Hotel Gorizia a La Valigia

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Hotel Gorizia a La Valigia after weaving through the narrow alleys off Calle Fabbri – you know, that little street tucked between the buzz of Rialto and the grandeur of San Marco Square. It’s not one of those flashy spots that scream for attention; honestly, it’s more like a cozy old friend who’s been waiting for you in the heart of Venice. I arrived by vaporetto from the train station, lugging my bag over the Ponte di Rialto (which, fair warning, gets insanely crowded around midday in summer – think shoulder-to-shoulder tourists snapping selfies), and it was a quick five-minute walk from there. No cars in Venice, obviously, so everything’s on foot, but this place is perfectly positioned if you’re into exploring without wasting time. Check-in was a breeze; the front desk guy – Marco, I think his name was – chatted about the best gelato spot nearby on Calle dei Fabbri itself, some family-run place with pistachio that tastes like it was made that morning. The lobby has this vintage vibe, with worn marble floors that echo a bit when you wheel in your suitcase (hence the name “La Valigia,” I suppose – “the suitcase” in Italian), and there’s a faint scent of espresso lingering from the breakfast area. It’s not huge or modern, but that’s Venice for you – space is a luxury here.

What really won me over were the rooms – mine was on the second floor, overlooking a quiet canal branch that doesn’t get much boat traffic, so mornings were peaceful, just the soft lap of water and distant church bells from San Moisè nearby. The bed was comfy enough, with those crisp white sheets that feel like they’ve been line-dried in the sun, though the air conditioning hummed a tad loudly on warmer nights (nothing a fan couldn’t drown out, but pack earplugs if you’re a light sleeper). Breakfast is included, and it’s simple but solid – fresh croissants, cappuccino that actually tastes like it’s from a proper Italian bar, and some fruit that’s way better than the hotel buffets you find in bigger chains. I mean, it’s not gourmet, but paired with the view from the tiny terrace, it sets you up nicely for a day of wandering to La Fenice theater (literally steps away) or dodging the pigeons in Piazza San Marco. Oh, and the Wi-Fi? Surprisingly reliable for streaming a quick show after a long day – rare in these old buildings where signals can get spotty. One minor gripe: the bathroom was on the snug side, with a shower that takes a second to heat up, but hey, it’s a 3-star in Venice, not a palace.

All in all, if you’re looking for an authentic slice of Venetian life without breaking the bank – rooms start around €150 in shoulder season, which is a steal for San Marco – this is your spot. It’s got that lived-in charm that makes you feel like a local, not just another tourist. Well, sort of – the area does get noisy in peak times with all the day-trippers, but slip out early or late, and it’s magical. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for a fall trip when the crowds thin out and you can actually hear yourself think while sipping spritz at a nearby bacaro on Campo San Fantin. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that sticks with you long after you’ve left the lagoon.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $207. Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $272. Triple Room with 1 single bed, 1 large double bed and 3 single beds for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Herminio from Puerto Rico – 4 December 2024 (9/10)

  Staff very professional and helpful. Location is great and the breakfasts were very good. Housekeeping very good. I will recommend it with no doubt.

• Beth from United States – 2 April 2025 (9/10)

  Spacious room with large bathroom, comfortable bed and windows with shutters to block out light.
  Breakfast was plentiful with hot and cold choices.
  The property was very close to San Marco plaza.

• Marie from United Kingdom – 1 April 2025 (9/10)

  What could be improved: It didn’t have a bar

• Lynn from United Kingdom – 30 March 2025 (9/10)

  the breakfast included english and continental-staff were helpful -booking is essential as it does fill up as it is a small dinning area -food was great-the location between rialto bridge and st marks was perfect -so quiet
  
  What could be improved: the rooms were clean adequet but could do with some updating -but still very comfortible

• Yevheniia from United Kingdom – 29 March 2025 (9/10)

  Here was all we needed for short holidays in Venice. Comfortable, clean, great location. Breakfast is tasty.

• Kiriaki from Greece – 28 March 2025 (9/10)

  THE BREAKFAST WAS PERFECT,THE HOTEL IS NEAR TO EVERYTHING IN VENICE AND THE STAFF VERY HELPFUL
  EVERYTHING WAS JUST PERFECT!!!!
  
  What could be improved: NOTHING

• Louise from United Kingdom – 19 March 2025 (9/10)

  Good, varied breakfast.
  Helpful and friendly staff, especially at reception, in the breakfast room and those who cleaned the hotel. Any requests were dealt with swiftly and professionally.
  Room cleaned well every day. Towels etc replenished.
  Very central location. Can walk everywhere.
  Despite central position our room was very quiet. Really comfortable bed.
  Very clean rooms.
  We liked the old fashioned presentation and style of the hotel. If you like modern, sleek facilities and style this is possibly not the hotel for you.
  
  What could be improved: We liked everything!

• Susan from United Kingdom – 18 March 2025 (9/10)

  It felt very opulent, the room was a good size and the bed comfortable. The toiletries were very good and replenished daily. The breakfast was very good with generous portions and the staff attentive
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Andreea from Romania – 18 March 2025 (9/10)

  Location was great, in walking distance to main sightseeing spots, restaurants and walking through the small streets and canals. The room was clean & had a beautiful decor; it was not very big – but enough for us & the luggage.
  The staff was friendly and the breakfast was nice, perfect to start the day.
  Note: For the breakfast you need to select a time slot, so depending on when you go at the reception, the available slots might be less or more).
  
  What could be improved: The windows didn't have dark curtains; for us it was ok as they were facing the back of the building, so not a lot of light came through – but something to keep in mind if you prefer complete darkness in the morning.

• Sandra from Australia – 17 March 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent location. A very short walk from the water taxis and the Rialto bridge. Very easy to find and to get to all the tourist spots especially the duomo. Beds were comfortable room was clean. Able to open a window for fresh air. Breakfast was simple but satisfying.
  
  What could be improved: Our room was the last at the top of 4th floor and the lift only went to the 3rd floor so we had to haul our bags up a full flight of stairs which was a bit of nightmare especially when I booked as it had a lift. The shower flooded the floor each time we showered no matter how hard we tried not to. Just a design fault in the over bath shower and not enough screen to block the water. More annoying than anything. Room was so warm despite the fact we turned all heating off. Lucky we were able to open a window. But these are minor things and not a big deal for us.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities