Fodor's Expert Review La Calcina

Right near the Zattere vaporetto stop in the quiet sestiere (neighborhood) of Dorsoduro, waterfront La Calcina, on the Giudecca canal, has a homey charm. It’s far from luxe, but it’s a relaxing place to sit in the large lobby and drink or eat at the outdoor bar or restaurant—and if you can snag a room with water views, this could become your favorite place in Venice.

YOU SHOULD KNOW There’s no lift here, and while hotel staff will help with luggage, climbing stairs after wandering Venice all day is not for everyone.

room

Guest rooms, ranging from tiny singles to good-sized doubles, have wood floors and standard furniture. The most desirable rooms are definitely the doubles with unbeatable canal views.

YOU SHOULD KNOW While rooms are comfortable, they’re also a bit old-fashioned and in need of a refresh, so don’t go expecting Italian glitz and glamor.

bathroom

The white-tiled bathrooms are small and basic, and could do with some freshening up.

lobby

The elegant, renovated lobby is all dark woods and comfortable places to sit, with a small bar that makes tasty drinks.

For a special experience, ask to rent the rooftop terrace for an hour—for free. You can even order up drinks and food from the restaurant.

dining

Restaurant La Calcina has an enviable terrace stretching out on the Giudecca canal, and serves well-regarded Venetian/Mediterranean cuisine.