Ca della Corte, Venice, Italy - Explore & Book

"Venice can very easily feel like a maze of museums, monuments and milling masses. Thankfully, Ca della Corte is a short walk from the station, so no lugging your suitcase across countless bridges or through crowds of oblivious onlookers. Once here, in a quiet neighbourhood where true locals live, Caterina and Piero will welcome you like old friends to their 16th-century palazzo. The 9 rooms are simple and styled in traditional Venetian chintz; not to everyone's taste, but they're clean, comfy and spacious. And, in a city notorious for its inflated prices, they're excellent value for money. There's also an apartment for 2-3 if you crave privacy with a side of hotel services. As you look out over the pretty courtyard gardens below, you'll feel a million miles from the bustle of San Marco (when really it's a 15-minute walk away). Fill up on an unfussy continental spread before strolling to the floating city's top attractions and getting lost in the myriad of photogenic alleyways. Once you've gorged on enough pizza and pasta to feed the Venetian army, head up to Ca della Corte's terrace to bask in the sun's final act, casting the terracotta rooftops in a glorious golden glow. Ready to do it all again tomorrow. Highs Ideal location: 4 minutes' walk from Piazzale Roma (bus / car terminus) but in a quiet residential quarter with plenty of cafés and restaurants The décor is full of classical Venetian charm, from the rich fabrics to the giant glass chandelier above the breakfast table Caterina can arrange anything with a bit of advance notice, even a private chef, and is a great facilitator for small groups wanting a memorable get-together Good for families, as several rooms have extra beds or space for a cot (although Venice with a pushchair can be a chore) Rates offer great value in one of Italy's most expensive cities Lows It can be hard to find - you'll get a map when you book through i-escape - and don't confuse it with Casa della Corte near San Marco Square The Standard Rooms are quite basic; still a good choice for a discerning couple, but we'd suggest stretching to a Superior if possible Some bathrooms are rather old-fashioned and the decor feels tired in places" - Laura Dixon