Sant’alvise Design Palace R&R

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Sant’Alvise Design Palace R&R almost by accident last spring, when I was dodging the Easter crowds in Venice – honestly, if you’re not careful, the whole city turns into a human pinball machine around then. Tucked away in Cannaregio on Calle della Fornasa Vecia, it’s in that quieter northern bit, just a stone’s throw from the Sant’Alvise vaporetto stop (line 4.2 or 5.2 will get you there without much hassle, though watch out for the choppy lagoon waves if it’s windy). I remember trudging my suitcase over those uneven stone paths – no cars in Venice, obviously, so it’s all on foot or by boat – and suddenly spotting this elegant old palazzo facade peeking out from the narrow alley. It’s not one of those flashy spots right on the Grand Canal; instead, it’s got that lived-in charm, like it’s been whispering secrets to the locals for centuries. Check-in was a breeze, even though I arrived a bit early – the staff (mostly Venetians, I think) chatted about the best nearby bacari for cicchetti, and handed over a room key with a smile that felt genuine, not scripted. Oh, and parking? Forget it; leave your car in Mestre or at the Piazzale Roma garage and vaporetto over – it’s the only way.

What really hooked me, though, was how they’ve blended this historic shell with sleek, modern design – I mean, it’s called a “design palace” for a reason, but it doesn’t scream trendy in a way that feels out of place in Venice. My room overlooked a tiny courtyard (ask for one facing away from the calle if you’re a light sleeper; the occasional gondolier song or church bell from Santa Maria di Sant’Alvise can echo through at dawn). The bed was this massive, cloud-like thing with crisp linens that smelled faintly of lavender – probably from some local laundry service – and the bathroom had these heated marble floors that were a godsend after a damp day wandering the calles. Breakfast was solid, too: fresh cornetti, prosciutto, and that strong Italian coffee, served in a sunny atrium that sort of doubles as a lounge (though it can get a tad noisy if a big group checks in). I appreciated the little touches, like the complimentary prosecco on arrival and the free Wi-Fi that actually worked without dropping every five minutes – rare in these old buildings. Well, one minor gripe: the air conditioning hummed a bit loudly in the evenings, but hey, it’s Venice in spring; you crack a window and let in the canal breeze instead. Evenings here are peaceful – Cannaregio winds down early, so you’re not dealing with the rowdy San Marco bar scene, just the soft lap of water against the fondamenta nearby.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels authentically Venetian without the overwhelming tourist crush – think exploring the Jewish Ghetto or grabbing a spritz at a hidden spot like Paradiso Perduto, both a short walk away – this place nails it. With a 9.3 rating that’s well-deserved, it’s got that four-star polish but with soul, you know? I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially off-season when the fog rolls in and the whole area feels like your private escape. Just pack light; those bridges and alleys will test you.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $383. Holiday Home with 1 large double bed and 2 × 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Krupa from United States – 8 July 2024 (10/10)

  Excellent customer service went. We left an important item behind, and they tracked us down and organized a return! Thank you! The location is perfect—not crowded, quiet, but close to transportation and restaurants. A grocery store is around the corner. The apartment is very spacious. A few minor things need to be fixed, but it is very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: You will need to fix the air conditioner on the main floor. It drips water after a few hours of being used. 🙂

• Dav from Slovenia – 18 February 2025 (10/10)

  We had a great stay and we didn't find it to be too big for 2 people – felt like an own house. The cleanliness was impeccable, even some of the things that are usually not cleaned in similar accommodations seemed to have been been cleaned here. It's in quiet neighborhood with a large supermarket just 40 seconds away.
  
  What could be improved: It's hard to find anything. I guess it depends on preference, but some side sleepers might find the main bed not being soft enough.
  The wifi speed is 5 Mbps, which made us use faster mobile internet instead.

• Max from Kazakhstan – 13 June 2024 (10/10)

  Big amazing place for weekend for big family.Large terrace and rooms,a lot of different lights.Cozy

• Joan from United States – 12 October 2023 (10/10)

  It was very comfortable, clean and spacious. Loved the additional private patio and great location.

• Winnie from United States – 22 November 2022 (9/10)

  Great support from Giulia, who was responsible and responsive during our stay.
  
  What could be improved: No dryer in the facility/paper napkins.

• Martin from United Kingdom – 19 June 2022 (10/10)

  The location was good, the apartment was lovely very spacious and loved the outdoor terrace and balcony. Lift was a fun bonus

• Mary from United States – 12 June 2022 (8/10)

  great location away from the crowds. very nice local people
  
  What could be improved: the late check in fee stinks when you had a delayed flight and a loooong day of traveling to be penalized $50 on top of it. also feeling pushed by the host to hurry when we were traveling with three kids.

• Michael from Australia – 27 April 2022 (9/10)

  Great communication

• Julie from New Zealand – 23 September 2024 (9/10)

  We loved the location of the apartment in a quite part of Venice, with a supermarket and lots of cafes, restaurants and bars within a 5 minute walk. We were impressed with how well appointed it was. Very modern fixtures and fittings and beautiful interior design. The apartment is easily accessed by the local water taxi from Venice train station. Our host was very helpful and she ensured that we were made very welcome when we checked in.We would stay again
  
  What could be improved: The sofa bed in the ground floor bedroom was very uncomfortable for two adults.

• Narinder from Austria – 5 September 2022 (10/10)

  Good 😊👍
  
  What could be improved: Very good 👍😊

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