Hotel Carlton Capri

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Hotel Carlton Capri during one of those whirlwind trips to Venice where I was trying to dodge the massive crowds in San Marco – honestly, who needs that chaos first thing off the train? It’s tucked away in Santa Croce, right on Santa Croce 595/a, just a quick five-minute walk from the Santa Lucia train station or Piazzale Roma if you’re rolling in by bus or car. I mean, parking in Venice is a nightmare anyway, but leaving your wheels at the Piazzale and strolling over with your luggage isn’t half bad – there’s even a little bridge or two to cross, which gives you that instant “I’m in Venice” vibe without the hassle. The building itself is this unassuming three-story spot with a classic Venetian facade – think faded pink stucco and those narrow windows that let in slivers of canal light. When I checked in, the front desk guy was all smiles, chatting about the best vaporetto route to the Rialto (take the No. 1, he said, and skip the tourist traps for a real espresso at a place like Caffè del Doge nearby). Rooms are cozy, sort of compact like most spots in this city – mine had this old wooden armoire that creaked a bit and a bed that was firm but comfy after a day of wandering. Oh, and the bathroom? Spotless, with those tiny mosaic tiles that feel authentically Italian, though the shower pressure was more of a gentle trickle than a power blast, you know?

What really won me over, though, was how it felt like a local hideaway in a neighborhood that’s still got that lived-in charm – Santa Croce isn’t overrun like Dorsoduro or Cannaregio can get in high season (we’re talking July-August madness). Mornings, I’d wake to the distant hum of vaporettos on the Grand Canal, maybe a whiff of baking bread from the panificio down the street on Rio Terà San Leonardo. Breakfast in the hotel’s little dining room was a highlight – nothing fancy, but fresh croissants, cappuccino that actually tasted like it was made with love, and those jars of Nutella that make you feel like a kid again. I wandered out to Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio, just a couple blocks away, where locals sip spritzes in the evenings and kids play soccer – it’s one of those squares that reminds you Venice isn’t just for postcards. The hotel’s got this quiet energy at night, too; sure, you might hear the occasional train rumble if your room faces the back, but it’s way better than the party noise over in San Polo. Staff were pros at little tips, like avoiding the crowds by hitting the Frari church early (it’s a 10-minute walk) or grabbing cicchetti at a bacaro like All’Arco if you’re peckish. Well, minor gripe: the Wi-Fi could be spotty in the upper floors, but hey, you’re in Venice – put the phone down and stare at the canals.

All in all, with its solid 8.4 rating and three-star setup, Hotel Carlton Capri is perfect if you’re after that authentic Venetian stay without breaking the bank or your back hauling bags across half the city. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve got a secret spot in a town that’s seen it all – come in shoulder season like April or October for the best vibes, when the fog rolls in and everything feels a tad magical. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for that breakfast and the easy access to real Venice life.

Reviews

• Martin from Ireland – 5 January 2025 (9/10)

  Was upgraded to Carlton on the canal, which was wonderful.

• Julie from Australia – 2 April 2025 (9/10)

  Location is amazing. STAFF is so friendly and the facilities are clean. Second time staying at the hotel, we will be back

• Ani from United States – 6 March 2025 (8/10)

  Perfect location near train station with local pastry shops, laundromat, great restaurants., vaporetto stops.

• Yuan from Taiwan – 2 March 2025 (8/10)

  The hotel is very nice located
  The breakfast is correct for its price at 10 euros
  Hotel reception was good (professional but feeling less friendly)
  
  What could be improved: The superior room did not quite meet my expectations.

• Lauren from United Kingdom – 30 January 2025 (9/10)

  Great price, located just off the grand canal down a quiet side street. Good breakfast, not sure why people complain about it but it's great value for money compared to the standard coffee and croissant price in Venice itself and you get loads more. Staff were very helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Walls are quite thin.

• Kamile from Lithuania – 22 January 2025 (9/10)

  Very good location!

• Jasbir from United Kingdom – 21 January 2025 (9/10)

  Location was excellent , quiet area, only 2 minutes away from Venice canal .
  
  What could be improved: There should be complimentary tea & coffee facilities in the room or at least a kettle & cups in the room provided.

• Yuran from United States – 17 January 2025 (8/10)

  Perfect

• Laura from United States – 12 January 2025 (8/10)

  Location, cleanliness and friendliness of staff. The WiFi was good for zoom meetings.
  Pillows were supportive and fluffy.

• Laura from Australia – 12 January 2025 (8/10)

  Great location to all sights, very close to Santa Lucia train station. Very big bathroom, spacious room. Beds were comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Rooms were hot but could regulate own temperatures.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities