San Zaccaria Apartment

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria stop – you know, the one right by the lagoon where the water buses pull up with that familiar chug and splash – and weaving through those narrow calle in Castello to find San Zaccaria Apartment. It’s tucked away on Campo San Provolo, this quiet little square that’s honestly a breath of fresh air after the chaos of St. Mark’s just a five-minute stroll away. I mean, Venice can feel like a madhouse in high season, with tourists jamming the bridges, but here? It’s more like stumbling into a local’s backyard – think old stone walls echoing with distant church bells from Santa Maria Formosa, and the faint, briny scent of the canals mixing with espresso from that tiny café around the corner on Riva degli Schiavoni. My first thought was, wow, this place nails that authentic Venetian vibe without trying too hard. The building itself is one of those classic palazzos, with worn marble steps leading up to the apartment – fair warning, no elevator, so pack light if you’re hauling suitcases up a flight or two. But once inside, it opens up into this spacious, light-filled spot that feels more like a friend’s home than a hotel room. High ceilings, wooden beams that creak just a bit underfoot, and big windows overlooking the campo – I spent mornings sipping coffee there, watching kids play soccer against the church wall while pigeons cooed on the rooftops.

What really sold me on San Zaccaria was how it lets you live like a local, you know? It’s rated a solid 9.8 for a reason – four stars, but it punches above with thoughtful touches like a full kitchen stocked with basics (I whipped up pasta from that market on Via Garibaldi, just a 10-minute walk east through the less-touristy bits of Castello). The beds are comfy, with those crisp linens that smell faintly of lavender, and the bathroom’s modern enough – rainfall shower and all – without losing the old-world charm. Honestly, though, the noise levels are something to note; it’s peaceful at night, especially off-season when the square empties out by 10 p.m., but come summer, you might hear the occasional gondola serenade drifting up from nearby canals. Check-in was a breeze – the host met me right on time, handed over keys with a quick rundown of where to grab the best cicchetti (those little Venetian tapas) at places like Al Mascaron, hidden down a side alley. Oh, and parking? Forget it – this is Venice, so leave the car in Mestre and take the train in; it’s way less hassle.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that immerses you in Venice without the overwhelm, this apartment’s a gem. It’s not perfect – the Wi-Fi can be spotty during peak hours, sort of like everywhere in these old buildings – but that high rating isn’t hype. You’ll save on eating out by cooking in, wander to the Arsenale for that underrated naval museum vibe, or hop a vaporetto to the islands. I left feeling like I’d actually experienced the city, not just ticked off sights. Book it for a week in shoulder season, say April or October, when the fog rolls in and the crowds thin – trust me, it’s magic.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $284. Deluxe Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Nika from Slovenia – 7 November 2022 (10/10)

  We visit Venice at least once a year and this was by far our favorite accomodation thus far. We hope to come back soon and send kindest regards to our hosts, who made the stay perfect for us!
  The apartment was clean, comfortable, with amazing tiny balcony and everything anyone needs incl. coffee etc! The location was amazing and we could have dinner right in the piazza below, with amazing food and good prices.

• Rich from United Kingdom – 24 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great loction, apartment well kitted out, super friendly staff.
  
  What could be improved: Bed abit firm for our liking

• Owens from United Kingdom – 27 February 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent accomadation in great location next to everything including the basilica, doge's palace and st marks square, room was very clean and looked better than in the pictures! We had the perfect stay ! 😀

• Joanne from United Kingdom – 24 February 2025 (10/10)

  The location was excellent. The apartment was outstanding. The bed so comfortable. The building beautiful and romantic. I wish I could have stayed for longer.
  
  What could be improved: It would have been great to have a kettle. And maybe extra pillows. Apart from that excellent.

• Caterina from Italy – 3 January 2025 (10/10)

  It’s not easy to feel home when you’re not home and this apartment did just that, we absolutely LOVED our stay. It’s incredibly cozy and comfortable, nicely decorated and recently renovated. Location is very central and close to beautiful landmarks. During the day you’ll hear the gondola boys passing by the canal and a faint buzz of people chatting and walking – very relaxing to be tucked in a cozy little apartment and have a nap to this sound which becomes a lovely white noise. It gets quiet at night – even on NYE which is when we stayed – and we slept like babies. The host was also exceptional – allowed us early check in and late check out and met us outside to walk us to the property and give us a short introduction. The bed is very comfy and the couch feels like a hug, the apartment was nicely heated during the coldest month and has all amenities – you can tell it’s looked after. We will be back, 10/10!
  
  What could be improved: We loved EVERYTHING!!

• Eleni from Cyprus – 16 December 2024 (10/10)

  A really cozy apartment in the best location ever! The San Marco church is really close, as well as the station for the waterbus in Grand Canal to go whenever you like. The hosts were really kind too! It is a 100% recommendable place to stay!

• Rebecca from Australia – 11 December 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful apartment in a great location. Luca and Alessandra were very thoughtful and responsive hosts.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Arianna from United Kingdom – 25 November 2024 (10/10)

  The flat was central and very safe, and the owner was available without being intrusive. The furnishings were simple but comfortable with good windows and natural light. Luca recommended a great, non-touristy restaurant and offered to assist with taxis etc. A gem.

• Carl from United Kingdom – 18 October 2024 (9/10)

  Location was great, hosts were amazing, apartment was fab
  
  What could be improved: No toaster

• Ian from Australia – 18 October 2024 (10/10)

  The location was perfect.
  The apartment had everything we needed. It was clean and stylishly decorated.
  The owner was easy to contact and gave us good instructions to get to the location, meeting us at the boat. Highly recommend this apartment.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities