In a relatively quiet corner of Castello, under a 10-minute walk from San Marco
Modern suites with fully equipped kitchens and air-conditioning
Some suites have lovely canal views
A continental breakfast is included in rates
Cribs are free to use
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Features are non-existent
No elevator
Some noise from boats in canalside rooms
The nine-room Residence Ca' Foscolo is a three-pearl all-suite property located in the Castello neighborhood. It's a five-minute walk to the Rialto Bridge and under 10 minutes on foot to Piazza San Marco. The property is smart and modern, though features are limited to what's found in the suites. All nine units have pleasant, relatively modern decor and feature kitchens, air-conditioning, living areas with flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. However, aside from a free daily continental breakfast, there are no features here. Rates are good for the area, but guests seeking extras like a spa, sauna, and pool might try nearby Hotel Ai Reali instead. The style there is more classical and -- of course -- prices are higher.
Scene
Historic 15th-century property with smart interiors and a family-friendly vibe
This 15th-century hotel is arranged over three floors and backs onto a serene canal, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The overall style is smart and simple, with neutral tones and an abundance white throughout. Overall, this isn't a hotel for travelers who like an abundance of features or who want a social atmosphere. Instead, it's best for independent-minded guests looking for an alternative to the dowdy old-school hotels that pack Venice's alleyways. Families are the most frequent guests here, thanks to the apartment-style units, but it's not uncommon for couples to pass through as well.
Location
On a small canal in Castello, within a five-minute walk of the Rialto Bridge
The hotel is located in the quiet Castello neighborhood, though it's surprisingly close to many of central Venice's major sights. The Rialto Bridge over the Grand Canal -- as well as the closest vaporetto stop -- can be reached in five minutes on foot. Most visitors to Venice are here to see Piazza San Marco, which is less than 10 minutes away on foot, and is home to the famed basilica of the same name, the Doge's Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs (the latter is located on a canal behind the piazza). Santa Lucia Station can be reached in around 15 minutes by water taxi (from the Rialto station), while it's about an hour to Marco Polo Airport by water taxi. Alternatively, you can catch taxis to Marco Polo from near Santa Lucia Station (which is accessible by vaporetto from the hotel) -- the taxi journey once you're at the station is about 20 minutes. Treviso Airport requires around 90 minutes to reach by combining boats and taxis.
Rooms
Spacious, pleasant suites with one or two bedrooms and fully equipped kitchens
Suites are spacious and simple, with decor that's a bit fresher than what you'll find at most mid-range properties in central Venice. Expect terrazzo floors, white walls, and a mix of antique and flat-box furniture or IKEA pieces. All have modern kitchens that include full-size refrigerators, stovetops, and microwaves. Living areas are smart and minimalist, with sofas, flat-screen TVs, coffee tables, and dining areas. Separate bedrooms -- there are either one or two in each suite -- generally include wall-mounted flat-screen TVs. Laundry facilities, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi are also provided. Daily housekeeping comes standard. Bathrooms are up to date, with fully tiled interiors and the occasional marble countertop, plus showers, toiletries, heated towel racks, and wall-mounted hairdryers. Keep in mind that there's no elevator in the building, so expect a walk up several flights of stairs to reach suites on the top floor. Rooms overlooking the canal may pick up some early morning noise from local water taxis and delivery boats.
Features
No amenities, but continental breakfasts and Wi-Fi are free
There isn't much to this property beyond its suites. However, a daily continental breakfast is available each morning and consists of a selection of cereals, breads, pastries, yogurt, fresh fruit, hams, salami, coffee, tea and fresh juices. It's replenished in the suites every day. Staff can assist with booking tours, tickets, and excursions, and childcare can also be arranged (for a fee). Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.