Rio Alto

Stayed for just one night in this B&B which is just a short walk from Rialto Bridge. I always try to be fair and objective so overall I have to say I was disappointed with the stay. Yes, in Venice space is at a premium but I felt this property was far too cramped. The entrance is just a doorway on a street which is always locked. There is a tiny entrance lobby and desk on entry, leading to a narrow stairway to the rooms. Our room (number 3) was at the back with a 'view' looking onto other properties windows within a few feet, hence we had to have the curtains drawn all the time. Although the bedroom and shower room were a reasonable size, there was a definite musty smell on entering. Fairly clean inside so no problems there and good free wifi. The location for breakfast is a bit of a joke in my book, as no breakfast room and small tables set up on the small landing outside our room. This was for everyone. Breakfast was ok to good and was adequate. Staff were helpful when needed but not always at the premises. Overall I would say too cramped and the area itself near Rialto immediately outside was extremely busy. Prior to staying her a few days before we stayed at another B&B near Rialto which was off the main thoroughfare,quieter and a bit more spacious but within a few yards of the bustle which was much better. Not a cheap hotel so suggest you are paying for the central location. If we had had a room overlooking the small canal here it may have been better but overall a disappointing stay and would not return.

Rio Alto is small and basic yes, but for the price you pay, you couldn't ask for more. My friend and I had the 'green' room which had two single beds, a TV, a cupboard, a desk and a beautiful view of a little canal. It was clean, tiny, had beautiful sheets. We were very happy. Unfortunately the WiFi was down the whole time we were there but the manager went out of his way to set us up at his other hotel down the road so we could watch the Cricket World Cup Final (I am from NZ, friend was from Australia). He also made us breakfast and coffee each morning, gave us all the secrets of Venice (e.g. finding the good places to visit/eat that aren't overrun by tourists/very expensive). We loved it and will definitely be back!

We stayed here for a weekend in June 2014. It was reasonably priced for Venice. Whilst basic, it was clean and in a superb location. Breakfast was continental and served outside the room which meant you could pick it up when you wanted. Our room (on the first floor) had a four poster bed of sorts and an amazing view overlooking a small bridge and a canal. We would very much recommend this hotel. We booked through Expedia. I suggest that if you book through a 3rd party that you email the hotel separately to inform them when you will be arriving. Also they will send you a map with details of the river bus stop to get off at.