Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo

Few places embody the timeless allure of Venice as vividly as Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo. Established in 1308, it is one of the oldest hotels in the city, preserving centuries of Venetian elegance and charm. 

Situated beside the Orseolo Basin, where gondolas gently sway in the water, this luxurious property offers travelers the chance to experience Venice’s grandeur firsthand—where history, architecture, and modern comfort coexist in perfect harmony.

With its prime location just steps from St. Mark’s Square, the hotel serves as both a retreat and a gateway to the wonders of Venice. From its balconies, guests can watch gondoliers glide through the canals, hear the echo of serenades, and feel the pulse of the world’s most romantic city.

Location & Accessibility

Located at Sotoportego del Cavalletto, 1107, Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo enjoys an exceptional position in the San Marco district, Venice’s cultural and emotional heart. Guests can step outside to find St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the Campanile Tower just a minute’s walk away.

The Rialto Bridge and the Grand Canal are also nearby, offering visitors endless opportunities to explore the city’s labyrinth of bridges, alleys, and hidden courtyards.

The hotel is easily accessible from the Marco Polo Airport via water taxi or Alilaguna ferry, and the Vallaresso vaporetto stop lies close by. Despite being at the center of Venice’s lively core, the property maintains an atmosphere of peace and refinement, providing a perfect sanctuary after a day of exploration.

A Legacy of Venetian History

Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo is more than a place to stay—it is a piece of Venetian history. Originally built in the early 14th century, it has welcomed travelers, dignitaries, and artists for over seven centuries.

Throughout its history, the hotel has maintained its distinct character, with period architecture and décor that evoke the splendor of Venice’s golden age. The Orseolo Basin, located directly outside, has long been a gathering place for gondoliers, creating a living connection between the hotel’s guests and the city’s enduring traditions.

The property’s restoration has preserved its classic charm while integrating modern conveniences, ensuring a comfortable and authentic experience for today’s visitors.

Architecture & Interior Design

Step inside Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo, and one immediately feels transported to a bygone era. The interiors exude traditional Venetian sophistication, with ornate furnishings, Murano glass chandeliers, and patterned fabrics reflecting the artistry that defines the city.

The ambiance is warm and romantic, characterized by deep colors, polished wood, and historic details that celebrate the craftsmanship of Venice’s past. The hotel’s canal-facing rooms offer mesmerizing views of gondolas floating below, while interior spaces are designed to provide intimacy and quiet amid the energy of San Marco.

Rooms & Suites

The hotel offers 107 elegantly appointed rooms, each designed to combine classic style with modern comfort.

Room categories include:

Classic Rooms: Cozy and inviting, ideal for couples or solo travelers.

Superior Rooms: Featuring refined décor and city or courtyard views.

Canal View Rooms: Offering panoramic vistas of the Orseolo Basin, where gondolas drift serenely.

Junior Suites: Spacious and luxurious, some featuring private balconies.

Room amenities include:

Air conditioning and heating

Free Wi-Fi

Flat-screen TVs with international channels

Minibars and safes

En-suite marble bathrooms with complimentary toiletries

Soundproofing for restful sleep

Each room is a reflection of Venetian artistry, combining the comfort of a modern hotel with the atmosphere of a centuries-old palazzo.

Dining Experience

The hotel’s elegant Bar and Breakfast Room welcomes guests each morning with a rich buffet that celebrates Italian flavors. Fresh pastries, local cheeses, cold cuts, fruits, and aromatic espresso are served in a refined setting overlooking the canal.

Throughout the day, the bar offers aperitifs, prosecco, and light snacks, making it an ideal spot to unwind after exploring Venice’s bustling streets. Guests can also request room service for private dining moments within the comfort of their suites.

The staff gladly recommends nearby restaurants offering the best of Venetian cuisine, from seafood risotto and cicchetti to fine dining by the lagoon.

Hospitality & Services

Renowned for its impeccable service, Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo reflects the warmth and refinement of traditional Venetian hospitality. The staff is multilingual, attentive, and always available to assist with travel arrangements, restaurant reservations, and local experiences.

Services include:

24-hour reception and concierge

Luggage assistance and porter service

Airport and train station transfers

Laundry and dry-cleaning services

Guided tours and private excursions

Accessible rooms and elevators

Every guest receives personalized attention, ensuring that their stay is as seamless as it is memorable.

A Unique Venetian Experience

The hotel’s location beside the Orseolo Basin offers guests a uniquely Venetian spectacle. From morning to evening, gondolas glide past the windows, their gondoliers calling out in melodic tones, creating an ever-changing scene of romance and vitality.

Guests can take a gondola ride directly from the dock beside the hotel or stroll into St. Mark’s Square to experience the heart of Venice’s beauty. The proximity to cultural landmarks and artisan boutiques makes every moment a discovery—from admiring works of art at Palazzo Ducale to shopping for handcrafted Murano glass or Venetian masks.

Evenings at the hotel carry their own magic, as soft light reflects off the canal and music from nearby cafés fills the air.

Why Guests Love Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo

Visitors consistently praise the hotel’s unbeatable location, historical charm, and captivating canal views. The combination of tradition, elegance, and attentive service makes it a favorite among couples and families alike.

Guests particularly appreciate the easy access to attractions, the authenticity of the interiors, and the breathtaking experience of watching gondolas from their windows. For many, staying here is not merely a visit—it is a dream fulfilled, an immersion in the living history of Venice.

Conclusion

Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo stands as a timeless testament to Venetian elegance and tradition. Its enviable position beside St. Mark’s Square and the gondola dock, combined with refined interiors and gracious service, creates an experience unlike any other.

Whether guests come for romance, culture, or pure relaxation, they are welcomed into a world where the past meets the present in perfect harmony.

For travelers seeking an authentic taste of Venice—where gondolas drift by, history whispers through the walls, and beauty lingers in every detail—Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo offers an unforgettable stay in the city of dreams.