Palazzo Odoni

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at the San Tomà stop – you know, that little landing right on the Grand Canal – and weaving my way through those narrow calli toward Palazzo Odoni. It’s tucked away on Fondamenta Minotto in Santa Croce, which honestly feels like a breath of fresh air after the crush of tourists around San Marco. No cars in Venice, obviously, so I lugged my suitcase over a couple of small bridges, but it was only about a 10-minute walk from Piazzale Roma if you’re coming from the train station. The building itself is this gorgeous 15th-century palazzo – all faded frescoes and heavy wooden doors that creak just enough to make you feel like you’ve time-traveled. Check-in was a breeze; the owner, this warm Italian guy named Marco (I think?), handed over the keys with a quick chat about the best nearby spots for cicchetti – those little Venetian tapas. Oh, and fair warning: it’s an old place, so no elevator, just a winding staircase that might test your legs after a day of wandering, but hey, that’s part of the charm, right?

What really won me over was how the place balances that historic vibe with actual comfort – I mean, my room had these massive beamed ceilings and a four-poster bed that felt like sinking into a cloud, with linens so crisp they smelled faintly of lavender. The views? Mine overlooked the canal, and mornings started with the soft lap of water against the stones and the distant hum of a delivery boat chugging by. Breakfast is served in this cozy courtyard – think fresh cornetti, strong espresso, and maybe some prosciutto if you’re lucky – nothing over-the-top, but solid and included, which saves you from hunting down a café in the early fog. I wandered out to nearby Rio Novo for a quiet gondola ride one evening; it’s less crowded than the main drags, and you can pop into that tiny osteria on Calle della Madonna for a spritz without the tourist markup. Noise-wise, it’s pretty peaceful – well, except for the occasional church bell or seagull squawk – especially off-season in winter when Venice empties out a bit. One minor gripe: the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the thicker-walled rooms, but honestly, who needs it when you’re steps from the real thing? The staff sorted out my vaporetto pass questions without batting an eye, and they even recommended avoiding the high-water acquaalta seasons if you’re not into wading.

Look, if you’re after that authentic Venice without the chaos of staying right on the Rialto, Palazzo Odoni is a gem – rated a solid 9.1 for good reason. It’s in Santa Croce, so you’re close enough to hit the Frari church or hop a boat to the islands, but far from the souvenir hawkers. I left feeling like I’d actually lived there for a bit, you know? Worth every euro, especially if you book in shoulder season for quieter canals and better deals.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $221. Deluxe Single Room with 1 single bed for 1 – 1 guests
• Estimated price from: $283. Superior Double Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Jocelyn from Canada – 30 October 2023 (10/10)

  Room sizing was very generous. Breakfast options were wonderful. Staff were helpful and friendly. Pack and play provided was a great size (brought fitted sheet from home).

• Don from United States – 1 April 2025 (9/10)

  The staff was outstanding!! Definitely recommend this place!! Super breakfast too!!

• Zhi from Australia – 25 March 2025 (9/10)

  It was very clean and location was great. Breakfast may be simple to some but it was exactly what I was after. The staff were exceptionally helpful and friendly. This accommodation exceeded my expectations!
  
  What could be improved: More of an fyi than a complaint, there’s about 20-30 steps to go up to our room – it is what it is. There is no cooling function in the room during cooler months (staff mentioned cooling is available in warmer months). Granted it is the start of spring and its 5degrees outside, but the room was very hot and stuffy. Not a deal breaker but could have been more comfortable.

• Daiva from United Kingdom – 23 March 2025 (8/10)

  Nice hotel, friendly staff, very comfortable bed! Good room size. Good location.
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast.

• Lisa from United States – 22 March 2025 (10/10)

  Delicious breakfast and very friendly staff.
  
  What could be improved: Lots of stairs! But this was manageable thanks to the friendly staff who helped carry our bags.

• Kscarter72 from United States – 13 March 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent hospitality, helpful staff, comfy beds, beautiful suite that was affordable and perfect for our family of four.

• Viktar from Lithuania – 12 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, quiet place, close to the main attractions. The staff is amazing, everyone is very welcoming. The breakfast is amazing, there is enough of everything, for us and our child there was everything we needed.

• Joshua from United States – 6 March 2025 (8/10)

  Convenient to piazzale Roma….even with heavy luggage in tow.

• Samantha from United Kingdom – 1 March 2025 (9/10)

  Fantastic staff, wonderful breakfast, simply very good

• Shaghayegh from Germany – 24 February 2025 (9/10)

  Stuff- quality of breakfast- clean bathroom
  
  What could be improved: Size of room- sound isolation

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities