Palazzo Soderini

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Palazzo Soderini almost by accident last spring – I was wandering off the beaten path in Venice’s Castello district, you know, that quieter corner east of San Marco where the locals actually live and the tourists thin out. I’d just hopped off the vaporetto at Arsenale, lugging my bag over those uneven stone bridges, and there it was, tucked into Campo Bandiera e Moro, this unassuming little square with a couple of neighborhood cafes and kids kicking a ball around in the evenings. It’s not one of those flashy palazzos screaming for attention; honestly, it feels more like staying in a friend’s old Venetian townhouse – well, if your friend had a knack for blending 18th-century frescoes with modern comforts. Check-in was a breeze, no long lines or stuffy formalities; the owner, this chatty guy named Marco (I think?), handed over the keys with a quick rundown on the best nearby gelato spot – Gelateria Nico, just a five-minute stroll toward the lagoon. And get this, there’s no elevator, which might be a drag if you’re hauling heavy luggage up the narrow stairs, but it adds to that authentic Venice vibe, you know? The place is rated an 8.8 for a reason – it’s got that lived-in charm without trying too hard.

What really won me over were the rooms – mine overlooked the campo, with these tall windows letting in the salty sea air and the distant hum of boat traffic on the canals. It’s a 3-star spot, so don’t expect marble spas or infinity pools, but the beds are comfy, with crisp linens that smell faintly of lavender (they must use some local detergent or something), and the bathrooms are spotless, if a tad compact – I mean, space is at a premium in Venice. Breakfast is simple but satisfying: fresh croissants, yogurt, and strong espresso served in a sunny courtyard that’s blissfully quiet in the mornings, especially off-season when the city isn’t swarming with day-trippers. I loved how it’s just steps from Via Garibaldi, that lively street with its fish market and hole-in-the-wall osterias where you can snag cicchetti for cheap – try the baccalà mantecato at that place near the end, it’s divine. Noise-wise, it’s peaceful at night, save for the occasional church bell or seagull squawk, but if you’re a light sleeper, pack earplugs for those early-morning delivery boats. Oh, and a minor gripe: Wi-Fi can be spotty in the upper rooms, but hey, who goes to Venice to scroll Instagram all day?

All in all, if you’re after a slice of real Venetian life without the San Marco crowds or sky-high prices, Palazzo Soderini is a gem. It’s perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to explore on foot – you’re a 15-minute walk from the Biennale gardens or the hidden gems around Santa Maria Formosa, and in summer, when the heat hits, that shaded campo becomes your personal oasis. I left feeling like I’d uncovered a secret – sort of like those tucked-away canals that only reveal themselves at low tide. Sure, it’s not luxurious, but it’s genuine, and in a city that’s all about illusions, that’s what counts. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in shoulder season when Venice feels like yours alone.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $166. Double Room with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $190. Double Room with Garden View with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Alejandro from Guatemala – 13 September 2023 (9/10)

  Property is very nice, very comfy.
  
  What could be improved: I liked everything.

• Ksenia from Cyprus – 10 November 2024 (9/10)

  Perfect stay! Everything was great! Friendly atmosphere and beautiful location. Hope to visit again!

• -urlauberin- from Germany – 30 October 2024 (9/10)

  Wonderful apartment, excellent location near S. Marco. We enjoyed the garden, so calm and relaxing after a day in the city.
  The host Lorenzo gave us a very warm welcome and showed us around, thank you very much!

• Adela from Romania – 27 October 2024 (9/10)

  From the communication with the property representatives to the amazing interior design of the room and the common area, everything was great! Same was the location, a piece of silence close to the city center with an amazing garden. Too bad it was raining and was not able to enjoy it!
  
  Highly recommend!
  
  What could be improved: –

• Richard from United Kingdom – 26 September 2024 (9/10)

  Location, communication, clean and comfortable with everything we needed
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Louise from Australia – 17 September 2024 (9/10)

  Very good location in quiet piazza but close to everything. Spacious room and also shared lounge area and garden which we enjoyed for evening drinks.
  Comfortable bed and good shower.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing I can think of

• Doris from Romania – 24 August 2024 (9/10)

  Very interesting combination of old and modern, lovely garden, very close to main attractions, very friendly and helpful host

• Kunduz from Kyrgyzstan – 29 July 2024 (9/10)

  At first we want to say “Grazie Mille” to host – Lorenzo. He is the kindest person in Italy, he welcomed us with great level of hospitality. We recommend this accommodation for everyone who visits Venice. And location is awesome, it’s close to Zaccaria river station, room is super clean and he has fantastic garden inside. We enjoyed our one night in Venice thanks to Lorenzo! See you soon, our Italian friend!

• Kimberly from United States – 7 July 2024 (9/10)

  Lorenzo was so friendly and helpful! He met us at the property for check in. He gave us tons of info about the property and recommendations for restaurants while we were in Venice. The room was super comfortable and we slept so well! It’s very well located, about a 10 min walk from San Marcos Plaza. The property is modern and they even left us a small bottle of champagne and water as a welcome gift! I would definitely recommend staying here!
  
  What could be improved: If I had to say something… the bathroom door was a bit squeaky but that’s easy to fix!!

• Diana from Romania – 20 June 2024 (9/10)

  All
  
  What could be improved: Everything was just fine

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities