San Cassiano Residenza d'Epoca

The internet was the fastest I've had in a hotel, over 150 mbps upload and download, so putting photos in the cloud was no problem. Breakfast was good, the bar had plenty of choice without high prices, and there are good restaurants nearby plus a water bus stop not far away. Staff were friendly and the hotel was spotless, though a bit tatty in places because it's old. The beds felt rather firm, and we weren't the only ones who mentioned it. A mattress topper might help. A vending machine with snacks would also be handy, so you don't have to walk out to find a shop.

The area was lovely and quiet, with nice shops and restaurants that cost less than in the centre. Osteria Pizzeria Due Colonne had the best food we ate in Venice. We might not have explored these quieter parts if we had stayed right in the centre, and we found some hidden gems. The hotel is well placed, a couple of minutes from the nearest waterbus, five minutes on foot from Rialto Bridge and 15 minutes from St Marks Square. After three nights, I came home feeling I'd had the best time. Breakfast had a nice continental and hot selection, and the staff were friendly. Our room for four was spacious enough, clean, with everything we needed for a city break, a lovely canal view, and fresh bedding and towels each day. The staff arranged a private taxi to the airport at the end, a perfect finish to a great break.

Tucked away from the crowds, the location is superb, five minutes from Rialto bridge and ten from St Marks square. Regina Sconta is just around the corner, a fantastic restaurant right nearby. The hotel has its own pier for water taxis, and the staff's service made up for some shortcomings. It's not perfect and feels more like a 3 ⭐ hotel to me. It's a little dated, and getting a case up to the third floor is quite a chore with no lift, though a team member kindly carried my wife's bag. The room decor is a bit niche but charming. Like Venice, its unfinished touches grow on you and make it feel more authentic.

We got a real bargain for the cost of the holiday, and the hotel was peaceful with great staff. The beds were comfortable and we slept well. Breakfast was plentiful and well cooked. It's very close to the San Stae vaporetto stop, so you don't have to drag your cases far. Rialto Bridge is a six-minute walk, and you can reach all parts of the city on foot in under 30 minutes.