Hotel Sorriso

Watching the sunset by the canal behind the hotel was a highlight. The staff were very friendly, and breakfast was one of the better budget spreads I’ve had, with lots of options and good fuel for the day. My room was clean and quiet, though it would have been nice to have a kettle or even bottled water, especially since there aren’t many shops nearby. Hotel Sorriso is in a lovely, peaceful part of Lido, and it was easy to reach Venice by the frequent bus or by waterbus. I really enjoyed my stay and would happily come back. I also loved Zumo, the very friendly old dog.

The rooms were clean and well kept, communication was excellent, and a friendly young staff member gave me a map and explained how public transport works. The hotel was good overall for my four-night stay, but don’t book it expecting luxury. A few practical things could be better. There was no complimentary water on the first day, which would have been a nice touch for a late arrival. The vending machine only took coins. A kettle was provided, but the two glasses disappeared after the first day’s cleaning and weren’t replaced. I couldn’t see a waste bin in the room, and there was no locker for valuables. The air conditioning seemed inconsistent and only felt effective early in the morning. I also couldn’t get an iron when I asked. I’m not saying every room needs one, but having a single iron for the hotel would help lazy people like me. No tissues or face tissues were supplied either. The elevator works in a traditional way, which may be confusing at first. I’d read about the dog in other reviews. It didn’t bother me, since I didn’t bother it. The hotel has clean facilities and friendly staff, and a few small improvements would make the stay better. And yes, please reply to this review with “next time book Hilton or Marriott”; I’ve seen hotels with these things that don’t cost much.

The bus stop is just a few metres away, which helps since the center is quite far. Renting a scooter is a good idea. The staff were nice, breakfast was very good, and the rooms were clean. We had a perfect balcony room with a sea view, and the beach was close by.

Everyone we dealt with was kind, prepared, and attentive, from reception and breakfast to the woman who cleaned the room. Our room was spacious, comfortable, well equipped, and spotless. We chose a plain room without a sea view, looking out onto the street and a horse riding arena, and were happy with it. Breakfast was a buffet with plenty to choose from, quality ingredients, and great coffee. The Vaporetto station is seven bus stops away, with frequent service. There are also a few small cafes, bars, and restaurants nearby, and we tried them and were very satisfied.