Foscari Palace

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Foscari Palace kind of by accident last spring – I was wandering off the vaporetto at Ca’ d’Oro, dodging the usual throng of day-trippers with their selfie sticks, and there it was, tucked into Campo Santa Sofia like it had been waiting for me. This place is one of those classic Venetian palazzos, all faded grandeur with that slightly weathered stone facade that screams old money – I mean, it’s right on the Grand Canal, but not in the over-the-top flashy way like some spots near San Marco. Walking in, the lobby hit me with this cozy mix of polished marble floors that echo a bit under your shoes and these heavy velvet curtains that muffle the outside hum of boat traffic. Honestly, check-in was a breeze; the staff – mostly locals who switch seamlessly between Italian and English – had my room ready in minutes, no fuss, even though I showed up right after the morning rush from the airport water taxis. And get this, it’s in Cannaregio, which feels more lived-in than the tourist traps; you’re steps from Strada Nova, where you can grab a real cicchetti at a no-name bar instead of overpriced spritzes.

What really sold me on Foscari was how it balances that historic vibe with stuff that actually makes your stay comfortable – like the rooms, which aren’t huge (Venice, right? Space is at a premium), but mine had this massive window overlooking the canal, where I’d wake up to the soft lapping of water against gondolas and the distant clang of church bells from Santa Sofia. The bed was plush, with those crisp linens that smell faintly of lavender – well, or maybe that’s just my imagination after too much prosecco. Breakfast is served in this sunny terrace spot; nothing fancy, but the fresh cornetti and cappuccino are spot-on, and you can people-watch the early morning delivery boats zipping by. I appreciated the little touches, like the free Wi-Fi that actually works (a godsend for mapping out walks to the Jewish Ghetto, just a 10-minute stroll away), and the air conditioning that kicks in quietly during those sticky May afternoons. Oh, and noise-wise, it’s surprisingly peaceful at night – the canal quiets down after dark, though you might hear the occasional accordion player serenading tourists below if you’re on a lower floor. One minor gripe: the bathroom was a tad compact, with that classic European shower setup where you end up flooding the floor if you’re not careful, but hey, it’s authentic.

All in all, if you’re after a slice of real Venice without the San Marco crowds – you know, where you can wander to hidden spots like the Madonna dell’Orto church or hop a vaporetto to Murano without much hassle – Foscari Palace is a solid pick. It’s got that 4-star polish with an 8.4 rating that feels earned, especially in shoulder season when the place isn’t packed. I’d go back in a heartbeat, maybe in fall when the fog rolls in and everything gets that misty, romantic edge – just pack light, because those narrow bridges to get here aren’t luggage-friendly.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $249. Superior Double or Twin Room with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $297. Double Room with Terrace with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $325. Large Double Room with 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Jaana from Finland – 24 April 2023 (9/10)

  Very good breakfast. Excellent location and staff.

• Olga from Ukraine – 25 March 2025 (9/10)

  The location of the hotel is great, there is a river boat stop nearby. You can get to any point in the city. The room was very beautiful and spacious. The breakfasts were very tasty and filling.

• Gay from Canada – 21 January 2025 (8/10)

  Location was great
  
  What could be improved: One of the rooms in our group was not as booked . That person didn’t want to speak to hotel staff about it so we really can’t blame the hotel as they weren’t given an opportunity to fix it .

• Susanne from United Kingdom – 3 December 2024 (9/10)

  Excellent location – train / bus station 10-15 minute walk, close to Rialto Bridge and gondola / vaporetto stops close by. Room good size, and heating great. No complaints about breakfast – everything one could want.

• Tony from Australia – 30 September 2024 (8/10)

  Great location close to a vaporetto stop. Loved the little roof terrace for a sneaky aperativo as the sun goes down.
  
  What could be improved: Unfortunately due to staff sickness the bar wasn't able to open during our stay.

• Susan from Australia – 18 September 2024 (8/10)

  Great location near train station and a vaporetto stop. Can walk everywhere, great food nearby.
  
  What could be improved: No tea or coffee making facilities in rooms, hefty charge for a cup of tea.

• Rebecca from United Kingdom – 10 September 2024 (9/10)

  Beautiful building in a great location. Helpful staff and very comfortable bed.
  
  What could be improved: Shower was difficult to use.

• Hui from Taiwan – 17 August 2024 (9/10)

  The location is good. it is very close to the waterbus stop. You just take few minutes to get the hotel. The bed is so comfortable, which make a good sleeping quality to me.
  
  What could be improved: No kettle. I can not have a cup of tea or coffee. it’s kind of pity.

• Christopher from Ireland – 13 July 2024 (8/10)

  Excellent service from staff, clean rooms, and quiet area for good sleep.
  
  What could be improved: The view from the window was of a wall but we weren't expecting a view of the canal.

• Kate from Australia – 6 July 2024 (9/10)

  Loved it!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities