Residenza de l’Osmarin Suites

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Residenza de l’Osmarin Suites kind of by accident last spring – I was wandering through Castello after getting off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria, dodging the usual throng of day-trippers spilling out from St. Mark’s Square, and there it was, tucked away on Calle Rota. It’s this unassuming spot in a neighborhood that’s more locals than tourists, honestly, with those narrow alleys that smell faintly of salt water and fresh bread from the bakery around the corner on Calle San Zaccaria. I mean, Venice can feel overwhelming, especially in high season when the bridges are packed, but this place? It’s like a quiet exhale. The building itself is one of those old Venetian palazzos – think exposed wooden beams and terracotta floors that creak just a bit underfoot, adding to that authentic charm without feeling gimmicky. Check-in was a breeze; the owner – this warm Italian guy named Marco, I think – greeted me with a espresso and a quick chat about the best route to avoid the crowds to Rialto (spoiler: cut through Campo San Zaccaria and hang a left). No fuss, no long lines like at those big hotels near the Grand Canal.

What really sold me, though, was the suites themselves – spacious for Venice standards, you know? Mine had this little kitchenette with a Nespresso machine that saved me from overpriced cafe runs, and the bed was ridiculously comfortable, all crisp linens and pillows that actually fluff up. Oh, and the views – not right on a major canal, but from my window, I could see glimpses of the Rio de l’Osmarin, with gondolas slipping by in the morning light, and hear the soft lapping of water against stone. It’s in Castello, so it’s peaceful at night; no blaring music from bars like you’d get closer to San Marco, just the occasional church bell or seagull cry. Well, sort of peaceful – there was that one early morning when a delivery boat revved up outside, but hey, that’s Venice for you, right? Practical stuff: no parking obviously (cars? In Venice? Ha!), but it’s a quick walk from the vaporetto, and they store luggage if you’re arriving early. Breakfast isn’t some massive buffet – more like fresh croissants and fruit delivered to your room, which felt personal and way better than elbowing through a crowded dining hall. I even appreciated the little touches, like the complimentary umbrellas for those sudden April showers that turn the calles into slippery mazes.

All in all, if you’re after that real Venetian vibe without the tourist trap hassle, this is it – especially for couples or small families who want space to breathe. It’s not perfect; the stairs can be a workout if you’ve got heavy bags (no elevator, classic old building quirk), and in peak summer, you might hear more foot traffic during the day. But honestly, with a 9.3 rating that feels earned, it’s the kind of place that makes you linger over coffee on the balcony, plotting your next hidden gem walk – maybe to the Arsenale or that quiet garden in nearby San Francesco della Vigna. I’d go back in a heartbeat; it’s like staying with a friend who knows all the secrets.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $201. Double Room with Sea View with 1 large double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• İdi̇l from Turkey – 4 May 2023 (10/10)

  Maria was very helpful and friendly. She sent very good descriptions of how to get to the accommodation. The apartment was cute, very clean, the location was really perfect, the terrace and the view was amazing. We definitely recommend this apartment.

• Rick from United States – 28 March 2025 (9/10)

  I’m only thing I didn’t like , the beds were extremely hard

• Dogu from Turkey – 26 March 2025 (10/10)

  The location was really good. It was such a nice feeling to wander through Venice’s narrow streets and arrive at the place. Check-in and check-out were super easy. They also kindly let us leave our bags for a few hours after check-out until our train. Thank you!

• Randy from United States – 22 March 2025 (10/10)

  Clean and centrally located. Nice gift basket and easy checking/check-out. Had some basic amenities.

• Doug from Australia – 10 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great location. Clean and tidy, with all facilities. Host was friendly and helpful. We enjoyed our time in this apartment.

• Sguario from Italy – 15 January 2025 (10/10)

  Great location. Quaint accommodation. Very clean. Very generous hamper. Great room service. Just perfect.

• Andrew from Albania – 10 December 2024 (10/10)

  Location great, accommodation rooms all a good size, excellent beds, all clean and warm (December), good views and nice welcome basket left for us. Very responsive and helpful host. Easy property to find and great instructions, and central but not too central. Would thoroughly recommend in summer or winter.
  
  What could be improved: Slightly harsh lighting (the electric lights). A few lamps in some of the rooms for the atmosphere might help 🙂

• Kristanne from United States – 11 November 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect! We even had free food for breakfast. Thank you to Maria!

• Christopher from United States – 25 October 2024 (10/10)

  Everything, every little detail.

• Jenny from United Kingdom – 20 October 2024 (8/10)

  the apartment is charming and made us feel very much in authentic Venice. We loved the view over the canal and the friendly restaurants next door. The beds were comfortable and the kitchen well stocked. Perfect for our 3 day stay.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities