Residence Ca’ Foscolo

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. 

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.

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. 

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.