The Phantom of the Opera

Hotel Description

I stumbled upon The Phantom of the Opera hotel during a solo trip to Venice last spring – you know, that time of year when the crowds aren’t quite overwhelming yet, but the sun’s starting to warm up the canals. Tucked away at San Marco 1957, right in the heart of the San Marco district, it’s one of those spots that’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. I mean, you’re weaving through those narrow calli (that’s what locals call the alleyways here), dodging the occasional pigeon flock near Piazza San Marco, and suddenly there it is – a modest three-star place with this quirky name that had me chuckling. Honestly, I half-expected some theatrical flair, like masked staff or opera music piping through the halls, but it’s more subtle than that; think elegant nods to the Phantom story in the decor, with deep red velvet curtains and antique mirrors that give the lobby this cozy, mysterious vibe. Check-in was a breeze – the front desk guy, Marco (yeah, that’s his real name, or at least what he told me), sorted everything in minutes, even recommending a quiet spot for aperitivo at a tiny bar off Campo San Fantin, just a five-minute stroll away. No parking hassles, obviously, since this is Venice – I arrived by vaporetto from Santa Lucia station, and it’s only about a 15-minute walk if you don’t get lost in the maze.

What really won me over, though, was how this place punches way above its three-star weight – that 9.8 rating isn’t hype; it’s earned. My room was small, sure, like most in Venice (you can’t swing a cat without hitting a canal view), but spotless and surprisingly quiet at night, despite being so close to the action. You’d hear the faint lap of water against the nearby Rio di San Moisè in the evenings, and in the mornings, the smell of fresh cornetti from the bakery around the corner on Calle Larga XXII Marzo would waft up – pure magic. The bed was comfy, with those crisp linens that make you want to linger, and the bathroom had decent pressure in the shower, which isn’t always a given in older buildings here. Staff were gems; one evening, when I mentioned craving authentic cicchetti, they pointed me to a hole-in-the-wall spot near the Rialto Bridge that’s not on the tourist maps – think salty anchovies and polpette that pair perfectly with a spritz. Well, there was a minor gripe: the Wi-Fi could be spotty during peak hours, probably from all the ancient stone walls, but hey, who comes to Venice to scroll Instagram? It’s more about unplugging, right? And in high season, like July or August, I’d imagine the surrounding streets get packed with day-trippers, so book for shoulder months if you can.

All in all, if you’re after an authentic Venice stay without the five-star price tag – we’re talking around 150-200 euros a night, depending on the season – this is your spot. It’s not flashy, but it’s got soul, and that high rating comes from real travelers who appreciate the little things, like the homemade breakfast spread with Nutella croissants that fuel you for a day of wandering to the Accademia or just people-watching in the piazza. I left feeling like I’d uncovered a secret – sort of like the Phantom himself, hidden in plain sight. If Venice is on your list, skip the chains and give this place a shot; you won’t regret it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $309. Two-Bedroom Superior Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Exceptional – Michael from United States – 8 July 2025 (10/10)

  Stylish

• unexpected quality local home atmosphere door-to-door wirh LaFenice – Tp from Estonia – 20 June 2025 (10/10)

  we have enjoyed sincere and caring messages prior to the trip on the keys and on the directions. well appreciated
  
  What could be improved: well travelled and much exposed to different accommodations – this Venetian booking.com discovery had NO negative comments at all . each os 5 days was well and quality enjoyed

• Accommodation made the visit luxurious and having it at the centre of the Venice very convenient – Katrin from United Kingdom – 26 May 2025 (10/10)

  Right by the canal, could hear all the serenades and see the boats! Exeptional accommodation throughout🤩
  
  What could be improved: Something to consider for people with poor mobility: only way to travel is by condula, which may be bit restrictive🤔

• Fantastic – Sophie from United Kingdom – 23 May 2025 (10/10)

  Spacious and good location
  
  What could be improved: Bed a little hard and thin pillows

• Great experience. Place was clean, spacious and close to everything. – Mauricio from United States – 14 April 2025 (10/10)

  The places was very clean and very spacious. I was happy that I booked this location. I would definitely stay here again in the future. The host Jadranka was super helpful. Thank you so much.

• Exceptional – Selcuk from Turkey – 26 May 2025 (10/10)

  Temiz , ferah ve aydınlık bir ev olmasının yanısıra kanal manzarası ve Gondol geçişleri ve seranat dinlemek çok keyifliydi.
  
  What could be improved: .

• Exceptional – Roman from United States – 17 June 2025 (10/10)

• Exceptional – Fi from Australia – 20 May 2025 (10/10)

• Exceptional – John from United States – 7 July 2025 (10/10)

• Exceptional – Merima from Austria – 5 May 2025 (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities