Palace Canal View by Wonderful Italy

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the Palace Canal View by Wonderful Italy kind of by accident last spring – I was wandering through Cannaregio after getting off the vaporetto at Guglie, and honestly, it felt like a breath of fresh air compared to the chaos around San Marco. Tucked away on calle Flangini, right by the Rio di San Girolamo canal, this place isn’t one of those flashy spots screaming for attention; it’s more like a cozy hideout in what feels like real Venice, you know? The building itself has that classic Venetian vibe – think weathered stone facades and those narrow alleys where you can hear the gentle lap of water against the walls, especially in the evenings when the tour groups thin out. I remember checking in around dusk; the staff was this friendly mix of locals and expats, and they handed over the keys with a quick rundown of the neighborhood – like, “Hey, avoid the main drag on Strada Nova if you’re hungry; hit the bacari on Fondamenta della Misericordia instead for some proper cicchetti.” No big lobby fuss, just a straightforward welcome that made me feel like I’d been there before.

What really hooked me was the canal view – I mean, my room overlooked the water directly, and waking up to the sound of gondoliers chatting in dialect while sunlight danced on the ripples? Priceless, especially for a 3-star spot. The rooms are on the smaller side, sort of compact like most old Venetian buildings (no elevators, so pack light if stairs aren’t your thing), but they’re clean and thoughtfully done – crisp linens, a mini-fridge stocked with basics, and even a little balcony where I sipped coffee watching boats glide by. Breakfast was simple but solid: fresh pastries, yogurt, and that strong Italian espresso that hits just right. It’s run by Wonderful Italy, so there’s this organized touch – like, they provide maps and tips on avoiding the high-season crowds in July, when Cannaregio stays surprisingly mellow. Oh, and parking? Forget it; this is Venice, so you’re walking or boating everywhere, but it’s a short stroll from Santa Lucia station, which was a lifesaver with my luggage. One minor gripe: the canal can get a bit noisy with delivery boats early mornings – that low hum and splash – but earplugs sorted it, and it added to the authentic feel, you know? I spent afternoons exploring nearby, like popping into the Jewish Ghetto for history or grabbing gelato at that tiny spot on Campo dei Mori.

All in all, if you’re after a slice of genuine Venice without breaking the bank – we’re talking an 8.1 rating that feels earned – this place delivers. It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can lag during peak hours, and rooms might feel snug for families, but for solo travelers or couples wanting to ditch the tourist traps, it’s spot-on. I left feeling like I’d actually lived a bit of the city, not just passed through – and that’s saying something in a place as magical (and maddening) as Venice. Next time I’m back, I’d book it again in a heartbeat, maybe in the quieter fall when the fog rolls in and everything gets even more atmospheric.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $219. Suite with Terrace with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $368. Junior Suite with Balcony with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Sukiasyan from Armenia – 8 November 2023 (8/10)

  We loved the spaciousness of the room, the cleanliness, the location and the quiet environment. We really enjoyed the view from the window.

• Cheryl from Australia – 17 December 2024 (8/10)

  The view was as described and exactly like the images in the listing, it completely met my expectations! There are floor to ceiling windows that open and lead you to the balcony. Great view, can see the sunrise and sunset. Location is close to shops and restaurants, but it is in a very small, dark alleyway that is tucked away. The shower is spacious and comfortable to use.
  
  What could be improved: Location is close to shops and restaurants, but it is in a very small, dark alleyway that is tucked away. Luckily I was not travelling alone. If I was travelling alone as a woman, I would definitely be very scared of walking into that alleyway at night. Also, my room was upstairs and I had to carry my 25kg suitcase up there. If you are travelling heavy, maybe try requesting a room on the lower floor.

• Tim from Australia – 28 October 2024 (7/10)

  Location was great and place was clean and comfortable
  
  What could be improved: Whilst there was a view of the canal it was only through some smaller windows. It can also be quiet noisy been right next to the canal from early in the morning

• Kirsten from Australia – 25 September 2024 (9/10)

  Location was fantastic. Room was clean and bed extremely comfortable. The added bonus was the lounge area which we could use on arrival and departure

• Dale from United States – 20 September 2024 (9/10)

  It was a little hidden gem

• Kristy from Australia – 27 July 2024 (9/10)

  It was close to the train station, easy to walk with your luggage. Though the instructions to get there are good the property is tucked away down several small alleys (don’t believe google maps). The out look over the canal was amazing and the communal area was a bonus.

• Lisa from United States – 14 July 2024 (9/10)

  Terrace outside room was nice. Good working ac. Big room. Nice shower.
  
  What could be improved: A bit of a walk to get luggage to.

• Mike from United States – 10 July 2024 (9/10)

  No breakfast at this place
  
  What could be improved: Small fridge in room.

• Jim from United States – 6 July 2024 (9/10)

  Great location with water view and easy walking from the train station.

• Nathan from Australia – 24 June 2024 (8/10)

  The room along with the location were exceptional. The balcony view onto the grand canal is amazing.
  
  What could be improved: The management company is hopeless. I was contacted and provided my passport details on at least four occasions. One member refused to believe that the details had already ben provided multiple times and was very rude on the phone. On the day prior to our arrival they were still claiming I had not yet provided them. Their incompetence did not fill me with confidence that our stay would be successful. Thankfully everything was sorted out and the room was perfect.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities