Hotel Casa Nicolò Priuli

Hotel Description

You know, stumbling upon Hotel Casa Nicolò Priuli felt like one of those lucky finds in Venice that you only get if you’ve wandered off the beaten path a bit – I mean, it’s tucked away in the Castello district, right on Fondamenta San Lorenzo, just a short stroll from the vaporetto stop at San Zaccaria. I arrived late afternoon during that shoulder season lull in early October, when the crowds thin out and you can actually hear the water lapping against the canal without the constant buzz of tour groups. Honestly, the place has this old-world charm – it’s in a restored 19th-century palazzo, with those high ceilings and creaky wooden floors that make you feel like you’re stepping into a piece of Venetian history. Check-in was a breeze; the staff – mostly locals who know every shortcut around the sestiere – handed over my key with a quick chat about the best nearby osteria for cicchetti (you’ve got to try the one on Calle della Madonna, it’s unpretentious and the spritz is spot-on). No parking hassles, obviously, since this is Venice, but if you’re hauling luggage, they’ll point you to the porters who can schlep it from the water bus for a few euros.

What really won me over, though, was how the hotel balances that authentic, lived-in vibe with just enough comfort to make you forget you’re in a 3-star spot – the rating’s a solid 8.9 for a reason. My room overlooked the canal (ask for one on the upper floors if you can; the views of the boats gliding by at dawn are magical, though you might hear the occasional gondolier belting out a tune early morning – sort of romantic, unless you’re a light sleeper). The beds are firm but cozy, with those heavy brocade curtains that block out the light perfectly after a day of dodging pigeons in Piazza San Marco, which is only about a 10-minute walk away. Breakfast is simple – fresh cornetti, cappuccino, maybe some prosciutto – served in this little courtyard that’s shaded by vines in summer, but watch out for the pigeons swooping in if you linger too long. It’s not fancy, no spa or anything, but there’s a honesty to it; the Wi-Fi’s reliable (crucial for mapping out your next vaporetto route), and the air con works quietly, which is a godsend in July when the humidity hits. Oh, and if you’re into history, the hotel’s named after some noble family – they even have old portraits in the lobby that spark fun conversations with the desk guy, who’ll tell you stories about the neighborhood’s shipbuilding past.

All in all, if you’re the type who wants Venice without the over-the-top glitz – you know, skipping the mega-hotels on the Grand Canal for something more intimate – this place is a gem. It’s quiet in the evenings, away from the Rialto chaos, yet close enough to pop over to the Arsenale for those biennale exhibits if that’s your thing. Sure, the stairs can be a workout with no elevator in parts (pack light!), and rooms vary in size, so specify if you need space. But honestly, for the price and that genuine feel, I’d book it again in a heartbeat – especially in off-peak times when you can snag a deal and have the canals almost to yourself.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $241. Economy Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $280. Classic Room with 2 × 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $371. Superior Room with Canal View with 2 × 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $498. Deluxe Double or Twin Room with Terrace and Canal View with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $344. Comfort Room with 2 single beds, 1 large double bed and 4 single beds for 1 – 3 guests
• Estimated price from: $547. Two-Bedroom Suite with 1 single bed, 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 4 guests

Reviews

• Marko from Croatia – 14 January 2025 (9/10)

  Perfect place in central position ,good breakfast,friendly staff.

• Ken from United Kingdom – 4 April 2025 (8/10)

  Great location
  Breakfast selection was varied and well presented
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Ahmad from Germany – 3 April 2025 (9/10)

  It was great

• Olga from Estonia – 1 April 2025 (9/10)

  Absolutely amazing stay! It was my first time in Venice, and I couldn’t have chosen a better hotel. The cleanliness was exceptional – a spotless room, crisp white linens, and fresh towels. The breakfast was delicious, a perfect start to the day. The staff was incredibly kind and attentive, making me feel truly welcome.
  
  The location is perfect – close to all the main attractions and water transport, yet in a quiet and dry area, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep. I loved every moment and would definitely return. Highly recommend this hotel❤️

• Szymon from Poland – 18 March 2025 (9/10)

  Reasonable price-quality ratio.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was great!

• Tony from Isle of Man – 2 March 2025 (9/10)

  Super accommodation as we had hoped. Very central and convenient, a lovely varied breakfast. Staff were very accommodating and (very picky) assisted with our bags to the third floor. There is no lift in the annex rooms. Being disabled i would not have managed without them and had hoped for a room on the first floor. As I say a small gripe. The hotel was really very good.

• Amy from United Kingdom – 17 February 2025 (8/10)

  We really enjoyed our stay here. The canal view room was large and comfortable, and in such a perfect location to explore Venice. Breakfast was in the hotel next door which was fine by us but worth noting for the sake of this review. You also had to check in next door which was a little confusing on arrival, though quickly resolved. Every time we needed help from the staff they were so helpful with maps and advice on the transport system/restaurant recommendations etc.
  
  What could be improved: If I was being really picky I'd say the breakfast was average and some of the furnishings were a bit tired. But for the price it was worth it to us 🙂

• Juan from Argentina – 6 January 2025 (8/10)

  the room was ample and very quiet; has all the staff that you need;
  
  What could be improved: n/a

• Karen from Ireland – 30 December 2024 (9/10)

  Really central location, the room was spacious and really nicely decorated. Friendly staff
  
  What could be improved: The room was very warm.

• Rhiannon from United Kingdom – 17 December 2024 (9/10)

  Great location. Comfortable and quiet. Lovely staff
  
  What could be improved: Room was a bit too hot. But it was v cold outside so not a huge issue!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities