Locanda Poste Vecie

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Locanda Poste Vecie almost by accident last spring, right after hopping off the vaporetto at Rialto Mercato – that bustling stop where the Grand Canal smells like a mix of salty lagoon water and whatever the fishermen hauled in that morning. It’s tucked away in San Polo, literally steps from the Pescheria, the old fish market that’s been hawking fresh squid and clams since, well, forever. The address is Rialto Pescheria San Polo 1612, but honestly, in Venice, you navigate by feel more than maps – just weave through those narrow calli off the bridge, past the vendors yelling about their catch, and there it is, this charming little inn that feels like it’s been part of the neighborhood fabric for centuries. (I think it used to be connected to the old post office – Poste Vecie means something like “old posts,” right? Adds a quirky historical vibe.) My first impression? Cozy and unpretentious, with that classic Venetian exposed-beam ceiling in the lobby that creaks just a bit when the wind picks up off the canal. Check-in was a breeze – the staff, these friendly locals who switch effortlessly between Italian and English, handed over my key with a quick tip about avoiding the midday crowds at the nearby Erbaria produce stalls. No elevator, mind you, so if you’re lugging heavy bags up the stairs after a long flight, it might feel like a workout – but hey, that’s Venice for you, everything’s a bit of an adventure.

What really won me over, though, was how it plunges you right into the heart of real Venetian life without the overwhelming tourist crush you get over in San Marco. The rooms are sort of compact – mine had this antique wooden headboard and a view straight onto the market action below, where you’d hear the clatter of crates at dawn and smell the faint brine of seafood wafting up. It’s rated 8.3 for a reason; the beds are comfy, with those crisp linens that make you sink in after a day of wandering, and the bathroom’s got modern fixtures that don’t clash with the old-world charm. Breakfast is served in this intimate courtyard – think fresh croissants, cappuccino that’s actually strong enough to wake you, and maybe some prosciutto if you’re lucky – but it’s nothing flashy, just solid and satisfying. I mean, you’re not here for spa treatments or infinity pools; this is a 4-star spot that’s more about authenticity. Oh, and practical note: noise levels can pick up during high season in summer when the market’s in full swing, but it quiets down by evening, leaving you with that serene canal hush. If you’re into exploring, it’s perfect – a quick stroll to the Rialto Bridge for sunset views, or hop over to Campo San Polo for a gelato at that little place locals swear by. One minor gripe? The Wi-Fi can be spotty in the back rooms, but who needs it when you’ve got the actual city unfolding outside?

All in all, if you’re the type who wants to feel like you’re living in Venice rather than just visiting – dodging delivery boats on the rio, grabbing an aperitivo at a bacaro down the calle – Locanda Poste Vecie is your spot. It’s not perfect, sure, but that’s what makes it memorable; it captures that elusive magic of the city, where history and everyday chaos blend seamlessly. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially off-season when the fog rolls in and it feels even more like a secret. Trust me, skip the mega-hotels and dive into this – you’ll thank me when you’re sipping spritz at a nearby osteria, feeling like a local.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $166. Double Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $179. Superior Double Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $217. Triple Room with 1 single bed, 1 large double bed and 3 single beds for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Sara from Spain – 20 August 2024 (9/10)

  Great location and very quaint.

• Gillian0 from United Kingdom – 16 November 2024 (8/10)

  Location, very central, close to Realto, very friendly staff. Nice view from my win, but I was on the top floor. Nice homely feel. I got help with my bag to get it upstairs.
  
  What could be improved: The stairs, there no lift. It was OK for me, but for many it may be problematic.

• Vladi from Spain – 29 October 2024 (8/10)

  The location was perfect, the staff was helpful and very welcoming
  
  What could be improved: It was a little noisy if you room is right about the restaurant

• Mary from Australia – 18 September 2023 (9/10)

  Very quiet area, very comfortable bed, aircon great, good hot shower. All you need.
  
  What could be improved: Fridge was very small.

• Burton from United Kingdom – 13 September 2023 (8/10)

  Central point to explore any main areas of Venice. Effective shower – moving from hot to needed cold smoothly!
  
  What could be improved: Cannot think of anything – oh except the little mosquito in the room, who evaded capture. Few little bites during sleep.

• Lester from Australia – 14 August 2023 (8/10)

  It was in Venice and had everything we needed for our stay.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Sarah from Australia – 12 August 2023 (9/10)

  Big aircon unit, kept the BF cold so he could sleep at night, plus VERY spacious room and bathroom ensuite!
  
  What could be improved: The shower pressure was average, and the foot mat at the front door was funky but luckily the second door could block off that smell.

• Kateřina from Czech Republic – 19 July 2023 (9/10)

  Hotel is placed nearby centre where are main monuments (San Marco etc.).
  
  What could be improved: Sometimes air conditioner could not be switched on itself when it was set up in an auto mode.

• Jacqueleen from Australia – 2 April 2023 (9/10)

  Everything was excellent .. staff, location, facilities etc .. would happily recommend this hotel to anyone

• John from United Kingdom – 1 November 2022 (8/10)

  Close to the rialto bridge but in a quiet area. Lots of little bars near by

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities