Favola a Venezia

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Favola a Venezia almost by accident during my last trip to Venice – I was wandering through the San Polo district, trying to dodge the tourist crowds spilling over from the Rialto Bridge, and there it was, tucked away on Calle Bernardo. It’s this charming little 4-star spot that’s got that old-world Venetian vibe without feeling like a museum piece. Honestly, arriving by vaporetto to the San Tomà stop (just a five-minute walk away) was a breeze – no lugging suitcases over a dozen bridges, which is a godsend in a city like this where everything’s on foot. The building itself is one of those classic palazzos, with weathered stone walls and those narrow windows that let in the golden afternoon light filtering off the canal. I checked in around dusk, and the lobby smelled faintly of fresh espresso and that briny canal air – you know, the kind that reminds you you’re really in Venice, not some theme park version. The staff were super welcoming, chatting in that mix of Italian and English, and they even pointed me to a hidden osteria nearby on Campo San Polo for cicchetti that night. Well, sort of hidden – locals pack it out after work, but tourists rarely find it.

What really won me over, though, was how the place balances authenticity with those little comforts that make a stay feel effortless. My room – I had one overlooking the calle – was spacious for Venice standards, with these high ceilings and exposed wooden beams that creak just a bit when the wind picks up off the lagoon. The bed was ridiculously comfy, all crisp linens and plump pillows, and the bathroom had this rainfall shower that was a lifesaver after a day of pounding the pavements. Breakfast is included, and it’s no joke – fresh pastries, prosciutto, and cappuccinos strong enough to wake the dead, served in a cozy courtyard where you can hear the church bells from Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari echoing in the morning (it’s literally around the corner, and if you’re into art, that basilica’s Titian paintings are a must-see, but go early to beat the lines). I mean, it’s not perfect – the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the older wings, and during high season in summer, you might hear the buzz of day-trippers filtering through the alleys until late. But that’s Venice for you; it’s lively, and the hotel’s soundproofing does a decent job of keeping things peaceful at night. Oh, and if you’re traveling light, they offer luggage storage, which was clutch for my early flight out.

All in all, if you’re looking for a spot that feels like a genuine slice of Venetian life – away from the San Marco madness but close enough to hop on a boat to the islands – Favola a Venezia is a gem. It’s got that 9.4 rating for a reason, and I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in the quieter shoulder seasons like October when the fog rolls in and the city’s magic really shines. Just pack good walking shoes; those calli can be uneven, and you’ll want to explore every inch. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $223. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Exceptional – Roberto from Spain – 16 June 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent
  
  What could be improved: Everything was ok but more glasses and cups will help

• Perfect apartment in the best location with a super helpful owner. Thank you! – Marsha from United States – 19 May 2025 (10/10)

  Large apartment with all the amenities. It was extremely clean and comfortable and in the perfect location- easy walk to all the sights but tucked away in a quiet neighborhood so we had the most peaceful sleep. The owner was so very helpful. She helped us arrange transportation to and from Venice. I’m so glad we chose this apartment for our stay in Venice!

• Great location, spacey modern apartment with heating and air conditioning, super-nice host. – Ben from Austria – 16 April 2025 (10/10)

  Nice modern apartment with 2 bedrooms in the middle of Venice. Two modern bathrooms with showers, well-equipped kitchen. All Venice attractions are easy to reach. Very helpful host with excellent communication.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Host was wonderful! Location superb with beautiful views of the canal. – Claw from United States – 5 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great location. Close to shopping, cafes, restaurants, and many of the sites.
  
  What could be improved: Terrible odor coming up from the shower drains. Stunk up the entire condo. Neighbors partied very late one night talking loudly and their cigarette smoke seeped through the wall into my bedroom. Had to sleep on the very small loveseat in the living room.

• Exceptional – Grzegorz from Poland – 12 November 2023 (10/10)

  Spacious spot for 2+2 family. Really close to public transport, restaurants, shops and cafes.

• Exceptional – Niamh from United Kingdom – 20 July 2023 (10/10)

  It was modern, spacious, clean, the location was excellent and our host was very helpful and welcoming. Absolutely perfect for us and our 1year old. There was air conditioning, a washing machine, a very comfortable cot for the baby and even toys for him to play with. Couldn't recommend it more!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, it was the perfect stay. We appreciated it even more after a hellish stay elsewhere which didnt provide the basics as listed on the booking.

• Very nice apartment and in a good position. – Kevin from United Kingdom – 1 June 2023 (9/10)

  The location was perfect for our trip to Venice. Everything we wanted to see was within easy waking distance. The hosts were easy to contact and answered every query we had. The apartment is on the upper floor and accesed by stairs. There was a lift but not in use for passengers although our luggage was put in it and that saved carrying it up the stairs.

• We had a fabulous visit to Venice and it was helped the the owners offering advice on travelan great restaurants – Hannah from United Kingdom – 12 May 2025 (7/10)

  Great location and the owners were very helpful
  
  What could be improved: Bed wasn’t too comfortable and the shower pressure was poor so it was hard to wash my hair properly

• Great place , not great host – Mark from United Kingdom – 6 June 2023 (1/10)

  Great location and very clean
  
  What could be improved: Chiara who owns the place is aggressive and rude

• Disappointing – Tim from United Kingdom – 15 November 2022 (4/10)

  We were met and shown the property. There was good contact before we arrived via WhatsApp. The property was clean and tidy. The location was convenient for Rialto and not far from the Vaporetto stop.
  
  What could be improved: There is not a washer/dryer available for guest use. Any washing is done by the host and there was a notice suggesting a charge of 15Euro per 6KG load. Guests are not allowed to use the machines. The machines are adjacent to the entrance to the property.
  The lift remains out of service so the property is not accessible for anyone with disability. The pillows remain extremely uncomfortable as per a previous review.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities