B & B Al Gelsomino

First and foremost, it should be noted that this Bed & Breakfast is NOT in Venice, but in Mestre, a town about 15 minutes by bus from Venice. Guests who book should be aware that they will be staying outside Venice and need to make a short commute to and from the B & B. We don't normally work with places outside the city in question, but this B & B was such a great price and value we couldn't resist adding it to our network of properties. Venice is a very expensive city where it is decidedly hard to find budget accommodations, so in our opinion staying a little farther away in exchange for having a reasonably priced, charming accommodation is well worth the bus ride for many travelers. For those who can afford to spend a little more and would prefer to be in the heart of town with easy access for mid-day siestas and evening strolls to San Marco square, this is NOT the place for you. But for budget travelers who plan on spending all day out and about anyway, only heading back to the B & B when your busy day of touring and enjoying Venice is done, this could be an excellent option for you. The bus stop is just 100 meters from the B & B and the bus to Venice (and back) leaves frequently.

The B & B is actually located in a small independent villa owned by a family who rent out the lower floor to guests. It's sort of a cross between a private apartment and a B & B: the space itself is independent with its own entrance and more than one room, but the owners serve breakfast in the mornings like at a Bed & Breakfast. There is a separate bedroom with a queen-sized bed, and a sitting room area that has a fold-out queen-sized sofabed. Amenities include TV, mini-fridge, hair dryer, and use of kitchen. The whole space is recently renovated and a perfect option for families. There is also on-site parking available, a good option for guests who are driving around Italy (as you wouldn't be able to park your car at any accommodations in Venice). The highlight of Al Gelsomino (which means jasmine in Italian) is the lovely private garden/patio area, the perfect place for guests to enjoy breakfast outside or just sit and relax.