Majoorel (near San Marco)

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Majoorel almost by accident last spring, right after hopping off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria – you know, that stop that’s always buzzing with day-trippers fresh from the cruise ships. It’s tucked away on Calle del Magazen in Castello, just a short wander from the madness of San Marco Square, but honestly, it feels like you’ve slipped into a quieter corner of Venice where locals actually live. I mean, you’re close enough to pop over to the Basilica for that golden-hour glow in the evenings, but far enough that the pigeon flocks and tour groups don’t invade your space. The alley itself is one of those narrow, winding ones with laundry flapping overhead and the faint smell of rising dough from a nearby bakery – nothing fancy, but it sets the tone for a stay that’s more authentic than those glitzy spots along the Grand Canal. Check-in was a breeze; the owner, this chatty guy named Marco (or was it Matteo? Anyway, super friendly), handed over the keys with a quick rundown of the best cicchetti bars around the corner on Via Garibaldi – you know, the kind of insider tip that saves you from overpriced tourist traps.

What really won me over, though, was how the place balances that old-Venice charm with just enough modern comfort to keep things from feeling dated. It’s a 3-star setup, but with a 9.2 rating that totally checks out – the rooms are cozy, not huge, with these heavy wooden beams overhead and windows that let in the soft lapping sounds of a side canal (well, sort of; mine overlooked a courtyard, which was quieter at night). The bed was firm but comfy, and there’s air conditioning that actually works during those humid summer months when Venice turns into a steam bath. Breakfast is simple – fresh croissants, cappuccino, maybe some fruit – served in a little ground-floor room that smells like espresso and history. No elevator, mind you, so if you’re hauling heavy luggage up those creaky stairs, pack light or ask for help; I learned that the hard way after a long flight. Oh, and parking? Forget it – this is Venice, so you’re walking or boating everywhere, but the hotel’s spot means you’re steps from the Arsenale vaporetto for easy trips to Murano or the Lido. It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the back rooms, especially during peak season when everyone’s streaming, but hey, that’s your cue to unplug and explore.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels like a local secret without skimping on the essentials, Majoorel’s a gem – especially for couples or solo travelers who want to dodge the crowds but still hit the highlights. I stayed three nights and left wishing for more; it’s the kind of place that makes you rethink those big-chain hotels, you know? Next time I’m in Venice, I’m booking it again – maybe in the off-season when Castello’s even sleepier and the fog rolls in just right.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $314. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Excellent apartment in fantastic location. – Victoria from South Africa – 15 July 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment was spacious and comfortable. The amenities were top quality and the location was close to everything. Adriano was quick to respond and extremely helpful with any questions we had. My son loved the fact that he could log in to Netflix and have free wifi. Having couches and good aircon was great after a long day in the sun.
  
  What could be improved: Shower was a bit small but got the job done so it wasn't too big of an issue.

• Exceptional – Maddox from Australia – 31 May 2025 (10/10)

  Definitely recommend everything was perfect. Adriano was always quick to reply with any queries we had and always
  very helpful.
  
  What could be improved: ALL perfect nothing negative

• Great location, clean apartment, and great for families. – Tracey from United Kingdom – 18 April 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, host was easy to communicate with and was easily available and friendly, apartment was clean and was exactly as described, was very quiet and had no outside noise, beds were comfortable, would recommend to friends, and would happily come back.

• Excellent apartments – Jevkro from Lithuania – 16 December 2024 (10/10)

  The description fully reflects the real situation. Beautiful, modern apartments in a great location. Heated floors (which is important in winter) and air conditioning in each room (which is important in summer). The owner is very responsive, quickly responds to every request.
  
  What could be improved: Arriving in the evening, it is difficult to find a safe with a key, but these are small things, a flashlight is now in every mobile phone

• Excelent – Xavier from Spain – 19 August 2024 (10/10)

  Very nice and clean apartment, near to St Marco. Special thanks to the owner, Adriano, much appreciated his hospitality

• Fantastic place to stay, we will be back! – Rachel from United Kingdom – 12 July 2024 (8/10)

  It was very clean & comfortable. The location is fantastic
  
  What could be improved: The pillows were unusual, maybe worth having a few different types in the wardrobe so people can change them if needed.

• Exceptional 5⭐️… perfect in every way – Jenny from New Zealand – 17 June 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was very clean, modern , spacious, great facilities and the location was superb. Definitely 5 ⭐️. Adriano was very helpful. We look forward to returning on our next visit
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Exceptional – Rimvydas from Lithuania – 4 June 2024 (10/10)

  Clean, well equipped apartment. The owner is very helpful, was easy to find.
  
  What could be improved: Not very spacious apartment, but it is usually in Italy. For 4 persons was a good choice.

• Exceptional – Bogdan from Romania – 19 March 2024 (10/10)

  The position of the apartment,easy to reach to it
  
  What could be improved: N.a

• Very very good – Goran from North Macedonia – 9 March 2024 (9/10)

  It is new and renovated and it is very good. It is deep in Venice and perfect to stay if you want to deep explore the city
  
  What could be improved: Hard to find like all things in Venice. Ask for house number and you wont have any problems. Instructions are good from the owner and he is very responsive

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities