La Chambre D’Ella

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon La Chambre D’Ella almost by accident last spring when I was dodging the peak tourist crush in Venice – honestly, if you’re smart, avoid July and August unless you love sweating through crowds. It’s tucked away on Fondamenta Minotto in Santa Croce, right at number 143, which is this quiet little canal-side spot that’s a world away from the San Marco madness. I arrived via vaporetto from Piazzale Roma – super easy, just a 10-minute walk from there if you’ve got light luggage, though dragging a heavy suitcase over those uneven cobblestones? Not fun, I mean, pack light or splurge on a water taxi. The building itself is one of those classic Venetian townhouses, all weathered brick and arched windows, and checking in felt more like visiting an old friend’s place than a hotel – the owner, this warm Italian lady who I swear must be Ella herself, greeted me with a fresh espresso and chatted about the best hidden gelato spot nearby on Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio (try the pistachio, it’s divine).

What really won me over, though, was how the place balances that old-world charm with just enough modern comforts without going overboard. My room overlooked the canal – well, sort of a side view, but close enough to hear the gentle lap of water against the boats at night, which is oddly soothing after a day of pounding pavements. The bed was plush, with those crisp white linens that smell faintly of lavender (they must use some local detergent or something), and the bathroom had this rain shower that blasted away the humidity grime – though fair warning, the water pressure dips in the mornings when everyone’s up. It’s not huge, mind you; Venice spaces are tight, so if you’re claustrophobic, maybe skip it. But the little touches, like fresh fruit in the breakfast nook downstairs and recommendations for avoiding the tourist traps – she pointed me to a tiny osteria on Rio Terà San Leonardo for cicchetti that locals hoard – made it feel authentic. Oh, and parking? Forget it, this is car-free Venice, but if you’re coming by train, Santa Lucia station is a quick 15-minute stroll away, past those funky street markets selling cheap masks and Murano glass knockoffs.

All in all, for a 4-star spot with an 8.9 rating that actually feels earned, La Chambre D’Ella is perfect if you’re after that intimate Venice vibe without the San Polo prices or the Dorsoduro hipster scene. It’s quiet in the evenings – no rowdy bars nearby, just the occasional gondolier humming – but lively enough during the day to pop out to Rialto Bridge in under 20 minutes on foot. I left feeling like I’d uncovered a secret, you know? If you’re traveling solo or with a partner and want to skip the mega-hotels, book it – just remember to ask for a canal-view room, and maybe bring earplugs if church bells wake you at dawn. Totally worth it for that real slice of Venetian life.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $230. Deluxe King Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Stephanie – 15 April 2024 (10/10)

  Exactly as pictured! Fantastic location! 10-15 minute walk from the train station and less than 10 from the bus station. Residential area with good dining options. Easy to get to other areas of the city.

• Tetiana from Germany – 1 April 2025 (10/10)

  great location, great view from the windows, easy to find. Loved the house in which the room was located. inside the room was also atmospheric and in keeping with the charm of Venice

• Aneta from United States – 28 November 2024 (10/10)

  Beautifully decorated cozy apartment at a great location.
  
  What could be improved: I liked everything!

• Anita from United States – 2 October 2024 (9/10)

  Location was good for us. It was very close to the bus terminal and train station. We were able to walk anywhere we wanted to go ftom the apartment building.
  
  What could be improved: Was not expecting an elevator, but there were a lot of stairs to climb.

• Peter from Australia – 19 August 2024 (10/10)

  Wonderful location with easy access to transport.

• Michael from United Kingdom – 19 July 2024 (8/10)

  The view was amazing and the room was beautiful
  
  What could be improved: No coffie machine the mocka was good though

• Katharina from Germany – 6 July 2024 (10/10)

  Atmosphere

• Georgy from Russia – 29 June 2024 (10/10)

  Atmosphere and interior was delightful. Perfect location if you arrive at the railway station. Host was very kind to us.
  
  What could be improved: Conditioner in apt was quite loud and not so effective as it could be. May be it is time to refill it.

• Phillipa from United Kingdom – 24 June 2024 (9/10)

  Stunning room with a beautiful view of the canal in a more peaceful area of Venice.
  
  What could be improved: The shower head was very low, but we made do.
  The main light switch wouldn't turn off, so we worked around it by not using the key card. Hopefully an easy fix.

• Gregory from United States – 17 May 2024 (8/10)

  Excellent location close to both the train and bus station in a quiet part of Venice. Easy access to restaurants, groceries and all the sights of Venice. Large apartment with Old World Venetian charm. Very comfy bed.
  
  What could be improved: When we booked the location it was called a B&B though no breakfast was included! Also said there was a washing machine that was no where to be found. Be mindful to not leave the windows open at night due to mosquitoes.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities