La Marchesa Terrace – Dimora Italia –

Hotel Description

You know, stumbling upon La Marchesa Terrace – or Dimora Italia, as it’s sometimes called – in the heart of San Marco felt like one of those lucky finds in Venice that you don’t quite plan for. I arrived mid-afternoon on a vaporetto from Santa Lucia station, dodging the usual throngs of day-trippers spilling out from Piazza San Marco, and honestly, after weaving through those narrow calles off Calle Larga XXII Marzo – you know, the one lined with those pricey boutiques and that little gelateria that does an amazing pistachio – finding the place was a relief. It’s tucked away at San Marco 2113, just a stone’s throw from the Fenice opera house, which means you’re smack in the middle of things without the constant buzz of the main square. Check-in was a breeze; the staff – this warm Italian couple who seemed to know every guest by name – handed over an old-fashioned key and chatted about the best time to hit the Rialto market (early mornings, apparently, before the crowds turn it into a zoo). The building itself has that classic Venetian vibe, with creaky wooden floors that echo a bit and walls that whisper stories from who-knows-how-many centuries – I mean, it’s not some sterile chain hotel, it’s got character, even if the stairs up to the rooms can feel a tad steep after a long day of walking.

What really sold me, though, was the terrace – oh man, that rooftop spot overlooking the rooftops and glimpses of the Grand Canal in the distance. I spent evenings up there with a glass of prosecco (they stock a little minibar with local wines, which is a nice touch), just listening to the distant hum of gondolas and the occasional church bell from Santo Stefano nearby. The rooms are cozy, sort of intimate in that old-palazzo way – think high ceilings, velvet curtains that block out the early morning light (Venice wakes up noisy, with delivery boats clanging around dawn), and bathrooms with those marble sinks that feel luxurious without trying too hard. It’s rated 4 stars, but it punches above that with details like fresh pastries at breakfast – nothing fancy, just good coffee and cornetti that taste homemade. Well, maybe the Wi-Fi dips a bit in the evenings when everyone’s streaming, but in a city like this, who cares? You’re not here to binge Netflix. And parking? Forget it – Venice is car-free, so leave your wheels in Mestre and embrace the walk (or water taxi if you’re splurging).

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels authentically Venetian without the over-the-top tourist trap feel, La Marchesa Terrace is it. It’s perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to dip into the action – like catching a show at La Fenice or wandering to the Accademia bridge for sunset – but retreat to somewhere quiet by night. I visited in shoulder season, late September, when the air has that crisp, salty tang from the lagoon and the crowds thin out after dark, making it magical. Sure, it’s not the cheapest, but with a 9.6 rating, you get what you pay for: real charm, killer location, and those little insights from the hosts that make your trip memorable. I’d go back in a heartbeat – actually, I’m already plotting my next escape there.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $1,074. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 3 × 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 7

Reviews

• Pamela from Switzerland – 1 October 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful apartment with 3 bedrooms and baths in a fantastic location!

• Jamil from United States – 1 May 2024 (10/10)

  Everything. It is very comfortable and perfectly situated, being about a 2 minute walk from St Mark’s square as well as a water taxi stop.
  Despite that it’s quiet and you have the whole place to yourself. We were supposed to be 5 people and it would very comfortably have accommodated us. Two ppl had plans change and for 3 people it was huge lol
  Overall you really can’t go wrong here. We loved it!
  
  What could be improved: Be aware that there are two flights of narrow stairs to get to the main floor (entrance to the house is on the ground floor). It wasn’t an issue for us but older travelers or those with two adults and young kids may have an issue carrying bags up the stairs.
  The other issue is there really isn’t a view of the canals or much really. The terrace on the top floor is nice for some coffee or drinks and some fresh air and sounds of Venice but no view. This wasn’t an issue for us since we didn’t spend a lot of time in the house other than to shower and collapse asleep at the end of our day. Again, personal judgement call and type of vacation planned come into play here.
  Given the overall convenience and comfort though it will be a personal call as to whether you are ok with these things.

• Esraa from Kuwait – 10 September 2023 (10/10)

  Location was very good, apt. Was spacious, the staff was perfect. Enrica is the best hostess ever.
  
  What could be improved: The apt. Number was worn out which made it difficult to find the place

• Smith from United States – 30 October 2022 (9/10)

  beautiful decor and great location

• Deborah from United States – 24 October 2022 (10/10)

  Gorgeous roomy luxury in an excellent location.
  
  What could be improved: It was wonderful.

• Kelly from United States – 7 August 2022 (10/10)

  The property is so well maintained and very clean. The location was fantastic. Very close to the waterfront transportation and San Marco square. The apartment was very roomy and comfortable for 5 adults. Rooftop deck was lovely!
  
  What could be improved: There are definitely a lot of stairs, but I think that is typical of all the homes in Venice. And they were manageable.

• Anikó from Switzerland – 14 June 2022 (9/10)

  Beautifully decorated, very comfortable, at really good location . The windows look at an inner courtyard, with no people. You have to calculate with many stairs within the apartment. Super kind host, very helpful. Would definetly recommend.
  
  What could be improved: Was strange not to have any coffee capsules, but it's really not a big thing.

• Louise from United Kingdom – 22 May 2022 (10/10)

  Met on arrival by friendly staff. Went into great detail about apartment & nearest supermarkets, restaurants etc. amazing apartment just a few minutes from the main attractions, fab location
  
  What could be improved: WiFi dropped in/out but no a major interruption

• Antonio from Italy – 11 April 2022 (10/10)

  The apartment was stunning and very central. The beds were very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: I feel for the class of the apartment the rubbish should be taken care of by the cleaning fee included in the booking.

• Oscar from Mexico – 18 November 2023 (10/10)

  Está increíble, mejor que en las fotos
  
  What could be improved: Todo fue perfecto

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities