Residence Poli Venezia

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at the San Stae stop – you know, that little landing stage tucked away in Santa Croce, not too far from the Grand Canal but far enough to dodge the worst of the tourist throngs. Honestly, finding Residence Poli Venezia felt like stumbling upon a hidden gem; it’s down this quiet ramo off Fondamenta San Simeon Piccolo, where the buildings lean in like they’re sharing secrets, and the air carries that faint, briny whiff from the nearby canals. I mean, Venice can be overwhelming with all the day-trippers flooding San Marco, but this spot in Santa Croce? It’s more residential, with locals popping into corner bacari for a quick spritz, and you can actually hear your own footsteps echoing on the stone paths at night. We arrived in late spring, just before the high season crush, and check-in was a breeze – no long lines, just a friendly host who handed over the keys with a map scribbled with her favorite nearby spots, like that tiny gelateria on Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio that’s open late and does the best pistachio.

What really won me over, though, was how the place blends old Venetian charm with stuff that actually makes your stay comfortable – none of that stuffy, over-the-top palace vibe you get in some hotels. Our room was spacious for Venice standards, with these high ceilings and exposed beams that made it feel like a proper apartment (it’s called a residence for a reason, right?), and the bed? Oh man, after trekking over all those bridges with luggage, sinking into those crisp sheets was pure bliss. There’s a little kitchenette too, which came in handy for brewing morning coffee from beans we grabbed at the Rialto market – saved us from overpriced tourist cafes. Well, sort of; we still splurged on cicchetti at a nearby osteria most nights. The building’s tucked in a peaceful corner, so noise from water taxis or early-morning gondola serenades isn’t an issue, but fair warning, if you’re here in summer, the lack of air conditioning might catch you off guard during a heatwave – we managed with the fans and open windows, catching that cool evening breeze off the lagoon. And parking? Forget it, this is Venice – leave your car at Piazzale Roma and walk or water-bus it over; it’s only about a 10-minute stroll from there, dodging the occasional delivery cart.

All in all, if you’re looking for a spot that feels authentic without skimping on the niceties – like fast Wi-Fi for planning your next vaporetto hop or those fluffy towels after a rainy day exploring – Residence Poli Venezia nails it. It’s got that 4-star polish with a 9.3 rating that actually holds up, from the spotless common areas to the thoughtful touches like fresh fruit in the lobby. I left thinking, you know what, this is the kind of place I’d recommend to friends who want Venice without the hassle – close enough to the action (a quick boat to the Arsenale or a wander to Cannaregio’s Jewish Ghetto) but quiet enough to recharge. Just pack light, watch for high water in autumn, and you’ll be golden.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $206. Deluxe Queen Studio with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $217. Deluxe King Studio with 1 extra-large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $218. Deluxe King Studio with 1 extra-large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $230. Deluxe Studio with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $235. Superior Studio with 1 extra-large double bed for 1 – 2 guests
• Estimated price from: $244. Deluxe Queen Studio with 1 extra-large double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• George from Georgia – 26 April 2023 (10/10)

  clean, comfortable, great owners
  Thanks!

• Sue from United Kingdom – 27 March 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely little studio flat in a very quiet part of Venice. Really nice places to eat very near. And a local supermarket. Great to get away from the crowds. Davide met us and was very welcoming.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Roseline from Netherlands – 26 March 2025 (10/10)

  The location was amazing, everything is close by. The room was lovely and the private outdoor area was great. Davide and Chiara were lovely and very helpful!
  
  What could be improved: The only thing is the heating system, the room was too warm at night in Feb.

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

  A great place to stay in Santa Croce – our apartment was very comfortable, clean and also super spacious. Comfortable and well sized bed, comfortable couch with a kitchenette and a table with four chairs. Nice shower. It was very good value compared to other offerings at similar price points. We didn’t have any meals in the apartment but we appreciated that it was stocked with coffee and dishes. Davide was also great to communicate with and very kind.
  
  We loved how the location is well situated by being 15 minutes from both Piazzale Roma and the Rialto Bridge. The area is not at all busy with tourists but felt more local.
  
  What could be improved: The decor was a bit plain but this is not an issue at all and pales in comparison to how spacious and comfortable the apartment was!

• Christysumma from Australia – 17 March 2025 (10/10)

  The flat is very clean and very equipped.
  
  What could be improved: None

• Rebecca from Germany – 14 March 2025 (10/10)

  A quiet part of town but within easy walking distance of the main tourist areas. It was a great balance of central and private.
  There is an amazing backery and wine bar around the corner plus a grocery store. You couldn't ask for more from this location.
  The room was honestly larger than I expected and the little kitchennet was perfect. I'd highly recommend this spot to anyone!

• Krishan from United Kingdom – 14 March 2025 (10/10)

  Clean, well located, good facilities

• Peter from United States – 14 March 2025 (10/10)

  Cleanliness
  
  What could be improved: A little bit of a walk

• Victoria from United Kingdom – 26 January 2025 (10/10)

  Everything divided is a fabulous host 👌 will deffo return.
  
  What could be improved: Na

• Emilie2022 from Netherlands – 25 January 2025 (10/10)

  The hotel room meet expectations! The owner was incredibly friendly, personally handing over the key. Spotless cleanliness and well-thought-out functional facilities complemented the modern, contemporary design. Although breakfast isn't provided, the kitchen and nearby supermarket make up for it. Great value for money—definitely worth a return visit!
  
  What could be improved: The bed was a bit too soft for my preference, though this is subjective and might suit others better. The air conditioning system was complicated—you need to set it to +3 degrees for heating and -3 degrees to turn off. Including a one-page manual would greatly help future guests.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities