A Historic Monastery Turned Hotel is a Perfect Venice Stay

hotel abazzia courtyard view 1

Hotel Abbazia was a perfect place to end our Venice, Italy stay just like Hotel Antico Doge was the perfect way to begin. The history of Hotel Abbazia caught my attention when I was searching for a hotel for the two days after our MSC cruise to Greece.

The lounge/bar was the monk's dining room

The lounge/bar was the monk’s dining room

In the late 19th century, this rambling building of old world charm was the Monastery of Venice’s Discalced Carmelite Friars. Since a historic palace was the backdrop of our first two nights in Venice, a historic abbey was intriguing as another hotel venue. Plus, the location could not have been better.

Located just a few hundred feet from the St. Lucia train station and not much further than that from Piazzale Roma, the outdoor bus station, Hotel Abbazia is easy to find. Its close proximity to transportation, including the water taxis that traverse the Grand Canal, makes arriving or departing at odd hours nothing to worry about. We made our 6:30 a.m. bus to the airport without a hitch.

Although this part of Venice bustles with people, Hotel Abbazia is tucked back from the Grand Canal in the Cannaregio district as an oasis of elegance and quiet. The staff is friendly and helpful, and always willing to help with luggage or travel advice.

Our triple room, with its queen-sized bed and divan-style single bed was just what my son, daughter and I needed. As with our stay at the Hotel Antico Doge, we made good use of the room’s refrigerator and my son had space to play with his toys.

hotel abbazia room resizeIf you go, the Hotel Abbazia is one where you’ll want to leave yourself time to settle into the hotel’s ambiance. The lounge/bar area was once the monk’s dining room. The large room, with its warm wood paneling and plush, comfy chairs and couches is designed for relaxation and visiting. We also enjoyed the courtyard garden where we ate our ample continental breakfast that was included in the price of the room.

Within a short walking distance from the hotel is Gheto Vechio, the Jewish quarter, and one of my new favorite places in Venice. There is an active Jewish community that provides tours of the historic buildings including the two synagogues. The Spanish Synagogue has held services since 1550, and is perhaps the only synagogue in the world with this distinction.

At the entrance to the Jewish quarter

At the entrance to the Jewish quarter

Hotel Abazzia’s rooms include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a safe, and satellite TV.  Rooms range from a standard room to a junior suite. Rooms are smoke-free, but smoking is allowed in the garden.

Room rates vary depending upon the season. Our rate was close to $200 USD. You can book on the hotel’s website, but check out Hotels.com or Priceline to compare rates.

Hotel Abbazia
Calle Priuli dei Cavaletti
Cannaregio 68 30121 Venice, Italy
Ph. +39.041.717333
[email protected]

Post and inside photos courtesy of Jamie Rhein, member of Midwest Travel Writers Association. Outside photo courtesy of the hotel

One Response

  1. blank Pam Gooden January 29, 2020

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