La corte segreta

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon La Corte Segreta almost by accident last spring, wandering through the quieter alleys of Cannaregio after hopping off the vaporetto at Fondamenta Nuove. It’s tucked away on a narrow side street – I think it’s Calle del Forno, or something like that – far enough from the madness of Strada Nova’s tourist bustle that you actually feel like you’re in a real Venetian neighborhood, not some postcard version. Honestly, arriving there felt like discovering a hidden gem; the name means “secret court,” and it lives up to it with this charming little courtyard entrance, all ivy-covered walls and old stone that smells faintly of damp moss after a rain. No grand lobby or anything – just a warm welcome from the owner, who chatted with me about the best time to visit the nearby Jewish Ghetto (early morning, before the groups arrive, she said). Check-in was a breeze, though fair warning, it’s an old building, so there are stairs – pack light if you’re not up for lugging suitcases.

What really won me over was how the place blends that classic Venetian elegance with a cozy, lived-in vibe. My room overlooked a tiny canal – well, more like a rio, actually – and at night, you’d hear the soft lap of water against the boats, mixed with distant laughter from a local bacaro down the way. The decor’s all exposed beams and antique furniture, nothing flashy, but spotless and comfortable; the bed was a dream after a day of pounding pavements. Breakfast is served in the courtyard when the weather’s nice – think fresh cornetti, strong coffee, and those little jars of homemade jam that taste like they came straight from someone’s nonna’s kitchen. I mean, it’s not a massive spread, but it’s authentic, and you can linger there people-watching the neighbors heading out for their morning errands. Oh, and if you’re into exploring, it’s a short walk to spots like Campo dei Mori with its quirky statues, or you could grab a cicchetti at a hole-in-the-wall spot nearby – I tried this one with fried sardines that were out of this world. Noise-wise, it’s blissfully quiet compared to San Marco; no throngs of day-trippers keeping you up, though in high season (like July), you might hear the occasional gondola tour floating by.

All in all, if you’re after that elusive “real Venice” experience without sacrificing comfort, La Corte Segreta is a solid choice – it’s got that 4-star polish with a 9.5 rating that feels earned, not inflated. Sort of pricey in peak times, but worth it for the intimacy; I left feeling like I’d stayed with friends rather than in a hotel. Just remember, parking’s nonexistent here (it’s Venice, after all – leave the car in Mestre), and if you’re sensitive to humidity, pack a light sweater for those cooler evenings. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to extend your trip – or at least plan the next one.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $166. Apartment with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Wonderful place to stay in Venice – Catalina from United States – 16 June 2025 (10/10)

  Everything! Anna is a wonderful host. The apartment is cozy, very comfortable, super clean, and decorated with a lot of attention to details. The breakfast items provided were good. There is a washing machine to use (wonderful thing when traveling with kids!).
  The location is excellent, just out of the way of the crowds. There are a few good restaurants within 5 minutes walk. Close to the vaporetto station.
  
  What could be improved: We like led everything.

• Beautiful Apartment in a Fantastic Location – Gavin from United Kingdom – 2 June 2025 (10/10)

  Absolutely everything
  
  What could be improved: Couldn’t fault it

• Fabulous little gem in beautiful authentic Venice. – Sarah from United Kingdom – 24 May 2025 (10/10)

  Property is so lovely. Perfect for a couple, well equipt. Comfy bed, court yard great for breakfast & evening drinks. Fab location, very peaceful but short distance from restaurant & bar area. 20 min walk to main attractions. Must be prepared to walk.
  Lovely area of Venice
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Anna, many thanks, you are the perfect host. – Andy from United Kingdom – 14 April 2025 (10/10)

  A great location, the property was well presented very tidy and clean, with excellent facilities.
  
  Anna has thought of everything, providing a very warm welcome in person when we arrived, and a well provisioned breakfast for our stay.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to write here ..

• Nice area and cute little apartment❤️ – Nilufer from Turkey – 1 January 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was very clean and had everything that we could need. It was very nicely decorated. We loved the location. Anna was very thoughtful and kind.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Superb – Jürgen from Austria – 3 November 2024 (9/10)

  Quiet and perfect location to explore Venice. Cosy and nicely decorated rooms & garden court. Very friendly host and always immediate response. We absolutely enjoyed our stay.

• Perfect for a couple – Anthony from United Kingdom – 7 October 2024 (10/10)

  Close to key areas but still quiet. Just five minutes walk to river bus

• Fabulous stay in Venice! – Megan from United States – 30 September 2024 (10/10)

  This property is so charming, spotlessly clean and outfitted with everything you need for a great stay in Venice! We appreciated the coffee, tea and breakfast goodies provided! The bed was so comfortable and even though we didn’t use either it was great having a washer and a patio! The neighborhood feels friendly and local with lots of good restaurants nearby. Also conveniently located to vaporetto stops both to get to the center of town and to the airport!
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing we didn’t like.

• Perfect location and extremely well maintained property. – Bradley from United States – 28 September 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment is truly charming! When we arrived it was hard to leave as it was so comfortable. We were excited to return from site seeing each day to the comfort.

• Impeccable Experience – Rod479 from Malta – 25 September 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect 🙂 Super great host! The place is so cosy, exquisitely decorated and fully equipped. Highly recommended!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities