San Marco Fenice 3bdr 2bth apartment

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at San Marco Vallaresso stop, dodging the usual throng of tourists with their gelato cones and selfie sticks, and weaving my way through those narrow calli toward the San Marco Fenice 3bdr 2bth apartment. It’s tucked right in the heart of Sestiere di San Marco, you know, just a stone’s throw from La Fenice opera house – honestly, if you’re into that scene, you can hear faint echoes of rehearsals drifting through the air on quiet afternoons. I arrived in late spring, when Venice isn’t quite drowning in summer crowds yet, and the check-in was a breeze; the host met me at the door with a key and a quick rundown in broken English mixed with Italian gestures – no fuss, no front desk drama like in bigger hotels. The place feels more like borrowing a local’s pad than some sterile rental; it’s got that old Venetian charm with creaky wooden floors that smell faintly of aged timber and canal water, and high ceilings that make you feel like you’re in a mini palazzo.

What really sold me on it – well, besides the fact that it’s a solid 4-star spot with a 9.3 rating that actually lives up to the hype – is how it balances being smack in the action without the constant buzz. You’ve got three bedrooms and two baths, all done up in this tasteful mix of modern comforts (think plush beds that don’t sag like some budget spots I’ve crashed in) and antique touches, like those ornate mirrors that catch the light from the canal below. I mean, the kitchen’s fully stocked – I whipped up pasta with ingredients from the little market on Campo San Fantin nearby – and there’s even a washing machine, which is a godsend after trudging around in humid weather. Mornings were my favorite; I’d open the windows to the sounds of gondoliers calling out and the distant hum of vaporettos, but come night, it quiets down surprisingly well for such a central spot (though fair warning, if there’s an opera on at La Fenice, you might catch some muffled applause – not a deal-breaker, but pack earplugs if you’re a light sleeper). It’s just a quick walk to Piazza San Marco or over to Rialto for fresh seafood, and no cars means you’re forced to slow down and actually explore on foot, which is half the magic of Venice.

Look, if you’re planning a trip with family or friends – we were a group of four, and it felt spacious without anyone tripping over suitcases – this apartment is a smart pick over those overpriced hotels along the Grand Canal. It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can be spotty during peak hours, and climbing those stairs with luggage after a long flight is a workout (elevator? Dream on in old Venice buildings). But honestly, for the price and that authentic vibe, it’s worth it. You wake up feeling like you’re living the Venetian life, not just visiting, and that’s what keeps me recommending it – especially if you time it for shoulder season, when the city’s golden light hits just right and the tourists thin out a bit.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $457. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed, 2 single beds and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 4 guests

Reviews

• Yvonne from United States – 15 February 2024 (10/10)

  Such a wonderful apartment right there so close to everything that we were wanting to experience and explore while staying in this beautiful city.
  Our hosts went way out and beyond to make our stay without troubles.

• Frances from United States – 26 October 2024 (10/10)

  First floor, close to everything, lots of room in bedrooms and living area… lots of hot water
  
  What could be improved: Nothing…

• Andrew from Australia – 24 August 2024 (10/10)

  Great location and neat apartment in good condition with super friendly host
  
  What could be improved: Location and cleanliness

• Órla from Ireland – 12 March 2024 (9/10)

  Clean, modern, lovely location with great facilities… really enjoyed our stay, very suitable for up to 5/6… coffee machine and microwave very handy
  
  What could be improved: A little noisy from the street and apartment above, but part of being in central Venice, maybe bring earplugs! Would stay again!

• Emma from United Kingdom – 23 October 2023 (10/10)

  Great location. Modern decoration and comfy. Loved it.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. It was fab

• Isabel from United States – 8 October 2023 (10/10)

  The apartment was great, very comfortable for our group. The location was superb and the host Alessia was amazing, very helpful and responsive.

• Vivienne from United Kingdom – 27 September 2023 (9/10)

  What could be improved: Small problem with getting the showers warm. Probably us!!

• Jennifer from United States – 28 June 2023 (10/10)

  The apartment is clean, spacious, updated, and conveniently located. The hosts were friendly and helpful, welcoming us when we arrived.

• Chulodhera from Sweden – 28 November 2022 (10/10)

  The way host meet up us with arrival at boat station, And walk with us to apartment
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to add negative

• Joseph from Australia – 23 September 2022 (9/10)

  The central location was perfect, close to cafes and restaurants, Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco. We had a lovely stay. our host was also very helpful.
  
  What could be improved: A coffee POD machine and an electric kettle would have been useful.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities