Hotel Scandinavia – Relais

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Hotel Scandinavia – Relais after weaving through those narrow Venetian calli from the Rialto vaporetto stop – you know, the one where the crowds thin out as you head east into Castello. It’s tucked right on Campo Santa Maria Formosa, this lively little square that’s got that authentic neighborhood vibe without the full-on tourist crush of San Marco. Honestly, my first thought when I pushed open the door was, “Whoa, this place feels like stepping back in time.” The building’s from the 10th century or something – Gothic arches, faded frescoes on the walls, and that faint, musty scent of old stone mixed with whatever polish they use to keep the wooden floors gleaming. Check-in was a breeze; the front desk guy – Marco, I think his name was – chatted about the best time to hit the nearby Libreria Acqua Alta (that quirky bookstore with books in bathtubs to fend off floods) and even sketched a quick map to avoid the dead-end alleys. No elevator, mind you, so if you’re hauling heavy bags up those creaky stairs, well, pack light or ask for a ground-floor room.

What really won me over, though, was how the hotel sort of blends into the rhythm of Venice without trying too hard. My room overlooked the campo, and mornings started with the soft chime of bells from Santa Maria Formosa church – not blaring, just enough to nudge you awake gently. The beds are comfy, if a bit on the firm side, with those heavy brocade curtains that block out the late-night chatter from folks grabbing gelato at the square’s cafes. Breakfast is simple but spot-on: fresh cornetti, strong espresso, and fruit that’s actually ripe, served in this cozy salon that smells like baking bread. I mean, it’s not a five-star spread, but for a 3-star spot with an 8.5 rating, it punches above its weight. During high season – think summer or Carnevale – the area buzzes with energy, but come evening, it quiets down nicely, unlike the nonstop hum over by the Grand Canal. Oh, and practical tip: if you’re day-tripping to Murano or Burano, the Fondamenta Nuove vaporetto is just a five-minute stroll away, saving you from the packed lines at San Zaccaria. One minor gripe? The Wi-Fi can be spotty in the back rooms – sort of a Venetian quirk, I guess, with all those thick walls.

All in all, if you’re after that real-deal Venice experience without breaking the bank, this place is a gem. It’s got heart, you know? Not polished to perfection, but charming in its imperfections – like the city itself. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially off-season when the fog rolls in and the square feels like your own private piazza. Just remember to wander over to the nearby Osteria alle Testiere for some cicchetti; Marco tipped me off, and it was the highlight of my trip.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $180. Single Room with 1 double bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $211. Classic Double Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $246. Double Room with Square View with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $249. Deluxe Double Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $292. Double Room with Balcony with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $297. Deluxe Double Room with Square View with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $279. Triple Room with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Gonzalo from Peru – 25 June 2024 (9/10)

  Everything was wonderful.
  
  All the team was very helpful.
  
  Special thanks to Elena!!!!!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing……everythig was really good!!!!

• Bettine from Israel – 3 April 2025 (9/10)

  the location is fantastic, the breakfast was boring, for the week that i stayed there it was exactly the same but it didnt even bother me as it got me through the day
  
  What could be improved: that the wifi collapsed and i couldnt do my work, but apparently it was the wifi company

• Purav from United Kingdom – 31 March 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent female member of staff. Explained everything in terms of what to explore in Venice and how.

• Kasim from Turkey – 19 March 2025 (9/10)

  It is one of the best location and great hotel in Venezia
  
  Staff was very polite Helpfull thank you

• David from Australia – 19 March 2025 (8/10)

  Location was great. Breakfast was awesome. Room was clean and a decent size. Staff were really nice and helpful.

• Ryan from United Kingdom – 16 March 2025 (9/10)

  Great location
  
  What could be improved: No complaints

• Dean from United Kingdom – 16 March 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, friendly staff!
  
  What could be improved: None to complain about!

• Christopher from United Kingdom – 3 March 2025 (9/10)

  Clean well maintained
  
  What could be improved: No coffee and tea facilities

• Virpi from United Kingdom – 2 March 2025 (9/10)

  The location was great. The view from the balcony room perfect during the Masquerade.
  Very atmospheric place. Lovely attentive staff. Good nightlife around. Clean.

• Rebecca from United Kingdom – 2 March 2025 (9/10)

  The staff were very very helpful, friendly and accommodating. The breakfast was excellent with attention to detail. The location was excellent. You are central but without the crowds. Would recommend.
  
  What could be improved: No complaints.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities