Hotel Montecarlo

Hotel Description

You know, stepping off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria and weaving through those narrow calles to Hotel Montecarlo on Calle Specchieri – it’s like diving straight into the heart of Venice without all the tourist trap hassle. I mean, you’re literally steps from Piazza San Marco, so close you can hear the bells from St. Mark’s Basilica chiming in the morning (which, honestly, is a nicer wake-up call than any alarm). The hotel itself is tucked into one of those classic Venetian buildings, all faded elegance with that slightly musty canal smell lingering in the air – not overpowering, just enough to remind you you’re not in some sterile chain spot. Check-in was a breeze; the front desk guy, Marco I think his name was, chatted about the best time to hit the Rialto Market (early mornings, before the crowds swarm in) while handing over my key. No elevator, which is par for the course in these old palazzos, but they hauled my bag up the stairs without batting an eye. My room was on the second floor, overlooking a quiet side canal – nothing fancy, but the wooden beams on the ceiling and that heavy brocade bedding gave it this cozy, lived-in vibe, like staying at a friend’s nonna’s place.

What really sold me on the place, though, was how it balances that authentic Venice feel with the little things travelers actually need. Breakfast downstairs is a highlight – fresh cornetti and cappuccino strong enough to power you through a day of dodging gondolas, served in a room with these old mirrors that make everything look twice as grand. It’s not huge, mind you, and the rooms can feel a tad snug if you’re unpacking a lot (I tripped over my suitcase once or twice), but that’s Venice for you – space is a luxury here. Well, except during peak summer when the whole San Marco area buzzes like a beehive; we went in shoulder season, late September, and it was perfect, quieter evenings where you could actually hear the water lapping against the stones outside. Staff-wise, they’re pros at insider tips – one evening, they pointed me to a tiny bacaro on nearby Calle della Madonna for cicchetti that beat any overpriced spot near the square. And noise? During the day, yeah, there’s the hum of voices and footsteps echoing off the walls, but by night it settles into this peaceful hush, broken only by the occasional boat horn in the distance.

All in all, if you’re after a solid 3-star spot that punches above its weight – we’re talking an 8.8 rating for good reason – Hotel Montecarlo is a gem. It’s not trying to be flashy; it’s just real, you know? Great for couples or solo travelers who want to feel immersed without shelling out for the big names along the Grand Canal. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for that location – five minutes to the Doge’s Palace, but far enough from the main drag to dodge the worst of the selfie sticks. Just pack light, watch your step on those uneven floors, and embrace the quirks. Venice wouldn’t be Venice without them.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $201. Deluxe Double or Twin Room – Annex with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $231. Classic Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $267. Superior Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $294. Classic Triple Room with 1 single bed, 1 large double bed and 3 single beds for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Patricia from United States – 3 November 2024 (9/10)

  it was a beautiful hotel in a great location, just off Saint Mark Square. It was far enough away from the square did not feel too busy.
  Whoever manages the front desk was very nice and helpful and held our luggage until our room was ready, and then delivered our luggage to the room
  
  What could be improved: nothing loved everything about the place

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

  The location was perfect in terms of being close to everything and being able to come in the middle day for a little break without it feeling out of the way. The room was lovely and all of the staff were incredibly kind.
  
  What could be improved: The bathroom could have been a bit cleaner at times and in need of upgrading but nothing major

• Diana from United States – 1 April 2025 (8/10)

  Perfect location just a 2 min walk to the Basilica. We had a triple room street side, it was ok but a little noisy. No air conditioning so the windows had to stay open a little for air… and now we know Venice has mosquitos in the spring! Staff was nice and room was very clean. Breakfast was good – scrambled eggs and croissants, a nice selection.

• Marianna from Greece – 30 March 2025 (9/10)

  The hotel location is perfect, 2 steps away from St. Marcus Basilica, but still in a quite narrow passage. Plus is next to many places for dinner.
  Also very close to Alilaguna station (from airport) and to Vaporato station as well.
  The room is really romantic with a view to the Bell tower with all necessities.
  Moreover the breakfast is very good and the reception persons really helpful and polite!
  Finally, Hotel Montecarlo is a great choice for travellers who want to stay downtown Venice!
  
  What could be improved: Everything was great!

• Michael from United Kingdom – 29 March 2025 (8/10)

  Very poor coffee for an Italian hotel, but otherwise breakfast okay. Hair dryer in the room almost useless, but excellent location and very clean hotel and the quirky dining room imitating an orient express train dining car was a nice surprise.

• Sue from United States – 27 March 2025 (9/10)

  Rooms were clean, breakfast was very good, location is excellent, staff were very helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Room is showing its age. Shower in morning was cold/luke warm, but not terrible.

• Signup from Canada – 27 March 2025 (9/10)

  This hotel offers exceptional value for its upscale room (we stayed in a triple room); great location; good sound insulation; excellent breakfast and superior front desk service. Hard not to go back again once you experienced it. AC not available yet since it’s late March so room is a little warm but easily cooled down with window or door open.

• Margaret from United Kingdom – 26 March 2025 (8/10)

  Room was very comfortable, excellent location, courteous staff, very helpful, excellent breakfast, great choice
  
  What could be improved: Nothing really

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

  Best part was the location was very central and easy to find
  Hotel was very good our room was clean hot shower and beds very comfy
  The staff was very welcoming
  Breakfast was wonderful
  Loved our stay and definitely be back again
  
  What could be improved: Wish we could stayed longer

• Raquel from Spain – 24 March 2025 (9/10)

  Location was great. Staff were very nice. Breakfast was good and had lots of options
  
  What could be improved: Hair dryer wasn’t good for the hotel quality, this should change.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities