Hotel Gardena

Hotel Description

You know, when I first rolled into Venice by train at Santa Lucia station, I was already wiped from the journey—lugging my bag over those uneven bridges and all—but Hotel Gardena turned out to be a godsend, just a quick five-minute stroll away in the Santa Croce neighborhood. It’s tucked on this quiet little street, Santa Croce 239, right near the edge of where the real Venice starts fading into the more residential bits, away from the San Marco madness. Honestly, that location saved me; no need to hop on a vaporetto right away if you’re not up for it. I remember checking in around dusk, and the front desk guy—super friendly, with that classic Venetian accent—handed me a map and pointed out the best spot for a quick spritz at a nearby bacaro on Rio Terà San Leonardo. The lobby’s nothing fancy, sort of cozy with these old wooden beams and a faint whiff of polished oak, but it felt authentic, you know? Like stepping into someone’s well-loved home rather than some sterile chain. Oh, and parking—if you’re crazy enough to drive to Piazzale Roma (which is literally steps away), they can hook you up with garage tips, but fair warning, Venice isn’t car-friendly, so plan ahead.

What really won me over, though, was how the place balances that old-world charm with stuff that actually matters when you’re traveling. The rooms are on the smaller side—typical for a 3-star in Venice, I mean, space is at a premium here—but mine had this sweet view of a narrow canal, where you’d hear the soft lap of water against the stones in the morning, mixed with distant church bells from San Giacomo dell’Orio nearby. Breakfast was a highlight: fresh cornetti that were still warm, decent espresso (not the burnt stuff you get in tourist traps), and even some fruit and yogurt options if you’re not into the heavy carbs. I appreciated the quiet hours, too—nights were peaceful, no rowdy groups stumbling back from Campo Santa Margherita, which is just a 10-minute walk if you want some nightlife. Well, one minor gripe: the Wi-Fi could be spotty in the evenings during peak season (think summer crowds), but hey, it forced me to unplug and wander more. Staff were great about little things, like storing luggage post-checkout so I could squeeze in one last gelato run before my train. And location-wise, it’s perfect for day trips—grab a vaporetto from Riva de Biasio stop nearby to hit the Rialto or even Murano without the hassle.

All in all, with its solid 8.8 rating, Hotel Gardena’s the kind of spot that makes you feel like you’ve nailed Venice without breaking the bank or dealing with overwhelming tourist vibes. If you’re after an honest slice of the city—maybe exploring the hidden gardens in Santa Croce or just chilling with a book by the window—it’s a winner. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially off-season when the fog rolls in and everything feels a bit more magical. Just pack light, watch your step on those bridges, and you’ll be set.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $197. Classic Double or Twin Room with 1 double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $225. Superior Double Room with 1 double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $245. Superior Room with canal view with 1 double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $266. Triple Room with 1 single bed and 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $268. Deluxe room with Canal View with 1 double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Central location. Quiet – Jo from Australia – 16 July 2025 (9/10)

  Location and the breakfast spread. Both super
  
  What could be improved: No information about how to use the telephone. The only glass was in the bathroom.

• Exceptional – Jonathan from United States – 15 July 2025 (10/10)

  It was just a beautiful and upscale stay in Venice. The view was beautiful right on the canal and with sunset I enjoyed just staying in the room and watching it. It’s super convenient that they have someone at the desk. They are all so helpful around the clock. They have helped me with my stay it’s honestly so worth it.
  
  For example, I left my toothbrush behind as I was leaving for my next country. I called them a couple weeks later and asked if they found it. They said yes and sent me all the directions to properly send my toothbrush back to my home in the states. They said “we are at your service” really feels like a trustworthy business.
  
  I will 100% stay here in my next time in Venice as I come every summer. This place is worth it. Since it’s right next to the train station. Plus the bus station that takes you to and from the airport. Just such a gem

• Very good – Dominika from Poland – 13 July 2025 (8/10)

  Great location, tasty breakfast, comfortable bed and nice room. Baggage storage and friendly staff.
  
  What could be improved: No iron in the hotel was a bit challenging and mosquitos upon arrival. However overall experience was very good.

• A wonderful experience, very good staff, clean rooms, well located and will come back. Bravo! – Simon from United Kingdom – 4 July 2025 (8/10)

  Canal view
  Spacious
  Close to Ferrovia and train station
  
  What could be improved: No bar or terrace

• Nice hotel near Santa Lucia – Ambientdays from Russia – 1 July 2025 (8/10)

  The hotel is just in front of the Santa Lucia train station, which means you don't even have to take a vaporetto.
  The room is clean, good towels and a toilet kit. Nice garden to have breakfast.
  The staff was very kind to make a breakfast box for us.
  
  What could be improved: 1) Detected some mold in the bathroom.
  2) Though many thanks for the breakfast box that the reception staff kindly prepared for us (because of an early walk), we had an unpleasant experience with the kitchen staff. As we returned from the walk 5 min before the breakfast ended, we went to the breakfast area to have something to drink (because there were no drinks in the breakfast box). We also took a piece of cake and salami (oh no). The staff lady told us to leave because we already had a breakfast box. Bruh. You really think we went there to have a "second" breakfast? That's ridiculous.

• Exceptional – Maria from United States – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

  We went to Venice with the bikes from Stuttgart.
  The staff at the hotel were very kind and made sure that we felt welcome. Because we had to leave at 5am, they arranged a breakfast box for us.
  The location is very close to the train station and the price and value is very good for Venice.
  
  I would pick this hotel again!

• Superb – Clare from Canada – 29 June 2025 (9/10)

  Great location. Easy check in and out. Fair price for location and accommodation.

• Superb – Mckenna from United States – 28 June 2025 (9/10)

  Perfect location! Right by the bus stop to the airport, as well as a short walk to the train station. It was nice not having to walk very far with our luggage. Felt so fancy with our canal view and vintage-looking furniture. Staff was very kind and helpful as well!
  
  What could be improved: Shower was clean, but the shower head itself we had to hold.

• I would recommend this property – Charlene from United States – 25 June 2025 (10/10)

  The staff was great. It was a convenient location to the train station as well as the pick up location for our day excursion.
  
  What could be improved: No complaints.

• Superb – Scapin from Australia – 25 June 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, near the train station and ferries. Room was very spacious with a balcony. Breakfast was delicious. Staff were friendly and helpful. If I visit Venice again, I will have no hesitation to book Hotel Gardena again.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities