Ve.N.I.Ce. Cera Ca’ del Gondoliere

Hotel Description

I remember stepping off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria – you know, that stop right by the Doge’s Palace where the crowds start thinning out if you time it right, like early morning before the day-trippers flood in. From there, it’s just a quick wander down Calle de la Rasse and a left onto San Marco, dodging the occasional pigeon and those little shops selling Murano glass that smell faintly of espresso and old stone. Honestly, finding Ve.N.I.Ce. Cera Ca’ del Gondoliere at 3846/A felt like stumbling into a hidden gem – it’s tucked away in this narrow alley off the main drag, but not so hidden that you’re lost forever in Venice’s maze. I mean, Venice can be a nightmare for first-timers with luggage, all those bridges and no cars (parking? Forget it; leave your wheels on the mainland), but the staff were waiting with a smile when I buzzed the door, and check-in was a breeze – no long lines, just a quick chat about the best gelato spot nearby (it’s that unassuming place on Campo San Fantin, by the way, with the pistachio that’s to die for).

What really got me about this place – well, it’s a solid 4-star without trying too hard to be flashy, you know? The building itself is one of those classic Venetian palazzos, with creaky wooden floors that whisper stories from the gondola days (the name means “House of the Gondolier,” after all), and my room overlooked a quiet canal where you’d hear the soft lap of water against the walls at night, especially in the off-season when the city’s hum dies down after 10 p.m. The bed was comfy, with those crisp linens that feel like they’ve been ironed by hand, and the bathroom had this marble sink that reminded me of old Italian movies – though, fair warning, the shower pressure could be a tad finicky if you’re there during peak summer when everyone’s blasting the AC. Breakfast was a highlight: fresh croissants, prosciutto, and cappuccinos served in a cozy courtyard that catches the morning sun (get there early to snag a table by the fountain; it’s peaceful until the bells from St. Mark’s start ringing around 9). And location-wise, you’re steps from the Rialto Bridge – I walked there in under 10 minutes for sunset views – but far enough from the Piazza San Marco chaos that you don’t get that constant buzz of tour groups. Oh, and if you’re into theater, La Fenice is literally around the corner; I caught an opera one night and strolled back in five minutes, feeling like a local.

All in all, with that 9.1 rating, it’s no surprise – this spot delivers that authentic Venice vibe without the overpriced gimmicks. Sure, the Wi-Fi dipped a bit in the evenings (blame the thick stone walls, I suppose), and if you’re noise-sensitive, request a room away from the alley where delivery boats chug by at dawn. But honestly, if you’re chasing that romantic, lived-in feel in San Marco without breaking the bank, book it. I left feeling like I’d actually experienced the city, not just ticked off a checklist – and in Venice, where everything can feel like a postcard, that’s saying something. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $532. Superior Apartment with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 2 guests

Reviews

• Hannelie from South Africa – 13 December 2024 (10/10)

  This property exceeded our expectations. Very quite ,but near a water bus stop. Good restaurants nearby. Excellent helpful staff.that goes above and beyond. We loved the property!!!
  Highly recommended.

• Sergey from United States – 25 February 2025 (9/10)

  Location
  
  What could be improved: There is no any bowl for salad, linen and shower quality could be better. Not enough space for clothes and other stuff for longer stays.

• Claire from Australia – 21 January 2025 (8/10)

  Host was great and gave us lots of information about the area. The apartment is close to all the major sites. It’s well equipped and clean. We had a great few days.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Jamie from United States – 20 January 2025 (10/10)

  Fabulous apartment! Clean, very friendly staff, spacious, cute view of the canal and very nice bathrooms! We weee met off the St’ Angelo vaporetto stop by Georgina and she was lovely and showed us just where the apartment was- just a 3 minute walk from the stop. We did not use the kitchen so can’t comment on those amenities, but there was a grocery within a 5 minute walk. Pay close attention to garbage instructions upon check in and you will be fine:) Would definitely book again!
  
  What could be improved: None.

• Ryan from Australia – 15 October 2024 (9/10)

  Fantastic location very close to the Sant’ Angelo water taxi/Vaporetto station. The area was very quiet due to it being quite residential but close to various restaurants and ten minutes walk from St.Marks Square. Rooms are large, beds are comfortable, open plan lounge and dining area and also very secure. Having two bathrooms is a real bonus!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Vicki from New Zealand – 26 September 2024 (9/10)

  Lovely spacious accommodation in excellent location.
  
  What could be improved: Some extra equipment for cooking at home would have been great eg a cheese grater!

• Sally from United Kingdom – 20 September 2024 (9/10)

  Excellent position in quiet area with easy walk to all main sights and conveniently close to a Vaporetto stop. Ground floor looking on to small canal right outside the window. Spacious living area with good facilities. Two good bathrooms and comfortable beds. Air conditioning.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Muzaffar from Uzbekistan – 11 August 2024 (10/10)

  It's an excellent apartment – clean, spacious, furnished with style and has all the facilities one may need and more.
  It's a 2 minutes walk from a water bus station and in very close proximity to the touristic center.
  We were greeted at the water bus station and were given a tour of the apartment and some advises and tips for our trip. We were also offered to store our luggage at their office after checking out, which was very helpful. Overall, our entire family enjoyed the stay.

• Sheree from Australia – 4 August 2024 (9/10)

  The property was modern, clean and had all the facilities needed for a long or short stay. It was quiet, yet a short walking distance to all the main sites. The manager was very attentive and easy to reach.
  
  What could be improved: The a/c in the main bedroom kept turning off, but the manager had someone out to look at it the same day.

• Alexandra from Canada – 24 July 2024 (8/10)

  It was so lovely to be greeted by our hostess and to be guided directly to our place. She showed is where everything was and answered all our questions, making is feel very welcome and equipped! We loved the large living room and the fact that there were two bathrooms- very nicely finished. The location was excellent because it was close to everything but far enough to be peaceful.
  
  What could be improved: The beds were not very comfortable. The idea that disposal of garbage and recycling was an extra 40 euros was a little unpleasant. It is a complicated matter because we like to cook at home and the garbage/recycling process is extremely inconvenient especially since we arrived on a weekend.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities