Due Leoni Terrace In St Mark’s Square

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at San Marco Vallaresso – you know, that stop right by Harry’s Bar where all the fancy folks sip Bellinis – and weaving through the throngs of tourists with my suitcase bumping over the uneven pavement. Honestly, finding Due Leoni Terrace In St Mark’s Square felt like a little miracle in the chaos of Venice; it’s tucked away at San Marco 306, literally steps from the piazza’s iconic clock tower and those fluttering pigeons. I mean, the address says it all – you’re smack in the heart of San Marco, but the hotel’s entrance is discreet, almost like a secret doorway amid the souvenir shops and gelato stands. Check-in was a breeze, even though I arrived during that mid-afternoon rush when everyone’s snapping selfies with the Basilica in the background. The staff, these warm Italian folks who switched effortlessly between English and Venetian dialect, handed over my key with a smile and a quick tip about avoiding the high-water season in November – acqua alta can turn the square into a shallow pool, but hey, they provide complimentary boots if it hits.

What really sold me on this place – and it’s a solid 4-star spot with a perfect 10 rating for a reason – is that terrace. Oh man, the views from up there are something else; you’re gazing right over St. Mark’s Square, with the Campanile bell tower chiming every hour (a bit noisy at dawn if you’re a light sleeper, fair warning). My room was cozy, sort of old-world charming with those high ceilings and heavy drapes that block out the late-night chatter from below – think exposed beams, a comfy bed that felt like sinking into a cloud after trudging over bridges all day, and a bathroom stocked with those fancy toiletries that smell faintly of citrus and herbs. No parking worries here, obviously, since Venice is car-free, but it’s super handy for day trips; the Rialto Bridge is a quick 10-minute stroll along Calle Larga XXII Marzo, where you can grab fresh cicchetti from hidden bacari that tourists often miss. I actually spent one evening on the terrace with a glass of prosecco, watching the sunset paint the Doge’s Palace in gold – the air crisp with that briny canal scent, mixed with distant accordion tunes from street performers. It’s not huge or flashy, but there’s a real authenticity to it, like staying in a friend’s elegant apartment rather than some sterile chain.

Look, if you’re coming to Venice for the romance or the history, this is where you want to be – no exaggeration. Sure, the area buzzes with energy (and yeah, it can get pricey for meals nearby, so venture to Cannaregio for cheaper eats), but waking up to the square’s quiet mornings before the crowds descend? Priceless. I’ve stayed in fancier spots, but Due Leoni has that intimate vibe that makes you feel like you’ve unlocked a piece of the city. Book it for a special trip; just pack light and prepare for those stairs – no elevators in these historic buildings, you know? (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $2,041. Apartment with Terrace with 2 × 1 large double bed and 2 × 1 single bed for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Amy from United States – 19 August 2024 (10/10)

  Due Leoni Terrace was in the perfect location right on St. Mark's Square and close to all the tourist action. Lots of shops, cafes, restaurants and the water taxi are all very close. Communication with the booking company was excellent, from the moment I confirmed my booking to the moment we left. A very nice host met us at our water taxi and walked us to the apartment and made sure we had everything we needed. The apartment was clean and roomy with a spectacular view of the square. My family and I was stay here again.
  
  What could be improved: The elevator is very old and tiny. The elevator worked when we got there so we could get our luggage up to the apartment easily but when we were ready to leave, the elevator was not working and we had to cart our luggage down 3 flights of stairs. Throughout our stay we just used the stairs which was a good workout.

• Caron from Italy – 19 November 2023 (10/10)

  The place was amazing! You feel like you are in your own Tower with a view, in fact you are next to the bell tower in St Marks Square, the master bedroom is there to enjoy the sunrise each morning. Loads of common space for the whole family to enjoy! We just loved the full balcony over looking piazzale San Marco, we watched a marathon on a Sunday morning! The host who showed us the apartment met us at the docks and was so accommodating as we had two elderly people with us and it was hight tide. She can also arrange a porter for you to be helpful with the luggage.
  No breakfast, but there are many things already inside the apartment such as sugar, salt & pepper and a market close by, as well as bars to go and pick up breakfast and bring it back. I sadly left two very expensive coats hanging in the closet and they called us that day while cleaning the apartment and took the items to a place near by for us to pickup on our next travel to Venice and my husband has already recovered them, so honesty is another quality of staying at this very high class, high standards place in the center of it all!
  
  What could be improved: The elevator has room for only 2 people at a time, not their fault, the building is older….but it works and you just need to be patient and understand that you will need to squeeze in and close the doors tight before it will close and move up. The other item, which again isn't bad, just be aware that you are staying in the main square, so it can be loud and also you are right next to three main bell towers, so you might hear it throughout the day. Internet worked for most, but sometimes the TV would go out from Netflix….so I suggest using your phones instead of the TV.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities