Lemon House

Hotel Description

I remember the first time I stepped off the vaporetto at Arsenale – you know, that stop that’s not swarming with tourists like San Marco, but still close enough to everything – and made my way down Fondamenta Morosina. It’s this narrow, winding fondamenta in the Castello district, lined with those weathered stone buildings that smell faintly of salt and old wood, the kind that reminds you Venice is basically floating on the lagoon. Lemon House is tucked right there at number 4057, and honestly, finding it felt like discovering a secret – no flashy signs, just a discreet door that opens into this cozy, lemon-scented lobby (yeah, they lean into the name with fresh citrus everywhere, which is a nice touch after a sweaty walk from the station). Check-in was a breeze; the owner, this friendly local guy named Marco, chatted with me about the best time to avoid the acqua alta – turns out November can get splashy here, but they provide rubber boots if you need ’em. I mean, it’s not one of those massive hotels; it’s more like a boutique spot with just a handful of rooms, which keeps things intimate and quiet, especially at night when the only sounds are the occasional lap of water against the canal outside.

What really won me over, though, was how the place blends that classic Venetian charm with modern comforts without feeling forced. My room overlooked the fondamenta – think exposed brick walls, creaky wooden floors that add character (though they might squeak a bit if you’re a light sleeper), and a bathroom with these gorgeous mosaic tiles that scream old-world Italy. The bed was ridiculously comfy, piled with pillows, and there’s this little balcony where I sipped my morning espresso, watching delivery boats chug by – it’s those small moments that make you feel like you’re living in Venice, not just visiting. Breakfast is included, and it’s no joke: fresh pastries from a nearby bakery on Via Garibaldi (head there for groceries or a cheap spritz if you’re budgeting), plus homemade jams and eggs however you like ’em. Well, sort of – the kitchen’s tiny, so options are limited, but that’s part of the authentic vibe. And get this, they’re eco-conscious too; they use refillable toiletries and encourage walking over water taxis, which is smart in a city where parking isn’t even a thing (good luck bringing a car here, by the way). I wandered out to the Biennale gardens, just a 10-minute stroll away, and popped into that hidden osteria on Calle de la Pegola for cicchetti – Lemon House is perfectly positioned for exploring the real Castello, away from the Piazza San Marco crowds.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels genuinely Venetian without the gimmicks, Lemon House is a gem – that 9.7 rating isn’t hype. It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the back rooms during peak season (hello, summer hordes), and stairs are steep if you’ve got heavy luggage, but those are minor quibbles in a city built on water. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in shoulder season like April when the neighborhood blooms with wisteria and it’s blissfully uncrowded. Trust me, book it if you want to wake up to the sound of church bells from San Pietro di Castello and actually feel like part of the place. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $405. Two-Bedroom Superior Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 double bed for 1 – 1 guests

Reviews

• Yulia from Italy – 2 February 2025 (10/10)

  Absolutely fantastic apartment in 10 mins from San Marco! The flat is newly renovated, very clean and has everything you need. The design is modern and elegant. The beds are comfortable. The hosts are very nice, explained everything .
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Rosa from United Kingdom – 23 March 2025 (10/10)

  The location was perfect, five minutes walk to St Marc's square but in a very quiet spot for sleeping. The apartment was pristine, with lots of little extras like bath robes and slippers. Two large bedrooms and two bathrooms with the heating in each room separately controlled. Everything was excellent.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Antonia from Italy – 11 March 2025 (10/10)

  Accoglienza super, host gentilissimi e disponibilissimi. Posizione strategica, e suggestiva per l'affaccio diretto sul canale. Appartamento spazioso con 2 comode camere doppie e bagni funzionali. Ampio spazio comune con angolo cottura dotato di ogni accessorio. Consigliatissimo.

• Costanza from Italy – 6 March 2025 (9/10)

  Accoglienza perfetta, hosts gentili, simpatici, ci hanno dato un sacco di consigli su dove andare, cosa fare.
  L'appartamento è nuovo, letti comodi, buona biancheria.
  In casa c'è tutto ciò che serve. È in una zona super tranquilla e silenziosa ma dove si raggiunge tutto a piedi. Fuori dal caos dei turisti. Raggiungibile facilmente dalla stazione Santa Lucia.

• Matteo from Switzerland – 26 February 2025 (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

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