Hotel Fontana

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Hotel Fontana during one of those whirlwind trips to Venice where I was trying to avoid the crush of tourists around San Marco – and honestly, it turned out to be a gem. Tucked away in the Castello district at Castello 4701, it’s just a short wander from the San Zaccaria vaporetto stop, which is super handy if you’re coming in from the airport or the train station. I remember hopping off the boat, dodging a few pigeons, and weaving through those narrow calles – you know, the ones lined with laundry hanging overhead and the faint salty whiff from the nearby canal. No cars in Venice, obviously, so parking isn’t even a thing, but if you’re lugging bags, it’s a relief that the hotel’s not buried too deep in the labyrinth. Check-in was a breeze; the staff – mostly locals, I think – were chatting away in that melodic Venetian dialect, and they sorted me out with a room key and a quick map sketch faster than you can say “espresso.” It’s a 3-star spot, so don’t expect marble palaces, but the lobby has this cozy, old-world charm with worn wooden beams and a faint scent of fresh pastries drifting from the breakfast area – yeah, they bake their own cornetti, which is a nice touch in the mornings.

What really won me over, though, was how it feels like a slice of real Venice without the gimmicks. My room was on the second floor, overlooking a quiet courtyard – well, “quiet” until the bells from the nearby Chiesa di San Zaccaria start ringing at dawn, but hey, that’s part of the magic, right? The bed was comfy enough, with those crisp white sheets that crinkle just so, and the bathroom, while compact (I mean, space is at a premium here), had hot water on demand and decent toiletries. It’s rated 8.8 for a reason – clean, no frills, but with thoughtful perks like free Wi-Fi that actually works (unlike some spots I’ve stayed in) and air conditioning that hums softly through the humid summer nights. I spent evenings strolling out to Campo Santa Maria Formosa, just a five-minute walk away, where locals grab gelato at that little place on the corner – avoid the tourist traps and head there for pistachio that’s out of this world. Oh, and if you’re into history, the Arsenale is practically next door; I wandered over one afternoon and caught a glimpse of those massive shipyard gates, feeling like I’d stepped back in time. Minor gripe? The elevator’s a bit pokey, and during high season (think July-August), the area can get a tad noisy with day-trippers spilling over from San Marco – but nothing a pair of earplugs can’t fix.

All in all, if you’re after an authentic stay that doesn’t break the bank, Hotel Fontana’s your spot – it’s got that lived-in feel that makes you forget you’re in one of the world’s most visited cities. I’ve recommended it to friends who want to experience Venice like a local, sipping spritz at a bacaro down the calle rather than queuing for gondolas. Sort of reminds you why you travel in the first place, you know?

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $132. Comfort Double or Twin Room with 1 double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Robert from Netherlands – 30 March 2024 (9/10)

  Old-fashioned manners. The staff were kindly and had plenty of time for conversation with guests. We really felt comfortable there.

• Emma from Ireland – 2 April 2025 (9/10)

  Firstly, all the staff so helpful and friendly. Room was double room with a balcony. Hotel is very old &very out dated but our room was lovely. Bathroom newly done up and very clean. Beds made everyday and fresh towel ready after a long day of walking exploring Venice.
  Literally 2min walk to the Main square and other sote seeings. Would defo stay again..Really nice bar to the left of the hotel (can't remember what it's called but chilled vibe and few little seats outside)
  
  What could be improved: Resteraunts located outside the hotel. I would not eat in them, we ate as we had just arrived but very overpriced if you walk 2/3mins over the rivers they're is a quirky bar just to the left not sure of the name bit they do fab cocktails it's just up on the left across from a little convince store🥰

• Yıldız from Turkey – 25 March 2025 (9/10)

  Location was great, very walkable to the vaporetto stop and cozy neighborhood. Did not try their breakfast as we wanted to experience different establishments as much as possible.

• Thomas from United Kingdom – 25 March 2025 (8/10)

  Family hotel since the 1600s, all the staff were extremely friendly, especially Federico. Quiet room as requested, functional rather than over-decorous. Plenty of room in the hall, modern shower room, and a pleasant balcony. Location was excellent, near to the main attractions, with plenty of eateries in the vicinity.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Rosalind from United Kingdom – 24 March 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, spacious room.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing at all. Lovely Venetian family run property.

• Sophie from United Kingdom – 15 February 2025 (9/10)

  Perfect location for Venice exploring! Staff super friendly and welcoming. Travelled with a baby and they were very accommodating with kettle & cot for the room!
  Lift in the hotel for convenience too. Room was a lot bigger than expected. Plenty of space for luggage pram cot and baby to crawl around
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Anna from Hungary – 6 December 2024 (9/10)

  This was my second stay here, I would definitely recommend this place.

• Busettini from Italy – 3 December 2024 (9/10)

  The location was close to Saint Mark Square and the ferries. Although there are many restaurants and a school nearby, we found it a very quiet place. The breakfast was quite good for 11 €.
  
  What could be improved: No issues. Happy to return there if back in Venice.

• Kendall from United States – 20 October 2024 (9/10)

  The location was excellent to see all that Venice has to offer. We took the Alilaguna water transportation from the airport to the San Zaccaria stop. From there it was a 4-5 minute walk that was fairly easy pulling our luggage as it was flat with no canals to cross. The hotel is family owned and operated. They spoke English and were very accommodating and helpful with directions. Saint Marks plaza, basilica, Doge’s palace, and the canals are a short 5-10 minute walk.
  
  What could be improved: Not much.

• Lisa from United States – 4 October 2024 (9/10)

  Excellent location! Very friendly staff. I would definitely stay here again.
  
  What could be improved: Our bathroom was a little small, but that is too be expected in a historic building.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities