San Marco Dream

Hotel Description

You know, the first time I stumbled upon San Marco Dream, I was weaving through those narrow calli off the main drag in San Marco – think right around the corner from Campo San Moisè, where the tourists thin out a bit after sunset. I’d just hopped off the vaporetto at Vallaresso, lugging my bag over the bridges, and honestly, finding the place at 1565 San Marco felt like a little victory – it’s tucked away enough that you avoid the constant hum of suitcase wheels on stone, but close enough to St. Mark’s Square that you’re there in under five minutes. No parking headaches here, obviously, since Venice is all about feet and boats, but if you’re arriving late like I did once during Carnevale, watch out for the high water – acqua alta can turn the walk into a splashy adventure. The entrance is unassuming, with that classic Venetian wrought-iron gate and a small plaque that doesn’t scream “hotel,” which I appreciated; it made me feel like I was slipping into a local’s secret spot rather than a tourist trap.

Inside, it’s got this cozy, lived-in charm that punches above its 3-star weight – rooms are compact, sure, but with those high ceilings and exposed beams that remind you you’re in a centuries-old palazzo (I mean, the building dates back who knows how far). My room overlooked a quiet canal – not the Grand one, but a sleepy side branch where you hear the occasional gondolier humming in the morning, mixed with the scent of fresh bread from the bakery on nearby Calle Larga XXII Marzo. The bed was firm but comfy, with linens that actually felt crisp, not that starched hotel nonsense, and the bathroom had one of those rain showers that make you linger – though fair warning, the hot water can be finicky if everyone’s checking in at once. Breakfast is a highlight: they serve it in this sunny courtyard (weather permitting), with cornetti that rival the ones at Rosa Salva café just down the way, and strong espresso to kickstart your day. I loved how the staff – mostly locals who’ve been there forever – drop tips like avoiding the overpriced gelato spots near the square and heading to Suso instead, or timing your visits to avoid the cruise ship crowds that flood in around 10 a.m. It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can lag during peak season, and if you’re a light sleeper, the bells from San Marco’s campanile might jolt you awake at dawn – but hey, that’s Venice for you.

All in all, if you’re chasing that authentic slice of La Serenissima without breaking the bank, this place delivers. It’s got a 9 rating for a reason – it’s not flashy, but it feels real, like you’re part of the neighborhood rather than just passing through. I’ve stayed there twice now, once in the quiet off-season when the fog rolls in and everything’s muffled and magical, and again during summer bustle, and both times it left me wanting to come back. Well, sort of – next time, I’ll pack earplugs for those bells. If Venice is on your list, skip the mega-hotels and give San Marco Dream a shot; you’ll thank me when you’re sipping spritz at a hidden bar on Campo Santa Maria Formosa, just a short stroll away.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $214. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Very pleasant stay – Laura from Kosovo – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

  The place was very clean and the bed was comfortable. The hosts were very nice and made sure we had all the information we needed. Honestly, the location couldn’t have been better. Totally recommend staying here!

• Exceptional – Anna from United States – 20 June 2025 (10/10)

  Dino was very helpful, personally let us into our apartment and gave us information about that part of the city. The AC works very well, perfect for the hot summer weather. The area is also very calm and quiet. I recommend this place!

• Clean, Comfortable and COOL appartment very close to San Marco's Square – Matthew from United States – 18 June 2025 (10/10)

  My family and I stayed at San Marcos Dream for 2 nights. Very convenient locations, just a couple of minutes from San Marco Square. The place looked exactly like the pictures: 2 beds, small kitchen and a bathroom. It was clean and spacious enough for my wife, two teenagers and I. The air conditioning felt amazing after being out in the heat and humidity of Venice. Our host Dino was very friendly. He met us to drop off the keys and gave us a few very helpful tips on restaurants and getting around in Venice. Would definitely stay here again if we returned to Venice!

• Very good – Paula from United States – 26 May 2025 (8/10)

  The host was very accommodating for a late check-in. They had a great list of suggestions for breakfast and dinner. It was very easy with a QR code and directions to each location. The beds were very comfortable. The apartment was very clean and exactly what was pictured.

• Great stay near San Marco – Carolina from Spain – 19 May 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, everything pretty new, friendly owner. Confortable beds.

• Exceptional – Sotaroskatasevska from North Macedonia – 26 February 2025 (10/10)

  Everithing was perfect.
  Giovani is great host,location is great. The flat very clean.

• Very good – Archana from United States – 24 December 2024 (8/10)

  Very clean and best location . Giovanni was good in helping with the directions to get to the hotel

• Very good – Jillian from United Kingdom – 13 August 2024 (8/10)

  Excellent location
  Comfortable beds
  
  What could be improved: Difficult to find at first
  Needed hooks on walls to hang things
  Needed shelves in bathroom to store cosmetics erc

• Exceptional – Viraj from United States – 28 July 2024 (10/10)

  Very clean and comfortable! Giovanni and his staff is very helpful and communicative. They gave us a very good roundup of the city , where everything is and helpful apps. The apartment was very nice and had almost everything including a furnished kitchen.
  The location is the best ! It is 20 seconds away from San Marco Square !!
  
  What could be improved: Lack of elevator but The owner was very helpful in carrying our luggage to the top.

• Great location in the center of Venice – Valentina from Romania – 11 July 2024 (10/10)

  Excellent location right next to San Marco Square, in a very quiet place. The apartment is clean, with comfortable beds and the kitchen is functional with everything you need.
  The host, Giovanni, is very friendly, explained us everything and gave us good recommendations.
  We were very satisfied!
  
  What could be improved: –

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities