Marin Traghetto – Locazione Turistica

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at Piazzale Roma – you know, that bustling spot where the buses and trains dump you into Venice proper – and thinking, well, this is it, time to navigate the maze. Marin Traghetto – Locazione Turistica is tucked away in Santa Croce, right on Calle Traghetto Vecchio, which is this narrow little alley that feels like a secret passageway off the Grand Canal. Honestly, it’s not one of those flashy spots in San Marco where you’re elbow-to-elbow with tour groups all day; Santa Croce has that lived-in vibe, with locals popping into corner bakeries for espresso and kids kicking soccer balls against ancient walls. I dragged my suitcase over the uneven cobblestones – no cars in Venice, remember, so pack light – and found the place on the first floor (primo piano, as they say), up a short flight of stairs that creak just enough to remind you you’re in a building that’s probably seen centuries. Check-in was a breeze; the host was this friendly guy who handed over the keys with a quick rundown in broken English – “Watch for high water in winter, eh?” – and left us to it. No fancy lobby, just a cozy entryway that smells faintly of fresh laundry and canal mist.

What really got me about Marin Traghetto is how it balances that old-world charm with stuff that actually makes a stay comfortable, you know? The rooms are spacious for Venice standards – I mean, we’re talking high ceilings with exposed beams that make you feel like you’re in some artist’s garret – and mine had this view out onto the calle where you could hear the occasional gondola oar splashing by (though it’s quieter than you’d think at night, unless it’s Carnevale season and the revelers spill over). The bed was firm but plush, with those crisp white linens that rustle softly, and there’s a little kitchenette that’s a lifesaver – I whipped up pasta from the nearby Coop supermarket on Fondamenta dei Tolentini, saving a fortune on eating out. It’s rated 8.4 for a reason; four stars means clean, modern bathrooms with decent water pressure (a rarity in some Venetian spots, let me tell you), but it’s not without its quirks – the Wi-Fi can be spotty if you’re streaming, and during peak summer, the alley gets a bit echoey with foot traffic from folks heading to the Rialto Bridge, which is just a 15-minute stroll away. Still, wandering out in the morning to grab a cornetto from that tiny pasticceria on Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio – oh man, the flaky pastry and strong coffee hit different here – made it feel like my own little corner of the city.

Look, if you’re the type who wants to dip into Venice without the overwhelming crowds, this place is gold. It’s authentic, not some sterile chain – think more like staying in a friend’s apartment, with all the practical bits sorted. Sure, it might not have a pool or spa (who needs that in a floating city?), but you’re steps from the traghetto crossing to Dorsoduro for galleries, or a quick walk to the Jewish Ghetto in Cannaregio for some history without the hassle. I stayed in early fall, when the light turns golden and the evenings cool off, and it was perfect for unwinding after days of getting lost on purpose. Minor gripe: no elevator, so if stairs are an issue, heads up. But overall, for the price and that insider feel – yeah, I’d book it again in a heartbeat. Venice can be exhausting, but spots like this make it magical.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $133. Studio with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $155. Deluxe Double Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $172. Junior Suite with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Lovely place in Venice – Marta from United Kingdom – 9 May 2025 (9/10)

  Very nice hotel, situated in great place. Clean and nicely done. Staff was brilliant, very helpful, friendly with positive attitude. I highly recommend this place.

• Renovated good location. – Marianne from Australia – 6 September 2024 (8/10)

  Location was very good for us. Close to train station and ferry, so very easy to get around and to get to popular tourist spots, but also away from crowds of people. There is also a laundromat nearby as well as cafes etc. Recently refurbished. Clean and neat.
  
  What could be improved: Still some finishing touches needed for the renovation.

• Marin Traghetto hit all our important criteria- clean and roomy bathroom, convenient, great breakfast – Colleen from United States – 3 September 2024 (9/10)

  Location very convenient to all transit options, breakfast was perfect, very friendly and helpful staff, clean and large bathroom, bright room, still had Venice character.
  
  What could be improved: AC but still difficulty getting it cool enough- though it was very hot out. One long flight of stairs to room. Neither of these would keep us from staying again if in Venice.

• Efficient – Theresa from United States – 29 March 2024 (8/10)

  Great accommodations but rooms are very small! Clean and the space is clean and comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Small rooms and no place for luggage

• Loved it – Montgomery from United States – 19 October 2023 (9/10)

  Friendly staff and helpful!
  Great stay for the night. Very clean.
  Would stay again

• Convenient location, clean & comfortable room, excellent service. – Calvin from Singapore – 7 July 2025 (8/10)

  Location was very convenient – within walking distance from the train station.
  Room was quiet, clean and comfortable.
  Staff were friendly and super helpful – gave us good recommendations on places to visit and restaurants.

• Great place to stay! – Alan from Australia – 23 May 2025 (9/10)

  Well located within easy walk to train station. Restaurants and bars nearby.
  
  What could be improved: Only drawback was a plumbing problem created by other guests (inconsiderate & nonsensical use of plumbing)
  Was promptly remedied by staff following our request.

• Very cool – Alex from United States – 26 March 2025 (8/10)

  Close to termini, but far from main attractions in Venice but the hotel is very nice especially the breakfast buffet

• Very good – Jim from Australia – 21 September 2024 (8/10)

  Location, was perfect. 5 min from shuttles, ferries and trains.
  
  What could be improved: Bed wad standard small double bed, damp smell, sircon worked but not well.

• Superb – Viacheslav from Ukraine – 31 October 2023 (9/10)

  Staff was amazing. Breakfasts – fantastic. Studio is good
  
  What could be improved: Little smell in the studio, but i guess it's the common thing for the Venice.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities