Palazzo del Sale, Rialto

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Palazzo del Sale, Rialto, almost by accident during one of those hazy autumn afternoons in Venice when the fog rolls in off the lagoon and everything feels a bit magical – or maybe that’s just the jet lag talking. Tucked away on Calle dei Cinque in the San Polo district, it’s this unassuming little spot that’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention, hidden down one of those narrow, winding alleys that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. I mean, Venice is all about getting lost anyway, right? But honestly, finding this place after dragging my suitcase over the Rialto Bridge from the vaporetto stop at Ca’ d’Oro was a relief – no cars here, obviously, so you’re walking or boating everything, but it’s only about a 10-minute stroll from the bridge, past those bustling fish markets where the air smells like salt and fresh octopus. The building itself is this restored palazzo with faded frescoes on the walls and creaky wooden beams that whisper stories from the old salt trade days – yeah, the name means “Palace of Salt,” which ties into Venice’s history, you know? Check-in was a breeze; the owner, this chatty local guy named Marco, greeted me with a glass of prosecco and some insider tips on avoiding the tourist traps around Campo San Polo, which is just a stone’s throw away.

What really won me over, though, was how it balances that old-world charm with just enough modern comforts without feeling stuffy or overdone. My room was on the second floor – well, first by European standards – overlooking a quiet canal where you could hear the gentle lap of water against the stones at night, drowned out only by the occasional gondolier singing off-key (charming at first, but earplugs might be handy if you’re a light sleeper). The bed was firm but comfy, with those crisp white linens that smell faintly of lavender, and the bathroom had one of those rain showers that make you linger a bit too long in the morning. It’s a 3-star spot, so don’t expect a spa or infinity pool – actually, there’s no pool at all, which is par for the course in Venice – but the breakfast spread in the cozy courtyard is killer: fresh cornetti, cappuccinos strong enough to wake the dead, and these little jars of homemade jam from nearby Burano. I appreciated the free Wi-Fi that actually worked (a rarity in some older buildings here), and the fact that it’s quiet in the evenings, especially off-season when San Polo empties out after the day-trippers head back to Mestre. One minor gripe? The stairs are steep and there’s no elevator, so pack light if mobility’s an issue – but hey, that’s authentic Venice for you.

All in all, if you’re after a place that feels like a local secret rather than a glossy chain hotel, Palazzo del Sale is a winner – that 9.3 rating doesn’t lie. It’s perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to be close to the action without the San Marco crowds; you’re steps from the Rialto Market for grabbing picnic supplies, or a quick walk to hidden gems like the Frari church with its Titian masterpieces. I left feeling like I’d uncovered a piece of real Venice, the kind that sticks with you long after the trip. Book it in shoulder season if you can – spring or fall – when the rates are reasonable and the city’s at its moody best. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $340. Penthouse Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 4 guests
• Estimated price from: $360. Deluxe Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $366. Superior Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed, 2 single beds and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Ghobadlou from Norway – 29 May 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was super clean and the apartment was super comfy.

• Laura from Spain – 29 March 2025 (9/10)

  I don’t like to throw the bin but all the other thinks are very nice and good

• Janice from United Kingdom – 18 March 2025 (8/10)

  Great central location and very clean. Comfy bed
  
  What could be improved: We couldn’t use the lounge area as the sofa was made up into a permanent bed (not like the picture) and the two small red chairs were very uncomfortable which was a shame as a comfy sofas was just what we needed after a long day out.

• Sandrien from Belgium – 8 March 2025 (10/10)

  We had a great time at Alberto's place, ideally located to explore Venice on foot or by waterbus. We would recommend the restaurant around the corner "Al Gobbo di Rialto" for eat in or take away. In the morning we had our breakfast at Caffé del Doge right across the street. All in all, don't hesitate to book this place.

• Gábor from Romania – 25 February 2025 (10/10)

  Alberto was very nice,he gave us all the information we needed,related to the apartment.The location is very nice, situated very close to the most important sight seeing points.You can get easily anywhere by foot,the vaporetto station is also 3 minutes away. We had a nice stay.It is definitely worth it according to the value and price range.

• Valker from Hungary – 15 February 2025 (10/10)

  The most important thing is the flat is a one minute walk from Rialto, which is the most important traffic junction of Venezia.
  The apartment's building is in the middle of an alley. This is good, because only those people go there who has to do something there, so loud gangs are not passing under your window at night.
  The apartment is spacious for the whole family, the interior design looks great.

• Raluca from Romania – 9 January 2025 (10/10)

  Great stay, close to all major visiting points, very cozy and fully equipped.

• Francesca from Italy – 5 January 2025 (10/10)

  Very comfortable and clean! The location was perfect and easy to access with suitcases and stroller via the vaporetto (no bridges from the closest vaporetto stop to the apartment).

• Kieu from Netherlands – 27 December 2024 (10/10)

  Great location. The apartment is located in a central but quiet alley. There is a lovely cafeteria in front of the apartment, and a few steps to the Rialto Gondolar harbour. We could also store our luggage in a locker room after check out. Thanks to its central location, we had a great morning excursion in Venice.

• Brooke from New Zealand – 22 December 2024 (10/10)

  Wonderful location in Venice, easy to get to and to see all the beautiful sights of Venice. The host was very communicative and helpful, we had a great stay!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing – everything was great.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities