For me staying in Castello is always th ebest Venice experience. I particularlly love this corner where Lucia's apartment is, just next to the Communiste bar and th eentrance to Biennale - yet quiet and away from the tourist tracks. Via Garibaldi offers everything you need (much more than that actually), and you get a true sense of life in Venezia. The apartment was clean and the little balcony is perfect for breakfast.