Hotel Antigo Trovatore

Guests at the Hotel Antigo Trovatore are greeted in a homey lobby where exposed ceiling beams are paired with a mix of antique and contemporary pieces against a clean backdrop of white walls and floors. It's a small space, but pleasant, with vintage striped seating and thoughtful details like fresh flowers and potted plants. There are only a handful of common spaces in this small property, including a charming breakfast room and a small interior courtyard that's dotted with greenery and offers outdoor seating on artificial grass. Though small and modest -- and a bit overpriced for what it is -- it's a charming hotel that makes a convenient base for exploring the city. Its prime central location is its biggest asset, drawing tourists who want to sightsee.

The hotel occupies a prime location in the Castello District that's close to many top sites and just a two-minute walk to the nearest vaporetto (water bus) stop. There are plenty of restaurants and bars in the immediate area, as well as souvenir shops. Piazza San Marco with St. Mark's Cathedral and the Doge's Palace is under a five-minute walk away. The Rialto Bridge is a nine-minute walk from the hotel, while other top sites like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia are about 15 minutes away via vaporetto. The island of Murano, known for its glasswork, is about 30 minutes away. The Santa Lucia train station can be reached in about 20 minutes via water bus. Venice Marco Polo Airport is over an hour away by public transportation, or about 23 minutes by car. 

Rooms are simply yet tastefully styled, with wood floors that contrast against the white walls and bedding (some spaces also have exposed wooden ceiling beams that add a rustic touch.) White curtains with red borders frame the windows and match the bed runners, and some rooms have lovely decorative wrought-iron headboards that stand out against the white walls. Minimalist, contemporary light wood furnishings include desks, while graceful white nightstands flank the beds. Some rooms have access to shared terraces that overlook neighboring rooftops. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, safes, air-conditioning/heating, and free Wi-Fi, but past guests have complained of faulty air conditioner units. Note that the spaces are a bit small, especially the Single Rooms.Some of the bathrooms are tiny and feel cramped, but they're clean and equipped with either shower cabins or shower/tub combos. Bidets, heated towel racks, hairdryers, and some toiletry packets come standard.

Though there aren't many features to speak of at this small hotel, a handful of extras are offered that add value to a stay here. A daily breakfast buffet (with items like yogurt, pastries, and cereal) is included in rates and served in a small, pleasant dining room, but it's fairly simple fare and some guests complain that it doesn't offer much choice or variety. There's a pleasant outdoor courtyard that guests can relax in as well. Reception is open 24-hours. A computer for guest use is available in the lobby, plus Wi-Fi is free throughout. Small pets are welcome.