Grimaldi Apartments San Marco & Castello

Hotel Description

You know, the first time I stumbled upon Grimaldi Apartments in Venice, I was dragging my suitcase over those uneven cobblestones in San Marco, half-lost after hopping off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria – honestly, that’s the stop you want if you’re aiming for the heart of things without the massive crowds at Rialto right away. These aren’t your typical hotel rooms; they’re scattered apartments in different spots around San Marco and Castello, which means you might end up in a cozy spot off Calle Larga San Marco or tucked away near Campo Santa Maria Formosa, depending on availability. I got one overlooking a narrow canal – nothing fancy like the Grand Canal views, but charming in that lived-in Venetian way, with exposed wooden beams and those creaky floors that make you feel like you’re stepping back in time. Check-in was a breeze; they email you codes and directions ahead, so no waiting around – perfect after a long flight, though I did fumble with the lock for a minute in the dim evening light. And parking? Forget it – this is Venice, so leave the car in Mestre or at the airport garage; everything’s on foot or by boat here.

What really won me over was how these places blend right into the neighborhood vibe. My apartment had a full kitchen – we’re talking a proper stove and fridge, not some sad microwave setup – so I could pop into the little market on Campo San Barnaba for fresh prosciutto and cheese, whip up a simple pasta, and avoid those overpriced tourist traps along the main drags. The beds were comfy, with that crisp linen smell, and the bathrooms modern enough (rain showerheads, even), but don’t expect a doorman or room service; it’s more self-catering, which suits Venice’s rhythm – you know, waking up to the sound of church bells from San Marco’s Campanile echoing through the alleys, or the faint salty whiff from the lagoon on a breezy morning. It’s quiet at night, surprisingly, once the day-trippers clear out after sunset, though in peak summer, you might hear the occasional gondolier serenading late into the evening. I mean, it’s not soundproofed like some big chains, so light sleepers, pack earplugs – but that’s part of the authentic charm, right? And location-wise, you’re steps from hidden gems like the Libreria Acqua Alta bookstore in Castello, or a quick walk to the Bridge of Sighs; I loved wandering out for an early espresso at a no-name cafe, dodging the pigeons in Piazza San Marco before the masses descend.

All in all, if you’re after that “I’m actually living in Venice” feel rather than just visiting, Grimaldi’s a solid pick – their 9.1 rating feels spot-on from my stay. It’s not flawless; the Wi-Fi can be spotty in those thick stone walls, and climbing stairs with luggage (no elevators in most) is a workout, especially post-gelato binge. But for a 4-star setup, it’s great value, letting you soak in the city’s magic without breaking the bank. I’d go back in a heartbeat, maybe in shoulder season like April when the canals aren’t sweltering and the streets feel more yours. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that turns a trip into a story you’ll tell over drinks back home.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $227. One-Bedroom Apartment – Second Floor – San Marco 2247 with 1 large double bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $263. Ca’ Zaccaria Two-Bedroom Apartment – Castello 4993 with 1 large double bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $266. Ca’ del Nonno Two-Bedroom Apartment – Castello 4892 with 1 large double bed and 1 single bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $299. Cà Sandra Two Bedroom Apartment – Castello 3581 with 2 × 1 large double bed for 1 – 1 guests

Reviews

• Kadvanj from Serbia – 20 October 2023 (9/10)

  Very nice place, in a good location. There are several bars and restaurants near the property. The sea is also a few minutes walk. Arsenale is very near.

• Aamir from Saudi Arabia – 31 December 2024 (9/10)

  Location was great and at 1st Floor.
  
  What could be improved: Mattress in left hand bedroom was old and hurt my back. This needs an upgrade.

• Gemma from Canada – 3 October 2024 (8/10)

  Spacious place, kitchen, bathroom, living room.
  
  What could be improved: Laundry detergent isn’t provided even with washing machine.

• Andrew from Ireland – 30 September 2024 (9/10)

  Despite the under whelming front door and hall the apartment was fabulous. Well laid out and beautifully decorated. Situated in the middle of San Marco easy to access the city
  
  What could be improved: Loads of cups and one bowl?

• Caroline from Spain – 25 September 2024 (9/10)

  It has such a cute charm and everything you need very well equipped
  
  What could be improved: I liked it all

• Theloor from Canada – 19 August 2024 (9/10)

  – Great place to stay for short term.
  – Host offered to change our stay from partially air conditioned apartment to fully air conditioned unit without any additional cost…thank you.
  – Host helped with site seeing information, local travel and guidelines to purchase local tickets
  – Super helpful with all instructions on how to use the apartment amenities.
  
  What could be improved: – No elevator to second floor (this was already known at the time of booking)
  – Bathroom shower: Water flow was very poor (tried all settings on the shower)
  – Host asked us to pay (which we didn't) money to remove broken key from the downstairs keyhole. The key was broken and got stuck inside keyhole (on day 2 of 3) when we tried to open the building door. For some reason the keypad to unlock the door didn't work and after multiple attempts, we used key to unlock the door that that is when it got stuck and broke. We immediately informed owner. Host asked us to pull the broken key out if we have to get inside, but we couldn't. We waited outside for some time, maybe the keypad reset itself and finally it worked, and we were able to go inside the building. Host again asked us to use a pin to pull the broken key out. Neither the apartment nor we did have any pins. However, we tried again few times to pull the key out but failed. Host repaired it next day morning and asked us to pay 25 euro. We were not ready to pay the same as it was an accidental damage. (It will be like paying a hotel when key card doesn't work) We asked for booking.com policy and terms /conditions where it says we must pay for accidental damage but didn't get response for this question from host.
  – Didn't use microwave, kitchen, dishwater and washing machine as were scared of damaging their appliances (also informed the host)
  – Rushed back to the apartment, as requested by the host, from a nearby restaurant to close all the shutters of the apartment when storm came. No complaints here (as this helps protect the apartment from storm) but bit inconvenience as we had to go back to the restaurant again to continue with our drinks!

• Robert from United Kingdom – 1 August 2024 (9/10)

  The apartment was beautifully kept, spacious and had all the amenities we were hoping for. It was located really nicely between S.Marco and Rialto so that each was no more than 10mins away by foot. It was quiet and the host provided a lovely welcome pack and was SO helpful with suggestions and advice.
  
  We even managed to buy fresh fish at market, bring it back and cook it using the kitchen which was just fabulous.
  
  We will be returning for sure.
  
  What could be improved: There is literally nothing we can think of.

• Wafa from Saudi Arabia – 20 July 2024 (9/10)

  The host was nice and friendly and helpful, the apartment was very clean and had everything in it. The location is near every thing.
  
  What could be improved: Maybe one thing that there is no elevator in the house, if you have heavy luggage you will have to carry them to the apartment.

• Lutte from United States – 5 July 2024 (9/10)

  It was in a fairly quiet area away from tourist traffic but still perfectly located to walk anywhere.
  
  What could be improved: The bed was not as soft as I like or used to but that is the hardest part of traveling. 😁. Also we would have been a little more comfortable if there was a lock on the second floor door. This is not that big of a deal as the apartment entrance was very secure. It is more of mental security issue.

• Sharon from United States – 24 June 2024 (9/10)

  The location was perfect, just a short walk from Piazza San Marco.
  
  What could be improved: We were told it was one flight upstairs, but it was more like 2. Fortunately my son was with us and handled the suitcases.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities