Friari Suite-Luxury apt. close to Rialto Bridge

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Friari Suite almost by accident last spring when I was weaving through Venice’s Cannaregio district, trying to dodge the usual tourist crush around San Marco. It’s tucked away on Calle de la Pegola, this narrow little alley off the beaten path but honestly just a five-minute stroll from the Rialto Bridge – I mean, you can hear the market vendors haggling over fresh fish and artichokes from your window if you time it right in the mornings. Getting there was a breeze; I hopped off the vaporetto at Ca’ d’Oro and wandered over, suitcase bumping along the uneven stones – no cars in Venice, right? So pack light, or you’ll regret it on those bridges. The building itself is one of those classic Venetian affairs, all weathered brick and wrought-iron gates, with the entrance at number 4284 B, internal 15. Check-in was super low-key; the host met me with a key and a quick rundown in broken English, no fuss, no lobby drama like at the big hotels. I appreciated that – felt more like crashing at a friend’s place than some sterile chain.

Stepping inside, though – wow, it hits you with that luxury apartment vibe without trying too hard. The space is spacious for Venice standards, with high ceilings and these massive windows letting in that golden lagoon light, especially around sunset when the canal below sort of shimmers (though, fair warning, it can smell a bit briny on humid days). The decor’s a mix of modern sleekness – think plush king bed with crisp linens that actually feel like they were ironed that morning – and old-world touches, like exposed wooden beams and a tiny balcony overlooking the rio. I spent one evening there sipping prosecco, listening to the gentle lap of water taxis and the distant hum of cicchetti bars on nearby Strada Nova. Kitchenette’s fully stocked, which was a lifesaver; I whipped up pasta from ingredients grabbed at the Rialto market, avoiding those overpriced tourist traps. It’s rated 9.1 for a reason – clean as a whistle, with strong Wi-Fi (crucial for mapping out your next gondola detour) and even a washing machine, which, let’s be real, is gold after a sweaty day exploring. Minor gripe? The stairs up to the suite – no elevator, so if you’ve got mobility issues or heavy bags, well, it’s a workout. And in peak season, like July, the neighborhood buzzes a bit at night from folks spilling out of osterias, but it quiets down by midnight.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels authentically Venetian yet pampering – four stars well-earned – Friari’s your ticket. It’s in Cannaregio, which is my favorite sestiere; less chaotic than around the Bridge, with gems like the Jewish Ghetto just a short walk away for some history and killer falafel spots. I left feeling like I’d actually lived in Venice for a bit, not just visited. Book it for shoulder season if you can – April or October – when the crowds thin and you can really soak it in without the elbowing. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $391. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 1 – 4 guests

Reviews

• Emma from United Kingdom – 9 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, gorgeous apartment, wonderful host.
  We will definitely be back.

• Randal from United States – 29 December 2024 (10/10)

  Friari Suites is very well located. Around the corner from the vaporetto stop and located on a quiet street off Strada Nova which will take you everywhere. Our host was most accomodating and met us and gave us helpful information about the apartment. Our stay was in the month of Oct and it was chilly. Venetian law is strict with heating regulations but our host provided us with two portable heaters that kept the chill away. Francesco our host was even so helpful in arranging dinner reservations prior to our arrival at our favorite local Venetian restaraunts. Apartment is located in a very clean, quiet safe building with a stunning view of the rooftops of Venetian houses. We have visited Venice many times but Friari Suites is by far the best prpoperty with an attentive charming host.
  
  What could be improved: Not a thing

• Jes from United Kingdom – 11 November 2024 (9/10)

  A really lovely, comfortable apartment with all the necessities. Great location. The host was also very accommodating and clearly communicated instructions.
  
  What could be improved: It was a wonderful stay!

• David from United States – 8 November 2024 (9/10)

  Coffee was provided, the living room was spacious, and an excellent location.
  
  They provided a child high chair booster seat and bibs in addition to the crib requested.
  
  Very quiet. Nice windows kept out the cool evening air.
  
  What could be improved: Bedrooms were tight, couldn't really put luggage inside. 1 bedroom had ample storage.
  
  One bathroom was quite tight in space.

• Lorena from United States – 25 October 2024 (10/10)

  This was, by far, the best place we stayed on our 3 week tour of Europe. The apartment was clean, bright and spacious. Francesco has put so much thought into the small details and comfort of his guests. Each bedroom had 2 closets with ample space to store luggage on top of a couple of drawers, and still enough space to hang clothes above. Our bed was comfortable. After we discovered that the windows had exterior shutters that would close the room got top marks for being cool, dark and quiet. Perfect sleeping conditions in my opinion. The ensuite bathroom was full-sized with a tub and hand-held shower. The showers had good water pressure and sufficient hot water. The apartment was stylishly decorated, and had comfortable couches. The kitchen was well appointed with all the tools needed to make and serve meals. There were even umbrellas provided! The location was excellent. Close to the vaporetto stop; close to many excellent restaurants, but be sure to make reservations!; far enough away from the central attractions that the area didn't feel overrun, and wasn't loud. I felt safe there. Francesco personally greeted us and showed us into the apartment. He explained how to use things in the apartment, and gave us a list of recommended restaurants and attractions.
  
  What could be improved: We couldn't get the window shutters to close in the other bedroom. My husband didn't want to force the hinge. Please provide better instructions for taking out the garbage. The map wasn't well marked. Please include a photo of the area where the garbage boat docks. Does the garbage boat dock there for the entire time listed on the map? Or does it cruise past there during that time? We had to haul our garbage out with us because we couldn't find the boat.

• Joanne from United States – 24 July 2024 (10/10)

  Location was great. The fact that it was air conditioned and had an elevator helped us immensely.
  
  What could be improved: The bathtub in the main bathroom was slippery

• Robyn from Australia – 17 July 2024 (8/10)

  Close to Ca’ d’Oro Vaporetto (ferry) stop for easy movement on hot days, and easy access to train station.
  
  What could be improved: Property lobby includes some steps up, then down which cause difficulty for people with limited mobility.

• Bee from Singapore – 3 July 2024 (10/10)

  Love the well-decorated interior with thoughtful features e.g. recommendation of eating places/things to do, the clean rooms/bathrooms, the excellent location.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Richard from United States – 18 May 2024 (10/10)

  Perfectly located in the center of the action and close to the vaporettos. The host was great with recommendations and quick to answer any inquiries. The unit was clean, comfortable, and well set up. Perfect place for 2 couples or a family. 2 thumbs up
  
  What could be improved: Zero complaints

• Chantelle from Australia – 5 May 2024 (10/10)

  Location is fabulous
  Francesco was very accommodating and gave us a lot of great information on the area
  Accommodation was very clean
  Would definitely stay here again
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities