I really wish I could give this listing a better review. But my experience with the host was far from great and ruined my first night in Venice. Fortunately the extremely helpful Airbnb support staff came to the rescue and rectified the situation immediately.
The apartment for me gets 5/5 stars. The location can not be beat: it really is as close as advertised to the main square. But it’s so quiet and secluded that it’s easy to escape from the chaos. The bed was comfortable and the apartment was very clean. Having a kitchen was wonderful as we enjoyed some tasty Italian food leftovers for lunch instead of waiting in line in the heat. This location and this price is a killer find in often over-priced Italy.
However I just can’t get the bad taste out of my mouth and I have to lower my rating based on my interaction with the host. The house rules when I signed the agreement said check in was allowed until 2300. Knowing this I made travel arrangements that got us into Venice by 2145. The days before we arrived in Venice I confirmed this and screen-shotted the rules as I would be out of reliable WiFi range. Michela messages me and tells me there is a €25 euro fee to be paid for late check in past 2000. I checked the rules on her listing to find that she suddenly updated the rules to reflect that. I find this extremely dishonest and shady. It’s a small amount of money but in the big scheme of things it’s not at all right.
If you are brave and want this place here’s some advice: screen shot EVERYTHING about this listing when you sign the agreement. Save it and keep in handy for when she changes the rules on you. If you’re a smart and defensive traveler you will have a safe experience. However I can not recommend this listing to other travelers.