Uma Apartments

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria – you know, that stop right by the Doge’s Palace – and weaving through the crowds toward Calle Gregolina. It’s one of those narrow little alleys in San Marco that feels like a secret, tucked away from the main tourist drag but still just a five-minute stroll to Piazza San Marco. Honestly, finding Uma Apartments the first time was a bit of an adventure; Venice’s streets are like a labyrinth, and with no cars or anything, you’re hauling your luggage over bridges and cobblestones. But once I spotted the unassuming door on the primo piano – that’s the first floor up, mind you, so a short flight of stairs, no elevator – it was like stumbling into a cozy hideaway. The building’s got that classic Venetian charm, with weathered stone and those tall, shuttered windows that let in the afternoon light filtering off the canal nearby. Check-in was a breeze; the host met me right on time, handed over the keys with a quick rundown in broken English, and even pointed out the nearest bakery for morning cornetti – fresh ones, still warm, with that buttery smell wafting down the calle.

What really won me over, though, was how the place feels like a proper home base in the heart of it all. These aren’t your standard hotel rooms; they’re apartments, so you’ve got a full kitchen – well, compact but functional, with a stove and fridge that came in handy for picking up prosciutto and cheese from the Rialto Market, just a 10-minute walk away. My unit had this lovely view over rooftops toward the Campanile, and at dusk, you’d hear the bells chiming softly, mixing with the distant hum of gondolas on the water. It’s rated 9.4 for a reason – clean as a whistle, with comfy beds that actually let you sleep through the night despite the occasional pigeon cooing outside. (Pro tip: Bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper; San Marco gets lively in high season, like July, with tour groups chattering by day, but it quiets down after dark.) There’s Wi-Fi that works reliably, which was a godsend for mapping out day trips to Murano, and the bathroom’s modern enough, with hot water that doesn’t run out mid-shower. I mean, it’s not perfect – the space is on the snug side for more than two people, and parking? Forget it, this is Venice, so leave the car in Mestre and take the train in. But those little details, like the fresh linens and the way the wooden floors creak just so underfoot, make it feel authentic, not some sterile chain spot.

All in all, if you’re after that real Venetian vibe without breaking the bank – it’s 4-star quality but feels more personal – Uma Apartments is a gem. I stayed there last spring, dodging the peak crowds, and it made wandering to spots like the Fenice Theatre (literally around the corner) or grabbing gelato at Suso on Calle della Bissa so effortless. Sure, you might hear the odd delivery boat early mornings, clanging along the rio, but that’s part of the charm, right? I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for a longer stay where you can actually live like a local, sipping espresso on your tiny balcony while the city wakes up. If Venice is on your list, book this place – you won’t regret it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $291. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4
• Estimated price from: $605. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed, 2 single beds and 2 sofa beds for Max persons: 8

Reviews

• Perfect place especially for a large group! Could not have asked for a better place to stay and unique experience!First – Ruth from Australia – 7 July 2025 (10/10)

  Fantastic location. Amazing host and facilities. Watched the gondolas go by on the balcony.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. It was perfect!

• Perfect apartment for our group of.6 – R from United States – 17 June 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent apartment. Perfect quiet San Marco location off street. Spacious rooms nicely designed. Beds were comfortable and plenty of hot water for showers. Kitchen had everything we needed. Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge 5 minutes walk. Balcony overlooking canal with passing gondola’s was a bonus.
  
  What could be improved: It was perfect

• Loved every minute – Tracey from United Kingdom – 1 June 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely apartment on a canal with gondolas going by. Great location. Host was incredibly helpful with clear and responsive communication.

• Large apartment with great balcony (3 bedroom apartment) – Jj from Canada – 6 April 2025 (10/10)

  Marianna met us at the Rialto bridge where the taxi dropped us off. She is friendly and very helpful with tips. Her property was large, clean and stylish. The balcony was the best part, not to mention the proximity to San Marco and Rialto. We have been to Venice numerous times and this is one of the best apartments we've stayed in with regards to size, proximity and luxury value (canal balcony).

• Fantastic location, fantastic host – Katrina from Australia – 11 January 2025 (9/10)

  Very central location with loads of room. Host was amazing and met us off the water taxi to guide us to our apartment. Happy to accommodate our every need. Totally recommend.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• We had a fantastic stay at Uma Apartments in Venice. Thanks to Marianna, the owner. – Chakara from France – 8 December 2024 (10/10)

  Marianna greeted us at the vaporetto stop to take us to the apartment. It was a very short walk. One day, I forgot the keys inside and locked ourselves out of the apartment. We contacted Marianna and she came immediately to help us. That's fantastic service.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. The location is perfect: in walking distance between Rialto and San Marco, but off the main street so the apartment was very quiet. The apartment is spacious: we were only one couple but there is enough space for another couple. There are two separate bathrooms which is very convenient.

• Exceptional – Heisell from Canada – 17 October 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful apartment in a great location. Was fully equipped with everything we needed. Our host met us at the bus station and was so lovely. Clear communication all the way through. We will definitely be back.

• A great apartment in a great location with a good host. Wonderful for a small group. – Terrence from United States – 16 October 2024 (8/10)

  The large spaces, extra bathroom, comfortable beds, extremely well equipped kitchen. The layout with the bedrooms in opposite corners of apt. And balcony overlooking canal!
  
  What could be improved: Poor lighting in living area. It was unpleasant light and insufficient for reading. On other hand reading lights in bedrooms were great. The sofas in living room were uncomfortable due to their depth and lack of enough pillows for their size. They were basically twin beds and would have been good to sleep on but didn’t function so well as sofas.

• An excellent choice for our brief stay in Venice. – Madeline from United States – 23 September 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment is spacious and centrally located. The hostess was very accommodating.
  
  What could be improved: It was a bit noisy overnight from the restaurants below but at no fault of the owner.

• Heaven ! – Narayanan from United Kingdom – 27 July 2024 (10/10)

  This place is an absolute heaven, you name it, it has it all.
  Very well maintained, premium facilities, it speaks volume about the host, how much care they have taken to equip this place. Very close to attractions, easy access from boat ride.
  Marianna and her relative Isotta were very helpful in providing all the necessary details to check in and walk around explaining. I would 100% recommend this to anyone looking for premium stay in Venice.
  I am surprised Booking.com has only given 4 stars for this property!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to mention

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities