Hi all. I'll be in Venice for 3 nights beginning of April. I'm struggling between the choice of 2 apartments. One is near the Arsenale vaporetto stop, the other near San Samuele. Both have everything I need at a very good price. But each has an additional benefit. So I am struggling with a decision.

The San Samuele apt has a small terrace. I think of how lovely it would be to have breakfast on that little terrace, or a glass of wine at the end of the day. (I'm going with a friend, so romance is not a consideration, fyi.) However, on my last couple of visits to Venice, the vaporetto was so crowded between St. Mark's and Piazzale Roma, all the time. If we stay in the Arsenale, it's definitely quieter, and we shouldn't have any problem getting on the vaporetto in the morning. It should be fairly empty until we get to San Marco, at least.

I was settled on the Arsenale apt, until I saw the one with the little terrace. I think, well, if it rains the whole time we're there, it will have been a waste to take the one with the terrace.

The other difference is I believe the terrace apt has 3 flights to walk up, the Arsenale, just 1. And we are 2 older women, in good health, but with old knees.

Any experienced Venice visitors have some helpful input? Maybe something I have not thought of? Would need proximity to a grocery store and some cafes, for sure. Thanks for input!
(Peter-are you out there?) )

Hi Sarge. I think you may find that you really won't be using the balcony much in the beginning of April, although you might. The deciding factor for me would be the flights of stairs.

For me, it would be the Arsenale. Via Garibaldi is fun, lots of bars and cafes. The area around San Samuel is pretty quiet, it is the art dealers quarter of Venice.

The San Samuel vap stop is served only by the No 2 vaporetto, might be not so convenient.

Hi Sarge, glad to see you're headed to Venice.

Our last apartment in Venice was near Arsenale. I do like only 1 flight of stairs, but I really liked the more quiet atmosphere. We spent a lot of time on Via Garibaldi and it felt very neighborhood-y. On the other hand, it was a bit of a hike to get some places and I missed a few old favorites.

Arsenale was a fairly easy pick as we were spending time at the Biennale. Just adding my experiences here; we were fairly happy at Arsenale.

In April, I probably would not use the Terrace. Fewer stairs and the inside of the apt would be more important.

Stairs every day -- several times every day most likely. Arsenale is a great area. Unless there is something else differentiating them -- one flight of stairs and Arsenale would be my choice.

Thanks Holly! I know you've got a lot of experience in Venice, so your vote weighs more! Hope you are doing well! My email has not changed; please do drop a line!

thanks Peter! Another vote for Arsenale, pointing to the fact that I should listen to my intuition! haha I'll be looking for some restaurant recs in that area (Arsenale/Giardini)..

thanks Tuscan! I think my decision is made! haha. Glad to see you here. Hope you and yours are doing well!

thanks everyone! Arsenale it is!

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