SARA S LUXURY HOME five minutes from Piazza San Marco

Hotel Description

Oh man, I stumbled upon Sara’s Luxury Home last spring when I was dodging the peak tourist crush in Venice – you know, that time right before summer when the canals start smelling a bit more like adventure than, well, whatever that lagoon funk is. It’s tucked away in this narrow sotoportego off Calle Nicolò Massa in Castello, which is honestly one of the best neighborhoods if you’re after that authentic Venetian vibe without the San Marco circus. I mean, it’s literally a five-minute stroll to Piazza San Marco – I timed it, weaving through those shadowy alleys past locals grabbing their morning espresso at tiny bars like the one on Via Garibaldi, which is just a block over and feels like a secret if you’re not paying attention. No cars, obviously – Venice being Venice – so I lugged my bag from the Arsenale vaporetto stop, about a 10-minute walk, but it was worth it for the quiet. The place is in this old building with those classic worn stone steps that creak a little underfoot, and when I arrived, the host (Sara herself, I think) had left the key in a lockbox with a handwritten note – super smooth check-in, no fuss, which is a godsend after a long flight.

What really got me was how it feels like staying in someone’s actual home, but dialed up to luxury without being stuffy. The rooms are spacious for Venice standards – think high ceilings with exposed beams that smell faintly of aged wood and fresh linens, and a kitchenette stocked with basics so you can whip up a pasta from the Rialto market (pro tip: go early to avoid the crowds, like before 9 AM). I had this balcony overlooking a little courtyard, and mornings were all about sipping coffee while listening to the distant bells from San Zaccaria church – it’s peaceful, you know? No blasting AC hum or street noise, though Castello can get a bit echoey with delivery boats chugging by at dawn if your window’s open. The bed was insanely comfy, like sinking into a cloud after traipsing around all day, and the bathroom had those fancy rain showers with products that actually smell good, not the generic hotel stuff. Honestly, for a 4-star spot with a 9.7 rating, it’s spot-on – clean as a whistle, Wi-Fi that doesn’t glitch (crucial for mapping out your next gelato stop), and little touches like fresh flowers that make it feel personal. One minor gripe? The stairs – no elevator, which is par for the course in these historic buildings, so pack light if you’re not up for a workout.

Look, if you’re heading to Venice and want to feel like you’re living the dream rather than just visiting, this is it. It’s close enough to the big sights – hop over to the Doge’s Palace or catch a gondola from the bridge nearby – but far enough that you can escape the selfie sticks and unwind in a real neighborhood. I left feeling like I’d uncovered a hidden gem, and yeah, I’d book it again in a heartbeat, especially off-season when the rates dip and the whole city quiets down. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that makes you rethink those big chain hotels – more heart, less hassle. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $233. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 single bed, 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• John from Italy – 1 March 2025 (10/10)

  Quiet location..very friendly and attentive host.

• Verena from Austria – 24 December 2024 (10/10)

  Calm location, close to sights and nice walk to the Biennale. Well equipped kitchen, very nice and attentive host

• Cindy from United States – 1 December 2024 (10/10)

  This is a gorgeous apartment with everything you need for a lovely stay in Venice. Davide was so kind and helpful. Such a wonderful experience- I wish we could have stayed longer!
  
  What could be improved: The towels could be softer

• Neringa from Lithuania – 1 December 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment were clean and well equipped. The host was very kind and helpful in every situation. Best recommendations!

• Russell from New Zealand – 7 November 2024 (10/10)

  Fabulously appointed property in a very good location. Excellent value given the quality and location. David is a fantastic host who ensures you have a terrific stay
  
  What could be improved: I have nothing negative to say as it was quite literally perfect.

• Johnston from South Africa – 4 October 2024 (10/10)

  The house is stylish and well appointed. Well recommend 👌.
  
  Davide was great. Excellent communication on the way to Venice with directions and generally making you feel comfortable that you are welcome and secure after a long day's travel.
  
  He also shared some of his excellent photos taken around Venice. Very talented! Sorry we didn't meet Davide. Next time, ok..

• Sharon from United States – 28 September 2024 (10/10)

  Clean and comfortable. The host left a bottle of organic white wine which was fabulous.

• Ab from United Kingdom – 17 September 2024 (10/10)

  Loved the positioning in Venice central for main attractions. Lovely and comfortable
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Ashley from United Kingdom – 16 September 2024 (10/10)

  Great apartment in a perfect location. Super host also very helpful with useful advice

• Virgilio from United States – 30 August 2024 (10/10)

  Very large rooms and two private beds with full kitchen utensils and completely stocked up.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities