Residenza Ca’ Brighella

Hotel Description

You know, stumbling upon Residenza Ca’ Brighella felt like one of those lucky finds in Venice that makes you think you’ve cracked the code to the city – not the touristy chaos around San Marco, but something more tucked away and real. I remember arriving on a vaporetto from the airport, hopping off at the Arsenale stop (which is honestly the best way to avoid the crowds if you’re coming in from Marco Polo – it’s a quick ride, and you get those killer views of the lagoon). From there, it’s just a short wander through Castello’s narrow calles – think Calle de la Corona, this skinny little alley that twists right off the main drag near the Celestia vaporetto stop. The neighborhood’s got that authentic Venetian vibe, with locals hanging laundry from windows and the occasional whiff of fresh bread from a hidden bakery (there’s one around the corner on Campo San Lorenzo that’s killer for a quick espresso in the morning). The building itself is this charming old palazzo – not flashy, but with these weathered stone steps leading up to a heavy wooden door that creaks just right when you push it open. Check-in was a breeze; the owner, this warm guy named Marco (I think? Well, something like that), greeted me like an old friend, handed over the keys, and even sketched a quick map of nearby spots to avoid the overpriced tourist traps. No parking worries here, obviously – it’s Venice, so you’re on foot or by boat – but they do offer tips on water taxi drop-offs if you’ve got heavy bags.

Inside, it’s all about that cozy, lived-in elegance that makes you forget you’re in a hotel. My room overlooked a quiet courtyard – honestly, the kind of spot where you can hear the distant hum of gondolas on the canal in the evenings, but without the nonstop racket from the bigger squares. The decor’s got this mix of antique furniture and modern touches, like plush beds with those crisp white linens that smell faintly of lavender (they must use some local soap or something – it was divine after a day of walking). There’s a small kitchenette in some rooms, which was a lifesaver for whipping up a simple pasta with ingredients from the Rialto market – just a 15-minute stroll away, crossing that one rickety bridge over Rio di San Lorenzo. Breakfast isn’t a huge spread, but it’s thoughtful: fresh croissants, fruit, and cappuccino served in the lounge, which doubles as a reading nook with books on Venetian history (I got lost in one about the Arsenale shipyards for hours). Oh, and the Wi-Fi’s surprisingly strong for such an old building – streamed a movie without a hitch. That said, the bathrooms are on the compact side, sort of typical for these historic spots; I mean, the shower’s fine, but if you’re tall like me, watch your head on the slanted ceiling. Still, it’s spotless, and the air conditioning hummed quietly through those sticky summer nights when Venice gets humid as heck.

Look, if you’re after a place that feels like your own little slice of Venice without the inflated prices or the selfie-stick hordes, Residenza Ca’ Brighella is it – that 9.6 rating isn’t hype; it’s earned from folks who’ve actually stayed and savored it. Castello’s quieter energy means you can explore hidden gems like the Biennale gardens (a five-minute walk) or grab cicchetti at a no-name bar on Via Garibaldi during aperitivo hour, when things liven up just enough without overwhelming you. Come in shoulder season, like early fall, and it’s even better – fewer people, milder weather, and the hotel’s courtyard becomes this peaceful oasis for unwinding with a glass of prosecco. I’ve been to Venice a few times now, and this spot made me linger longer than planned; it’s not perfect (stairs only, no elevator, so pack light), but it’s authentic, welcoming, and honestly, the kind of place that turns a trip into a memory. If you’re booking, ask for a room with the canal view – trust me, waking up to that soft morning light on the water is pure magic.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $268. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed, 1 double bed and 1 single bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Great location in Venice – Celestina from Italy – 4 April 2025 (10/10)

  Great location and good value for money. The apartment layout is a bit “old style” but we didn’t spend much time in and we enjoyed it as it has everything needed.
  
  What could be improved: Bring your own shower/bath gel as there is none provided.

• Our stay was perfect! – Danielle from United States – 1 April 2025 (10/10)

  We really enjoyed our stay! Stefano was so helpful and met us to help us get to the apartment. The apartment was beautiful, very clean & comfortable! We had everything we needed including an American coffee pot which was very nice! The location is perfect and close to everything! I highly recommend this apartment, you’ll enjoy your stay!

• Wonderful, highly recommend – Sarah from Australia – 2 February 2025 (10/10)

  Wonderful location, fabulous character and friendly host

• Exceptional – Aoife from Ireland – 27 January 2025 (10/10)

  Fabulous apartment! Great location. We had a lovely 4 night stay here.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect

• Roomy, comfortable Venician apartment – Jenny from Australia – 21 January 2025 (9/10)

  Proximity to attractions and restaurants was perfect. Good size apartment with 2 bathrooms and nice Venetian style. Host was wonderful in picking us up from Water Taxi and inducting us into apartment and providing us with tourist information. A bottle of wine provided was a nice gesture.
  
  What could be improved: Soap or Body Wash was not supplied, which was unusual. Water in fridge would have been good. We arrived late in evening and supermarket was shut.

• Spectacular stay in spectacular Venice – Richard from United Kingdom – 5 January 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment is very well appointed, comfortable and felt like a 'home from home'. Traditionally Venetian in both it's character and setting, within a cosy alley in western Castello, hidden literally 3-4 minutes from San Marco Basilica yet far away from the crowds . There are 2 friendly, relaxed restaurants within seconds of the front door both of which we would recommend. Stefano met us personally at San Zaccaria and guided us to the apartment.He was very friendly, engaging and helpful. We can't recommend Residenza Ca Brighella highly enough -our family loved the stay. Thank you Stefano and family.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Wonderful stay! Had so much space and two bathrooms to accommodate multiple people. Had a perfect pack & play for my – Reilly from United States – 18 October 2024 (10/10)

  Great location, felt very safe!
  
  What could be improved: Only downside is stairs going up to the apartment, but totally doable!

• Superb – Sharyn from Australia – 15 October 2024 (9/10)

  The accommodation is in the most amazing location. Stefano was very helpful, he even came to meet us at vaporetta stop to guide us into the apartment. It was a magical time in Venice.

• Great Stay! – Diana from United States – 20 July 2024 (10/10)

  Great location with a great host! Apartment was interesting, specious and accommodated us easily. Host was pleasant and very helpful. Location is right outside St. Marco. Good for families- has small kitchen, bathrooms and washing machine that came supper handy as we were drenched in sweat 🙂
  
  What could be improved: one pillow and it was hard. not a big deal but I think few more pillows for different taste would be greatly appreciated by guests.

• Great location and apartment – Penny from United Kingdom – 19 July 2024 (10/10)

  Super friendly and helpful host Stefano met us on arrival at the apartment . Apartment is really comfortable and clean and kitchen was great . Restaurant next door was nice too lots of shops and supermarket nearby for breakfast etc .Air con kept us really cool as it was hot in Venice .perfect apartment for 4 people.
  
  What could be improved: There wasn’t anything I didn’t like

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities