Hotel La Calcina

A romantic canal-side sleeper, the Hotel La Calcina offers 27 antique-filled rooms, many with views. But even without the location, this three-star spot would be a classy night’s rest. Factor in the water and the breeze, however, and you have something truly memorable (and splurge-worthy).

Quick read

Pros: Wonderful location. Stunning aesthetic. Helpful staff.

Cons: Some rooms are comically small. Pricey.

Rooms

Half of the Hotel La Calcina’s guest rooms look out on the sweeping Giudecca Canal, which marks the southern border of Dorsoduro. On sunny days, light bounces off the water, illuminating the view of Giudecca Island.

The rooms themselves are old-fashioned, with parquet floors, antique furniture and the occasional portrait. All are air conditioned and equipped with a cable TV, safe, minibar, telephone and free Wi-Fi.

Bathrooms

The private bathrooms sparkle and are outfitted with a make-up mirror, hair dryer and either shower or tub.

Hotel

We loved the marble staircase that winds upstairs from the Hotel La Calcina’s ground floor. Our favorite detail of the hotel, however, is up on the fourth floor. There, a tip-top terrace provides a sunny spot to relax, enjoy an aperitif and gaze out to the canal.

The Hotel La Calcina is located a short walk from the Accademia Bridge and galleries galore, yet far enough from the crowds to provide a peaceful ambiance. The Szemere family has been in charge since the 1960s, and they keep this early 19th-century building in great shape. The hotel’s restaurant, which stretches out to a canal-side terrace and serves Venetian-style dishes, provides a special dining experience.

Breakfast is included in the room rate. Wi-Fi is free throughout. Note that the hotel does not have an elevator.

Value

With room rates starting at €90 a night for a double, the Hotel La Calcina is not exactly cheapo. However, it’s rates are reasonable for the area, and definitely worth the splurge for the fantastic experience.

Not only does the hotel provide comfortable digs and lovely views, but it’s also a notable piece of history: A limestone warehouse (the origin of its name) in the 17th century, it slowly became lodgings, and in the late 19th century was the home of writer John Ruskin.