Palazzina RIVA

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to Palazzina RIVA on a vaporetto from the train station – you know, the Santa Lucia stop, which is just a quick ride away – and spotting that elegant little facade right on the Grand Canal at Riva de Biasio. It’s in Santa Croce, which honestly feels like the real Venice without all the tourist crush of San Marco; you’re close enough to wander over to the Rialto in about 15 minutes, but far from the constant buzz. I mean, stepping off the boat, the water was lapping gently against the stone steps, and there was this faint salty tang in the air mixed with whatever was baking from a nearby pasticceria – probably those fresh cornetti they do so well around here. The hotel itself is tucked into this historic palazzina, all creamy stucco and wrought-iron balconies, and checking in was a breeze; the staff – mostly locals, I think – chatted with me about the best time to avoid the high water in November, like they actually cared if I got my feet wet. No massive lobby or anything flashy, just a cozy reception with some old maps on the walls that made me feel like I’d stumbled into someone’s well-kept Venetian home.

What really won me over, though, was how they nailed that balance between old-world charm and the stuff you actually need on a trip. My room overlooked the canal – yeah, splurge for that if you can, because waking up to gondolas gliding by at dawn is straight out of a postcard, but without the kitsch. The bed was ridiculously comfortable, all crisp linens and fluffy pillows, and the bathroom had these marble sinks that felt authentically aged, not some fake reproduction. Breakfast? Oh man, it was served in this sunny courtyard (weather permitting, of course – Venice can be drizzly), with homemade jams, prosciutto, and coffee that actually tastes like Italy, not the watered-down tourist stuff. I wandered out one morning to grab a spritz at a little bar on Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio, which is like five minutes away and way less crowded than the spots near the bridge – perfect for people-watching without the hassle. That said, if you’re sensitive to noise, the canal side can pick up some boat traffic early on, especially in summer when the vaporettos are running non-stop; it’s not bad, but earplugs might help if you’re a light sleeper. And parking? Forget it unless you’re arriving by water taxi – this is Venice, after all, no cars in sight, but Piazzale Roma’s nearby for buses if you’re coming from the mainland.

Look, if you’re after a place that feels genuinely Venetian without skimping on comfort, Palazzina RIVA is it – that 9.4 rating isn’t hype. It’s not the cheapest 4-star around (rooms can push 300 euros in peak season, well, depending on when you book), but honestly, for the location and the way it lets you slip into local life – think quiet evenings strolling to a hidden osteria on Rio Terà San Leonardo – it’s worth every cent. I’ve stayed in flashier spots, but this one left me actually missing it, you know? If Venice is on your list, book here and thank me later.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $253. Apartment with Garden View with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $286. One-Bedroom Apartment with Garden View with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $307. Apartment – Ground Floor with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $404. Loft with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $427. Apartment with Terrace with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $475. Apartment with Balcony with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $339. Superior Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $340. Comfort Triple Room with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $408. Deluxe Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $585. Penthouse Apartment with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• A spectacular place in Venice to visit with the family, but very expensive. – Jesus from Colombia – 14 July 2025 (10/10)

  The property is spectacular — very beautiful, very spacious, very clean, modern, and recently renovated with a great view. Excellent. The person who assisted us at the front desk was very kind and always attentive, making sure to provide good service.
  
  What could be improved: I believe the price was very high. We realized there were other hotels of very good quality at nearly half the price, with breakfast included and many other amenities. I think we should have looked a bit more before booking.

• Superb – Mychael from United States – 14 July 2025 (9/10)

  Location and staff is exceptional

• Secret Hideaway in Venice – Sallyann from Australia – 13 July 2025 (9/10)

  The size of the room was very good, and bathroom was a decent size for Europe, we really enjoyed our stay and would definitely stay again. The location was excellent a short walk to the train station and a major water taxi stop steps from the entrance of the property. But frankly we didn't use as the property was so central we could walk everywhere, and it was away from all the busy touristy areas so very quiet. We rate the property highly. We parked our car in the Marco Polo carpark which was walking distance with two large suitcases not many big steps to carry them over.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Exceptional – Colleen from Australia – 23 June 2025 (10/10)

  Everything, comfy bed. Great styling and very beautiful apartment

• Wonderful place to stay in a beautiful city, helpful reception staff also really made a difference. – Gabrielle from New Zealand – 22 June 2025 (10/10)

  Location was fantastic, right on the grand canal, and 5 minutes' walk from the main train station. it was also right by two canal boat stops. The rooms were huge, the bed really comfortable, the air-conditioning was fantastic (best of the trip). kitchen really good, with lots of little extras (like snacks), coffee machine, even a dishwasher! Reception staff lovely, outside courtyard. Really enjoyed staying here, great value for money.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, all good

• This is by far the best place we stayed during our Italy trip. – William from United States – 19 June 2025 (10/10)

  The facility is new, modern, and clean. Air condition works very well, beds are comfortable, room is quiet, and bathroom is clean. It's walking distance to the train station, and right in front of water bus stops.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• A lovely location to stay in a great city! – David from United Kingdom – 9 June 2025 (9/10)

  Location was ideal for us. The coffee machine and the snacks provided was unexpected, but lovely. The room layout and cleanliness were great.

• Best place to stay in Venice! – Sarah from Australia – 9 June 2025 (10/10)

  This apartment on the Grand Canal was exceptional! So easy to access straight off the vaporetto. A quiet haven in the midst of hustle and bustle. Very well equipped and the bed was so comfortable. We really loved our stay and highly recommend!

• Great location and value for money. Would definitely recommend – Judith from United Kingdom – 3 June 2025 (10/10)

  Modern, clean , very comfortable bed, quiet location but easy to access the water Taxis. Good kitchenette facilities. Provided slippers and dressing gowns as well as clean towel linen. Communication great leading up to our stay. We were even provided a free upgrade for our stay, the room had its own little terrace and a view out over the canal.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, it was perfect!

• Great find close to the station – Natasha from United Kingdom – 28 May 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, right in the canal. Very modern and clean. Very close to the station. Only need to cross 2 bridges.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities