Miami in Venice

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Miami in Venice kind of by accident last spring – I was hunting for a spot in Venice that wasn’t drowning in tourists, and honestly, Giudecca island felt like a breath of fresh air after the chaos of San Marco. The hotel’s tucked away at 492 Riva dei Scorzeri, right on the waterfront, and getting there is half the fun: hop on the vaporetto from Piazzale Roma or the train station, and it’s just a short ride across the lagoon. I mean, sure, Venice has no cars, so you’re lugging your bags from the Palanca stop, but it’s only a five-minute stroll along the fondamenta, past those old brick warehouses that locals still use for boat repairs. The name threw me off at first – Miami in Venice? Sounds like a gimmick, right? But once you step inside, it clicks: there’s this playful nod to Art Deco vibes mixed with Venetian charm, like colorful tiles in the lobby that remind you of South Beach, but with views straight out to the water where gondolas bob by. My check-in was a breeze; the staff – mostly Venetians who’ve lived on Giudecca forever – chatted about the best times to avoid the high-tide acqua alta, which can flood the paths in winter, and they even pointed out a tiny bakery nearby for fresh cornetti if you’re up early.

What really won me over, though, was how the place balances that 4-star polish with a laid-back feel you don’t always get in pricier spots across the canal. My room overlooked the lagoon – nothing fancy, but waking up to the sound of seagulls and the faint salty tang in the air was magic, especially at dawn when the light hits the water just right. The beds are comfy, with those crisp linens that make you sink in after a day of wandering, and the bathroom had a rain shower that felt luxurious without being over-the-top. Breakfast is included, and it’s solid – think fresh pastries, prosciutto, and decent coffee on a terrace where you can watch the vaporetti chug by – but fair warning, it gets a bit crowded around 9 a.m. in peak season (July and August, when Venice is mobbed). I appreciated the little touches, like free Wi-Fi that actually works (a rarity in some older buildings here) and a small gym if you’re into that, though honestly, who needs it when you’re walking everywhere? Oh, and noise-wise, Giudecca is blissfully quiet at night compared to the Dorsoduro side – no late-night revelers, just the occasional boat horn echoing softly. One minor gripe: the air conditioning can be finicky in older rooms, but they sorted it out quick when I mentioned it.

All in all, if you’re after a Venice stay that feels authentic without the overwhelm – you know, escaping the souvenir shops on the Rialto for a wander along Giudecca’s quieter paths, maybe popping into the Redentore church or grabbing seafood at a no-frills spot like Trattoria Altanella nearby – this place is a gem. With a 9.4 rating, it’s not hype; it’s earned from folks like me who value the views and the vibe over flashy amenities. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially off-season when rates dip and the island feels like your own secret corner of the city. Just pack light – those cobblestones aren’t forgiving on wheels.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $224. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 single bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Kev from United Kingdom – 18 August 2024 (10/10)

  Loved it here. Literally a 5-10 minute boat ride from venice. No noise or big crowds. Absolute bliss. The balcony looks amazing in the pics but it's better in real life. Definitely will be returning to this property. Carlotta and Rosangela were great.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Anastasia from Luxembourg – 28 April 2024 (10/10)

  This apartment is situated on the wonderful island of Giudecca, for many the real Venice, away from the tourist crowds, however just a short vaporetto ride away from all the important spots! The location is easy to find.
  The welcoming by the host was great, we got good tips and we had some flexibility in terms of arrival time.
  The apartment itself and the view is amazing! It's a very spacious, clean and tasteful apartment with a big kitchen and bathroom.
  Undoubtedly a gem in the often overpriced Venice!
  We will be back!

• Iwona from Poland – 18 April 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect. Personel very helpful! They help me to find a very good restaurant and help with reservation. Recommend places to visit. Beautiful apartment and very quiet. I recommend this place for everybody!
  
  What could be improved: –

• František from Czech Republic – 17 September 2024 (8/10)

  Great spot. Basics including coffee supplied. Beautiful view. Easy check in and check out. Great communication.
  
  What could be improved: Having to take out trash to recycling location on departure which is not convenient when carrying luggage. Should be communicated on Booking.com in house rules.

• Ostap from Moldova – 2 April 2025 (10/10)

  Evadare în rai… foarte liniștit, și cu vederea la mare…răsărit și apus de nedescris…Mulțumim!

• Tereza from Czech Republic – 26 October 2024 (10/10)

  Nádherný výhled, skvělá pomoc s navigací do místa, pohodlná postel, blízko do centra.

• Marcel from Netherlands – 5 September 2024 (9/10)

  uitzicht en rustige locatie

• Cheralin from Spain – 17 August 2024 (10/10)

  Excelente todo.
  Perfecto e impecable.

• Ruxandra from Romania – 25 July 2024 (10/10)

  Tutto perfetto.Posizione eccellente con una vista assolutamente stupenda dal balcone.Tornerò sicuramente!!😊

• Marita from Germany – 7 July 2024 (8/10)

  Alles gut.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities