Hotel Novecento: A Venetian Hideaway That Feels Like Home

A hidden courtyard where ivy climbs brick walls and mornings begin slowly, with breakfast tables tucked beneath the greenery.

We stayed at Hotel Novecento in June 2025 as a family of five, occupying two rooms for two nights. Although centrally located near Piazza San Marco, the hotel feels residential and calm. From the moment we arrived, the experience felt seamless, and returning each day truly felt like coming home.

Climbing vines and timeworn façades frame the property, blending seamlessly into its Venetian neighborhood.

First impressions

Our arrival set the tone. We were dropped off by Venetian water taxi at a nearby stop and walked down a quaint, picturesque alley. Clear instructions had been sent ahead of time for keyless entry, making arrival smooth and stress-free. The Novecento team welcomed us warmly and carried our luggage up a winding flight of antique stairs, where unique art appears at every turn. It felt less like a hotel and more like moving through a lived-in Venetian residence layered with history.

Arrival by water taxi leads to a quiet Venetian alley—an unassuming entrance that feels like discovering a secret.

Shortly after arrival, we met our private guide at the hotel and headed out for the day. While not affiliated with the hotel, our guide, Elena Zampiron with Rick Steves, was exceptional and set a wonderful tone for our time in Venice. When we returned later that afternoon, we were offered cold water and cookies left out from breakfast, a small but thoughtful gesture after walking in the Venetian heat. Throughout our stay, refreshments were consistently available, allowing guests to pause, hydrate, and reset before heading back out.

Mornings quickly became a highlight. A gentle musical chime outside signals that breakfast is served, a charming daily ritual. Breakfast itself was relaxed and unhurried in a lovely dining area, with fresh pastries, eggs made to order, yogurt, and traditional Venetian Jewish lemon cookies, Bisse degli Ebrei. The cookies were such a favorite that my daughters went back for seconds and thirds.

An intimate courtyard moment, where historic brick, greenery, and sculpture create a calm retreat from the city.

Accommodation & atmosphere

With just nine rooms, service at Hotel Novecento feels genuinely personal. The staff consistently went above and beyond, sharing a thoughtfully curated list of the most client-approved restaurants across Venice and helping us plan activities with ease. Our rooms were generously sized for Venice, cozy and impeccably clean, furnished with antiques and original details that felt both authentic and exquisite. The bathroom layout was a delightful surprise, featuring a double-shower setup that made mornings easier for a family stay.

Throughout the residence, the decor and artwork kept us enthralled, and I especially loved the upstairs sitting area, which became a quiet retreat for reading and resting.

The living room of the hotel, layered with antique rugs, carved wood, and soft light that invites lingering between outings.

It was a pleasure to support such a warm, locally owned hotel. The Romanelli family, who own Hotel Novecento, also run Casa Flora, Hotel Flor, an exclusive design apartment, and Inside Venice, a local guide service. Their in-house Webzine highlights local artisans and shops, reinforcing a deep connection to the community and the city itself.

A small moment of everyday Venice—windows open, shutters drawn back, and life unfolding above the streets.

• Rooms were a good size, thoughtfully designed, and very comfortable.

• Ideal for families with older children or teens, couples, and slow travelers.

• Breakfast is a true experience and a highlight of the stay, rather than a quick add-on.

• A musical chime outside signals breakfast service each morning, a charming local tradition.

• Smart, keyless check-in makes arrivals smooth and stress-free.

• Staff provide exceptionally curated restaurant and activity recommendations.

• Best for travelers who plan to explore Venice on foot and want a calm, soulful place to return to.

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