Albergo Doni

A modest family-run pension, the Albergo Doni resides in a 16th-century canal-side building very close to St. Mark’s Square. (Seriously, the piazza is just around two corners.)

The Doni is pure cheapo. It’s a friendly place with 13 unpretentious rooms. The reception, hallways and rooms are filled with family mementos, mix-and-match furnishings and creaky floors.

Quick read

Pros: Sweet and homey. Primo location. Friendly service.

Cons: Shared bathrooms are scarce. No air conditioning. No elevator.

Rooms

Rooms at the Albergo Doni are small, yet functional, with enough brocade and Oriental carpets to counterbalance the grab-bag furnishings and Carnival posters. Some rooms are prettier than others, offering original woodwork, antiques and even one example of a 16th-century fresco. They’re also quiet—no televisions or telephones are to be found.

Four rooms have a canal view (ask ahead), and the rest look onto a garden. We were charmed by the cozy top-floor single that looks out to the canal (€40-70, depending on the season). Note that rooms are not air conditioned, but fans are available.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are spacious and clean, if a touch shabby. A few rooms have private baths, while the cheapest share facilities. The only shared bathrooms are located on the first floor, which is not always terribly convenient.

Hotel

The Doni is a family operation. Hit up brother-and-sister team Nikos and Tessa for city tips and directions. Aunt Gina actually lives here (you’ll notice her padding about in slippers), and she may even grab you something from the kitchen if you ask nicely.

This is not a place for party animals. It’s a quiet, rather couple-y place, so down your last beer somewhere else in San Marco before heading home.

A continental breakfast is included in the room rate. Wi-Fi is free throughout.