Suite Primo Piano

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Suite Primo Piano almost by accident during my last trip to Venice – I’d been wandering the Castello district after getting off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria, dodging the usual throngs heading straight for Piazza San Marco. It’s tucked away on Calle Gritti, this quiet little side street that’s more residential than you’d expect in such a touristy city. Honestly, the first thing that hit me when I arrived was how refreshingly unpretentious the place feels – no grand marble lobby or anything flashy, just a charming old building with that classic Venetian plaster facade, a bit weathered from the lagoon air. Check-in was a breeze; the owner (I think her name was Maria? Super friendly local lady) met me at the door with a smile and a quick chat about the neighborhood – she even pointed out a nearby bacaro for cicchetti that most visitors miss. It’s on the first floor – primo piano, as they say – so if you’re hauling luggage, be prepared for a short flight of stairs, but hey, that’s Venice for you; no elevators in these historic spots.

What really makes this place special, though, is how it captures that authentic slice of Venetian life without all the hype. The suites are cozy – mine had these exposed wooden beams and soft linens that smelled faintly of lavender, like someone’s nonna had just aired them out. There’s a little kitchenette that’s actually useful if you want to grab some fresh produce from the market on Via Garibaldi (just a five-minute stroll away – it’s where locals shop, and the fish is incredible in the mornings). I loved waking up to the distant hum of boats on the canal, not the clamor of tour groups; Castello’s got that laid-back vibe, especially in the evenings when the day-trippers clear out. Well, sort of – it can get a tad noisy during Carnevale season, with masks and music spilling over from nearby streets, but otherwise, it’s peaceful. The rating’s spot-on at 9.3; breakfast was simple but spotless – fresh cornetti, coffee that packs a punch, and views over a tiny courtyard where pigeons coo softly. One minor gripe? The Wi-Fi can be spotty in the back rooms, but who needs it when you’re steps from the Arsenale or that hidden garden at San Francesco della Vigna? It’s those little details – like the textured stone walls that feel cool under your fingers after a hot summer day – that make you feel like you’re living in Venice, not just visiting.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that’s close enough to the action (San Marco’s a 10-minute walk, or hop on the vaporetto for the Grand Canal) but far from the souvenir-shop madness, Suite Primo Piano is a gem. I mean, I’ve stayed in fancier places, but this one left me with that warm, insider feeling – like I’d discovered a secret. Book it in the shoulder seasons, like April or October, when the fog rolls in and the city’s at its most magical; summers can be steamy and crowded, even here. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself for choosing something real over the glossy hotels.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $201. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Cindy from South Africa – 12 July 2023 (10/10)

  Firstly I would like to thank you for such a beautiful stay ❤️ Francesca's son checked us in and it was really smooth going and easy . He was very kind and even offered us a boat tour for half the price of what other places charge (unfortunately we did not take this opportunity as our stay was short but in future we most likely would),' the apartment was new, modern and extremely clean . Everything you need is in the apartment , from kitchen appliances, a hairdryer , all the way through to a washing machine , detergent, cleaning equipment …. Absolutely everything . We got off at arsenale stop with the boat transport and it was a quick and easy walk from there. We were truly happy with this apartment , the location was close enough and in walking distance to st mark's and other places,, had restaurants around the area but also gave us a break from the crowds when we needed, which for us , was absolutely Perfect .bed was super comfortable!! Pictures are accurate. Thank you all again !
  
  What could be improved: There was NOTHING I didn't like .everything was perfect

• Jonathan from United Kingdom – 3 October 2024 (9/10)

  Excellent location close to St Marks square and very convenient for using the Vaperetto. Loved every second of our stay.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Werner from Austria – 21 April 2024 (9/10)

  Beautiful apartment, very well maintained, close to Arsenale and Giardini. Very friendly hostess.

• Neil from United Kingdom – 6 April 2024 (10/10)

  Really comfortable and the host was amazing
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Tricia from United Kingdom – 8 October 2023 (10/10)

  We arranged with Tomasso to be picked up from the rail station (Eur25pp) , he picked us up on his boat which he’d moored on the Grand canal and off we went. What a way to arrive! Fantastic! All arranged on WhatsApp
  
  What could be improved: D

• Caterina from Italy – 2 January 2025 (10/10)

  Pulizia e posizione ottime
  
  What could be improved: Niente

• Val from France – 13 October 2024 (10/10)

  Tout. Tranquille mais restaurants a proximite. Proche de vaporetto, et sites de biennale de Venise.
  
  What could be improved: Rien

• Archipelago from Japan – 20 September 2024 (10/10)

  部屋が快適。ベッドが良い。
  
  What could be improved: 特に無し。

• Crisibo from United States – 1 August 2024 (10/10)

  El apartamento está perfecto, muy bien ubicado y limpio. Es acogedor, completamente renovado. La cama es muy cómoda, y no se oye ni un ruido, se descansa fenomenal. Hay una frutería muy cerca y una tiendita para comprar básicos. Francesca muy atenta en todo momento, muy fácil la comunicación con ella. Repetiría sin dudarlo!
  
  What could be improved: Nada, todo perfecto

• Dag from Belgium – 21 June 2024 (9/10)

  Praktisch, rustig

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities