Locanda Ca’ Formosa

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Locanda Ca’ Formosa almost by accident last spring, right after hopping off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria – that’s the stop that’s practically a stone’s throw from St. Mark’s Square, but honestly, it feels worlds away from the tourist crush. Tucked into a narrow calle in the Castello neighborhood, on Castello 4857, this place is one of those hidden gems that makes you feel like you’ve unlocked a secret side of Venice. I mean, Castello isn’t as flashy as San Marco, but that’s the charm – it’s where locals actually live, with little bakeries and laundry flapping from lines overhead. Walking up to the door, I remember the faint salty tang from the nearby lagoon mixing with the smell of fresh espresso from a corner café. The building itself is this classic Venetian palazzo, sort of weathered in that romantic way, with creaky wooden shutters and a tiny courtyard that catches the morning light just right. Check-in was a breeze; the owner – this warm, chatty guy named Marco – greeted me like an old friend, even though I’d arrived sweaty from lugging my bag over those endless bridges. No elevators here, mind you, so if stairs are an issue, well, pack light or ask for a ground-floor room.

What really won me over, though, was how the place nails that authentic Venetian vibe without trying too hard. The rooms are cozy – okay, maybe a tad small by American standards, with those high ceilings and exposed beams that make you duck a little – but they’re spotless and decked out in soft pastels, like faded frescoes on the walls. I stayed in one overlooking the canal, and let me tell you, waking up to the gentle lap of water taxis and the distant chime of church bells from Santa Maria Formosa (that’s the square just around the corner) was pure magic. Breakfast is served in this sunny little room downstairs – think fresh croissants, cappuccino strong enough to wake the dead, and those tiny jars of apricot jam that taste homemade. It’s not a massive spread, but it’s included and sets you up nicely for wandering. Oh, and speaking of practical stuff, noise levels are pretty low at night since it’s off the main drags; no blaring crowds like near the Rialto Bridge, which is only a 10-minute stroll away if you cut through the back streets past the Arsenale. I did notice the Wi-Fi could be spotty during peak hours – you know, when everyone’s uploading their gondola selfies – but hey, that’s Venice for you, where even the internet seems to float on its own time.

All in all, if you’re after a 3-star spot that punches way above its weight with a 9.1 rating, Locanda Ca’ Formosa is it. It’s perfect for travelers who want to dip into the real rhythm of the city – maybe grab a spritz at a local bacaro in the evening, or just people-watch from your window. Sure, it’s not luxurious, but that’s what makes it feel genuine, especially in high season when the hordes descend. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in quieter months like October, when the fog rolls in and everything gets that misty, storybook glow. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that lingers with you long after you’ve left the lagoon.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $171. Double or Twin Room – Annex with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $173. Standard Double Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $237. Triple Room – Annex with 3 single beds, 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for 1 – 3 guests
• Estimated price from: $239. Triple Room with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for 1 – 3 guests
• Estimated price from: $273. Family Suite with 2 large double beds and 4 single beds for 1 – 4 guests

Reviews

• Irina from Russia – 30 October 2024 (9/10)

  The hotel is conveniently located – close to the central square. Very hospitable and attentive hosts (heavy luggage was lifted to the room by a special freight elevator). A good breakfast (buffet) for 7.50 euros. We were prompted by interesting authentic cafes located not far from the hotel. The hotel has cozy rooms with everything you need inside and with hot water. We will be happy to come here again.
  
  What could be improved: –

• Ryan from Canada – 2 April 2025 (9/10)

  Very friendly and helpful staff. Great location. It’s located in a very popular area so lots of places to go nearby, yet it is tucked down a side alley so it is still quiet. Good value and relatively spacious.

• Georgios from Greece – 31 March 2025 (9/10)

  The location is ideal. Hosts are very kind and helpful. We will definitely come back.

• Maria from Greece – 17 March 2025 (9/10)

  The best people work there and its super clean and near everything

• Daisy from United Kingdom – 14 March 2025 (9/10)

  This was the best hotel in Venice!!!! Perfect location, close to all the main sites and close to many nice restaurants/ cafes too! A short walk to any ferries you might need for trips around the island, and to Murano/ Burano. Very easy to reach from Venice train station by ferry. The staff were soooo friendly and gave us amazing recommendations. The breakfast for only €10 is so worth it too! I was able to extent my visit when plans changed, and the staff made this so easy. 100% recommend and I hope to be back soon! 🙂

• Julie from United Kingdom – 12 March 2025 (9/10)

  Strategic location! Friendly owners homestay run by the family. Great information shared by the owner. Room get cleaned everyday. They serve continental breakfast too! They offers luggage to be stored which is great customer service! Very recommended 👌
  
  What could be improved: Everything great except no teaspoon provided in the room.

• Elena from Finland – 7 March 2025 (9/10)

  We really enjoyed our stay. The location is perfect and safe, right in the center of Venice. The room is spacious, with comfortable beds, air conditioning, good quality linens, and plenty of towels. The breakfast was good for an extra charge. The kids were delighted by Cipollino, the dog who stays at the hotel during the day. The kids' best memories of Venice were the carnival, Italian ice cream, and Cipollino. I highly recommend this place, and we will definitely come back.
  
  What could be improved: We liked everything

• Helen from United Kingdom – 23 February 2025 (9/10)

  Great location. Exactly what we wanted
  
  What could be improved: .

• Lionel from Austria – 21 February 2025 (9/10)

  The weather was very col and damp, the hotel was warm dry and beautiful. A very good breakfast, and very friendly helpful staff

• Olga from Greece – 18 February 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, very close to the main sightseeings, with very kind and helpful personel! We would definitely recomend it!!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities