Hotel Le Isole

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Hotel Le Isole during one of those drizzly October afternoons in Venice – you know, when the tourists thin out a bit and the city feels more like it’s yours. I’d just hopped off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria, dodging the usual throng on Riva degli Schiavoni, and wandered into the quieter lanes of Castello. It’s tucked away in Campo San Provolo, this little square that’s honestly a gem – not overrun like San Marco, but close enough that you’re only a five-minute stroll from the Basilica if you time it right before the crowds hit. The building itself is one of those classic Venetian spots, all weathered brick and shuttered windows, with a tiny courtyard entrance that smells faintly of damp stone and morning espresso from the bar next door. Check-in was a breeze; the front desk guy – Marco, I think his name was – chatted me up about the best route to avoid the high water during acqua alta season, which was super helpful since I’d forgotten my wellies. No elevator, mind you, so if you’re hauling heavy bags up those narrow stairs, well, consider it your daily workout – but hey, that’s Venice for you.

What really won me over, though, was how it felt like a cozy hideaway amid all the chaos. The rooms are on the smaller side – I mean, space is at a premium here – but mine had this sweet view over the campo, with church bells from Santa Maria Formosa chiming softly in the mornings, not the blaring kind that jolt you awake. Breakfast is served in a bright little room downstairs, nothing fancy, just fresh croissants, yogurt, and that strong Italian coffee that hits different after a night of wandering. Honestly, it’s the staff that make it special; they’re locals who’ll point you to hidden spots like the Libreria Acqua Alta bookstore nearby or suggest taking the less-touristy path along Fondamenta Nuove for sunset views over the lagoon. Noise-wise, it’s pretty peaceful at night – no canal traffic right outside, though you might hear the occasional seagull or distant boat horn if your window’s open. One minor gripe: the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the back rooms, especially during peak summer when everyone’s streaming, but who comes to Venice to scroll Instagram anyway?

All in all, if you’re after that authentic slice of Venetian life without the over-the-top luxury prices – it’s a solid 3-star with an 8.9 rating that feels earned – Hotel Le Isole is where I’d steer friends. It’s perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to dip into the action (like catching a concert at La Fenice, just a bridge away) but retreat to somewhere quiet. Book in shoulder season if you can; summers get steamy and packed, but spring or fall? Pure magic, with fewer lines and that misty light over the canals. You won’t regret it – actually, I might just go back myself next time.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $233. Economy Double Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $288. Classic Double Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $336. Double or Twin Room with Canal View with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Ana from Croatia – 1 September 2024 (9/10)

  Charming hotel in a heart of Venice.Big room and nice furniture. You can walk everywhere and there is a little piazza with nice little restaurants. Staff was very nice, too. 🙂 we would stay here again!
  
  What could be improved: Bathroom is a bit small, needs renovation.

• Maria from United Kingdom – 14 February 2025 (9/10)

  The location was perfect. Weather glorious although chilly at night (beginning of Feb). Hotel a few minutes from the main square. Arrived by water taxi. Return 27 euros for 2 people. Easy to find the pick up point in the airport as clear signage but also tourist information can point you in the right direction. Bought our tickets at the tourist information. Clear directions on hotel website re stop to alight at and how to get to hotel. No stairs to negotiate with cases when getting to the property. Central for restaurants, shops etc. Stepping out from the hotel with the canal in front of you is lovely as you feel you are off the beaten track, yet round the corner is everything you need. Staff all wonderful. Breakfast lovely with a wide choice. Usual meats, cheese, yogurts, fresh fruit salad and fresh fruit. Bacon/eggs freshly cooked and toast. Although tea/coffee not available in the room, coffee was available in the dining area to help yourself to throughout the day, with a selection of biscuits. Enjoyed mass at the Basilica and a Vivaldi concert in one of the local churches. Everything walkable.
  
  What could be improved: If I was really being picky, I do like to have tea and coffee in the bedroom.

• Daniel from Czech Republic – 4 February 2025 (9/10)

  Accommodation was clean and service at the hotel was amazing. My wife had healthy issue and personal at the reception immediately support us with doctor and with all support that we needed. We spent two days at hotel with kids. All was fine. Again, thank you for the support.

• Klaudia from United States – 28 January 2025 (9/10)

  Very central area; walking distance from St. Mark’s and Doge’s Palace and vaporetto stations
  
  What could be improved: Difficult to find at first

• Alexandra from Russia – 16 December 2024 (9/10)

  The best hotel I’ve ever stayed in! I might be slightly biased, but this hotel was a perfect fit for me. I felt incredibly comfortable, almost as if I were at home.
  
  First of all, the location!
  If you take the quieter streets on the opposite side of the hotel, instead of the tourist-filled ones, you’ll find yourself at St. Mark’s Square within just a couple of minutes! It felt like magic—straight out of The Chronicles of Narnia, where they walk through a wardrobe and into a magical world. The hotel even has its own gondola dock, so you can hop right onto a private ride to wherever you want to go.
  
  The staff were wonderful.
  When I checked in (in the evening), I was offered complimentary water from a jug at the bar and some cookies. I was kindly shown to my room, and everything was explained in detail. They even chatted with me in Italian! A special mention goes to Dilan at the reception—always welcoming and smiling. After we had a lovely conversation, he thoughtfully suggested a personalized city route tailored to my interests and preferences.
  
  The room was perfect.
  It was very warm, and I could adjust the temperature myself. The windows faced the hotel’s inner courtyard, making it quiet and peaceful. I couldn’t hear any sounds from outside or from neighboring rooms. A small table and two armchairs added to the coziness, and the hidden TV in a vintage cabinet was a delightful surprise. I could watch Italian shows and programs, which was very helpful for me as I’m learning about Italian culture.
  
  The bed was extremely comfortable, and in addition to the main pillows, there were plenty of decorative ones, adding a touch of luxury.
  
  I also loved the late checkout time—12:00 PM! This was the latest checkout I’ve ever experienced, and it was so convenient. I was able to take an early morning walk, have lunch, and then return closer to noon to pack up and check out.
  
  Planning to stay here again and will highly recommend this hotel to my friends.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Florentina from Romania – 10 November 2024 (8/10)

  Location location location
  Breakfast simple and very tasty, one of the best and I’m a frequent traveler
  Beds with sturdy ergonomic pillows
  Inner yard
  Good coffee
  Polite warm and friendly staff
  Gondola parked right at the doorstep of the hotel
  Visited in November – room heated up quickly so it made our stay very comfortable
  Really loved and would pick again
  
  What could be improved: The only tiny minus is that the bath tub did not have a CC flexible shower for hand holding, only the ceiling one

• Eugene from United States – 2 November 2024 (9/10)

  Property was very clean and the staff was great. Also great location.

• Julia from United Kingdom – 28 October 2024 (8/10)

  Great location and the staff were so helpful.
  
  What could be improved: All good

• Elizabeth from United States – 13 October 2024 (9/10)

  Perfect location near sites we had wanted to visit. Central location to walk throughout each Venice island. Excellent breakfast, staff were beyond the best !
  
  What could be improved: Perfect ! Nothing — they were perfect

• Eugene from United States – 8 October 2024 (9/10)

  The hotel is a very clean small property in a great location. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. I would highly recommend.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities