Residenza al Volto

Hotel Description

You know, the first time I stumbled upon Residenza al Volto, I was weaving through those narrow Venetian calles in Castello after hopping off the vaporetto at Rialto – honestly, it’s one of those spots that feels like a well-kept secret even though it’s right in the mix. The address is Castello 5695, tucked away on a quiet side street off Campo Santa Maria Formosa, where you can hear the faint echo of church bells in the morning and smell that briny canal air mixed with fresh bread from the nearby panificio. I mean, Venice is all about getting lost, right? But this place makes it easy to find your way back – no massive crowds like over in San Marco, just locals chatting in Venetian dialect and the occasional gondola gliding by. Check-in was a breeze; the owner, this warm Italian guy named Marco (or was it Matteo? Anyway, super friendly), handed over the keys with a quick rundown of the neighborhood, including where to grab the best cicchetti at that hole-in-the-wall spot on Calle Lunga Santa Maria Formosa. No parking hassles here, of course – Venice being car-free and all – but if you’re lugging bags, well, prepare for a short but charming walk over a couple of bridges.

What really hooked me was how the place blends that old-world Venetian charm with just enough modern comfort to make you forget you’re in a centuries-old building. It’s a 4-star setup, but it feels more like a stylish apartment rental than a stuffy hotel – think exposed wooden beams, terracotta floors that are cool underfoot even in July’s humidity, and rooms with views over tiled rooftops or a sliver of canal (I got one overlooking a tiny corte, which was perfect for people-watching with my morning espresso). The beds are plush, the Wi-Fi’s reliable (crucial for mapping out your next adventure), and there’s this little kitchenette in some suites that’s a godsend if you want to whip up something from the Rialto market – fresh squid or artichokes, you know? Noise-wise, it’s surprisingly peaceful at night; the thick stone walls block out the distant hum of vaporettos, though you might hear a cat meowing or someone singing opera off-key from a neighboring window – sort of adds to the authenticity. That said, no elevator, so if stairs aren’t your thing, request a ground-floor room; I learned that the hard way after hauling my suitcase up two flights.

All in all, with its 9.4 rating, Residenza al Volto is the kind of place that makes you want to extend your stay – especially in shoulder season like April or October, when Venice isn’t swarming with day-trippers and you can actually snag a table at a nearby osteria without a fight. It’s not the cheapest (rates can creep up in peak summer), but for the location – steps from the Libreria Acqua Alta bookstore and a quick stroll to St. Mark’s Square – it’s worth every euro. If you’re after that real Venetian vibe without the tourist trap feel, this is it; I left feeling like I’d uncovered a piece of the city most visitors miss.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $272. Apartment with Terrace with 2 × 1 large double bed for 1 – 1 guests

Reviews

• Eva13 from France – 11 November 2024 (10/10)

  Very well placed
  Sparkling clean
  Nice and helpful host
  Rooftop terrace
  Well equipped
  Two rooms on different floors ensuring privacy
  Very charming
  
  What could be improved: All good

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

  Amazing location – everything you could need and super host
  
  What could be improved: Lots of stairs to be aware of – not a negative but may be an issue for some

• Zia from United Kingdom – 26 November 2024 (10/10)

  Nicholas was very kind and attentive when we first arrived at the place of residence. He gave us a tour and showed us everything that we would need. The actual apartment was very comfortable and had all the essentials that we needed. It was in a very central part of Venice which meant that we could leave and be close to everything that we wanted to see. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and will definitely be back in the future when we come to Venice again!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. Everything was perfect.

• Jillian from United Kingdom – 11 November 2024 (10/10)

  Nicola was there waiting for us and what very pleasant and had lots of local information, hints and tips! The apartment was lovely, clean and well appointed and in a great location. The rooftop terrace was a great place to have a morning coffee.
  The location was great and right in the centre but was also quiet at night which was nice.
  
  What could be improved: There wasn't anything I didn't like.

• Anushree from Germany – 10 November 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was great. Host was friendly and personally welcomed us to the apartment. He also gave a home tour and answered all the queries. If you are travelling with friends/family, this is the best place to stay. Bakery, restaurants, ice cream shops, shopping place is within 1 min of walking from the apartment. Host is always available to help you with local recommendations or queries.

• Mandie from Australia – 1 October 2024 (10/10)

  We were warmly greeted by Nicola and shown around the property. The space was perfect for our family of us and 2 teens.
  The location was excellent with great restaurants, shopping, water taxi and ferry close by! There are steps, the property is on 2 levels, but this was clearly outlined! It didn't detract from our stay and the teens liked being away from us!!! Beds were extremely comfortable.

• Izzah from Brunei Darussalam – 25 September 2024 (10/10)

  Location was just perfect. We have two luggages with us, only encountered 1 stairs on the street from the water boat station. But it wasn’t a problem for us.
  
  Even though there’s 1 hour+ delay from our side, the host was kind enough to wait for us patiently. Not only that, he welcomed us warmly and even prepared water drinks for us upon registration.
  
  No complaints at all! All are just perfecto!
  
  What could be improved: There’s stairs and we have 2 big luggages. But that’s not a problem on our side 🙂

• Ruzanna from Armenia – 28 August 2024 (10/10)

  Location is very good. Owner's hospitality was very warm. Very clean house with all the amenities. Perfect choice.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was good!

• Min from Canada – 6 August 2024 (9/10)

  Perfect location, close to everything.grocery store right at the corner. Owner is very helpful and accommodating. Great stay. Will stay again
  
  What could be improved: It will be better if had dishwasher detergent 🙂

• Cardoza from United States – 11 April 2023 (10/10)

  wonderful, spacious and clean.
  
  What could be improved: nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities