Hailed by most guidebooks, the Albergo Guerrato won us over years ago and continues to be a EuroCheapo fave. Located in San Polo, this pension is mere minutes from the Rialto Bridge, as well as the erbaria-a food market by day and hipster "aperitivo" bar strip by night.
The Guerrato is a feast for the eyes, offering the most fabulous and flamboyant collection of Venetian antiques (and curiosities) we've seen. Your eyes will have more than they bargained for.
The building is an ex-convent dating back to 1288. Brother owners Piero and Roberto have packed the great hall with furnishings, creating a look that's something between your granny's house and a Dolce & Gabbana atelier. The Guerrato mixes original Venetian floors, Oriental carpets, tchotchke shelves and Murano madness. "It's called 'kitsch'," Piero explained to us.
The 30 rooms are situated on four floors and feature parquet floors, Fortuny lamps, antique furniture and pieces brought back from the brothers' travels to Bali. Rooms are equipped with telephones and air conditioning, but no TV. (Piero added, "Bring a book, please.") Bathrooms very in size, although some recently renovated baths are quite large, with double-wide showers.
A large buffet breakfast is included in the room rate and served in a spacious breakfast room under an impressive Murano-glass chandelier. The Albergo Guerrato is not just "dog friendly." They actually offer a ?5 discount for guests who bring a dog along.
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