Hotel San Cassiano – Residenza d’Epoca Ca’ Favaretto

Wedged between typically Venetian palazzos overlooking the Grand Canal, the Hotel San Cassiano was originally built in the 14th-century and housed many of the city's more important families throughout the ages. In the late 19th-century it became home to renowned Venetian painter Giacomo Favretto, and in 1951 it was converted into the guesthouse that it is today. Entry is via a private jetty on Venice's main waterway, or from the street through an unassuming doorway and modest-looking courtyard. Like many Venice hotels, interiors are awash with classical period features, such as ancient exposed wooden beams, medieval tapestries, and Oriental rugs -- all centered around a heavy, intricately carved reception desk and bathed in the light from the ubiquitous and wonderfully ornate Murano glass chandeliers.  Although the ambience is traditional and leaning towards conservative, the slightly ramshackle and eclectic elements create a real sense of the building's varied history and character.

The hotel is set on the south side of the Grand Canal -- Venice's main arterial waterway -- opposite the famous Ca' d'Oro palace. Located in the district of Santa Croce, the area is one of the liveliest and most characterful of Venice, usually busy with tourists and Venetians alike and with numerous museums, galleries, and restaurants in the immediate surrounds. The Rialto Bridge and Markets are just under 10 minutes' walk away, while the touristic center of Venice centered on St. Mark's Square is about 15 minutes on foot. San Stae is the nearest vaporetto stop, and about five minutes' walk, though with heavy luggage a water taxi right to the hotel's private landing stage is recommended.  

The hotel has 36 room in total, all of which follow the typical 18th-century Venetian styling with antique furnishings, gilt-scroll mirrors, and tasseled draperies. Superior Rooms include beautifully textured "marmorino" walls and gold-leafed sconces, while several rooms overlook the Grand Canal and the famed Ca' d'Oro, taking in the passing boats and occasional serenading gondola -- however some of the Standard Rooms feel a little dated in parts. All rooms are air-conditioned and include minibars and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels -- Wi-Fi is also available but only free for the first hour. Bathrooms are clean, though some are a little small, with wall-mounted hairdryers and eco-friendly toiletries. Single Rooms have stall showers, while others have shower/tub combos. 

A buffet breakfast (included in rate) is served in elegant and sunny salon with windows overlooking the Grand Canal. The traditional crystal chandeliers and sconces illuminate charming shades of peach and bright green paint on the walls and ceiling. Conversely, the hotel's Bar Favretto is a low-lit and cozy area with walnut paneling, exposed beams, and antique furniture -- there is also a felt-topped card table and Internet terminal. Wi-Fi is also available throughout, though it is charged after the first hour.