Stella Marina 5

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to the Stella Marina 5 on the vaporetto from San Marco – you know, the number 2 line that zips across the Giudecca Canal – and honestly, it was such a relief after dodging the tourist hordes in the main part of Venice. The hotel’s right on Fondamenta San Biagio, this quiet waterfront stretch on Giudecca island, where the buildings lean into the lagoon like they’re whispering secrets to the water. No cars honking or crowds shoving; just the gentle lap of waves against the stone and that salty, briny smell that hits you as soon as you step off the boat. I mean, it’s not the glitzy San Marco side – well, thank goodness for that – but you’re close enough to hop over for a quick gelato at Nico’s on the Zattere promenade, which is just a short walk along the fondamenta. Check-in was a breeze; the staff – mostly locals who chat about the best times to avoid the high water (acqua alta hits harder here in fall) – had my room ready in minutes, and they even pointed out a little hidden osteria nearby for cicchetti that tourists never find.

What really got me about the place is how it feels like a cozy escape without skimping on the comforts. My room overlooked the canal – views of bobbing boats and the distant spires of Dorsoduro – and it had these high ceilings with exposed beams that sort of creak a bit at night, adding to that old-Venice charm (though, fair warning, if you’re a light sleeper, the occasional water taxi hum might wake you early). The bed was plush, like sinking into a cloud after a day of wandering, and breakfast? Oh man, they serve it on this sunny terrace with fresh cornetti and cappuccinos that rival anything in the city – I spent mornings watching the locals commute by boat, feeling like I’d stumbled into real Venetian life. It’s a solid 4-star spot, nothing over-the-top fancy, but the Wi-Fi’s reliable (crucial for mapping out your next adventure), and the small spa area downstairs has a sauna that melts away the ache from all those bridge stairs. Giudecca’s vibe is low-key, especially in shoulder season like April or October when it’s not swarming; summers can get busier with folks escaping the heat, but even then, it’s worlds quieter than staying near the Rialto. One minor gripe? The elevator’s a tad slow – but hey, it’s Venice, everything moves at its own pace.

All in all, if you’re after that authentic slice of lagoon life without the chaos, Stella Marina 5 is a gem. I’ve stayed in pricier spots across the canal that felt stuffy and impersonal, but here it’s like being hosted by friends who know the ins and outs – they’ll even tip you off on catching the sunset from the nearby Redentore church steps. At a 9.7 rating, it’s no surprise; travelers who pick it tend to be the ones who’ve been to Venice before and want something real. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for those lazy afternoons sipping prosecco on the fondamenta, watching the world float by.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $207. Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 3

Reviews

• Exceptional – Kateryna from Poland – 6 May 2025 (10/10)

  Very clean and well equipped apartment (kitchen was fantastic – even oil and spices were provided) with a great location (only 5-7 walk from the vaporetto station). We’ve enjoyed our time with parents there and self check in and out as well. Highly recommended!

• It's an amazing apartment with an awesome host in Venice that I'd book again! – Salvatore from United States – 18 November 2024 (10/10)

  The location and staff's friendly and welcoming manner also their quick responses to questions. Cristina was a lifesaver from great recommendations for restaurants to help with water taxis during strike and ensure we got to airport time for our departure. Her suggestions gave us the best rates and gave outstanding service.
  
  What could be improved: Leaving, we all were having an amazing time and didn't want it to end.

• Excellent accommodation – Amanda from New Zealand – 1 October 2024 (10/10)

  The accommodation was spacious, well kept, comfortable with excellent facilities. Located on Guidecca meant you were away from the busyness of Venice
  
  What could be improved: No complaints

• Superb – Mary from United Kingdom – 29 October 2022 (9/10)

  Clean. Neat. Good amenities. Beautiful & practical. Met our requirements for a brief stay in Venice.

• Superb – François from Canada – 3 August 2024 (9/10)

  What could be improved: Que le nombre de rouleaux de papier de toilette soit limité.

• Exceptional – Balázs from Hungary – 28 June 2024 (10/10)

  Jó a felszerelt kényelmes tágas és jó közlekedéssel rendelkező helyszín
  
  What could be improved: Nem tudok ilyen okot

• Exceptional – José from Spain – 30 April 2023 (10/10)

  Muy buen lugar para estancias en familia, comodo y bien comunicado

• Superb – Guillaume from France – 16 April 2023 (9/10)

  Tout était très bien.
  
  What could be improved: Rien à redire.

• kommen gerne wieder!! tip top – Frank from Germany – 15 November 2022 (10/10)

  der service der Vermieter
  
  What could be improved: TV leider keinen Kanal in Englisch / deutsch

• Excelente lugar para estar en familia – Maritza from Chile – 14 October 2022 (10/10)

  La isla es hermosa y el sector en donde se encuentra el departamento muy tranquilo, es posible caminar o tomarse un trago durante la noche mirando el mar. El personal fue muy amable y preocupado, nos asistieron con las maletas el taxi de vuelta, tips etc
  
  What could be improved: Solo bastantes zancudos

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities