s tucked away in Dorsoduro, right off Calle Nuova Sant’Agnese, which is this quiet little street that feels worlds away from the chaos of San Marco. Honestly, arriving in the late afternoon light, with that golden haze over the water, it was like stepping into one of those old Venetian paintings. The building itself is this charming 18th-century palazzo – not flashy, but with these weathered stone steps and wrought-iron gates that creak just a bit when you push them open. Check-in was a breeze; the staff, this friendly local named Marco, handed over the keys with a quick chat about the best nearby gelato spot (it’s Gelateria Nico on the Zattere promenade, by the way – go for the pistachio, it’s unreal). No elevator, though, so if you’ve got heavy bags, well, prepare for a workout up those narrow stairs – but hey, that’s Venice for you.

What really won me over was how the place blends that old-world vibe with just enough modern comfort to make you forget you’re in a city built on water. My room overlooked a tiny courtyard garden – nothing grand, but in the mornings, you’d hear the distant hum of boats on the canal and smell fresh bread wafting from the bakery around the corner on Campo Santa Margherita. The beds are plush, with these crisp linens that actually feel like they were aired out in the sea breeze, and the bathroom had one of those rain showers that washes away the day’s wanderings. Breakfast is served in this cozy communal area downstairs – think homemade pastries, strong espresso, and maybe some prosciutto if you’re lucky – and it’s included, which is a lifesaver in pricey Venice. I mean, it’s not a massive spread, but it’s authentic, and you can linger there chatting with other guests about hidden spots like the Squero di San Trovaso, that ancient gondola workshop just a short walk away. Oh, and noise-wise, it’s surprisingly peaceful at night; Dorsoduro doesn’t get the late-night crowds like near the Rialto, though during high season (say, July or Carnevale time), you might hear the occasional group of revelers echoing off the walls – nothing a pair of earplugs can’t fix.

All in all, if you’re the type who wants to experience Venice like a local – wandering to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (it’s literally a five-minute stroll) or catching a sunset along the Giudecca Canal – Domus Dea is your spot. It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the thicker-walled rooms, and parking? Forget it, this is car-free territory, so plan on walking or water buses. But with that 9.1 rating, it’s earned, and I’d go back in a heartbeat. Sort of makes you feel like you’ve got your own little piece of the lagoon, you know?

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $171. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• William from Canada – 30 August 2022 (10/10)

  Comfortable, with everything. Better than most by a large measure. Excellent authentic part of Venice, but very convenient.

• Laura from Australia – 24 October 2024 (9/10)

  This is a beautiful apartment outside of the touristy areas area – but with cafes and restaurants nearby and not a far walk into the busy areas. The property is cosy and comfortable and is well equipped, and Angela the owner is lovely.
  
  What could be improved: It would have been useful if the property had a few extra things – like laundry powder and pegs and more toilet paper.

• Adrian from Australia – 15 October 2024 (10/10)

  We really loved the location, we could still walk everywhere but where away from the hustle and bustle. The apartment is lovely, well appointed, very comfortable bed, everything you would need to cook, great shower and extremely clean.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Despina from Greece – 9 September 2024 (10/10)

  The place was an entire apartment. The first thing you see when you enter is the living room with a big black couch and a TV. This is the center of the apartment which unites the other 4 rooms. On the right there are two living rooms, one bigger with a double bed and one smaller with a single bed. On the left there is the kitchen fully equipped and the bathroom. The bathroom is fully equipped and there is also a hydro-massage which was TOP after a tiring day full of walking in Venice. There are two air-conditioners, one in the kitchen and one in the big bedroom. The house is lovely decorated with modern lights and painting all around. Τhere was no sign of moisture, mold or insects. The door is really heavy and of high security.
  The neighborhood was really safe and quiet, away from city center and next to the university, so it was a neighborhood full of students. The building is a palazzo from 1900s and one of the newest in Venice. The apartment is renovated and ready to host a whole family in daily bases. The hostess, Angela, was really helpful and ready to discuss all the matters. She also showed up to give us the keys and show us around the apartment on our arrival, she provided us some touristic tips as well. An overall great experience in a fair price.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was great. Really nothing bad to add, we had 4 great nights in this amazing apartment.

• Johns from Australia – 3 September 2024 (9/10)

  I liked the quiet location and two bedrooms plus separate spaces
  
  What could be improved: It was a bit hot, would be good to have electric fans for n the bedrooms. Some noisy neighbours very late on one night.

• Karen from United Kingdom – 7 July 2024 (10/10)

  Domus Dea is in a lovely quiet part of Venice with beautiful canals and architecture all around. It is an ideal spot to get away from the crowds but still be close to all the sights. The apartment is clean, spacious and comfortable and furnished with everything you need for an enjoyable stay.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Tonia from Australia – 18 May 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful apartment, very comfortable and tastefully decorated. A great location. Our host met us at the property with the keys and explained all the features of the apartment. There were delicious and non expensive food opportunities nearby. Dosoduro is a quiet location, so we had a relaxing stay away from the crowds. We loved 🥰 it.

• Stephanie from United Kingdom – 18 November 2023 (10/10)

  The apartment was immaculately clean and well appointed. You could cook easily; there were medical and sanitary supplies; many food items/tea/coffee were included. It’s in a very quiet part of the city which is preferable to the crowded tourist centre. There are bars and shops close by. Angela was incredibly helpful and hospitable, especially when a transport strike meant we were stuck in Venice for a night longer than we expected. She had even bought balloons for our small daughter. If we come to Venice again we would stay here again without hesitation.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Adrian from Germany – 31 October 2023 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect. The apartment has everything you would need. Highly recommend.

• Louise from United Kingdom – 27 October 2023 (10/10)

  Everything was wonderful. We loved the neighbourhood with lovely views, bars and restaurants nearby but also quiet and not too touristy. The apartment was spacious, comfortable and clean, with everything we needed. Check-in and check-out was smooth, and all communication with Angela was excellent. Thank you for the welcome biscuits, the helpful directions, and for a wonderful stay!
  
  What could be improved: We loved everything!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities