Antica Locanda Sturion Hotel Venice

This quaint hotel is located directly on Venice's Grand Canal very close to the Rialto Bridge. Its rich history includes it being the hotel chosen by the Doge of Venice for foreign merchants to stay in during the twelfth century when they came to the city to sell their items on the Rialto Bridge. We stayed in this hotel back in 2001 for our Honeymoon.

There are only 11 room available at this hotel. Some rooms overlook the Grand Canal and some do not. Be aware that if you would like a room that overlooks the Canal you will be paying a much higher rate at approximately $100 OVER the rate for a room without a view of the Grand Canal. Our room was not overlooking the Canal, but it was beautiful nonetheless. Out of our window you could see many rooftops which was still a beautiful sight. One of my favorite memories is the sound of the chiming campanile early in the morning coming in through our window.

The pretty rooms make a bold statement with deep burgundy and gold wallpaper and matching bedspread. There was also a matching upholstered chair as well as a little vanity table and mirror and a tray with everything necessary to make tea. The bathroom was nice. Nothing over the top, but great considering the age of the hotel. It was very clean and neat. The bed was not particularly comfortable, but we found the same types of mattresses all over Italy.

A very pleasant continental style breakfast is included with the room rate and the beautiful breakfast room overlooks the Grand Canal. I have such fond memories of early morning breakfast there with the windows open, seeing the sun illuminate the colorful buildings across the Canal and hearing all of the sounds from down below...it was wonderful.

The location of this hotel is excellent. As I stated, it is right on the Grand Canal and so close to the Rialto Bridge. The views from the windows overlooking the Canal are breathtaking!

One very important thing to note is that there is no elevator. Once you enter the door at street level you look up a very long flight of stairs...about three flights worth! That's when my new husband learned that I'm not a light packer, lol!