Residence Odoni

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at Piazzale Roma – you know, that bustling spot where the buses and taxis dump you into Venice proper – and thinking, well, this is it, time to drag my suitcase over those little bridges. But honestly, Residence Odoni isn’t far at all; it’s tucked away on Fondamenta Minotto in Santa Croce, just a 10-minute stroll from the train station if you’re light on luggage. I mean, Santa Croce isn’t the flashy part of Venice like San Marco with its pigeon-packed squares, but that’s what I loved about it – it’s more like where actual Venetians live, with those narrow calli (that’s what they call the alleys here) that feel lived-in, not just tourist-trapped. The building itself is this charming old palazzo right on the canal, and when I arrived in the late afternoon, the sun was hitting the water just right, making everything shimmer. Check-in was a breeze; the owner – this friendly guy named Marco, I think – greeted me like an old friend, handed over the keys, and even gave me a quick map scribbled with his favorite spots for cicchetti (those little Venetian tapas). No big lobby fuss, just a cozy entrance with worn marble floors that echo a bit when you walk in, and that faint, briny smell from the canal outside that reminds you you’re in Venice, not some generic city hotel.

What really sets Residence Odoni apart, though – and yeah, it’s got that solid 4-star vibe without trying too hard – is how it feels like a home base rather than just a place to crash. My room was on the second floor (mind the stairs; there’s no elevator, which is par for the course in these historic buildings, but it might be a hassle if you’ve got mobility issues), and it overlooked the fondamenta with these tall windows that let in the morning light. The decor’s a mix of antique furniture – think velvet armchairs that are surprisingly comfy – and modern touches like a little kitchenette where I whipped up coffee from the pods they provide. Breakfast isn’t some massive buffet, but they bring it to your room: fresh croissants, yogurt, and fruit that actually tastes ripe, not like it’s been sitting out forever. Oh, and the Wi-Fi? Spotty in the evenings when everyone’s streaming, but solid during the day – I got some work done without issues. It’s quiet here, too; Santa Croce doesn’t get the late-night crowds, though you might hear the occasional boat chugging by or church bells from nearby like the Frari, which is just a short walk away. I wandered over there one morning, and it’s stunning – all those Tintorettos and that massive organ. If you’re into local eats, head to Campo Santa Margherita, maybe five minutes away; it’s got these lively bars where students hang out, and the arancini from that corner spot? Divine, especially with an Aperol spritz as the sun sets.

Look, if you’re planning a Venice trip – and let’s be real, go in shoulder season like April or October to avoid the summer hordes – Residence Odoni is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve got the city figured out. It’s not perfect; the bathroom was a tad compact, and hot water took a minute to warm up, but those are minor quibbles in a city where everything’s ancient anyway. At an 8.9 rating, it’s earned its stripes, and for me, it was the perfect spot to unwind after dodging tour groups all day. You’d be hard-pressed to find better value in such a walkable, authentic neighborhood – seriously, book it if you want Venice without the overwhelm. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $271. Apartment with 2 × 2 sofa beds and 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Liping from New Zealand – 3 June 2024 (9/10)

  Very nice owner. Quiet location but 5 minutes to Piazzale Roma.
  
  What could be improved: Take shower quickly.

• Leticia from Brazil – 13 December 2024 (9/10)

  Perfect big apartment, all that you need.

• Christel from United Kingdom – 12 November 2024 (9/10)

  It exceeded all my expectations. Very grand. Very generous in everything from decor to size to flexibility by owner. We loved the warm luxurious decor. Very comfortable bed and furniture. Absolutely perfect setting for stay in Venice. Welcomed by the owner. Amazing furniture and furnishings. Kitchen great with coffee machine and v big fridge and some basics provided. Loved view of canal. Great neighbourhood. Close to everything.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing I didn’t like but if have to write anything, I’d say a light above bathroom mirror wd have been nice.

• Sijbren from Netherlands – 5 November 2024 (8/10)

  The Residence Odoni ‘luxury apartments’ consists of 4 spacious apartments that are beautifully decorated. It shares its grand entrance with the residence Odoni 2, which is a hotel, with a receptionist and breakfast service. They don’t cooporate. The location is perfect, a short distance from the railway stations and there are a couple of nice breakfast places just outside the building. Our apartment, Tiepolo, had 2 bedrooms (one up a steep spiral stairs), a spacious kitchen and a large living room.
  
  What could be improved: The manager seemed to neglect his duties, he didn’t provide us with check in details until urged several times on the day of arrival and there was no key to the apartment when we arrived, so we had to leave the apartment unlocked when we went out until the next day, which felt uncomfortable.

• Anna from United States – 4 November 2024 (9/10)

  The property was very Venetian, you truly felt like you are staying in the palace for a very reasonable price, beautiful space with all the amenities, very nice and clean bathrooms. Michelle was a pleasure to be hosted by, very responsive. He upgraded my room to a beautiful big apartment I really didn’t need, but definitely enjoyed, free of extra charge. I met some people who have been staying at Odoni for 20 years! Definitely my first choice of stay next time I am in Venice. Location is great!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Don from United States – 28 October 2024 (9/10)

  Everything was perfect
  
  What could be improved: We loved everything. But, my husband had a hard time with the stairs. I loved the stairs though.

• Albert from United States – 18 October 2024 (8/10)

  Location was excellent whether you arrive by boat, train or car. The owner made frequent Whatsapp messages to help coordinate our arrival. He met us at the door and checked us in. Comfortable and elegant.
  
  What could be improved: Some of the cookware was not appropriate for our food preferences. The location was selected in part for food preparation, we rarely eat out on vacation. We used what was there available effectively.

• Ivanova from Bulgaria – 23 September 2024 (9/10)

  The host is very nice and polite. Apartment is big and clean, very good location.

• David from Ireland – 3 August 2024 (9/10)

  A hidden gem!

• Sam from Netherlands – 23 July 2024 (9/10)

  Michele was a fantastic host. Couldn’t have asked for a better person, easy communication on WhatsApp, great location! Unreal palace to stay in!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities