La Residenza 818

Hotel Description

I remember the first time I stumbled upon La Residenza 818 – well, not exactly stumbled, since getting anywhere in Venice involves a bit of planning with those winding canals and all. It’s tucked away in the Dorsoduro neighborhood, right at Dorsoduro 818-818/A, which sounds straightforward but means you’re dodging tourists spilling out from the nearby Accademia Bridge if you come during high season. Honestly, arriving by vaporetto from the train station was a breeze; drop off at the Accademia stop, and it’s just a short walk along the Fondamenta Zattere, with that salty lagoon breeze hitting you as you go. The building itself has this classic Venetian vibe – think faded pink stucco and those tall, arched windows that let in the afternoon light just right. Checking in was low-key; the staff (mostly locals, from what I could tell) were friendly without being over-the-top, and they even gave me a quick tip on avoiding the crowds at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which is literally a five-minute stroll away. You know what, though? Venice in summer can get noisy with all the boat traffic, but this spot feels surprisingly quiet at night – maybe because it’s off the main drag, away from the San Marco chaos.

What really sets La Residenza apart, I think, is how it blends that old-world charm with just enough modern touches to make you feel at home. The rooms aren’t huge – I mean, it’s Venice, space is at a premium – but mine had these high ceilings and exposed beams that gave it a cozy, almost artistic feel, like you’re staying in some painter’s attic (fitting for Dorsoduro, with its galleries everywhere). The bed was super comfortable, with crisp linens that smelled faintly of lavender, and the bathroom had one of those rain showers that actually works well, not the dribbly kind you sometimes get in older places. Breakfast was a highlight – served in this little courtyard garden that’s shaded by vines, with fresh pastries, prosciutto, and coffee that’s strong enough to wake you up for a day of wandering. Oh, and if you’re into practical stuff, there’s no parking here (duh, it’s Venice), but they can arrange a water taxi drop-off right nearby, which saved me a headache. I did notice the Wi-Fi could be spotty in the evenings – sort of lags when everyone’s online – but hey, that’s your cue to unplug and watch the gondolas glide by from your window instead. It’s rated a solid 9.2 for a reason; the staff went out of their way to recommend hidden spots like the Squero di San Trovaso, that old boat-building yard just around the corner, where you can peek in and see craftsmen at work without the tour groups.

All in all, if you’re looking for a four-star stay that feels authentic rather than touristy, La Residenza 818 is a gem – especially in the shoulder seasons like spring or fall, when Venice quiets down and you can actually hear the water lapping against the walls. It’s not perfect (those narrow stairs might be a drag with heavy luggage), but it captures that magical, slightly faded elegance of the city. I’d go back in a heartbeat – you know, for that courtyard breakfast alone, or just to wander over to Campo Santa Margherita for a spritz at sunset. If Venice is on your list, this place makes the whole trip feel a bit more like you’re living it, not just visiting.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $274. Double Room with Private Bathroom with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $294. Junior Suite with Garden View with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $377. Suite with Garden View and Private Internal Bathroom with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Czech_traveler from Czech Republic – 5 October 2023 (9/10)

  It is very nice place with friendly personnel and I'll come back here for sure. I hope to have a longer stay in Venice. It's amaizing ♥️

• Elizabeth from France – 30 March 2025 (9/10)

  Joyous

• Nick from United Kingdom – 30 January 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely property, full of character, in a great location, less touristy than other areas, but close to everything you need and expect.
  
  What could be improved: No coffee in the room. Wi-fi not great.

• Anne from United Kingdom – 7 January 2025 (8/10)

  Spacious suite with nice view. Good staff.
  
  What could be improved: A kettle etc would have made a very big difference & the bathroom was small with no bidet.
  It was quite a way to the room and no lift but we can understand why this would be the case in an old converted building.

• Nicola from United Kingdom – 17 December 2024 (9/10)

  Exceptional location and delightful little hotel

• Robert from United Kingdom – 4 December 2024 (9/10)

  Lovely reception staff and a comfortable room.
  Lots of renovations going on and the adjacent hotel and restaurant were closed.
  An area we know well and handy for restaurants and vaparetto stop.
  Area much quieter than San Marco area and can visit the Guidecca easily, an area we have stayed in before.

• Deepak from India – 9 November 2024 (9/10)

  Location and facilities
  
  What could be improved: Missing electric kettle and few toiletries

• Webb from New Zealand – 17 October 2024 (9/10)

  Large room with a view of the canal – a private palazzo for a few days. Staff were so helpful – directions to events and nothing was too much trouble. Amazing breakfast selection – you were made to feel welcome and special each morning. Really felt like I was a part of Venezia and away from too many tourists. Loved the high ceilings and chandeliers – a super comfy bed. The princess without the pea!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing – everything was exceptional.

• Monique from United States – 27 July 2024 (9/10)

  The staff treats you like family and I love everyone that works here!
  Samuel is amazing. He speaks multiple languages and is so wonderful, there was also Martina who’s so cheerful and helpful, loved her too, and Rimon who helped me with my bags and many other things, always with a smile..he’s a gem! Vera was the most fun, and was our server at the restaurant. She was on top of everything, and doing it all. She made it look effortless and was so much fun! Last but not least is Luana at the front desk is so kind and efficient! The pillows were lovely as well, they had 2 memory foam and 2 feather pillows so a nice choice, and I loved the decor of the hotel! You’re right on the water, and next to Zattare vaporetto stop. This hotel is a hidden treasure. The furnishings are absolutely beautiful! I’d LOVE to stay here again because they’re like family now! 🙂

• Tracey from United Kingdom – 15 July 2024 (9/10)

  How welcoming and nice the hotel staff were and a special mention should go to the lovely MARTINA, she was so welcoming upon our arrival. The welcome drink in the garden was such a lovely touch and went down extremely well after we carried our rather large cases all the way from the train station and over 6 bridges!! It was only a 25 minute walk which we wanted to do but it was hard LOL!! So you can imagine how nice it was to get a warm welcome and a cold drink. Thank you very much Martina. I would also like to mention Lorella who looked after us one day on Reception, she too was friendly and helpful. Martina was very informative with places to visit and how to get to Marco Polo Airport, she really is an asset toy our hotel.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to say here, it was all just perfect

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities