Vanessa

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling upon Hotel Vanessa during one of those whirlwind trips to Venice where I swore I’d avoid the tourist traps – you know, the ones around San Marco that feel more like a theme park than a real city. Tucked away on Fondamenta degli Ormesini in Cannaregio, this place is honestly a breath of fresh air. I got there by vaporetto from the train station, hopping off at Guglie and wandering down those narrow calles with my suitcase bumping over the uneven stones – no cars in Venice, right? So parking’s a non-issue, but if you’re hauling heavy bags, pack light or grab a water taxi. The hotel’s right on the canal, and my first thought was how unpretentious it looked from the outside: this charming old building with weathered brick and those classic arched windows, blending right into the neighborhood. Check-in was a breeze – the staff, a mix of locals who actually live nearby, chatted with me about the best cicchetti spots while handing over the key. No long lines or scripted welcomes; it felt like crashing at a friend’s place. And the smell? That faint, briny tang from the canal mixed with espresso from the bar next door – it hits you the second you step in.

What really sold me on Vanessa, though, was how it nails that sweet spot between cozy and upscale without trying too hard. It’s a four-star spot, but forget the generic luxury vibes; the rooms are spacious with these high ceilings and wooden beams that make you feel like you’re in a historic palazzo – mine had a view straight onto the water, where I could hear the gentle lap of boats at night (though, fair warning, it can get a tad noisy during high season in summer when the nearby bars on Ormesini rev up with live music and locals spilling out till late). The bed was ridiculously comfortable, all crisp linens and fluffy pillows, and the bathroom had one of those rain showers that I lingered under way too long after a day of walking. Breakfast was a highlight – not some massive buffet, but fresh pastries, local cheeses, and fruit served in this sunny courtyard that smells like blooming jasmine in spring. I mean, it’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi dipped a bit in the evenings when everyone’s streaming, but honestly, who goes to Venice to stare at screens? I wandered out and found myself at spots like the Jewish Ghetto just a five-minute stroll away, or that hidden gem of a bacaro on Strada Nova for aperitivo – way more authentic than the overpriced traps near Rialto. And the staff? They tipped me off to avoiding the crowds by exploring early mornings, when Cannaregio feels like your own secret corner of the city.

Look, if you’re heading to Venice and want somewhere that feels lived-in rather than polished for Instagram, Hotel Vanessa is it. That perfect 10 rating? It earns it by being genuinely welcoming in a city that can sometimes overwhelm with its beauty and bustle. I’d go back in a heartbeat – maybe in the quieter fall months when the fog rolls in and the canals turn mystical. Just remember to bring comfy shoes; those Venetian streets will test you, but this hotel makes the recovery part a dream.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $178. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Exceptional – Wadim from Poland – 23 June 2025 (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities