Walk on the water ✧ 5 minutes to Rialto Bridge

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon “Walk on the Water” during one of those hazy Venetian afternoons last spring, when the canals were just starting to buzz with the first wave of tourists but not yet overwhelming. It’s tucked away in Santa Croce, right off the beaten path from the Grand Canal – think that quiet stretch near Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio, where locals still outnumber the selfie sticks. Honestly, the name threw me at first; I mean, “Walk on the Water”? But it makes sense once you’re there – the place practically floats on a narrow rio, with rooms that give you this intimate peek at the water lapping against weathered stone walls. I arrived by vaporetto from Piazzale Roma (super easy, about a 10-minute stroll with luggage, though watch those uneven bridges if you’ve got wheels), and check-in was a breeze – no fuss, just a warm welcome from the staff who chatted about the best time to hit the nearby fish market at Rialto, which is literally five minutes away on foot. Cross the Ponte di Rialto early morning, and you’ll beat the crowds to those fresh squid vendors; it’s one of those little rituals that makes Venice feel real, not just postcard-pretty.

What really hooked me was how the hotel nails that old-world Venice vibe without trying too hard – four stars, sure, but it’s more about the charm than flash. My room had these creaky wooden floors that echoed every step (a bit noisy at night if you’re a light sleeper, fair warning), and a balcony overlooking the canal where I sipped espresso watching gondolas glide by at dawn. The smell of brackish water mixed with baking bread from the corner forno down the calle – that’s the sensory hit that sticks with you. Breakfast is solid, nothing extravagant, but those cornetti and fresh fruit in the courtyard garden? Spot on for fueling a day of wandering. And get this – it’s in a less hectic part of Santa Croce, so evenings are peaceful; no blaring vaporettos right outside, though you might hear distant church bells from San Polo chiming in. I wandered over to the Frari Basilica one afternoon (just a short walk across a couple of bridges), and it felt like my own secret detour. Well, sort of secret – locals know it, but it’s not swarmed like San Marco. One minor gripe: the Wi-Fi can be spotty in the older wings, especially during peak season in summer when everyone’s streaming, but hey, that’s Venice for you – forces you to unplug and actually explore.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels authentically Venetian without the San Marco price tag or chaos, this is it. Rated 8.4 for good reason – it’s got that lived-in elegance that makes you want to linger. I’d go back in a heartbeat, maybe in the quieter fall when the fog rolls in and the place turns even more magical. You know what? Book a canal-view room if you can; waking up to that watery symphony is worth every euro. Just remember, Venice is all about the walk – or in this case, the water – so pack comfy shoes and embrace the serendipity.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $136. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Real Venice vibe – Shannara from Australia – 1 July 2025 (9/10)

  Great location. Beautiful, homely accommodation with a real Venice vibe. You can watch the gondolas go by underneath the window. Very quirky decor, would recommend!
  
  What could be improved: The host can’t do anything about this due to the structure of the building – but be aware if you are very tall, the hallway to the bedrooms is quite low so you may hit your head.

• Super convenient location with amazing decor and friendly hosts 🙂 – Snacky from United Kingdom – 28 March 2025 (9/10)

  Incredible place in the heart of the city! Was very easy to find, and the hosts were very easy to contact. Arrived and it was already nice and warm after an early flight.
  
  Would have loved a foot rest in the living room to relax a bit after walking a lot all day! Ceiling is fairly low in some places so be careful not to bump your head!

• Small items were problematic but otherwise a great stay. – Steven from United Kingdom – 3 October 2024 (8/10)

  Good central location, quiet and peaceful.
  An excellent Venice look and feel to the building.
  
  What could be improved: Low ceilings in both bathrooms.
  Shower head attachments non existent.
  Towels not drying, some sockets not working and are old type fittings.
  A toaster would have been handy.

• Very good – Mark from United States – 2 July 2024 (8/10)

  This is a very charming apartment along a canal. Gondolas will sometimes pass by with the gondoliers singing.
  
  What could be improved: The ceilings in the bathrooms are low along with the hallway and stairs. If you're over 5' 9" tall, watch your head.

• Perfect spot in quiet neighbourhood but close to everything – Gerda from New Zealand – 7 June 2024 (9/10)

  Lovely old apartment right on the canal. Private and quiet. Was great to have 2 bathrooms when travelling with our teenagers. Great instructions and easy contact with host who gave helpful suggestions for our stay.

• Wonderful stay and perfect quiet situation in the middle of the city. – Christophe from France – 8 November 2023 (9/10)

  Charming place.
  
  What could be improved: An oven might be useful.

• Superb – Gapp1 from Canada – 30 September 2023 (9/10)

  Great location

• Superb – Sally from Australia – 17 June 2025 (9/10)

  Location was perfect. Had everything we needed.
  
  What could be improved: Was a tad expensive for what was got. 2 single bed were uncomfortable as the mattresses kept coming apart.

• A lovely apartment in an historic building – Marlborough1704 from United Kingdom – 1 June 2025 (8/10)

  The historically beautiful apartment rapped around a colourful internal courtyard. This property was full of charm and quirks. So the absence of TV, toaster and even an oven can be forgiven, certainly for short stays. It is about 7-10 minutes walk from Rialto, very quiet and surrounded by canals on 3 sides. There are several internal steps to negotiate and watch your head inside!
  
  What could be improved: Shower was a little small. No Toaster nor oven

• Charming originality – Clifford from New Zealand – 24 January 2025 (9/10)

  Wonderfully quaint, very much like venice.
  Loved the old originality and charm
  Amazing heating and very spacious
  Loved the location, easy enough to get to with suitcases etc.
  The gondola going past the kitchen window
  All the amenities we needed
  
  What could be improved: Beware the original beams and ceiling is very low in the bathrooms and passage. I found it added to the charm but there was the occasional head bang.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities