Hotel Da Bruno

Hotel Description

You know, the first time I stumbled upon Hotel Da Bruno, I was weaving through those narrow calli in Venice’s Castello district after hopping off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria – honestly, it’s a bit of a trek if you’ve got luggage, but that’s Venice for you, right? No cars, just your feet and maybe a water taxi if you’re feeling flush. The address is Castello 5726/A, tucked right off Campo Santa Maria Formosa, which is this charming little square locals actually hang out in – not the tourist crush of San Marco, but close enough that you’re only a 10-minute wander to the Rialto Bridge. I remember arriving in the late afternoon during shoulder season (September, before the real crowds hit), and the air had that briny canal tang mixed with fresh bread from the bakery next door – sensory overload in the best way. The facade is unassuming, sort of faded terracotta with those classic Venetian shutters, but stepping inside felt like being welcomed by an old friend. The owner – I think his name was Marco, or was it Bruno? – well, he chatted me up about the day’s catch at the nearby market while handling check-in, no fuss, just a key and a smile.

What really won me over, though, was how this 3-star spot punches above its weight without trying too hard. My room was on the second floor (stairs only, mind you – no elevator, which could be a drag if you’re not up for it), overlooking a quiet side canal where you hear the occasional gondolier humming rather than the constant buzz of vaporettos. It wasn’t huge – Venice hotels rarely are – but the bed was comfy, with crisp linens that smelled faintly of lavender, and there was this antique wooden desk that made me feel like I could pen a postcard or two. Breakfast is included, and it’s nothing fancy, but oh man, the cornetti fresh from that bakery I mentioned? Flaky, warm, and paired with strong espresso – way better than the overpriced stuff at Piazza San Marco cafes. The Wi-Fi’s solid, which is a godsend for mapping out your day, and they even have a tiny courtyard out back where you can sip prosecco in the evening, listening to church bells from Santa Maria Formosa pealing softly. I mean, it’s not perfect – the bathroom was a tad cramped, and if you’re here in high summer, the lack of AC might have you cracking a window to the humid night air – but that’s part of the authentic charm, you know? No sterile chain hotel vibes here.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels genuinely Venetian without breaking the bank – and with that 8.9 rating, it’s clear plenty agree – Hotel Da Bruno is a gem for travelers who want to dip into the real rhythm of the city. It’s ideal for couples or solo wanderers who don’t mind a bit of grit with their romance; families might find it tight, but hey, that’s why you explore during the day. I left feeling like I’d uncovered a little secret in Castello, and honestly, I’d book it again in a heartbeat – just pack light and time your visit for those quieter months when Venice whispers rather than shouts.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $158. Economy Single Room with 1 single bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $200. Single Room with 1 single bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $295. Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $384. Triple Room with 1 single bed, 1 large double bed and 3 single beds for 1 – 3 guests
• Estimated price from: $444. Quadruple Room with 2 single beds, 1 large double bed and 4 single beds for 1 – 4 guests

Reviews

• Juana from Belgium – 20 February 2023 (9/10)

  It’s the perfect location to visit the city in a few days. The staff is very friendly and helpful. Very happy with this hotel.

• Maryia from Belarus – 3 April 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, excellent breakfast
  Staff is amazing. Helped us with all questions we had.
  I definitely recommend to stay here for your trip

• Sinan from Turkey – 2 April 2025 (9/10)

  It is a value of money, a great location, a clean rooms and perfect breakfast.

• Martin from Ireland – 31 March 2025 (8/10)

  Location,staff
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast a bit cramped

• David from United Kingdom – 26 March 2025 (9/10)

  Location was great with restaurants and cafes all nearby. Breakfast was lovely start to the day. Hotel had 24/7 reception which was also good.
  
  What could be improved: Room a bit small. But dont think this was unusual for hitels generally

• Brigite from United Kingdom – 24 March 2025 (8/10)

  Excelent location, confortable room and bed.
  Good, diverse breakfast.
  
  What could be improved: Located in a busy area so its possible to hear noise from the street

• Paul from Ireland – 23 March 2025 (9/10)

  Location & Staff excellent

• Elizabeth from United Kingdom – 18 March 2025 (8/10)

  Lovely small and very well located hotel.
  The front desk staff were exceptional and couldn’t do enough for us answering every question we had and giving advice on routes etc. The buffet breakfast was excellent, good choice of sweet, savoury and healthy options. The bed was a little hard for my liking.
  
  What could be improved: Coffee was rubbish, one of those multi purpose machines.

• Olga from France – 13 March 2025 (9/10)

  Great location and very friendly staff.

• Oksana from Ukraine – 10 March 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, breakfast, helpful staff, Venice is beautiful, I recommend. Thank you

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities