Penthouse with Rooftop Terrace and 360 Views of Venice – Venice5th

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at the Celestia stop – you know, that quiet little dock in Castello where the crowds thin out and you start feeling like you’re in the real Venice, not just the postcard version. It’s a short wander down those narrow calli to 5417 Castello, past those old stone walls that smell faintly of salt and history, and honestly, finding the place was a breeze even with my luggage bumping along the uneven pavement. The Penthouse with Rooftop Terrace and 360 Views of Venice – or Venice5th, as they call it – is tucked up on the top floor of this unassuming building, and let me tell you, the moment I climbed those stairs (yeah, no elevator, so pack light if stairs aren’t your thing), I was hit with this rush of “whoa, this is it.” The space is all sleek and modern inside, with these big windows framing the lagoon like it’s your personal art installation. I mean, it’s rated a solid 9.4 for a reason – four stars, but it feels more like a hidden gem than some fancy chain hotel.

What really sold me, though, was that rooftop terrace. Picture this: you’re up there at dusk, the whole city sprawling out in a 360-degree panorama – the spires of San Marco poking up to the west, the Arsenale’s massive shipyards glowing in the sunset, and even a glimpse of the Lido across the water. I spent evenings just lounging on those comfy outdoor sofas, sipping prosecco I grabbed from the little market on Via Garibaldi (that’s the street nearby with actual locals doing their shopping, not just souvenir stands – pro tip, hit the bakery there for fresh focaccia). The penthouse itself is spacious, sort of minimalist-chic with a full kitchen that came in handy for whipping up pasta after a long day wandering. Noise-wise, Castello’s a dream – quieter than the San Marco chaos, especially in the off-season like early spring when I went, though you might hear the occasional church bell or boat horn drifting up, which honestly adds to the charm. Check-in was smooth; the host met me right on time, handed over the keys with a few insider tips on avoiding the tourist traps, like taking the back route to the Biennale gardens for a peaceful stroll. One minor gripe? The Wi-Fi could be spotty during peak hours, but hey, you’re in Venice – who needs constant scrolling when you’ve got those views?

All in all, if you’re after a spot that lets you live like a Venetian with a killer vantage point, this penthouse is gold. It’s not the cheapest, but for the privacy and that terrace magic – especially during the less crowded months like October when the air’s crisp and the light’s golden – it’s worth every euro. I’ve stayed in a few places around here, and this one sticks with me; it’s got that authentic feel where you wake up to the sound of seagulls and the faint lap of canal water, making you forget you’re just a stone’s throw from the madness of St. Mark’s Square. Go for it if you want to feel connected to the city, not just passing through – trust me, you’ll leave with stories.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $1,107. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 4 guests

Reviews

• Sara from United States – 14 May 2024 (10/10)

  This property was perfect for the 3 generations of women in my family. It was so close to everything that we wanted to see with plenty of space to spread out and be comfortable. The rooftop terrace was an added bonus with an incredible 360 degree view. I would definitely recommend a stay here.
  
  What could be improved: The stairs. But this is Venice. We are all in good shape so the actual climb wasn’t a problem. It was the climb with heavy luggage for 2 weeks. BUT Barbara had asked if we needed help with luggage, and I didn’t follow through. She kindly arranged for us to have help for a small fee on our departure. If you are traveling with luggage for a weekend you will be fine. And possibly fine if traveling with heavy luggage with some strong males. But if not, request the luggage help. It was worth every cent.

• Jacq from Ireland – 22 February 2025 (9/10)

  Unique little gem

• Sara from United States – 10 October 2024 (9/10)

  Beautifully appointed, amazing views of the city.
  
  What could be improved: The stairs would be challenging for some, not for us.

• Amanda from United States – 21 August 2024 (10/10)

  The views from the rooftop terrace were amazing! It's like looking at a completely different city and it was a great experience.

• Ben from United States – 11 July 2024 (10/10)

  Location and size of apartment
  
  What could be improved: Downstairs shower wouldn't stay on…had to hold it on. Annoying but trivial. The place is amazing

• Ryan from United States – 16 May 2024 (10/10)

  Great location with all the amenities. Perfect for our group of 5. Super Host who provided us with meat, cheeses, fruits, and wines to accommodate our late arrival. We were very impressed!
  
  What could be improved: A LOT of steps to climb but it was good to work off all the gelato we ate. 🙂

• Mike from United Kingdom – 14 April 2024 (10/10)

  Incredible location, beautifully furnished and decorated and with the best roof terrace in Venice!
  
  What could be improved: Not a single thing

• Kelly from Australia – 3 January 2024 (10/10)

  You couldn't beat this location, the view from the rooftop was spectacular. The apartment is HUGE. So much space for our family of 5. Enough that if we needed some solo time we were able too. Close to the main tourist attractions, yet far enough to feel tucked away. The apartment itself was just gorgeous, beautifully styled and had everything you may possibly need. Wished we could have stayed longer!
  
  What could be improved: Its not something we didn't like, just something you should know (we did prior to booking so came prepared) the apartment is up on the 5th floor, so there are some steep staircases to climb with luggage and children in tow. We were able to climb them easily, with our suitcases and three kids, so it is manageable.

• David from Portugal – 7 September 2022 (9/10)

  Perfect rooftop with all the facilities needed for a plesant stay. Loved everything about it and we felt like true Venezians. Ideal for families.
  
  What could be improved: nothing negative to say. No elevator but that’s the price for having a marvellous rooftop.

• Yuli from United States – 19 June 2022 (9/10)

  I love the view from top of the apartment, it was amazing!!!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities