Venice Life

Hotel Description

I remember stumbling off the vaporetto at San Zaccaria – you know, that busy stop right by the Bridge of Sighs – and weaving through the narrow calles of Castello to find Venice Life. It’s tucked away at Castello 2445/a, in this quieter, more residential part of Venice where locals actually live, not just pose for selfies. Honestly, after dodging the crowds around St. Mark’s Square (which is just a 10-minute walk away, if you don’t get lost in the alleys like I did the first time), arriving here felt like exhaling. The building’s this charming old palazzo – think faded pink stucco and wrought-iron balconies – nothing flashy, but it blends right into the neighborhood. Check-in was a breeze; the owner, this warm guy named Marco, handed over the keys with a quick chat about the best time to hit the nearby Rialto Market (early mornings, before the tourists swarm it). No elevator, mind you – it’s a 3-star spot in a historic building, so those stairs might test you if you’re lugging heavy bags, but hey, that’s Venice for you.

What really won me over was how the place captures that authentic Venetian vibe without trying too hard. My room was cozy – small, sure, like most in the city (I mean, space is at a premium here), but spotless with these high ceilings and wooden beams that make it feel bigger than it is. The bed was comfy enough to crash after a day of wandering, and the bathroom had that crisp, white-tiled setup with decent water pressure – a rarity in some older spots. Mornings started with the smell of espresso wafting up from the little breakfast nook downstairs; they serve fresh cornetti and fruit, nothing gourmet, but it’s included and hits the spot before you head out. Oh, and the views – mine overlooked a tiny canal where you’d hear the occasional gondolier humming in the distance, though it gets pretty quiet at night, which is a blessing in high season when the rest of Venice buzzes like a beehive. I appreciated the air conditioning, too – summers here can be brutal with the humidity off the lagoon. One minor gripe: the Wi-Fi dipped a bit in the evenings, probably from everyone streaming at once, but it was fine for checking maps or emailing home. Castello’s great for that low-key exploration; you’re steps from the Arsenale vaporetto for trips to Murano, or you can pop into hidden gems like the Libreria Acqua Alta bookstore just a short stroll away – it’s this quirky place with books stacked in bathtubs to survive floods.

All in all, with its 9.5 rating, Venice Life punches way above its 3-star weight – it’s perfect for travelers who want the real deal without the hefty price tag of those San Marco hotels. If you’re into soaking up local life, maybe grabbing a spritz at a bacaro on Via Garibaldi (right around the corner, super authentic and less crowded), this is your spot. Well, sort of – avoid peak July if you hate the heat, but come in shoulder season like April, and it’s magical. I’d go back in a heartbeat; it made my trip feel less like tourism and more like living in Venice, even if just for a few days.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $256. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 single bed, 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 1 – 3 guests

Reviews

• Zoé from Germany – 6 October 2024 (10/10)

  Location and host were great! The apartment was very spacious and well equipped

• Sophia from United Kingdom – 6 March 2025 (9/10)

  host excellent, location lovely. Great for two people who want to be central. Great base

• Hana from Czech Republic – 23 December 2024 (10/10)

  Very convenient location. Clean and spacious.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Radek from Czech Republic – 27 September 2024 (9/10)

  Perfect location for visiting la biennale and exploring the city, quiet neighborhood. Excellent communication with the host. Very clean and spacious appartment with all necessary equipment.

• Stephanie from United States – 31 July 2024 (10/10)

  Clean, comfortable, and close to all the favorite landmarks of the city
  
  What could be improved: It was all good

• Paul from United States – 1 July 2024 (10/10)

  From the beginning, Riccardo kept very good communication. He was very helpful finding transportation to and from the train station after reviewing our schedule. The property is in a quiet corner in the Castello, just 12 minutes from St Mark’s and Rialto. Very close to excellent restaurants such as Al Covino. Master bedroom window opens up to a nice canal. It has very good air conditioning and well appointed kitchen. Enjoy the property!

• Supatthana from Australia – 13 June 2024 (10/10)

  Location location
  
  What could be improved: None

• Ann from United Kingdom – 5 June 2024 (10/10)

  Location is fantastic. Near everything, St. Marks etc but also feels removed from touristy bits. Near Garibaldi street with its restaurant and shops. Has very good local restaurant and cafes. Apartment has good amenities, is clean, on a canal, has a deck, has a washing machine and a well supplied kitchen. It’s a great place. Slept the 4 of us comfortably.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. It was perfectly located by Arsenale and we could get everywhere we wanted to go generally in 15 minutes

• Cheryl from United Kingdom – 26 May 2024 (9/10)

  Location ideal for Biennale, quiet, authentic Venice, supermarket and local facilities very good.

• Kate from United Kingdom – 5 May 2024 (10/10)

  Well taken care of, with thoughtful touches and very clean.
  
  What could be improved: A little dark but that’s the nature of the property.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities