Le Pizzocchere

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Le Pizzocchere almost by accident during one of those classic Venice afternoons when you’re dodging the crowds around St. Mark’s Square and just need a breather. It’s tucked away at 3518 San Marco, right in the heart of the San Marco district – you know, that spot where the alleys narrow and the tourist bustle fades into something more intimate. I arrived via vaporetto from Santa Lucia station, hopping off at San Marco Vallaresso, and it was a quick five-minute wander down Calle Larga XXII Marzo, past those little boutiques selling Murano glass that locals roll their eyes at but secretly buy for gifts. Honestly, the location is a godsend if you’re not into schlepping luggage over bridges – no cars in Venice, obviously, but this place is flat and accessible, with just a couple of steps at the entrance that the staff helped me with right away. Walking in, the lobby hit me with this cozy, old-world vibe – think exposed wooden beams and that faint, comforting scent of polished stone mixed with fresh espresso from their breakfast setup. Check-in was a breeze; the owner, this chatty Venetian guy named Marco (I mean, of course his name’s Marco), chatted about the best time to hit the Rialto Market early mornings to avoid the throngs, like he was sharing family secrets.

What really sets Le Pizzocchere apart, though – and I’m saying this as someone who’s crashed in way too many overpriced Venetian spots – is how it feels like a hidden gem without trying too hard. The rooms are spacious for Venice standards, with these tall windows overlooking a quiet canal (mine had a view of gondoliers practicing their calls in the off-hours, which was sort of magical at dusk). The beds? Plush and firm, the kind that make you forget the jet lag, and the bathrooms come with those rainfall showers that actually have decent pressure – a rarity in these old buildings. Breakfast is included, and it’s not your generic buffet; we’re talking fresh cornetti, local cheeses, and prosciutto sliced right there, plus they whip up cappuccinos that rival the ones at Caffè Florian nearby, but without the piazza prices. Oh, and if you’re light sleepers, note that it’s blissfully quiet at night – no street noise from the main drags, though you might hear the occasional church bell from San Moisè, which is just around the corner. That said, it’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the back rooms during peak season (July-August madness), so if you’re working remotely, ask for a front-facing one. But overall, it’s got that authentic charm – like staying in a friend’s historic apartment, complete with creaky floors that add character.

Look, if you’re planning a trip to Venice and want something beyond the soulless chains, Le Pizzocchere is where it’s at. With that near-perfect 9.9 rating, it’s earned its stripes as a 4-star standout, especially for couples or solo travelers craving a mix of luxury and local flavor. I left feeling like I’d unlocked a piece of the real city – wandering to hidden spots like the Scala Contarini del Bovolo spiral staircase just a short stroll away, or grabbing cicchetti at a bacaro off Campo San Fantin. You won’t regret it; just book early, as it fills up fast in spring when the canals are at their prettiest.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $174. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Tetyana_pimonenko from Ukraine – 11 August 2023 (10/10)

  The apartment is comfortable, well equipped, very clean, good location. The owners helped us and answered all our questions.
  
  What could be improved: nothing. evrething is ok

• Elvira from Spain – 19 March 2025 (10/10)

  Everything! Leonardo and Mariana are the best owners we have never been! Important tourist points are very close to apartment!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Alan from New Zealand – 6 November 2024 (10/10)

  We were met by Mariana at the water taxi wharf and guided to the apartment. (very close) She was an amazing host and made sure we had all the info we needed to have a fantastic stay. The apartment is awesome.
  
  What could be improved: We loved everything about our stay.

• Gregory from United States – 28 October 2024 (10/10)

  Wonderful location, clean, large and comfortable. Had everything we needed. Fantastic hosts!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

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

  Great location close to all the attractions but in a quiet alleyway. Superb host who communicated well. Nice little extras like prosecco wine & rose flower arrangements. Great to have a washing machine. Plenty of space. Spotlessly clean.
  
  What could be improved: Nil

• Linlin from Germany – 24 September 2024 (10/10)

  My good friend and I booked 3 nights. Although we had positive impressions on booking com, we were still very surprised at how comfortable and good the apartment is. The apartment is beautifully and lovingly furnished down to the smallest details. Very clean. Extremely quiet even though there are many shops and attractions nearby. We slept very well. I slept on the sofa bed and it was very comfortable. Marianna and Leonado are very friendly and caring hosts. They were always easy to reach and responded quickly to questions and gave us good tips. I would like to recommend this apartment straight away.

• Dylan from United States – 17 September 2024 (10/10)

  I didn't want to stay in the San Marco area because I felt it was too touristy, but family members had rented a place on the same block and so we did. I ended up really liking the area as there are many authentic cafes, restaurants and shops in the immediate vicinity. As you get closer to Piazza San Marco that changes a bit. Still, we walked every night to Campo Santa Margarita for dinner as the restaurants there aren't too expensive.
  
  I told Mariana it was the cleanest place I'd ever stayed. And the attention to detail was amazing. She and Leonardo have thought of everything. Oh, and the air conditioners are very powerful. There is one in the bedroom and one in the living room.
  
  There is a very good Despar supermarket just a few minutes away.
  
  What could be improved: I felt the nightly price was high, but in comparison with other accommodation I looked at, I saw that it was reasonable. A lot of it was due to the time of year; September is still high season. Once the weather turns chilly rates drop significantly pretty much everywhere in Venice, both for rentals and hotels.
  
  It's very dark in the bedroom. Good for sleeping but with jetlag it's easy to sleep until afternoon. Set your alarm!

• Grace from Canada – 15 August 2024 (10/10)

  Location is fantastic! Walkable in minutes to vaparetto’s and Rialto bridge and other tourist sites!
  Apartment is Tucked away in a side path away from the hustle and bustle!
  Lots of restaurants, bars, gelato and shopping around!
  On ground level which was very convenient with luggage!
  Clean with fresh linens and towels!
  Beds were perfect! Even The pull out bed was very comfortable (felt like a normal bed-not lumpy or uncomfortable).
  Laundry machine was very easy to use! Hang to dry only. Rack is provided.
  All kitchen equipment was in place to use, plates, pots, utensils, etc
  
  Hosts were always available for any questions via text! Very kind!
  
  Would def stay again!
  🙂

• Margaret from Australia – 16 July 2024 (10/10)

  I am a return visitor as this apartment is a gem especially being ground floor near a vaporetto. Great coffee shops and restaurants close by. Everything you need for a comfortable stay is provided.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to dislike

• Paul from United Kingdom – 3 July 2024 (10/10)

  Great location. Lovely clean and spacious apartment In beautiful old building. Extremely helpful and lovely host who waited for us and met us at the water taxi station to take us to the apartment even though it was late at night and our flight was delayed. Communication throughout was excellent. Would highly recommend.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities