Master Venice Apartments

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Master Venice Apartments kind of by accident last spring – I was rushing off the vaporetto at Piazzale Roma, dragging my suitcase over those uneven cobblestones, and honestly, after the chaos of the train station at Santa Lucia, it felt like a breath of fresh air. Tucked away on Santa Croce 1275, right in the Santa Croce sestiere, it’s not smack in the middle of the tourist hordes around San Marco, which is a godsend if you’re like me and need a break from the endless selfie sticks. I mean, you’re just a short walk from the Grand Canal – maybe 5 minutes to the Scalzi Bridge – but it feels worlds away, with those narrow calli where locals actually hang their laundry and chat over morning espresso. Check-in was a breeze; the host met me at the door with a big smile and a quick rundown of the neighborhood, handing over keys without any of that stuffy hotel formality. No elevator, mind you – it’s an old building, so hauling bags up a flight or two of creaky wooden stairs is part of the charm (or a minor workout, depending on your mood).

What really won me over were the apartments themselves – spacious, with that lived-in Venetian vibe, you know? High ceilings, exposed beams that smell faintly of aged wood and whatever herbs were simmering in the kitchenette from the previous guests. I stayed in one overlooking a quiet rio, and mornings were magic: the soft lap of water against the walls, distant church bells from San Polo chiming in, and none of that overwhelming canal funk you get in busier spots. It’s got all the practical bits sorted – a full fridge, washer (a lifesaver after a muddy day exploring), and Wi-Fi that actually holds up for streaming. I wandered out to nearby Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio for a spritz at sunset; it’s one of those underrated squares where Venetians outnumber tourists, with kids playing soccer and old-timers gossiping on benches. Parking’s a non-issue since, well, it’s Venice – leave the car at Tronchetto and forget about it – but if you’re arriving by train, it’s ridiculously close without feeling like you’re in a transit hub. Noise-wise, it’s peaceful after dark, though you might hear the occasional boat horn if you’re a light sleeper; nothing a pair of earplugs can’t fix.

All in all, if you’re after an authentic slice of Venice without the gimmicks, this place is a gem – especially for couples or small groups wanting to cook with market finds from the Rialto (just a 15-minute stroll away). It’s not perfect; the decor’s a tad eclectic, like someone’s nonna furnished it, and busy seasons mean booking early to snag a canal-view spot. But honestly, after a few days here, I felt more like a local than a visitor – sipping coffee on the balcony, watching gondolas glide by. If you’re planning a trip, skip the overpriced chains and give Master Venice a shot; it’s the kind of stay that sticks with you, you know?

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $270. Apartment – Ground Floor with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $315. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed, 1 single bed and 2 sofa beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• さと from Australia – 17 May 2024 (9/10)

  Very charming house of Venice experience.
  Beds were very comfortable and had good shower pleasure.
  Could walk from car park.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Natalie from Australia – 1 April 2025 (9/10)

  Very clean, all the amenities needed to cook in apartment.
  Great hairdryer. Comfortable bed.
  
  What could be improved: As it’s on the ground floor, can get a bit noisy, but nothing too bad.

• Elena from Ukraine – 17 February 2025 (9/10)

  Very nice apartment on two floors, everything is clean and well maintained. We were vacationing together, but there was a lot of space where more could have been accommodated, we had two floors, two bedrooms and two showers. The staff was helpful and pleasant, and we were very happy with our stay

• Kateryna from Ukraine – 12 February 2025 (9/10)

  The photos don’t do justice to this apartment. It’s exceptionally clean and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. The flat is quite warm and you can adjust temperature too. Location is nice: equal distance to San Marco and St Lucia with minimal bridges on your way.
  
  I want to mention separately the interior. The renovation is fresh, the apartment doesn’t give old vibe (and smell too); all items from bedsheets to dinnerware are new and picked with great taste. I really appreciated that some authentic pieces such as wooden doors, coffer, beams on the ceiling are preserved and restored.
  
  What could be improved: It’s a bit dark even in the sunny day but I guess it’s common in Venice as building are close to each other. In the bedroom it’s lighter though

• Priscilla from Mexico – 30 December 2024 (9/10)

  We loved this appartment, so much so that we were pondering the possibility of expanding our stay in Venice simply for the pleasure of staying in the flat.
  
  What could be improved: I would recommend oiling the hinges of the bathroom door, otherwise, a wonderful place.

• Meeraa from Singapore – 17 December 2024 (9/10)

  Everything. Nicely done,spacious and very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: If you are travelling with big bags then it is quite challenging. Need to cross 2 bridges and walk up the apartment

• David from Australia – 9 November 2024 (9/10)

  Angelo was an excellent host, and sent detailed Whatsapp instructions on how to get to the property including a 2-minute video! Check in process was very straightforward, and the city tax communicated to us before our arrival as expected.
  The apartment is very spacious and exactly as shown on Booking.com. The wifi was very good, bed was very comfortable, dual air conditioners worked well. Refrigerator was excellent – a full size SMEG with a separate freezer was great for our needs.
  Angelo provided info about the closest Co-op – only 3 minutes away. It was well-priced to stock up on a few things like bread and milk. There was an excellent kettle and Nespresso machine – plus a dishwasher which did a great job!
  There were plenty of power points including one either side of the bed and also plenty in the sitting room as well. Shower was very good with great pressure and hot water (rain shower was good but a little slow for us so we used the hand appliance)
  Highly recommended. We would definitely stay here again should we be lucky enough to return to Venice.
  
  What could be improved: The only blemish was the occasional loud footsteps from upstairs and noise from the unit next door, however that was intermittent so wasn’t too disturbing (and to be expected from a ground floor apartment). We also couldn’t get hot water working from the kitchen sink to rinse dishes but given there was a dishwasher and plenty of hot water in the bathroom basin this is a minor thing.

• Joanne from United Kingdom – 20 August 2024 (9/10)

  Fantastic communication from the host. Sent WhatsApp with video of how to find the property and key code. Perfect and took all the stress out of arriving as we were very late.

• Susan from United Kingdom – 29 July 2024 (9/10)

  Beautiful apartment

• Carmela from Canada – 16 July 2024 (9/10)

  The furnishings were beautiful.
  the linens of top quality. Lots of space and comfortable! Perfect space!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities